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Tag: pres william ruto

  • Ford Foundation Kenya Denies Funding Claims Accusations

    Ford Foundation Kenya Denies Funding Claims Accusations

    Kenya’s President William Ruto Accuses Ford Foundation of Backing Protests, while Ford Foundation Denies Claims.

    By AFP – Agence France Presse
    July 15, 2024

    Kenyan President William Ruto on Monday accused the US-based Ford Foundation of sponsoring “anarchy” and funding anti-government protests that descended into deadly mayhem last month.

    The East African powerhouse has been plunged into political chaos over the demonstrations. They started out as peaceful rallies led by Gen-Z Kenyans. Against, proposed tax hikes but have spiraled into a wider campaign against Ruto and his administration.

    Dozens of people have been killed since the protests began a month ago, with the deadliest day on June 25 when angry crowds stormed parliament and police fired live bullets on protesters.

    President Ruto in Nakuru

    “Those behind sponsoring the chaos in the Republic of Kenya, shame on them because they are sponsoring violence against our democratic nation,” Ruto said at an event in the Rift Valley town of Nakuru. “I want to ask the people of Ford Foundation, that money they are giving out to sponsor violence, how are they going to benefit,”

    Ruto told a large crowd gathered to hear him speak.

    “We are going to tell them if they are not interested in democracy in Kenya, if they are going to sponsor violence in Kenya, if they are going to sponsor anarchy, we are going to call them out and we are going to tell them that they either style up or they leave.”

    The Ford Foundation’s East Africa office in Nairobi and the US embassy did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

    The organization, established in 1936 by Edsel Ford, the son of Ford Motor Company founder Henry Ford, operates across the world and aims to advance social justice and promote democratic values. It has offered grants to various Kenyan rights groups and civic organizations for the last few decades.

    President Ruto, who is scrambling to put the lid on the worst crisis of his near two-year presidency, has previously accused unnamed foreign elements of stoking unrest during the demonstrations. Notably, Street protests have eased off recently, but activists have called for fresh action on Tuesday.

    Ford Foundation Denies Funding Protest Allegations

    Ford Foundation Denies Funding protest in kenya

    In response to President Ruto’s accusations, the Ford Foundation denied any involvement in the funding of protests or supporting violence in Kenya. Samantha Luseno, a representative from the Ford Foundation East Africa office, stated:

    “We categorically deny the claims made by President Ruto. The Ford Foundation has always been committed to promoting social justice and democratic values, and we have not funded any activities that would incite violence or anarchy.” Thus, officially Ford Foundation Denies these allegations.

    Samantha Luseno

    Luseno further emphasized the foundation’s longstanding role in supporting various development initiatives in Kenya. “The Ford Foundation Kenya office has been providing grants to civil society organizations that work towards: human rights, education, and economic empowerment. Our work is transparent and focused on positive community impact,” she added.

    The Ford Foundation has played a pivotal role in supporting civil society in Kenya. The foundation has facilitated numerous grants aimed at enhancing social justice, promoting economic opportunities, and supporting educational programs. However, the recent accusations have put the foundation’s activities under intense scrutiny.

    Impact on Ford Foundation’s Operations in Kenya

    The allegations have raised concerns about the future of the Ford Foundation’s operations in Kenya. The foundation has been instrumental in providing resources. In addition, provides support to various non-governmental organizations and community-based groups in the country. If the accusations are not resolved amicably, there could be significant ramifications for the ongoing projects funded by the Ford Foundation in Kenya.

    Moreover, the controversy could affect the foundation’s ability to attract and retain talent in the region. Ford Foundation jobs in Kenya have been highly sought after, given the foundation’s reputation for fostering professional growth and providing opportunities to work on impactful projects. However, the current political climate may deter potential applicants and impact the morale of existing employees.

    Broader Implications for International NGOs

    The situation also highlights the broader challenges faced by international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating in politically volatile environments. The Ford Foundation Nairobi office, like many other international NGOs, must navigate complex political landscapes while remaining true to its mission of promoting social justice and democracy. The foundation’s leadership will need to engage in diplomatic efforts to clarify their stance and ensure the continuation of their work in Kenya.

    As the situation unfolds, the focus will be on how the Ford Foundation and the Kenyan government address the allegations. Both parties will need to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve the issues and ensure that the foundation’s work in Kenya can continue without further disruptions.

