On Monday, January 20, US President Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders shortly after taking the oath of office. Two of these orders are expected to significantly impact Kenya, given their focus on US foreign aid and foreign relations.
Executive Order on Foreign Aid
President Trump signed an executive order halting all foreign aid programs for a 90-day review period. The White House indicated that during this period, the US government would assess each program to determine its alignment with the administration’s policies.
The review could result in some aid programs being modified or terminated if deemed incompatible with Trump’s agenda.
“Reviews of each foreign assistance program shall be ordered by the responsible department and agency heads under guidelines provided by the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB),” the order read in part.
“Decisions on whether to continue, modify, or cease each foreign assistance program shall be made within 90 days of this order, based on review recommendations and with the concurrence of the Secretary of State,” it further stated.
Kenya, which benefits significantly from US foreign aid, may feel the impact of this directive. For instance, in May 2024, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) pledged an investment of Ksh4.1 billion to improve Kenya’s education system. Such programs could face disruption depending on the review outcomes.
Executive Order on Foreign Relations
In a separate order, President Trump signaled a shift in US foreign policy, emphasizing an “America First” approach.
“From this day forward, the foreign policy of the United States shall champion core American interests and always put America and American citizens first,” read the executive order.
The directive tasked the Secretary of State with issuing new guidelines to align the Department of State’s policies, programs, and operations with this revised foreign policy framework.
As part of the shift, new ambassadorial appointments are anticipated across the globe, including Kenya, following the resignation of former US Ambassador Meg Whitman in 2024.
These policy shifts are expected to influence US-Kenya relations, particularly in the areas of development aid and diplomatic engagements, as the Trump administration recalibrates its priorities.
