Kenya is confronting a significant health crisis following the United States’ suspension of foreign aid, which has led to a $52 billion deficit in the 2024/2025 fiscal year. This shortfall threatens critical sectors, particularly healthcare, education, and food security.
The abrupt cessation of funding has severely impacted healthcare services, especially programs combating HIV/AIDS. Approximately 1.4 million Kenyans living with HIV now face uncertainty as antiretroviral (ARV) medications remain stranded in warehouses due to halted USAID payments. This disruption has led to dwindling supplies and forced rationing of essential drugs.
The freeze has also resulted in the termination of numerous USAID-funded projects across various sectors, leading to significant job losses and jeopardizing vital services. The government is exploring alternative funding sources and budget reallocations to mitigate these challenges, but the sudden withdrawal underscores Kenya’s heavy reliance on donor assistance.
