The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), has expressed deep concern following reports of alleged abuse within the Bridge International Academies project, as outlined in the International Finance Corporation’s (IFC), Compliance Advisor/Ombudsman report.
DFC, committed to ensuring positive developmental impacts and upholding environmental, social, and human rights standards, has responded with sadness to the revelations.
Back in 2013, DFC’s predecessor, the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), extended a $10 million direct loan to Bridge International Academies for the establishment and operation of affordable private schools in Kenya. The loan was successfully repaid in 2022.
While OPIC conducted environmental and social due diligence during the project’s tenure, it has been revealed that certain issues, such as school licences, teacher certification, sanitation conditions, and teacher compensation and treatment, were addressed.
However, no knowledge of allegations of child sexual abuse within the schools was reported to OPIC by Bridge, IFC, or other stakeholders.
CEO Scott Nathan has initiated a thorough and independent review of the overall experience with the Bridge International Academies project, assigning the task to DFC’s Office of Accountability (OOA).
DFC remains vigilant and committed to addressing this challenging situation as it progresses.
