NAIROBI, Kenya- In a landmark move, the Kenyan government has granted The Gates Foundation special diplomatic privileges, including immunity for its expatriates working in the country.
This status, outlined in legal notice number 157 issued on October 4, 2024, allows the Foundation to operate with significant legal and financial exemptions, aligning it with entities like international diplomatic missions.
The notice, signed by Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi, exercised powers under the Privileges and Immunities Act, formally recognizing The Gates Foundation’s charitable efforts to combat poverty, disease, and inequality in over 140 countries.
With this new status, The Gates Foundation, formerly known as The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, gains the ability to enter into contracts, acquire property, and engage in legal proceedings under Kenyan law.
Moreover, its staff and officials will enjoy diplomatic-style immunities, including exemptions from taxation, immigration restrictions, and certain legal actions.
As part of these privileges, the Foundation’s employees will also be exempt from duties on importing personal belongings when they arrive in Kenya, a benefit typically reserved for diplomats.
They will also have access to repatriation facilities during international crises, underscoring the significant scope of this agreement.
The agreement solidifies Kenya as a regional hub for the Foundation’s operations, reinforcing a partnership that President William Ruto’s government is keen to support.
Earlier this year, Ruto’s Cabinet approved the establishment of The Gates Foundation’s regional offices in Kenya, with the aim of bolstering the country’s healthcare system and attracting further investment.
According to Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, this partnership positions Kenya as a key player in the global fight against pressing challenges such as poverty and disease.
It’s a move expected to incentivize further investments and strengthen collaborations that could drive sustainable development across East Africa.
President Ruto has expressed confidence that hosting The Gates Foundation will not only support healthcare improvements but also stimulate more economic opportunities.
This isn’t the first time The Gates Foundation has made a significant impact in Kenya. Since its founding in 2000 by Bill Gates and his former wife Melinda, the Foundation has focused on providing access to affordable healthcare, among other initiatives, across the globe.
With this new status, Kenya stands to benefit even more from the Foundation’s resources and global network, as it deepens its involvement in critical areas like healthcare and economic growth.
