How Ruto’s US Ties Cost Museveni Billions
On Thursday, May 23, United States President Joe Biden committed Ksh2.4 billion to support Kenya’s counterterrorism efforts.
This announcement was made during a bilateral meeting with President William Ruto, with the funds earmarked for peace initiatives in Sudan, Somalia, and neighboring countries.
Ugandan media perceived the billions received by Ruto during his US State Visit as funds that should have been allocated to Yoweri Museveni’s administration.
Historically, the United States has regarded Museveni and his government as key allies in East Africa for combating global terrorism and promoting regional stability.
Past US Presidents, including Bill Clinton and George Bush, financially supported Uganda to enhance peacekeeping efforts and democracy in the region.
For instance, Uganda used to receive significant US funding to address security issues in Somalia, a responsibility now being assumed by Kenya.
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Additionally, President Biden announced that Kenya would continue to receive support through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
This funding aims to improve the health of over 1.3 million Kenyans living with HIV/AIDS and to support HIV prevention programs.
It’s noteworthy that Uganda was a primary recipient of PEPFAR, but ongoing US accusations of human rights abuses have put this funding at risk.
In 2002, the United States granted Uganda preferential trading status under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
While Kenya will maintain this status, President Joe Biden officially removed Uganda from the list in January 2024.
Explaining Uganda’s removal from AGOA, Biden stated, “Uganda has engaged in gross violations of internationally recognized human rights.”
How Ruto’s US Ties Cost Museveni Billions
