Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has confirmed that the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has met all the necessary legal requirements to operate in Kenya, with the Cabinet approving its host country agreement. This approval includes the privileges associated with the foundation’s operations, aimed at facilitating seamless, impactful programs in Kenya.
Mudavadi made these remarks following the gazetting of the Privileges and Immunities (Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation) Order, 2024, on October 4. This legislation ensures the foundation can continue its work in the country without facing bureaucratic hindrances that could impede its development programs. Mudavadi emphasized that these privileges were not a “blank cheque” but a carefully calibrated framework to enable organizations like the Gates Foundation to deliver their initiatives effectively.
“These privileges are designed to streamline operations for development partners, ensuring that aid and innovation can reach those in need, unhindered by unnecessary bureaucratic processes,” Mudavadi said. He further reassured the public that the Kenyan government had taken the necessary steps to guarantee that every agreement with international partners, such as the Gates Foundation, aligns with Kenya’s development priorities and potential to deliver measurable outcomes.
Joining Mudavadi at the event, Principal Secretary for the State Department of Foreign Affairs, Korir Sing’oei, spoke to the seriousness with which the government views the assessment of organizations’ privileges and immunities. He noted that this process is in line with Kenya’s laid-down legal statutes and is critical for fostering effective collaboration with international partners.
Sing’oei also highlighted the importance of ensuring that these international partnerships are in line with Kenya’s broader goals for sustainable development, saying, “We are committed to facilitating development partners, but they must show their alignment with our priorities, ensuring mutual benefit for both parties.”
Mudavadi also reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to balancing its sovereignty with the benefits of global cooperation. He explained that each Host Country Agreement is negotiated with meticulous attention to detail, emphasizing that it is vital for international organizations to demonstrate their potential to drive tangible benefits for the Kenyan population. The Prime CS noted that robust dialogue between Kenya and international organizations is crucial for refining policies, reinforcing transparency, and ensuring good governance.
The approval of the Gates Foundation’s privileges marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s relationship with the foundation, which has been active in the country for years, supporting health and agricultural initiatives. Mudavadi praised the foundation for choosing Nairobi as the location for its sub-regional office, saying the decision exemplifies the strong and mutually beneficial relationship between Kenya and the Gates Foundation. Nairobi, as the regional hub, is seen as the ideal location for the foundation to manage its programs in the East African region and beyond.
The Gates Foundation has contributed to Kenya’s development in multiple sectors. In the health sector, the foundation has been instrumental in improving access to child health services, combating HIV/AIDS, and tackling malaria. Furthermore, their investments in smallholder agriculture have been particularly impactful, providing tools, technologies, and market infrastructure that have helped boost productivity. These contributions have also enhanced the ability of smallholder farmers to adapt to the challenges posed by climate change.
Mudavadi acknowledged the foundation’s role in transforming lives, particularly in rural communities where access to healthcare, education, and sustainable farming solutions is often limited. He expressed appreciation for the foundation’s continuous support and assured them that Kenya remains committed to collaborating with organizations that contribute to sustainable economic and social progress.
The Gates Foundation has affirmed its continued commitment to working alongside the Kenyan government to address pressing challenges and create solutions that improve the quality of life for Kenyans. Their focus on innovation and collaboration has made a significant impact, and with the new agreement in place, both parties hope to build on this progress for years to come.
In conclusion, the approval of the host country agreement is a pivotal step in solidifying Kenya’s cooperation with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. It serves as a reminder of the importance of careful negotiations, transparent policies, and the mutual benefit of global partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals. With this solid foundation, Kenya is poised to continue its development trajectory with the invaluable support of the Gates Foundation.
