NAIROBI, Kenya – In a wide-ranging interview on Fox News on Monday, former United States President Donald Trump sharply criticised the state of the U.S. economy, disparaged federal air traffic controllers, and outlined a new vision for American healthcare he dubbed “Trump Care.” While aimed at a domestic audience, his remarks carry significant implications for global partners, including Kenya, which maintains deep economic and strategic ties with Washington.

The interview aired against the backdrop of the conclusion of the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, a 35-day impasse from December 22, 2018, to January 25, 2019, which stemmed from a dispute over funding for a U.S.-Mexico border wall. The shutdown saw approximately 800,000 federal workers furloughed or working without pay, costing the U.S. economy an estimated $11 billion. One of the most acute pressure points was the aviation sector, where air traffic controllers, facing a pre-existing staff shortage, were compelled to work long hours without pay. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) issued statements at the time warning that the situation was eroding safety in the National Airspace System.

In his interview, Trump chastised controllers who had taken time off, while proposing bonuses for those who worked through the shutdown.

Economic Ripples and Trade Winds

Of particular relevance to Kenya are Trump's comments on the economy. The U.S. is a critical economic partner for Kenya. According to the United States Trade Representative, total U.S.-Kenya trade in goods and services was an estimated $3.3 billion in 2024, an 18% increase from the previous year. U.S. goods exports to Kenya stood at $771.3 million, while imports from Kenya were $737.1 million in 2024.

A significant portion of this trade relationship is governed by the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which provides duty-free access to the U.S. market for eligible sub-Saharan African countries and is set to expire in September 2025. Kenya is a major beneficiary, especially in the apparel sector, which constitutes the majority of its exports under the agreement. However, shifts in U.S. trade policy, such as the imposition of blanket tariffs, could jeopardise these benefits. An unpredictable U.S. economic policy can also introduce volatility to the Kenyan Shilling, impacting everything from import costs to diaspora remittances.

Furthermore, the U.S. is a primary source of foreign aid. In fiscal year 2023, the U.S. committed approximately $846.9 million in aid to Kenya, with $932.8 million planned for 2024, funding crucial sectors like health, humanitarian assistance, and economic development. Any significant change in U.S. foreign policy, often signalled by domestic political rhetoric, could alter these aid flows.

Contrasting Healthcare Philosophies

During the interview, Trump also floated a concept for “Trump Care,” suggesting that federal subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) should go directly to individuals to purchase their own insurance, making them feel like “entrepreneurs.” This market-driven approach, which would involve repealing the ACA and replacing it with tax deductions and block grants to states for Medicaid, stands in contrast to Kenya's policy direction. Kenya is currently implementing the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), a government-led initiative aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by pooling funds to cover all citizens. The differing models highlight a global ideological debate on the role of the state versus the individual in healthcare provision.

Global Posture and Regional Stability

Ultimately, the rhetoric from a major U.S. political figure like Trump creates an environment of uncertainty for international partners. His “America First” stance has previously led to questions about the future of long-standing agreements like AGOA. While the Trump administration has expressed support for a short-term extension of the trade deal, the long-term outlook remains a subject of intense lobbying and debate.

For Kenya and the broader East Africa region, a stable and predictable partnership with the United States is vital not only for economic prosperity but also for regional security initiatives. As the U.S. political landscape evolves, leaders in Nairobi will continue to monitor developments closely, navigating the potential challenges and opportunities presented by shifts in American policy.