The reduction in international aid leaves millions of Africans in uncertain circumstances.

Last Friday, a federal judge temporarily suspended some aspects of Trump’s plan to close USAID. However, the administration’s actions have caused confusion and fear, especially in USAID offices across Africa. This region, one of the most affected, has experienced mass layoffs and suspensions among its employees.

As the impact becomes more apparent, African governments face major challenges. They need to fill enormous gaps in essential services such as healthcare and education, which were previously funded by the United States. In addition, humanitarian organizations and UN agencies, which provide food and shelter to the needy, have been forced to drastically cut their budgets.

Ordinary Africans, who rely on U.S. aid for survival, are the most affected. However, the collapse of USAID also impacts international cooperation. This aid model has been a cornerstone of the relationship between Africa and the West for over six decades. With its collapse, the entire system is seriously threatened.