National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged the country to shift away from reliance on foreign donors, calling for a renewed national focus on self-sufficiency in light of the United States’ recent aid freeze.
Speaking at the funeral of Baringo Senator William Cheptumo, Wetang’ula underscored the shifting global dynamics, emphasizing the need for Kenya to adopt homegrown solutions to its challenges.
He pointed to the United States’ inward-looking policies, which have led to cuts in funding for critical programs such as HIV/AIDS and malaria treatment, as a wake-up call for African nations.
“Have you seen what is happening in America? The leadership there is now focused on their interests, funding for AIDS, malaria, and other global programs has been cut. They want to make America great again. We, in Kenya, must make Kenya great forever by making sacrifices and working hard,” he stated.
The Speaker’s remarks come in the wake of growing concerns over the impact of the US aid freeze.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi echoed Wetang’ula’s sentiments, revealing that the government was exploring diplomatic avenues to mitigate the effects of the aid suspension.
However, he stressed the urgency of building a resilient economy that does not hinge on the goodwill of foreign nations.
Beyond the donor issue, Wetang’ula called on leaders to foster national unity, warning against ethnic and political divisions that hinder development.
He urged politicians to set aside their differences and rally behind President William Ruto’s push for inclusivity.
“Our country’s unity and progress will not come from outsiders. It is up to us to ensure that whether you are from Baringo, Mandera, Kwale, or Busia, you understand that Kenya is one nation,” he stated.
Wetang’ula defended President Ruto’s recent engagement with opposition leaders, dismissing critics who view the outreach as a betrayal of political allegiances.
He urged all Kenyans to support the President’s efforts to unify the country, stating that leadership should transcend electoral divides.
“You are leading a country called Kenya, whether someone voted for you, opposed you, or didn’t vote at all, they are all under your leadership. You carry the mantle, the aspirations, and the dreams of this country. We must all support the President,” Wetang’ula said.
During the funeral, Ruto and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen acknowledged Cheptumo’s efforts, noting that his push for enhanced security operations had borne fruit, with hostilities in the region significantly reduced.
