US and Kenya sign first of many 'America First' global health agreements

WASHINGTON The Trump administration has launched the inaugural agreement in a series of anticipated America First global health initiatives aimed at addressing infectious diseases in nations aligned with the administrations foreign policy priorities. The five-year, $2.5 billion deal with Kenya was finalized on Thursday by Kenyan President William Ruto and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, replacing the fragmented health programs previously overseen by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

The disbanding of USAID earlier this year provoked concern in the global health sector, as it led to the cessation of hundreds of programs supporting maternal and child health, nutrition, and HIV/AIDS treatment across developing countries.

Secretary Rubio emphasized that the partnership strengthens U.S. leadership in global health while removing inefficiencies, ideological bias, and dependency from foreign aid programs. He also commended Kenya for its participation in the international stabilization mission in Haiti, addressing gang violence.

President Ruto welcomed the agreement and confirmed Kenyas continued involvement in Haiti as the operation evolves into a broader initiative. Under the new deal, the U.S. will contribute $1.7 billion, while Kenya will provide $850 million. The collaboration targets the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, with a focus on faith-based healthcare providers, though all facilities under Kenyas national health insurance will be eligible for funding.

Ouma Oluga, Kenya's principal secretary for medical services, described the framework as a significant shift from previous approaches with lasting benefits for public health.

Family planning initiatives complying with U.S. abortion restrictions are included in the funding, according to State Department officials Jeremy Lewin and Brad Smith, who confirmed that the program does not discriminate against LGBTQ+ individuals or sex workers.

Several additional African nations are expected to enter similar agreements with the U.S. by year-end, though Nigeria and South Africa are unlikely participants due to political disagreements with the administration.

The dissolution of USAID had wide-reaching effects, halting programs combating disease, hunger, and maternal health challenges, and causing job losses for thousands of health workers previously funded by U.S. aid.

Author: Benjamin Carter