Warren Buffett’s Foundation Grants Ksh3.8 Billion to Bolster Kenya’s Health Sector Amid U.S. Aid Freeze
In a significant boost to Kenya’s healthcare system, the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, established by billionaire philanthropist Warren Buffett, has pledged a grant of Ksh3.8 billion to the country’s State Department of Medical Services. This funding aims to enhance healthcare delivery across Kenya, especially in the wake of substantial cuts to U.S. foreign aid.
According to the National Treasury’s 2025/26 budget estimates, this grant constitutes approximately 18.1% of the Ksh20.93 billion allocated for medical services projects in the upcoming fiscal year.
The donation arrives at a critical juncture, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order that froze foreign assistance through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This freeze has resulted in a projected Ksh52 billion deficit in Kenya’s 2024/25 fiscal year, significantly impacting healthcare programs, including the supply of essential medications for HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria.
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi highlighted the challenges posed by the aid suspension, noting that the government is reviewing the current budget to prioritize critical areas. Measures under consideration include reorganizing the existing health workforce, boosting local manufacturing of essential medical supplies, and integrating care and treatment for HIV, TB, and malaria into the Social Health Authority benefits package.
The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, originally named the Buffett Foundation and renamed in honor of Buffett’s late wife, has a history of supporting reproductive health initiatives. This grant represents one of the largest contributions from a private foundation to Kenya’s health sector, positioning the foundation as a key partner alongside multilateral donors like the World Bank and the Global Fund.
With the U.S. aid freeze affecting not only Kenya but also other countries like Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mali, and South Sudan, the Kenyan government is exploring alternative funding sources to mitigate the impact on essential services.
The infusion of funds from the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation is expected to alleviate some of the immediate pressures on Kenya’s healthcare system, ensuring continuity of critical services and demonstrating the vital role of philanthropic organizations in supporting global health initiatives.
