Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has
said the Gates Foundation has met legal requirements and its host country agreement
and the privileges associated with it have been approved by the Cabinet.
He said the
Privileges and Immunities (Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation) Order, 2024,
published in the Kenya gazette dated October 4, says the foundation is meant to
facilitate seamless operation geared
towards impactful programmes in Kenya.
“These privileges
are not a blank cheque but a carefully calibrated mechanism to enable
organizations like the Gates Foundation to deliver impactful programmes without
bureaucratic hindrance,” he said.
Principal Secretary,
State Department for Foreign Affairs, Korir Sing’oei, was present also present
and gave his remarks.
“The work of assessing organizations'
privileges and immunities is taken seriously by the government. This is in line
with the laid down statutes," Korir said.
By streamlining
operations for development partners, the PS affirmed that the government is
keen on ensuring that aid and innovation reach those in need.
Mudavadi, who also doubles up as the Foreign
and Diaspora Affairs Cabinet Secretary, assured that Kenya is vigilant in
balancing its sovereignty with the benefits of global cooperation.
He explained that
every Host Country Agreement is negotiated with due diligence, as outlined in
the legal framework, noting that each partner must demonstrate their alignment
with Kenya’s development priorities and their potential to deliver measurable
benefits.
“We believe that
robust dialogue is healthy for Kenya’s democracy and governance. It is through
such engagements that we refine our policies and reinforce our commitment to
transparency and accountability,” Mudavadi said.
The Prime CS lauded
the Gates Foundation for identifying Nairobi as the best location for its
sub-regional office, saying their choice exemplifies the cordial and mutually
beneficial relations that exist between Kenya and the Gates Foundation.
He also cited that
the Gates Foundation has supported various areas including the health sector,
which has helped improve access to child health and HIV/AIDS and malaria
programmes.
The CS appreciated
their investment in tools, technologies and market infrastructure that has
improved the productivity of smallholder farmers and enhanced their ability to
adapt to climate change.
The Gates Foundation
assured the Kenyan government of their continued support and collaboration in
creating sustainable economic and social advancements that will help save and
improve lives.