Former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has raised a critical concern over Africa’s heavy reliance on foreign aid, particularly in light of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to pause federal aid globally. Speaking at the 2025 East Africa Region Global Health Security Summit, Kenyatta cautioned African leaders to reconsider the continent’s dependence on external financial support, urging them to focus on building sustainable, self-sufficient mechanisms for disaster management and development.
Kenyatta’s remarks come in the aftermath of Trump’s controversial decision to halt several foreign aid programs, a move that significantly impacted countries reliant on U.S. funding, including programs critical to global health. During his speech, Kenyatta questioned why African leaders were upset about the suspension of aid, pointing out that many African countries did not contribute taxes to the U.S. and should not expect handouts. “Why are you crying? It is not your government, nor your country. He has no reason to give you anything,” Kenyatta said, urging his fellow African leaders to take control of their own economic futures.
The former president emphasized that excessive reliance on foreign aid often undermines a country’s long-term economic growth. He argued that it’s crucial for African nations to prioritize self-reliance and collaboration to create their own sources of funding, particularly for critical areas such as health, education, and disaster response. “Funding for pandemics must come from ourselves,” Kenyatta remarked, highlighting the importance of developing policies and resources that will help African nations prepare for and respond to global health crises without waiting for external assistance.
Kenyatta also pointed out the vast sums of money spent on military equipment and conflict rather than investing in essential sectors like healthcare. He reflected on the ongoing conflicts across Africa, including in Sudan and the Sahel region, noting that more funds were often used to buy bullets than to protect the health and welfare of citizens.
In light of the challenges posed by foreign aid cuts, particularly the cessation of programs like the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), Kenyatta called on African nations to reframe their approach to global health issues. He expressed concern that the continent might not be prioritized in future pandemics, noting that while wealthier nations secure vaccines and medical resources, African countries often receive leftover supplies.
Kenyatta’s statement serves as a powerful reminder for African governments to reconsider their approach to development, urging them to invest in their own future rather than relying on uncertain foreign aid.
