The uncertainty surrounding the United States government aid to foreign countries, including Kenya, is over after the US government started confirming the termination of key assistance programs in letters sent to implementing partners on February 27, 2024.
One of the implementing partners that benefited from the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and received the confirmation cut letter is the USAID Tujenge Jamii initiative, a partnership between USAID, Deloitte, FHI 360, and Goldstar.
Deloitte, which managed one of the sub-awards, confirmed the termination in a letter to Nakuru County’s Department of Medical Services, as reported by Willow Health Media.
Deloitte Director Bernadette Wahogo-Irungu told the media that the letter served as a formal termination of the project.
The letter seen by Kenyans.co.ke read, "Please see the attached notice regarding your indicated USAID award. Your award is being terminated for convenience and the interests of the U.S. government pursuant to a directive from U.S Secretary of State Marco Rubio in his capacity as the Acting Administrator for the US Agency for International Development (the Agency or USAID)."
"Secretary Rubio and the Deputy Administrator Peter Marocco have determined your award is not aligned with Agency priorities and made a determination that continuing this program is not in the national interest," the letter continued.
According to the letter, the decision to terminate the award was a policy determination vested in the Acting Administrator and the person performing the duties and functions of the Deputy Administrator.
The USAID Tujenge Jamii project focused on HIV prevention and treatment, nutrition, sanitation, maternal health, and strengthening the capacity of counties, communities, and organizations to deliver quality health services.
Willow Health Media reported that the termination notices sent out affected all USAID partners across the world.
The United Nations also reported on Thursday that its United Nations Population Fund and all of its grants with USAID and the US State Department have been terminated.
According to the United Nations News, the department received a termination letter.
The current cuts follow other US defunding measures against humanitarian aid organizations since late January, leaving millions in jeopardy, including those benefiting from critical services and supplies.
