Uhuru Kenyatta Calls for Africa’s Self-Reliance After US Cuts Aid
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has shared a strong opinion on the recent decision by US President Donald Trump to suspend foreign aid, urging African nations to focus on self-reliance rather than depending on external support.
Speaking at the East Africa Region Global Health Security Summit, Kenyatta addressed the emotional reactions to the suspension, particularly the widespread distress over the loss of aid.
He recalled seeing people upset, with some even crying, after hearing about the aid freeze. In his statement, Kenyatta expressed disbelief over such responses, questioning why people were so affected. He pointed out, “I saw some people crying, saying, ‘Trump has stopped the aid.
He’s not giving us money anymore.’ But why cry? It’s not your government, and it’s not your country.
He doesn’t owe you anything.” Kenyatta went on to explain that the aid suspended by Trump was never guaranteed and was simply a way for the US to respond to its domestic needs, emphasizing that it was not an obligation to Africa.
He framed the situation as a valuable opportunity for Africa to reevaluate its approach. Kenyatta challenged African nations to shift their mindset from dependence to self-sufficiency, asking, “Why cry? What are we going to do for ourselves?
How can we help ourselves instead of waiting for help?” He pointed out that the aid suspension should not be seen as a setback but as a wake-up call for African countries to harness their own resources and focus on sustainable development.
The former president’s remarks come at a time when the suspension of US foreign aid is being felt across Africa, with critical sectors like healthcare and education particularly impacted.
In response, Kenyatta encouraged African nations to take control of their future, saying, “Nobody is going to keep extending a hand to offer help.
It’s time we use our resources wisely and for the right causes. We are the ones misusing them.”
Kenyatta’s statement highlights a broader concern shared by several African leaders: the long-standing dependence on foreign aid.
His message is clear: African countries should focus on internal growth, making smarter investments to reduce the need for external support in the future.
By prioritizing economic independence and self-sufficiency, African nations can work towards a more sustainable and prosperous future without relying on foreign aid.
