Ford Foundation denies funding anti-government protests in Kenya

U.S. philanthropic organisation Ford Foundation has distanced itself from allegations that it has been financing the ongoing anti-government demonstrations in Kenya.

This comes after the Kenyan government, in a letter on Thursday penned by Foreign Affairs PS Korir Sing'Oei and addressed to Ford Foundation President, Darren Walker, raised serious concerns about the American organization's recent funding activities in Kenya.

Sing'Oei highlighted that between April 2023 and May 2024, several non-state recipients, including Africa Uncensored Limited, the Kenya Human Rights Commission, and Transparency International, received a total of USD 5.78 million (approximately Ksh.752 million) from the Ford Foundation.

The PS' communication implied a correlation between the Ford Foundation’s funding and the perceived escalation of local anti-government demonstrations, prompting the state to call for clarity and accountability from the foundation.

In a rejoinder on its website, the Ford Foundation reiterated its commitment to transparency and the advancement of civil society causes globally.

Acknowledging receipt of the letter from the Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Foundation reaffirmed its adherence to stringent grant-making protocols and its dedication to supporting initiatives that promote social justice and equitable development.

"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," said the Ford Foundation.

"While we continue to acknowledge the right of Kenyans to peacefully advocate for a just and equitable country, we repudiate any actions or speech that are hateful or advocate violence against any institution, individual, or community."

The Foundation added that it remains committed to building its legacy in the region so that Kenyans can unlock and tap into new opportunities.