Exclusive: U.S. Ambassador Meg Whitman Talks Gen Z Protests and Kenya’s Role in Haiti

In an exclusive interview on Citizen TV Kenya’s The Explainer, U.S. Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman delved into several pressing issues currently shaping the East African nation. The conversation covered everything from the recent Gen Z protests—and corruption—to Kenya’s involvement in Haiti and the country’s debt crisis. Ambassador Whitman provided insight into U.S. views on these issues and outlined the role that the U.S. has played—and can continue to play—in Kenya’s development.

Inside Look: Kenyan Gen Z Protests Through the Eyes of Ambassador Meg Whitman

One of the primary topics discussed during the interview was the recent Gen Z protests that have taken place across Kenya. Ambassador Whitman acknowledged the right to peaceful assembly as a fundamental aspect of democracy, expressing the U.S. government’s support for the youth-led movement.

pic.twitter.com/3gqBLBvEhY

— U.S. Embassy Nairobi (@USEmbassyKenya) July 18, 2024

“We recognize and support the vibrant youth population of Kenya, and their right to express themselves peacefully,” she said, emphasizing that protests should be conducted in a manner that respects the law.

Whitman also addressed the tragic loss of life during these protests, stressing that such incidents underline the importance of safeguarding democratic values. She highlighted that the U.S. has been closely monitoring the situation and engaging with the Kenyan government to advocate for peaceful dialogue and respect for human rights.

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The Role of the Diplomatic Community in Kenya’s Affairs

Whitman countered claims that the diplomatic community had been silent during the Gen Z protests, pointing to statements and actions made by the U.S. and other international representatives. She noted that U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken had directly addressed the situation and that a high-level visit from the Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, Uzra Zeya emphasized the importance of protecting civil liberties.

Asante Sana to Amb Whitman and the stellar @USEmbassyKenya for an impactful visit. I depart with the strong conviction that our partnership with the people & govt is more important than ever and can deliver for our people, the region, and the world. pic.twitter.com/tsvpfw4s62

— Under Secretary Uzra Zeya (@UnderSecStateJ) August 7, 2024

Ambassador Whitman also revealed that Sec. Blinken called President Ruto twice in the last month or so, reiterating the same.

“We have had straightforward discussions with President [William] Ruto,” Whitman said, referring to dialogues focused on ensuring peaceful resolutions to the protests.

Kenya’s Involvement in Haiti: A Peacekeeping Mission

The Citizen TV interview also touched on Kenya’s recent deployment of police officers to Haiti as part of a peacekeeping mission. This move has been widely scrutinized, with both local and international audiences closely watching Kenya’s role in the troubled Caribbean nation.

Ambassador Whitman praised the commitment of the Kenyan police officers who have been tasked with assisting the Haitian National Police in restoring order. She revealed that the U.S. has provided financial and equipment support amounting to $200 million to the mission, reiterating that the goal is to bring peace and stability to Haiti.

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“The Kenyan troops have arrived in Haiti and are doing commendable work on the ground. We are hopeful that their efforts will help restore peace and calm in Haiti,” Whitman said.

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There have been recent reports that the Kenyan police officers in Haiti had not yet received their remuneration, something that the ambassador said they will be getting this Thursday or Friday.

While acknowledging the challenges faced by the families of the deployed officers—some of whom have reportedly been unable to return their kids to school—Whitman assured them that the issue would be addressed by the end of this week. “It is unacceptable“, she noted, saying that she was unaware of the matter before she read about it on the newspapers.

Ambassador Whitman’s Views on Corruption and Unemployment in Kenya: Hindrances to Kenya’s Growth

In the exclusive interview, Ambassador Whitman also touched on two of Kenya’s most pressing domestic issues: corruption and unemployment. She expressed concern over how deeply corruption is embedded in the political system in Kenya, noting that it hinders economic growth and discourages foreign investment.

Comparing Foreign Direct Investment in Kenya with the country’s nominal GDP, it is clear that there has been a huge slump in the number—and size—of direct foreign investors in the country in recent years. This has mainly been due to political instability and burgeoning taxes as regimes try to finance increasingly high debt costs.

“Corruption is a huge issue that stands in the way of Kenya’s potential,” she stated, adding that “Kenya has to deal with it“. Whitman urged the Kenyan government to prioritize transparency and good governance, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law.

She also pointed out that while democracy is always a work in progress, the enforcement of the Kenyan Constitution should be central to government operations, particularly in ensuring public officials are held accountable for their actions.

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Youth Unemployment: A Growing Concern

Ambassador Whitman also addressed the issue of youth unemployment, which was a key part of Kenyan youths’ grievances, leading to the Gen Z protests. With over 60% of Kenya’s population under the age of 35, the lack of job opportunities is a key challenge facing the country.

“We are in discussions about how to create more jobs for Kenya’s youth. This is an urgent priority,” Ambassador Whitman noted. She touted US efforts—via the US International Development Financing Corporation, DFC—in financing e-mobility startups such as Mogo.

Visited @MogoAutoLtd — a key player in accelerating cleaner transport for Kenyans with support from the United States. Electric vehicles bring 20-40% savings for riders, boosting their daily income, while also contributing to climate action. @DFCgov pic.twitter.com/aNTD7VF7y2

— U.S. Ambassador Meg Whitman (@USAmbKenya) August 12, 2024

The U.S. has recently financed several green economy startups, including BasiGo, an electric bus manufacturing company that assembles the buses locally and employs Kenya youth. These efforts, Meg Whitman said, are part of the US’s commitment to ensuring Kenyan youth get jobs “they deserve“.

