The recent suspension of U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) funding has sent shockwaves across Africa, endangering critical humanitarian, health, and development programs in some of the continent’s most fragile nations. The funding cuts, part of a broader reduction in U.S. foreign aid, have left millions at risk of hunger, disease, and economic instability.

The 10 Most Affected Countries

The withdrawal of USAID support has been most devastating in countries where U.S. assistance was instrumental in providing emergency relief, healthcare, and infrastructure development.

1. South Sudan

Facing severe food insecurity and ongoing conflict, South Sudan depended on USAID for emergency food aid and healthcare. The funding freeze now threatens the lives of millions, increasing the risk of malnutrition and disease outbreaks.

2. Somalia

Long plagued by terrorism, political instability, and drought, Somalia relied on USAID for famine prevention and humanitarian assistance. Without this support, millions are at risk of starvation.

3. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

With decades of conflict and extreme poverty, the DRC depends on U.S. assistance for disease control, refugee aid, and clean water initiatives. The cuts could lead to worsening conditions in displacement camps and a surge in preventable diseases like cholera and Ebola.

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4. Liberia

Still recovering from its Ebola crisis and years of civil war, Liberia relied on USAID to support healthcare infrastructure. The withdrawal of funds threatens progress in maternal and child health services.

5. Sudan

Struggling with internal conflict and economic instability, Sudan heavily relied on USAID for food security and humanitarian aid. The cuts could push millions toward famine, especially in war-torn areas like Darfur.

6. Uganda

A major recipient of USAID funding for healthcare, Uganda now faces severe disruptions in reproductive health services, including access to contraceptives and maternal healthcare, putting millions of women and children at risk.

7. Ethiopia

One of the largest recipients of U.S. assistance, Ethiopia, used USAID funds to combat food insecurity and provide medical aid. The funding halt comes as the country struggles with a worsening humanitarian crisis, particularly in the conflict-ridden Tigray region.

8. Mozambique

The loss of U.S. assistance threatens Mozambique’s fight against malaria and HIV/AIDS, as well as emergency response programs for natural disasters that frequently devastate the country.

9. Kenya

With nearly half of its USAID funding dedicated to humanitarian activities, Kenya now faces setbacks in its fight against HIV/AIDS, as well as disruptions to critical economic development programs.

10. Nigeria

The most populous country in Africa has been a key beneficiary of USAID in the health and education sectors. The funding cut could derail progress in combating malaria and HIV/AIDS and affect economic growth initiatives.

A Looming Humanitarian Crisis

The United Nations warns that these cuts could push an additional 5.7 million Africans into extreme poverty within a year. “This decision will have catastrophic consequences for millions who depend on this aid for survival,” said a UN spokesperson.

Health experts also fear a backslide in disease control efforts. The U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has saved millions of lives, is now at risk of severe reductions. South Africa alone could see up to 500,000 additional deaths from HIV/AIDS-related complications due to the loss of antiretroviral programs.

International Response

The international community has reacted with concern. Humanitarian organizations such as Oxfam and the International Rescue Committee have called for urgent alternative funding sources to prevent mass suffering. Some European nations have pledged increased support, but experts say it will not be enough to fill the gap left by the USAID cuts.

For many African nations, the abrupt loss of funding is a grim reminder of their reliance on foreign aid for survival. The situation is expected to worsen in the coming months unless urgent action is taken to restore or replace the lost assistance.