The U.S. philanthropic organization Ford Foundation has refuted claims that it has been financing the ongoing anti-government demonstrations in Kenya. The allegations were brought forward by the Kenyan government in a letter sent on Thursday by Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei to Ford Foundation President Darren Walker.
In the letter, Sing’Oei expressed grave concerns about the foundation’s recent financial activities in Kenya. He noted that from April 2023 to May 2024, Ford Foundation disbursed a total of USD 5.78 million (approximately Ksh.752 million) to various non-state entities. Among the recipients were Africa Uncensored Limited, the Kenya Human Rights Commission, and Transparency International.
The Ford Foundation has since distanced itself from these allegations, maintaining that its funding is aimed at supporting civil society organizations in promoting human rights, transparency, and accountability, rather than fueling political unrest. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to fostering positive social change and development in Kenya.