The spotlight on U.S. foreign aid has intensified in recent years, as the country continues to allocate billions of dollars annually to support global development, security, and economic growth.
Each year, the U.S. allocates billions of dollars in foreign aid to countries across the world, particularly in developing regions, aiming to promote global stability, national security, and economic development.
Since Trump’s return to the presidency, he has actively pursued efforts to scale back funding for various aid programs and has even revisited proposals to dismantle USAID, the primary agency responsible for administering foreign assistance.
This abrupt decision stirred international debate, prompting discussions on the reliance of many nations on U.S. assistance and the potential consequences of such funding cuts.
Foreign aid from the U.S. has played a crucial role in supporting economic growth, public health initiatives, infrastructure development, humanitarian relief, and governance programs across multiple countries.
USAID, in particular, has been instrumental in funding projects that address pressing issues such as poverty alleviation, food security, education, climate resilience, and democratic governance.
Programs like the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) have played a transformative role in the fight against HIV/AIDS, saving millions of lives.
Similarly, initiatives like Feed the Future and Power Africa focus on improving food security and expanding access to energy, respectively, helping to create long-term, sustainable growth across the continent.
Ethiopia is the largest USAID beneficiary in Africa, receiving $1.20 billion in aid. The Democratic Republic of Congo follows closely with the same amount of $1.20 billion. Meanwhile, South Sudan ranks third, benefiting from $795.41 million in assistance.
Below are the 5 biggest USAID beneficiaries in Africa in 2024:
Rank | Country | USAID beneficiaries |
---|---|---|
1 |
Ethiopia |
$1.20 billion |
2 |
Congo DR |
$1.20 billion |
3 |
South Sudan |
$795.41 billion |
4 |
Somalia |
$756.85 million |
5 |
Nigeria |
$738.75 million |