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Gates Foundation has met all legal requirements - Mudavadi

Mudavadi said Cabinet approved its host country agreement and attendant privileges.

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by PATIENCE NJERI

News15 November 2024 - 16:04
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In Summary


  • Mudavadi said the Privileges and Immunities Order, 2024, says the foundation is meant to facilitate seamless operations geared towards impactful programmes in Kenya.
  • Mudavadi assured that Kenya is vigilant in balancing its sovereignty with the benefits of global cooperation.

Gates foundations' privileges and immunities meet legal requirements, Mudavadi

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.

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