The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has long been a key player in assisting development projects throughout Africa with an emphasis on sectors including health, education, economic growth, and humanitarian aid.
However, recent policy changes under President Donald Trump’s administration, which halted USAID funding for 90 days, have impacted the continent to various degrees, depending on the country.
Shortly after assuming office, President Trump signed an executive order halting foreign aid for 90 days and launching a full assessment to guarantee conformity with US foreign policy goals.
This move resulted in the suspension of the USAID initiatives.
The cuts have been particularly severe in African countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, Ghana, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda, where USAID had previously provided major development support.
For example, in 2024, the DRC got almost $1.3 billion from USAID, which was vital for health and humanitarian operations.
Despite these problems, some experts have argued that the cut in U.S. funding is an opportunity to develop self-reliance and economic independence.
This is through other departments such as the Department of Agriculture, and the Federal Trade Commission, amongst others.
Additionally, temporary waivers have been granted to a few life-saving humanitarian assistance programs, enabling the continuation of critical health services and emergency food aid in particular nations.
However, the duration and breadth of these waivers are constrained, putting several programs at risk while the administration conducts a more thorough policy review.
With that said, here are the 10 African countries that have received the least U.S. aid in 2025 so far despite the ban on USAID, according to the U.S. foreign assistance data portal.
Top 10 African countries that have received the least aid from the U.S. in 2025 despite USAID ban
Rank | Country | US funding disbursment 2025 |
---|---|---|
1. |
Equatorial Guinea |
$0 |
2. |
Eritrea |
$0 |
3. |
Gabon |
$0 |
4. |
Guinea-Bissau |
$0 |
5. |
Mauritius |
$0 |
6. |
São Tomé and Príncipe |
$0 |
7. |
Seychelles |
$0 |
8. |
Cabo Verde |
$3,844 |
9. |
Comoros |
$113,788 |
10. |
Gambia |
$409,280 |