Trump Cuts US Support to UN Agencies Linked to Kenya
Kenya has suffered a major setback after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order suspending America’s support for 66 international organisations.
Several of the affected agencies have direct links to Kenya.
Trump signed the order on Wednesday, January 7, after his administration reviewed US participation and funding of the bodies.
UN-Habitat and Nairobi Impacted
Among the affected organisations is the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), which has its headquarters in Nairobi.
The agency supports urban planning, affordable housing and sustainable development in Kenya.
UN-Habitat also works with national and county governments on urban policies, laws and regulations.
Women, Education and Health Programmes Affected
The United States has also withdrawn from UN Women.
The agency supports programmes that fight gender-based violence and promote women’s rights in Kenya.
Trump’s order further halted funding to Education Cannot Wait, which supports education programmes in the country.
Funding has also stopped for the UN Population Fund (UNFPA).
UNFPA supports reproductive health, youth programmes and population data in Kenya.
Climate and Energy Agencies Lose Support
Kenya’s climate efforts have also taken a hit.
The US has pulled out of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Trump also cut support for the Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century, whose policies guide Kenya’s energy planners.
Counterterrorism Cooperation Hit
Kenya’s fight against terrorism has also been affected.
Trump ordered the US withdrawal from the Global Counterterrorism Forum.
The forum supports Kenya’s counterterrorism operations and helps strengthen anti-terror laws while protecting human rights.
Trump Defends the Move
In a statement, Trump said the decision followed consultations within his administration.
“I have considered the Secretary of State’s report and, after deliberating with my Cabinet, have determined that it is contrary to the interests of the United States to remain a member of or support the organisations listed,” Trump said.
He added that all US government departments had been directed to implement the withdrawal immediately.
A Broader Policy Shift
The move comes less than a year after Trump suspended funding to the World Health Organisation (WHO) and USAID.
The decision is expected to affect Kenya’s development, climate action and security cooperation.
