By Angela Moonga
Kenyan economist Nelson Amenya, recognised among the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2024 by New African Magazine and among the 100 Most Influential Kenyans of 2024 by Kenyans.co.ke, has criticised the US$1.5 billion United States Health aid package for Zambia.
Amenya was commenting on the recent article that said that Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema met U.S. Assistant Secretary Caleb Orr on December 8 to discuss a $1.5 billion health aid package, part of a five-year partnership replacing aid expiring in March 2026.
The article stated that the U.S. wanted Zambia to improve its slow business environment and cooperate on mining critical copper for global supply chains, following talks at the Kansanshi mine.
It said President Hichilema welcomed the mutual benefits, amid other U.S. deals on energy and infrastructure, though some voices question aid as leverage for resources, and that the Trump administration’s approach emphasises clear progress before finalising terms.
But quoting the article, Amenya posted that there was “no free lunch” on his Twitter feed which attracted a lot of commentary.
Amenya rose to international prominence after exposing and helping halt a controversial infrastructure deal involving the Adani Group and the Kenyan government—an act of courage that earned him the Whistleblower Integrity Action Award 2024 from Transparency International Kenya.
Recognized among the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2024 by New African Magazine and among the 100 Most Influential Kenyans of 2024 by Kenyans.co.ke, Amenya’s work today is said to bridge governance reform, innovation strategy, and public sector transformation.
Responding to Amenya’s post, Dr Albert Nsengu, a PHD holder in economics based in Germany stated: “How about turning to China for a counter offer? 😬”
Responding, Amenya stated: “How about setting up manufacturing for the minerals and selling value added goods.”
Lilith Black stated that: “How about setting up manufacturing for the minerals and selling value added goods.”
One going by the name ajustcause stated: “When does this ever stop. Where is the logic in trading your mineral for a medical deal. How about mining and then improve your own health care.”
Penuel the black stated: “The presidents you’re speaking about are funded and placed by countries like America. If they don’t behave, they’ll be removed. Most ppl (people) don’t stand up to their bosses & don’t have the skill to build their own businesses, so they behave. That’s what we’re seeing here.”
