In light of the sudden and unexpected suspension in February 2025 of the United States Agency for International Development‘s (USAID) lifesaving humanitarian programs, the Channel Foundation and others in our sector are concerned with the widespread potential impacts on our partners and on the globe.
One of Channels’ grantee partners, Global Press has started highlighting articles written by their journalists which document and describe the devastating impact this aid freeze is having on multiple developing nations. Founded in 2006, Global Press spotlights authentic storytelling, showcasing international journalism through local voices with deep cultural understanding and community access. This approach includes training and employing local women journalists to tell their communities’ stories. Nearly two decades later, Global Press has transformed global journalism by elevating local women reporters to the industry’s forefront.
Today, these regional journalists are documenting one of the most significant humanitarian challenges of recent years: the abrupt termination of USAID programs across multiple countries, with particularly severe consequences in Africa and Asia. Global Press journalists have documented the immediate impacts of this aid disruption, revealing devastating effects on healthcare, refugee support, and disease prevention programs.
Healthcare Systems in Crisis: Zimbabwe and Uganda
In Zimbabwe, public health officials are raising alarms about a potential HIV resurgence as critical prevention and treatment programs lose funding. Healthcare workers report diminishing medical supplies and reduced capacity for testing and treatment.
The situation in Uganda is equally dire, with multiple health clinics facing closure. The timing of interruption of AIDS prevention and treatment programs is particularly concerning as the country simultaneously battles an Ebola outbreak with severely reduced resources and international support.
Refugee Communities Bear the Burden
Uganda’s refugee population, one of the largest in Africa, faces immediate challenges as food distribution and vocational training programs grind to a halt. Without this support, many face food insecurity and limited prospects for economic independence. In Zimbabwe, African refugees find themselves in limbo as travel and resettlement programs funded by USAID have been suspended.
Critical Maternal and Child Health Programs at Risk
Perhaps most alarming are reports from Nepal, where officials warn of potentially devastating consequences for infant nutrition programs. The suspension of USAID-funded maternal and child health initiatives threatens to reverse years of progress in reducing infant mortality and malnutrition rates in the country’s most vulnerable communities.
The documentation by Global Press journalists highlights the interconnected nature of international aid and its critical role in maintaining public health, supporting vulnerable populations, and preventing disease outbreaks. As these programs face uncertain futures, the international community must grapple with the potential long-term consequences.