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White House Hosts African Leaders Amid USAID Cuts, New Economic Agenda

July 16, 2025

The Trump administration has dismantled the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in favor of pursuing trade-based economic relationships with African nations. President Trump hosted leaders from five West African countries—Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, and Senegal—at the White House on July 9 to discuss potential economic partnerships. The elimination of USAID, which was established in 1961 as America's primary humanitarian agency, has drawn criticism from organizations like the American Foreign Service Association, with a study in The Lancet suggesting the move could result in over 14 million deaths by 2030.

Who is affected

  • More than 14 million people who could potentially die by 2030 without USAID support
  • Citizens of Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, and Senegal
  • One-third of Gabon's population living in poverty and 20% of its workforce who are unemployed
  • Senegalese citizens facing an economic crisis with many attempting to flee by boat
  • At least 2,000 people who died in 2024 due to migration attempts by boat
  • Development professionals who serve America's interests abroad

What action is being taken

  • The Trump administration is transitioning from aid-based to trade-based relationships with African nations
  • President Trump is hosting multilateral meetings with West African leaders to forge new economic partnerships
  • The administration is transferring USAID's functions to the State Department
  • Gabonese officials are seeking partnerships to process raw materials locally to create jobs
  • Senegal is implementing its "Senegal 2050" transformation plan and "Technological New Deal" framework to develop its digital economy

Why it matters

  • The dismantling of USAID could potentially result in over 14 million deaths by 2030 according to The Lancet
  • The sudden transfer of USAID functions to the State Department could jeopardize U.S. international relations
  • The change in approach affects economic development in West African nations rich in natural resources
  • Maritime piracy in the Gulf of Guinea has increased by 30% as of June 2025, affecting regional security
  • Trump's remark about Liberian President Boakai's English skills caused diplomatic tension, with Boakai stating that such disrespect could make Trump "an international laughingstock"
  • African nations like Gabon and Senegal are seeking American investment in local initiatives to create jobs and reduce poverty

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer

White House Hosts African Leaders Amid USAID Cuts, New Economic Agenda