    In conclusion, the accusations against the Ford Foundation have created a significant stir in Kenya. Thus, raising questions about the role of international organizations in local political dynamics. As President Ruto and the Ford Foundation navigate this contentious issue, the outcome will likely have lasting implications. Especially, for the foundation’s operations in Kenya and the broader landscape of international development efforts in the region.

  • How Kenyans Can Monetize On Facebook & Instagram (2025)

    How Kenyans Can Monetize On Facebook & Instagram (2025)

    Unlocking Opportunities: Kenyan Content Creators can now Monetize Facebook and Instagram

    Kenyan content creators now have an exciting opportunity to monetize their creative efforts on Facebook and Instagram, thanks to the recent announcement by President William Ruto. This opens up a world of possibilities for individuals across the country who produce engaging and original content.

    The prospect of monetization opens up new avenues for revenue generation for Kenyan content creators. Through advertisements and other monetization features, creators can transform their passion into profit, thereby diversifying their income streams and achieving financial independence.

    Here’s how Kenyan content creators can leverage this opportunity to monetize on these platforms:

    Understand the Eligibility Criteria:

    President Ruto mentioned that the eligibility criteria for monetization will soon be made public. It’s crucial for content creators to familiarize themselves with these requirements to ensure they meet the necessary qualifications. This may include factors such as audience size, engagement metrics, and adherence to community guidelines.

    Facebook Monetization Eligibility Criteria for Kenya

    Effective June of this year, in order to qualify for Facebook monetization in Kenya, the following requirements must be met:

    1. Maintain a follower count of 5000 or more (excluding friends).
    2. Accumulate a minimum of 60,000 minutes of video views within the last three months.
    3. Ensure the absence of any copyright strikes and adherence to Facebook’s community standards.
    4. Maintain a presence of more than five active videos on your page.
    5. Successfully pass Facebook’s monetization policies and community standards review.
    6. Be of legal age, 18 years or above.

    It is imperative for content creators and page administrators to fulfill these criteria to be eligible for Facebook monetization in Kenya.

    Create High-Quality Content:

    The foundation of monetization on Facebook and Instagram lies in creating compelling and valuable content. Whether it’s captivating visuals, informative videos, or engaging written posts, content creators should focus on delivering quality that resonates with their audience. Consistency and authenticity are key in building a loyal following.

    Build a Strong Audience:

    Growing and nurturing a dedicated audience is essential for monetization success. Content creators should invest time and effort in engaging with their followers, responding to comments, and actively participating in relevant communities. By fostering a sense of community around their content, creators can attract advertisers and sponsors interested in reaching their audience.

    Explore Monetization Features:

    Once eligible, content creators can explore various monetization features offered by Facebook and Instagram. These may include in-stream ads, branded content partnerships, fan subscriptions, and merchandise sales. By diversifying revenue streams, creators can maximize their earning potential and adapt to evolving market trends.

    Engage with Brands and Sponsors:

    With monetization capabilities in place, Kenyan content creators can proactively seek partnerships with brands and sponsors. Collaborating with companies for sponsored content, product placements, or influencer campaigns can provide lucrative opportunities for monetization. It’s essential to align with brands that resonate with their audience and uphold their values.

    Optimize for Monetization:

    Content creators should optimize their content strategy to maximize monetization opportunities. This may involve leveraging insights and analytics to identify high-performing content, experimenting with different formats and topics, and staying updated on platform trends and best practices. By staying agile and adaptive, creators can capitalize on emerging opportunities in the digital landscape.

    Adhere to Platform Policies:

    While monetizing content, it’s crucial to adhere to Facebook and Instagram’s community standards and advertising policies. This includes avoiding prohibited content, maintaining transparency in sponsored partnerships, and respecting copyright and intellectual property rights. Violations of platform guidelines can jeopardize monetization eligibility and reputation.

    Stay Informed and Evolve:

    The digital landscape is constantly evolving, with new features, trends, and regulations shaping the way content is monetized. Kenyan content creators should stay informed about updates from Facebook, Instagram, and Meta, and adapt their strategies accordingly. Networking with fellow creators and industry professionals can also provide valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration.

    In Conclusion

    President Ruto’s announcement marks a significant milestone for Kenyan content creators, offering them a pathway to monetize their passion and creativity on global platforms. By embracing this opportunity and leveraging the resources available, content creators can unlock new avenues for income generation and contribute to the vibrant digital economy of Kenya.