It appears to be the end of the road for the US Agency for International Development (USAID) after the Trump administration announced on Tuesday that all directly employed workers were being sent on leave.
The administration further announced that all USAID workers stationed overseas would be recalled from February 7, 2025.
“On Friday, February 7, 2025, at 11:59 pm, all USAID direct hire personnel will be placed on administrative leave globally, with the exception of designated personnel responsible for mission-critical functions, core leadership and specially designated programs. Essential personnel expected to continue working will be informed by Agency leadership by Thursday, February 6, at 3:00pm,” a notice that has now replaced content on the official USAID website states.
“For USAID personnel currently posted outside the United States, the Agency, in coordination with missions and the Department of State, is currently preparing a plan, in accordance with all applicable requirements and laws, under which the Agency would arrange and pay for return travel to the United States within 30 days and provide for the termination of PSC and ISC contracts that are not determined to be essential.”
Trump: US to take over Gaza, Palestinians not to be allowed back
According to the Congressional Research Service (CRS), the agency’s workforce totals more than 10,000, with about two-thirds of all staff serving overseas. Currently, the agency has more than 60 country and regional missions.
African countries, including Kenya, are expected to bear the brunt of the shutdown. Africa has been a major beneficiary of the agency with direct and indirect programs that have been funded through the agency. These have included HIV/Aids programs.
