Who are the Ford Foundation

The ongoing Kenyan protests against punitive taxes and poor governance have persisted for over a month with no signs of abating.

Cases of abductions and extrajudicial killings have surged, with bodies frequently discovered in areas like Kware and across the nation.

President William Ruto, in a recent speech in Nakuru, implicated the Ford Foundation, alleging their involvement in funding the demonstrations, which the foundation has strenuously denied.

But what ties does the Ford Foundation have to Kenya? Here’s the connection:

The Ford Foundation is an American private foundation dedicated to advancing human welfare. Established in 1936 by Edsel Ford and his father, Henry Ford, it initially received a US$25,000 gift from Edsel Ford.

It is a prominent American philanthropic organization, that has significantly influenced Kenya’s social and economic landscape since its establishment in 1963, coinciding with Kenya’s independence.

Initially focused on strengthening Kenya’s emerging institutions, the Foundation provided critical grants to institutions like the University of Nairobi, supporting the education of future leaders and civil servants.

Beyond infrastructure, the Ford Foundation has been a champion of civil justice and social change, advocating for marginalized communities’ rights, promoting artistic expression, and encouraging civic engagement.

This commitment is evident in initiatives such as the “Creativity and Civic Space” grant, which supports Kenyan artists and activists through fellowship programs.

The Foundation’s impact in Kenya goes beyond financial support; it actively promotes local philanthropy, recognizing its role in ensuring long-term sustainability and development.