National Treasury and Economic Planning Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has disclosed that the USAID program, through the US government, has shut down 85 programs in Kenya.
While appearing before the Senate on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, Mbadi stated that USAID previously supported about 100 programs in the country, and now, only 15 programs will continue to receive support from USAID.
“The programs that were running in this country numbered around a hundred. With this Executive Order, the number may be reduced to 15,” Mbadi explained.
At the same time, Mbadi outlined the various areas funded by USAID, responding to inquiries from the Senate.
“I wish to state, Mr. Speaker, that attached to my written response is the list of the United States Agency for International Development funding programs in Kenya related to Education, Food Security, and Governance,” he said.
Mbadi Lists Areas where USAID Funded
Under the Education sector, Mbadi revealed that USD 22.3 million was allocated for the training of teachers to enhance reading instruction and improve early grade literacy across public primary schools.
This funding also supported public Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in Kilifi, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Machakos to align training with industry needs.
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Additionally, scholarships were provided for youths to attend TVETs, and support was extended to the newly established Open University of Kenya to build systems for instructional delivery and establish partnerships with the private sector and universities in the US and globally.
In terms of Governance, USAID funded programs amounting to USD 8.6 million, while under Food Security, it provided USD 128 million.
This funding supported various NGOs and programs, including those in Dadaab and refugee camps, promoting improved farming practices and aiding county governments, NGOs, and UN agencies, especially in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) areas.
It also facilitated relief and food distribution to over 2.5 million Kenyans.
Treasury CS Highlights Measures Government Has Taken After Funding Freeze
Furthermore, Mbadi highlighted the measures the government has implemented in response to the funding freeze.
“Regarding the interim measures that the government has put in place, we have taken the following steps to ensure continuity of critical functions,” he noted.
According to Mbadi, the government is currently reviewing its existing budget allocations to prioritize funding for essential services in sectors such as health, education, governance, and food security, which will be included in the budget estimates.
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Additionally, the government is engaging with other development partners to explore opportunities for additional funding and technical assistance to bridge the funding gap.
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