Ruto Government Hires Trump Ally in Ksh300 Million US Lobbying Contract
Kenyans have been left questioning government spending after revelations that President William Ruto’s administration has signed a costly lobbying deal in the United States.
Ksh300 Million Lobbying Deal Exposed
According to documents filed by the US Department of Justice on August 8, Kenya has hired Continental Strategy LLC, a Washington-based firm founded by Carlos Trujillo. Trujillo is a former US ambassador and a close ally of ex-President Donald Trump.
The agreement, which began on August 6, will cost Kenyan taxpayers Ksh23 million monthly—equivalent to Ksh300 million annually. The deal runs until October 31, 2026, unless terminated earlier.
Purpose of the Lobbying
The documents reveal that the contract aims to secure Kenya’s position in Washington at a critical time. AGOA, the African Growth and Opportunity Act, is set to expire soon. This law allows Kenya duty-free access to the US market, but its renewal remains uncertain.
Through the deal, Kenya hopes to preserve its trade privileges, counter negative narratives about the Ruto administration, and strengthen diplomatic relations.
The agreement clearly stated:
“We are pleased you have decided to engage CONTINENTAL STRATEGY LLC (the ‘Firm’) to provide lobbying services and government relations consulting at the federal level to the Republic of Kenya.”
Terms of the Contract
The government must provide all necessary information to help the firm push Kenya’s agenda. Payments must also be made promptly.
The filing read:
“The Firm agrees to provide government relations services to the Client. The Client’s duty is to provide the Firm with the information necessary to best advance the Client’s objectives. The Client is responsible for the timely payment of the Monthly Retainer and costs.”
Each month, the firm will also invoice the government for “reasonable costs” such as hotel bills, airfare, car services, and meals. These expenses will be in addition to the hefty retainer fee.
Political Reactions Brewing
The deal has sparked mixed reactions at home. Critics argue that while Kenyans struggle with a rising cost of living, the government is spending billions on foreign lobbying.
Supporters, however, insist the investment is necessary to protect Kenya’s economic future and maintain its global standing.
The secrecy of the deal has raised eyebrows, especially since it was not publicly announced. Many Kenyans now demand transparency on why such huge sums are being channeled abroad instead of addressing pressing local needs.
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Ruto Government Hires Trump Ally in Ksh300 Million US Lobbying Contract
