Denmark grants Kenya Sh17 billion to fight poverty

By John Oyuke

Denmark will give Kenya Sh17 billion over the next five years to support various development projects and fight poverty.

However, annual disbursements of the committed aid are likely to reach Sh3.7 billion provided that the momentum of reform implementation is maintained, a statement from Danish Embassy in Nairobi said.

"Denmark is committed to remain engaged with Kenya in its development efforts," Mr Carsten Nilaus Pedersen, an Under-secretary from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Copenhagen said.

A Danish delegation led by Pedersen visited Nairobi from June 15 to 16 to consult on the framework for continued Danish development co-operation with Kenya.

The delegation met Minister of Finance Uhuru Kenyatta, Minister of Justice Mutula Kilonzo and senior officials from the Treasury and co-operation partner ministries.

Poll violence

Pedersen expressed Denmark’s concern about the lack of progress and urgency in the implementation of the Agenda 4 reforms.

He said to avoid a repeat of the post-election violence, underlying political conflicts must be resolved.

"I see strong evidence that Kenyans are losing confidence in their Government. It is very important to rebuild such confidence," he said.

Pedersen said reports of extra-judicial killings are of great concern and urged the Government to follow up on the Alston report and restore fundamental human rights.

The delegation discussed reform efforts with officials, civil society and business and confirmed that Denmark is firmly committed to providing continued assistance to the Kofi Annan-led process.