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Outgoing US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman has shared some key highlights of her duty tour in Kenya as she plans to exit the diplomatic job.

In a statement on Friday, November 22, 2024, Whitman said that she enjoyed the scenic Kenyan landscape, wildlife and art, but the hospitality particularly stood out for her.

“Since arriving in October 2022, I have travelled to 28 counties and I have seen first-hand how the USA and Kenya are working together to build a stronger future for both countries,” Whitman said.

Adding: “Whenever I went around the country, I met amazing Kenyans working hard to create jobs, improve healthcare, build a stronger democracy and strengthen the ties between Kenyans and Americans who form the bedrock of the successful relationship.”

Whitman boasted about the achievement of having been at the centre of arranging Kenya’s first official US visit by an African head of state since 2008.

The visit became the sixth of its kind since US President Joe Biden took over office four years ago, making Kenya the sixth country to be invited by the United States for bilateral talks.

“But most of all, I will remember the people of Kenya who welcomed me with unparalleled hospitality and showed me their passion for building a stronger US-Kenya relationship,” Whitman said.

Historic US official visit

President William Ruto visited the United States in May 2024, on a tour which resulted in the signing of several bilateral agreements between the two countries.

Kenya became the first Sub-Saharan country to become America’s major non-NATO ally courtesy of the four-day visit of the US in May.

The other benefits from the visit were Ksh5.3 billion for the expansion of the democratic space, open governance and accountability, Ksh250 million for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) youth programme and disability inclusion and Ksh66 million for anti-corruption efforts.

Major funding

Other major funding from the over Ksh50 billion worth of benefits visit were Ksh929 million towards the modernization and professionalization of the National Police Service, Ksh4.1 billion for the development of a digital superhighway for healthcare delivery and Ksh478 million investment in the energy sector.

The other investments were in the education sector and financial and technology sectors of the Kenyan economy.

“USAID intends to provide Ksh.3.2 billion ($24.5 million) for the Kenya Primary Literacy Program (KPLP), a new nationwide early-grade literacy activity implemented in close partnership with Kenya’s Ministry of Education,” the White House announced.