END OF USAID A GOOD THING FOR AFRICA?

Donald Trump's decision to halt USAID funding has sparked mixed reactions - particularly in Africa, where the agency has long been a key player in foreign aid. Critics argue that USAID primarily serves US interests rather than genuinely promoting African development, often acting as a tool for economic and political control. Aid has perpetuated dependency rather than self-sufficiency, which is intentional. This also applies more broadly to US-funded institutions such as the IMF and their influence in shaping African economies. These entities dismantle public infrastructure while USAID funds selective projects that align with US geopolitical goals and undermine African governments that are not alined to US interests. The agency's history of backing dictatorial regimes and funding media outlets that shape narratives favourable to the US also raises concerns about neocolonial control.

With the closure of USAID likely to weaken America's influence in Africa, some see it as an opportunity for African nations to develop more independent economic, media and governance structures. However, there is uncertainty over whether the US will adopt more 'direct' means to maintain its global influence.

Will cutting USAID be a good thing for Africa?