In a move that could impact U.S.-Kenya relations, President Donald Trump has canceled a $3.4 million (Ksh438.6 million) aviation advisory contract, a decision confirmed by The Kenya Times. The contract, managed under the U.S. Department of State, was part of an initiative providing technical and operational aviation support across Africa.
This decision follows an announcement by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) on April 3, 2025, revealing the termination of 47 federal contracts deemed “wasteful.” The cancellations, totaling $30.2 million (Ksh3.8 billion) in savings from an overall budget of $87.5 million (Ksh11.2 billion), were justified as part of Trump’s broader cost-cutting strategy aimed at reducing government expenditure.
WRC NAIVASHA: A Weekend of Thrills , Chaos and Consequences
Impact on U.S.-Kenya Relations
The decision comes less than a year after Kenya was designated a major non-NATO ally by former U.S. President Joe Biden in May 2024, marking a historic step in U.S.-Africa relations. Kenya has played a key role in counterterrorism efforts, peacekeeping missions, and international security cooperation, particularly through its involvement in the Haiti police mission.
However, this contract cancellation raises concerns about a potential shift in the U.S.’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s aviation sector and broader foreign aid initiatives. The Trump administration has long been critical of U.S. foreign aid, prioritizing economic efficiency over development assistance.
Financial and Economic Concerns
Analysts suggest the contract’s cancellation could disrupt Kenya’s ongoing efforts to enhance aviation infrastructure, a key driver of economic growth and regional connectivity. Additionally, experts question the overall effectiveness of Trump’s budget cuts, as recent reports indicate DOGE’s measures have resulted in only $2 billion in savings—just 0.03% of the previous fiscal year’s $6.8 trillion U.S. federal budget.
Critics argue that substantial budget reductions would require legislative reforms targeting major spending programs like Medicare and Social Security, rather than smaller cuts to foreign aid.
What’s Next for Kenya?
With U.S. funding for aviation operations now uncertain, Kenya may need to seek alternative partnerships, possibly from the European Union, China, or regional African initiatives, to sustain its aviation sector’s growth.
This story is still developing. Stay tuned to KeleleHub.co.ke for further updates.