The Ford Foundation has acknowledged receipt of an official communication from Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs regarding its financial support to 16 non-governmental organizations operating within the country.
In an official statement released on Friday, July 19, the Ford Foundation reaffirmed its status as a global charitable organization and directed the Kenyan government to consult the foundation’s website for comprehensive information about its grant-making activities in Kenya.
All Financial Records Available on the Website
The US-based philanthropic entity highlighted that its online database provides detailed information on fund allocation and showcases its extensive history of involvement in East Africa.
“As a charitable foundation with a global presence, our grantmaking is transparent and readily available on our website, www.fordfoundation.org. This includes a database showing where our funds go, as well as highlights from our rich history in East Africa and around the world,” the statement emphasized.
The Ford Foundation also took the opportunity to clarify its stance on controversial activities, stating:
“We remain ever committed to building on the legacy of the Ford Foundation’s more than 60 years in the region so that Kenyans can unlock opportunities that extend to all.”
The foundation explicitly stated that it does not endorse or support any actions or speech promoting hatred or violence against any institution, individual, or community.
Grants Amounting to Sh 752 Million
This statement comes in response to a letter dated July 18 from Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei. In the communication, Sing’Oei disclosed that the Ford Foundation had distributed grants totaling approximately Sh 752 million (equivalent to US$ 5.78 million) between April 2023 and May 2024.
Sing’Oei expressed the government’s apprehension about the potential misuse of these funds during recent anti-finance bill demonstrations and anti-government protests. He noted:
“It is noteworthy that several of your Grantees below mentioned received a total of US$ 5.78 Million (approximately Kenya Shillings 752 Million) between April 2023 and May 2024 – with unexplained expedited funding amounting to US$ 1.49 M (approximately Kenya shillings 194 million) – over the last month alone.”
In light of these concerns, Sing’Oei requested the Ford Foundation to provide:
1. Comprehensive details of grants distributed over the past year
2. Information on programs approved in the last three months
3. Budgets for each project
4. Amounts already disbursed and planned future disbursements
5. Reports from grantees detailing activities carried out, associated costs, and beneficiaries
6. A report on the Foundation’s adherence to its non-lobbying policy, or a statement declaring this policy inapplicable to its Kenyan operations
7. A description of any sanctions the Foundation would impose for violations of law or internal policies
