Malawi: What Is USAID, Why Does Trump Want It Closed, and How Could This Affect Malawi?

The future of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the U.S. government's primary overseas aid agency, has been cast into doubt. Reports suggest that the Trump administration plans to merge USAID with the U.S. Department of State, significantly reducing its funding and workforce. This move could have far-reaching implications for global humanitarian efforts, including critical programs in Malawi.

USAID, established in the early 1960s, administers humanitarian aid programs worldwide. It employs around 10,000 people, with two-thirds working overseas. The agency operates in over 60 countries and funds initiatives ranging from famine relief and health programs to disaster response and environmental conservation. For instance, USAID has played a pivotal role in Malawi by supporting agricultural development, healthcare, and education, helping to address food insecurity and improve livelihoods.

In Malawi, USAID has been instrumental in combating HIV/AIDS, improving maternal and child health, and promoting climate-resilient agriculture. The agency has also supported initiatives to strengthen democratic governance and economic growth. For example, USAID-funded programs have helped smallholder farmers adopt modern farming techniques, increasing crop yields and reducing poverty. Additionally, USAID has partnered with local organizations to provide clean water and sanitation services, significantly improving public health outcomes.

However, the Trump administration's plan to merge USAID with the State Department and slash its budget threatens these vital programs. President Donald Trump and his adviser Elon Musk have criticized USAID, arguing that overseas spending does not represent value for American taxpayers. Trump has described senior USAID officials as "radical lunatics" and has long advocated for cutting foreign aid. This stance aligns with his "America First" policy, which prioritizes domestic interests over international commitments.

The potential closure or downsizing of USAID could have severe consequences for Malawi, a country heavily reliant on foreign aid to address its developmental challenges. Malawi ranks among the world's poorest nations, with high levels of food insecurity, limited access to healthcare, and vulnerability to climate change. USAID's programs have been a lifeline for millions of Malawians, providing essential services and fostering long-term development.

For instance, USAID's Feed the Future initiative has helped Malawian farmers increase agricultural productivity and adapt to climate change. The President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), funded through USAID, has provided life-saving antiretroviral treatment to thousands of Malawians living with HIV. If USAID's funding is reduced or redirected, these programs could face significant disruptions, jeopardizing the progress made in improving health, food security, and economic stability in Malawi.

The Trump administration's proposal to merge USAID with the State Department is not without precedent. In 2020, the UK government merged its Department for International Development (DFID) with the Foreign Office, a move criticized for undermining the effectiveness of British aid. Similarly, critics argue that merging USAID with the State Department could politicize humanitarian aid, reducing its focus on poverty alleviation and development.

While President Trump cannot unilaterally abolish USAID--its creation was mandated by Congress--he can significantly curtail its operations through executive actions. Any attempt to dismantle USAID would likely face legal challenges and opposition from Congress, where Democrats and some Republicans have expressed support for maintaining robust foreign aid programs.

In conclusion, the potential closure or restructuring of USAID poses a significant threat to global humanitarian efforts, including those in Malawi. As one of the largest recipients of U.S. aid, Malawi stands to lose critical support for healthcare, agriculture, and climate resilience if USAID's funding is cut. The international community, including Malawian policymakers, must closely monitor these developments and advocate for the preservation of programs that have transformed lives and communities across the globe.

This article was originally featured in the Nyasa Times.