In a surprising move, Rwandan President Paul Kagamehas expressed support for President Donald Trump’s push to shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), despite Rwanda being a significant beneficiary of its aid programs.
“President Trump has an unconventional way of doing things,” Kagame said in an interview with CNN. “I completely agree with him on many things.” When asked about the potential negative impact on Rwanda, which relies on USAID funding for healthcare and development initiatives, Kagame noted, “I think from being hurt, we might learn some lessons.”
Kagame emphasized his skepticism towards foreign aid: “It’s an aid thing which I’ve never been a friend of it, much as I’ve been a beneficiary of it.” He echoed sentiments shared by many across Africa that much foreign assistance is lost to corruption or administrative costs rather than reaching those in need.
“African countries need to learn to be self-sufficient,” Kagame stressed. “They can’t rely on the generosity of others forever.” This stance aligns with broader discussions about reducing dependency on external funding and fostering domestic economic resilience.
Trump has consistently criticized USAID as wasteful and inefficient, labeling it as managed by “radical lunatics” during recent media appearances. His efforts have faced legal challenges and criticism from global health experts who warn about potential disease outbreaks due to reduced funding.
As African nations navigate these shifts in international aid dynamics, they are urged to prioritize domestic financing strategies for sustainable development. The freeze on USAID activities highlights both the challenges and opportunities emerging from this new landscape.
Source: CNN
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