The United States government on Wednesday announced it will grant Kenya $10 million in support for the Parliamentary Strengthening Program over the next five years.

The US Government has been supporting governance reforms in Kenya for the past ten years through various programs including a Parliamentary Strengthening Program.

The US has also provided technical support as well as training and other capacity building exposures for Members of Parliament and staff of Parliament.

“The US Government is delighted to note the bold reforms that Parliament has instituted including reforms to the Standing Orders, opening up Committees to the public and instituting the live transmission of Parliamentary proceedings,” said US ambassador to Kenya Michael Ranneberger in Nairobi.

The envoy pointed out that the Kenyan Parliament is unquestionably more accessible and independent adding that parliament will be a key player in the implementation of the new Constitution.

“As a great friend and partner, the U.S. Government will continue to support Parliament’s plans to not only increase its institutional strength but also build its capacity so that it effectively delivers its constitutional mandates,” he added.

The Parliamentary Strengthening Program builds the capacity of Members of Parliament and staff, as well as providing linkages between Parliament and civil society.

Joseph Kimani