Prominent business leader and city tycoon Agnes Kagure has called for Kenya and other African countries to relook and detach from foreign aid reliance in funding its vital health programs.
This comes days affter the new US administration led by President Donald Trump cut off funding for important health programs around the globe.
Through her Facebook account, Kagure warned noted that while the move could disrupt critical healthcare services, affect thousands of patients and reverse the gains made in combating diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, it offered the opportunity for a new way of coping and surviving.
“The plans to pause support for key health programs by the new US administration will undoubtedly affect many patients and push us steps back on the gains made,” Kagure stated.
Businesswoman Agnes Kagure. Source: Agnes Kagure/Facebook
However, Kagure opined that the decision, harsh as it may seem to be, is a wake-up call for African countries to rethink their dependence on foreign aid decades after gaining independence.
“This should be a moment of reflection for Kenya and other African nations. We cannot continue to rely on external support indefinitely. It’s time to relook austerity, productivity, and self-reliance,” she asserted.
Agnes Kagure gestures as she delivers a keynote speech. Photo: Agnes Kagure Source: X
The philanthropist called on African governments to prioritize innovative financing mechanisms, increase investment in local healthcare systems, and foster partnerships with the private sector to build sustainable solutions.
She also urged leaders to address inefficiencies and corruption, which often undermine the effectiveness of health programs.
Her remarks come amid growing concerns over the sustainability of donor-funded initiatives in Africa.
The US has been a major contributor to health programs on the continent, particularly through initiatives like PEPFAR (President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) and the Global Fund.
Kagure’s call for self-reliance resonates with broader debates on Africa’s development trajectory.
As the continent grapples with the potential fallout from reduced foreign aid, her message underscores the urgent need for homegrown solutions to secure the health and well-being of millions.
