US President Donald Trump signed various executive orders after taking an oath of office on Monday, January 20.
Notably, two of the executive orders signed by Trump will significantly impact Kenya given that they target US foreign relations and aid.
Executive Order on Foreign Aid
One of the most notable orders that Trump signed was the pausing of all foreign aid by the US government.
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In the order shared by the White House, all foreign aid programmes will be paused for 90 days.
During the 90 days, the US government will assess the programmes to ensure that they align with the current administration's policies.
As outlined in the new policy, some foreign aid programmes may be stopped if deemed to be violating the trump administration policies.
"Reviews of each foreign assistance program shall be ordered by the responsible department and agency heads under guidelines provided by the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB)." read the order in part.
"The responsible department and agency heads, in consultation with the Director of OMB, will make determinations within 90 days of this order on whether to continue, modify, or cease each foreign assistance program based upon the review recommendations, with the concurrence of the Secretary of State."
Kenya is among the countries that benefit from aid programmes initiated by the US. For instance, in May 2024, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced that it would be investing close to Ksh4,1 billion in Kenya's dedication system.
Executive Order on Foreign Relations
Additionally, Trump issued an executive order to signal a shift in the US foreign policy.
In the order issued to the US Secretary of State, Trump noted that US foreign policy would champion the interests of America and its people first.
"From this day forward, the foreign policy of the United States shall champion core American interests and always put America and American citizens first," read the order in part.
"As soon as practicable, the Secretary of State shall issue guidance bringing the Department of State’s policies, programs, personnel, and operations in line with an America First foreign policy, which puts America and its interests first."
In line with these new policies, Trump may soon pick new ambassadors across the world including Kenya, given that Meg Whitman resigned from her position in 2024.
