The White House has accused Kenya of benefiting from proceeds of a massive fraud scheme tied to Somali migrants in the US.
Nearly $1 billion (KSh 129 billion) was allegedly siphoned off through fraudulent Covid-era aid programmes and subsequently funneled into real estate investments in Kenya and Turkey.
The claim was made by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt during a statement on Monday, December 1.
She said 86 people in Minnesota – 78 of them Somali immigrants – are charged in connection with the fraud. 59 have been convicted.
Among the schemes was one where a non-profit claimed to deliver meals to American children during the pandemic.
But watchdogs say no food was delivered.
Instead, the funds allegedly bought mansions, luxury cars, and overseas property – including homes in Kenya.
Leavitt said the case exposed deep abuse of America’s refugee and social-support systems. She accused fraudsters of “draining our resources”.
The allegation lands hard on Kenya – just as William Ruto departed for Washington for important regional peace talks.
So far, Kenyan authorities have not publicly responded to the White House charges.
READ ALSO: How Somali-Linked Fraud Ring Looted Billions from Minnesota’s Autism, Welfare Funds
The charges stem from a broader fraud investigation in Minnesota. Prosecutors say the illicit funds flowed through dozens of bogus programmes.
PAY ATTENTION: Reach us at info@gotta.news.
