USAID, the largest donor organization in the world with a $50 billion budget, has been a crucial player in US foreign aid efforts. However, President Trump’s administration made a controversial decision to halt overseas expenditures for 90 days, citing inefficiency and alleged radical leadership within USAID. This move raised concerns about the impact on aid recipients, particularly in Africa.
African countries heavily rely on foreign aid to support crucial sectors like agriculture, which forms the backbone of the continent’s economy. With over 60% of the African workforce employed in agriculture, the industry is vital for economic growth, poverty alleviation, and food security. However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, climate change, limited access to loans, and outdated technologies hinder agricultural development in Africa.
USAID has played a significant role in supporting agricultural initiatives in Africa, such as Feed the Future, which has helped smallholder farmers access better markets, increase incomes, and improve crop yields. Despite these efforts, some African countries receive minimal aid from the United States compared to other developed nations.
In 2024, data from the US foreign assistance portal revealed the top 10 African countries that received the least aid from the United States. Eritrea and Gabon topped the list with zero aid obligations, followed by Seychelles, Mauritius, São Tomé and Príncipe, Cabo Verde, Equatorial Guinea, Algeria, Comoros, and Congo Republic receiving varying amounts of aid ranging from $250,000 to $9,567,828.
The decision to reduce aid to these countries could have significant consequences on their development and ability to address pressing issues like poverty, healthcare, and education. As the debate over foreign aid continues, it is essential to consider the long-term impact of such decisions on vulnerable populations in Africa and around the world.
