I’m packing for Africa; I’ve been many times before, but this will be my first trip there as head of USAID.
In both Kenya and Sudan I’ll focus on the development and progress of President Obama’s Global Health Initiative and Food Security Initiative, while gaining a deeper understanding of U.S. bilateral and regional investments in agriculture, health, democracy and governance.
I’m looking forward especially to engaging with our African partners in health care, including visits to clinics, and to meeting local entrepreneurs. I’ll also be eager to confer with USAID Country and Regional Team officials — Nairobi is home to a regional office running a broad array of dynamic projects across East Africa. And, I’m going to sound out some of our stellar local staff, who are the backbone of US government missions around the globe.
Stay tuned: We’ll let you know when the trip gets under way, and will provide updates throughout.
Dr. Rajiv Shah, I am delighted to learn that you will be visiting Kenya and Sudan shortly. USAID/Kenya and REDSO/EA have played a key role in the development of Kenya and several neighboring countries. I started my career with USAID in Kenya as a local staff and after becoming US citizen, I was fortunate to have worked in USAID and REDSO/EA.
As a Foreign Service National working with USAID in Kenya, I am delighted you chose Kenya as your first stop in your Africa trip. USAID is doing an amazing job alleviating suffering to millions in Kenya and indeed Africa as a whole. Welcome to Africa Dr. Shah.