Sweden grants Kenya $220 billion to fund reforms
Nairobi — The government of Kenya has received 17 billion shillings ($220 billion) from the Swedish government to fund various reform agendas as stipulated under the national accord.
The Swedish ambassador to Kenya Anna Brandt says the grant will be spread over 5 years up to 2013, with major emphasizes on the electoral, constitutional and judicial reforms.
The donation will be a boost to the 2 billion shillings allocation for the implementation of agenda item 4.
The Swedish government has often expressed its concerns over the slow implementations of various reform agenda in the country with priority on electoral, constitutional and judicial reforms.
The governments pace on reform agenda in the country has frequently been faulted, especially in the judiciary land policy and commitment to deliver a new constitution.
Speaking during the signing of the agreement, Uhuru expressed his appreciation for the assistance that the people and government of Sweden have continued to give to Kenya and its people in support of development agenda.
He also added that Sweden's support had made an important contribution to the improvement of the livelihoods of many Kenyans.
Anna on the other hand was pleased to sign the agreement.
"I am pleased that we are signing the agreement for the next phase of our joint efforts to promote Kenya's development towards a prosperous nation where all Kenyans can benefit from economic growth and participate in shaping their future." She said.
She added that the agreement will last over the coming five years and will amount to shs 3.5 billion per year which will be provided as grants.
At the same time finance Minister Uhuru Kenyatta lauded the first family for honoring his directive to cut down on cost by rejecting a fleet of 8 new top of the range fuel guzzling.
Uhuru said his ministry is still implementing modalities to give all ministries new economical before they can reposes those above the required engine capacity.
- By Collins Anampiu | KBC