By Tajeu Shadrack Nkapapa
President William Ruto held strategic consultations with Darren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation, alongside his team, to reaffirm Kenya’s unwavering commitment to democratic governance, the rule of law, and respect for human rights.
During the meeting, President Ruto emphasized Kenya’s proactive role in defending democracy and upholding the rule of law.
Both leaders agreed on the need for strong measures to counter digital disinformation and protect democratic institutions from external threats in the evolving digital landscape.
President Ruto expressed gratitude for the Ford Foundation’s ongoing contributions to Kenya’s development and agreed on the importance of upgrading the institution’s Host Country Agreement.
“Kenya appreciates the Ford Foundation’s commitment to safeguarding our democracy and supporting Kenya’s calls for reforms in the global economic institutions, climate action and modern technology regulation,” President Ruto said on X.
The meeting also highlighted Kenya’s dedication to democratic governance, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights.
Acknowledging the trend of democratic regression observed in various regions globally, the participants concurred on the necessity to protect democracy, especially in Africa, from the challenges posed by disinformation and the exploitation of digital platforms for undemocratic purposes.
The President of the Ford Foundation commended President Ruto for his robust advocacy on the international platform regarding the reform of global economic governance institutions, climate change, and technology regulation.
He expressed the foundation’s readiness to assist the Government of Kenya in addressing the challenges associated with these critical issues.
Kenya continues to appreciate Ford Foundation’s support in bolstering democratic governance, safeguarding human rights, and promoting global reform initiatives that align with the country’s development agenda.