Speaker Wetang’ula roots for reduced donor funds reliance amid U.S. AID freeze

𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐰𝐚, 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐨 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲,
𝐒𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐5

National Assembly Speaker, Moses Masika Wetang'ula, E.G.H,MP 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 service of Baringo Senator William Cheptumo, Speaker 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 own 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, which has caused a shortage of life-saving antiretroviral drugs (ARVs), condoms, and other essential medical supplies in Kenya. Many institutions that rely on USAID support have been forced to consider job cuts, highlighting the vulnerability of donor-dependent programs.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi echoed Wetang’ula’s sentiments, revealing that the Kenyan 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 Kenyan 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 stressed.

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 affirmed.

The funeral of Senator Cheptumo provided a moment of reflection on his contributions to national security and governance. Known for his tireless advocacy for the North Rift’s security, Cheptumo was instrumental in pushing for policies that helped curb banditry in the volatile region, often referred to as the “Valley of Death.”

President 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.

Hon. Cheptumo’s political career spanned nearly two decades. He was first elected to Parliament in 2007 as the MP for Baringo North Constituency and was re-elected in 2013 and 2017. 

In the 2022 General Election, he successfully vied for the Baringo Senate seat, a position he held until his passing on February 16, 2025.

Beyond security, Cheptumo’s legislative work left an indelible mark on Kenya’s governance. He chaired the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee and the Delegated Legislation Committee, playing a pivotal role in shaping the country’s legal framework. His legacy, leaders noted, would live on in Kenya’s pursuit of justice and democracy.