Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi urges Kenya to transition from aid dependency to fostering trade and investment. Speaking in Geneva, he emphasizes the need for significant policy changes to generate domestic resources for essential programs and warns about the challenges facing nations dependent on aid. Mudavadi calls for swift action across various sectors to fortify the nation’s economic and healthcare systems.
Musalia Mudavadi, the Prime Cabinet Secretary, has proposed a transition for Kenya from relying on foreign aid to establishing a robust platform for attracting trade and investment. Speaking in Geneva, he emphasized the need for policy shifts that would generate sufficient domestic resources to finance essential government programs. He cautioned that the age of aid dependence is over, urging both Kenya and the African continent to seek sustainable alternatives for economic support.
In his remarks, Mudavadi noted that the current geopolitical climate indicates a pressing need for self-reliance. He stated, “We cannot afford to prevaricate. Other countries are making their own moves. We must make ours now.” He highlighted Kenya’s strategic position as a regional economic leader, calling for swift legislative actions and a stronger partnership between county governments and the private sector across various industries, including agriculture and technology.
Mudavadi also warned nations that depend on aid to be mindful of shifting global dynamics, particularly from powers like the United States. He expressed the necessity for African nations to prioritize their investments, stating, “But now, it is our turn as Africans to scramble for our own investments.” The Prime Cabinet Secretary urged the Kenyan populace to actively support government initiatives and accept that healthcare will no longer be predominantly funded by foreign donors.
He underscored the importance of sustainable solutions for healthcare, asserting that programs must focus on the well-being of the Kenyan people. Mudavadi remarked, “The Universal Health Care must now shift from the angle at which it was being seen to now be seen as a serious lifesaving program for the people of Kenya.” Despite advocating for progress, he called for improvement in the implementation framework of the Universal Health Care program.
Mudavadi pointed out the urgent need for financial reforms, citing concerns over the sustainability of funding from organizations like the World Health Organization and USAID. He noted that Kenya currently finances approximately 40% of its healthcare programs independently, with 60% relying on external partners. This situation underscores the importance of establishing a resilient economic foundation for future healthcare and other critical sectors.
In summary, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has articulated a vision for Kenya’s shift from dependency on foreign aid to a self-sustaining economy driven by trade and investment. He highlights the urgency for legislative action and collaboration with the private sector while emphasizing the necessity for Kenya to take ownership of its healthcare systems. By focusing on sustainable practices, Kenya aims to secure its economic future and ensure the well-being of its citizens.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
