The European Union said will give Kenya Sh40 billion between 2014 and 2020, for use in agriculture and other sectors, extending an aid programme to the African country.

While on a tour of the Kisumu-based a tsetse repellent project yesterday, the EU Head of Delegation,

Lodewijk Briet, said the funding is likely to rise to as much as Sh50 billion as programmes are developed.

“After coming out of its first peaceful elections in decades, the country has a real opportunity to grow and benefit all Kenyans,” Briet said.

“Kenya faces many challenges on its path to growth. The EU and its members are ready to assist.

The EU gave Kenya Sh46 billion in its last aid programme between 2008 and 2012.

Sectors that EU assistance has targeted in the past have included education, energy, roads and health.

Kenya forecasts a deficit of 7.9 per cent of GDP, or 329.7 billion shillings, this fiscal year ending next June.

In recent budgets, Kenya has factored in minimal foreign funds as donors, concerned about allegations of corruption in government, tightened their purse strings.