America first? USAID budget cuts could hit Ethiopia hard

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been a cornerstone of American foreign policy, delivering humanitarian aid, fostering economic growth, and supporting democratic governance worldwide. However, proposed budget cuts under an "America First" policy threaten to reduce its global impact, particularly in Ethiopia, which received $1.676 billion in aid in 2023. This reduction could exacerbate food insecurity, undermine post-conflict recovery, and weaken U.S. influence in the Horn of Africa, creating space for Chinese and Russian geopolitical expansion. The recently launched Markets for Sanitation (M4S) project, part of USAID’s Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiative, aims to improve sanitation access for 5.4 million Ethiopians, but its future remains uncertain under potential funding cuts. The broader debate over foreign aid reflects competing views on national priorities: while critics argue for a domestic focus, proponents highlight the strategic and humanitarian necessity of continued assistance. Scaling back USAID operations risks reversing development progress, destabilizing the region, and increasing security threats. A recalibrated strategy that balances domestic needs with international commitments is essential to maintaining U.S. leadership in global development and stability.