In a move celebrated by many across the country, Reuben Kigame, Deputy Party Leader of the Justice and Freedom Party (JFP), has praised the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for its decision to withdraw from the Host Country Agreement that previously granted them immunity in Kenya.
Kigame, a vocal advocate for national sovereignty and accountability, took to social media to express his approval, declaring: “To some good news! Praise God! And solidarity works. Gates Foundation withdraws from Host Country Agreement that granted them immunity in Kenya.”
The decision by the Gates Foundation marks a significant development in Kenya’s relationship with the global philanthropic organization. The Host Country Agreement, signed in the past, had granted the Foundation immunity from prosecution under Kenyan law, a situation that had raised concerns among various stakeholders about fairness, accountability, and the application of local jurisdiction.
In a statement issued by Paulin Basinga, the Africa Director of the Gates Foundation, the organization confirmed that they were withdrawing from the agreement due to the growing legal cases that had shifted focus away from their primary philanthropic mission. The Foundation acknowledged that the attention on legal issues was distracting from their work in the region, which is focused on improving the welfare of citizens through various development programs, particularly in health and education.
“We remain committed to continuing our operations across Kenya through our branch offices, with a renewed focus on advancing the welfare of the Kenyan people,” Basinga said. “While we respect the legal framework of Kenya, we believe this decision will allow us to concentrate on what truly matters—supporting the country’s development goals.”
The Gates Foundation has been active in Kenya for years, funding and supporting various initiatives aimed at combating disease, improving education, and promoting economic growth. Their decision to withdraw from the Host Country Agreement has been met with mixed reactions, but many, including Deputy Party Leader Reuben Kigame, see it as a positive step toward reinforcing Kenya’s sovereignty and legal framework.
Solidarity and Accountability
Kigame’s statement highlights the importance of maintaining sovereignty and accountability in all international agreements, particularly in matters involving foreign organizations operating in Kenya. By withdrawing from the agreement, the Gates Foundation has shown respect for the Kenyan legal system, signaling a commitment to operating in full alignment with the country's laws.
“This is a win for Kenya,” Kigame remarked. “It is a reflection of the power of solidarity and the value of upholding our national laws. The Gates Foundation’s decision is a step in the right direction, ensuring that all organizations, no matter their stature, are held accountable to the people of Kenya.”
The withdrawal of the Host Country Agreement is expected to set a precedent for other international organizations operating in Kenya, highlighting the need for mutual respect between Kenya and its partners. It is also seen as an important moment for Kenya’s political landscape, with leaders advocating for greater transparency, fairness, and respect for the country's sovereignty.
Moving Forward: Continued Commitment to Development
Despite the withdrawal from the immunity agreement, the Gates Foundation remains committed to its work in Kenya. The Foundation assured the public that its operations will continue unabated, focusing on key areas such as health, education, and economic development, which have long been central to its mission in Kenya and across Africa.
As the country continues to navigate its relationship with international partners, this decision marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s development trajectory, as it balances global collaborations with the need for local legal integrity and sovereignty.
Reuben Kigame and other leaders are hopeful that this move will inspire more international organizations to operate in Kenya with the same respect for the rule of law, paving the way for a stronger, more transparent relationship between Kenya and the rest of the world.
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