CITY HALL, Kisumu, September,2025 -During her inaugural visit to Kisumu, US Chargé d’Affaires Susan Burns reaffirmed the United States’ steadfast commitment to enhancing health initiatives, fostering innovation, and supporting the thriving creative economy in the lakeside county.
In discussing the importance of collaboration, Burns emphasised the historical ties that underpin the relationship between the US and Kisumu.
She expressed her satisfaction with the collaborative efforts taking place with Kenyan experts at the Kisian-based Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and the Walter Reed Research facilities.
“Their essential work in safeguarding against global health threats has focused on malaria vaccine testing and has demonstrated significant success in epidemic control, as well as HIV/AIDS surveillance,” she stated during a media briefing held alongside Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o at City Hall on Tuesday.
Additionally, Burns engaged with Peace Corps volunteers, reflecting on the longstanding tradition of collaboration that began in the 1960s in Western Kenya.
“It was a pleasure to meet these young peace ambassadors who are immersing themselves in the Kenyan culture while contributing to secondary education in mathematics and science,” she noted, commending their role in cultural exchange and sharing positive experiences back home.
Ambassador Burns signalled a desire to replicate such impactful programs throughout the nation, with Kisumu serving as a potential model.
In a closed-door meeting, Governor Nyong’o shared insights on fostering support for creatives, highlighting their significance to the region’s development.
“There are numerous avenues for collaboration, particularly through the Mama Grace Onyango Social and Cultural Centre and relevant county government departments,” he urged.
The discussions also centred on a range of vital areas, such as energy, infrastructure, education, technology, land system development, human resources, and environmental management, all underscoring the breadth of partnership opportunities between the US and Kisumu.