Excited to see how @BasiGoKenya is championing green mobility in Kenya. The United States is committed to supporting innovative solutions in Kenya’s public transport sector.#USKEat60@DFCgov pic.twitter.com/oZFwaTo9a8

— U.S. Ambassador Meg Whitman (@USAmbKenya) August 15, 2024

Whitman also suggested that partnerships between Kenya and the U.S., particularly in technology, could help bridge the unemployment gap by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

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Kenya’s Debt Crisis: Balancing Development and Financial Stability

One of the most critical issues raised during Meg Whitman’s interview was Kenya’s ballooning debt crisis, which continues to pose a significant threat to the country’s financial stability. Whitman discussed the role of international lenders like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other bilateral lenders in addressing Kenya’s debt. Kenya’s debt is currently at about $82 billion with $8 billion being from China. The country’s burgeoning debt was one of the key issues that took center stage during the Gen Z protests. A majority of protestors blamed the IMF for the Ruto regime’s “punitive” tax policies.

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“We understand the complexity of the debt crisis, and it’s something that requires careful management,” Whitman said. The ambassador noted that while the U.S. plays a significant role in institutions like the IMF and World Bank, the focus should be on economic growth and job creation to alleviate the burden, especially on Kenyan youth. Whitman acknowledged that when a growing part of the country’s budget is going into debt payment, development is massively curtailed.

On the US Federal Reserve increasing interest rates following growing inflation in the US over the past few years, Amb. Whitman attributed the rate increases to global upheaval due to the Russia-Ukraine War, saying “When we [US] have a head cold, the rest of the world gets the flu“. Kenya’s debt has been weighing down on the growing economy, with its debt-to-GDP ratio growing to over 60%.

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Amb. Whitman emphasized the need for Kenya to avoid defaulting on its debt, urging the government to implement sustainable financial policies that promote long-term growth. She also highlighted the high interest rates that have exacerbated the financial strain on the country and called for a rethinking of the global financial architecture, almost echoing President Ruto’s push for reforms within the IMF and World Bank. There have been growing concerns that international debt is structured to put a “chokehold” on African economies or what could be referred to as ‘the Global South‘.

A Free Trade Block in Africa: The Promise of Regional Integration

Another issue that Ambassador Whitman touched on was the potential for a free trade block in Africa, as imagined by the African Growth and Opportunity Act, AGOA which was enacted by the US Congress in 2000. AGOA allows eligible African nations to export their products to the US duty-free. Meg Whitman expressed optimism about the establishment of such an economic zone, which would allow for easier trade and investment across African nations.

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“A free trade block in Africa could transform the continent’s economies,” Whitman remarked, expressing hope that the next head of the African Union (AU) will prioritize this goal.

The ambassador chose not to comment on former Kenyan Prime Minister, Raila Odinga’s bid to become AU Chairperson. Raila, who was running against Ruto in the previous general elections, is keen on becoming the next AU chair. His bid—which was officially announced today—saw President Ruto, together with other East African leaders, float his name as the East Africa region’s candidate.

Ambassador Meg Whitman and Raila Odinga have not been the best of friends, especially since she supported the 2022 election results, which Raila contested, calling her a “rogue ambassador“. He went on to tell her, “Shut your mouth! Kenya is not a colony of the United States.“

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The Role of Regional Economic Integration in Growing African Economies

Regional economic integration is seen as a possible solution to many of Africa’s economic challenges, including unemployment and slow growth. Meg Whitman believes that with proper leadership, a free trade block could provide a much-needed boost to development across the continent.

Ambassador Whitman also expressed hopes that Kenya’s consideration under AGOA would continue into the US’s next administration. Kenya’s export trade partnership with the US—under AGOA—is currently under discussion, to extend the contractual agreement period as it nearly lapses.

“We are currently negotiating an extension to the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) trade agreement,” Whitman mentioned, underscoring the importance of trade and investment partnerships in solidifying U.S.-Kenya relations.

Strategic Partnerships and the Future of U.S.-Kenya Relations

Lastly, the interview touched on the broader relationship between the U.S. and Kenya, with Ambassador Whitman expressing confidence that the over 60-year-old partnership between the two nations will remain strong.

Despite the changing political landscape in both countries—given the upcoming U.S. presidential election—Whitman assured the country that the U.S. is committed to maintaining its strategic ties with Kenya. The ambassador avoided making comments on the presidential candidates in the 2024 US elections.

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Kenya is a strategic partner to the US, especially in Security and Defense in the East Africa region, and holds one of the seats in the U.N. Security Council.

Parting Words: A Promising Future, But Challenges Remain

In summary, Ambassador Meg Whitman’s interview on Citizen TV highlighted a wide range of challenges and opportunities facing Kenya today. From the recent Gen Z protests to the deployment of peacekeeping forces in Haiti and Kenya’s economic struggles, US Ambassador Meg Whitman emphasized the importance of collaboration, both domestically and internationally.

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The U.S. remains a key partner for Kenya, providing support in areas ranging from security to economic development. Nonetheless, the path forward will require continued dialogue, a focus on good governance, and a commitment to addressing the root causes of unrest and economic instability in Kenya.

As Whitman aptly put it, “The relationship between the U.S. and Kenya is strong, and together, we can work towards a more prosperous future.” [Source: Citizen TV Kenya]

Watch Ambassador Whitman’s Interview below. Courtesy of Citizen TV.