Post by : Shakul

A new international study has found that violence increased across several African regions after former United States President Donald Trump’s administration sharply reduced funding through the United States Agency for International Development, commonly known as USAID. Researchers said the findings show how sudden disruptions in humanitarian and development support can destabilize already fragile areas facing conflict and economic hardship.

The study, published in the Science journal, examined regions in Africa that had heavily depended on USAID support for humanitarian relief, food assistance, healthcare, security programs and recovery projects. Researchers from universities in Europe and the United States said the sudden withdrawal of funding interrupted aid operations, contracts, staffing and supply systems across multiple countries.

Although the researchers clarified that the study does not directly prove that aid cuts caused the violence, they stated there was a clear correlation between the reduction in support and rising instability in several conflict-prone areas. According to the report, the abrupt shutdown of USAID activities created serious disruptions in communities already struggling with terrorism, poverty, displacement and political instability.

For years, USAID had played an important role in supporting African nations dealing with armed conflict and humanitarian emergencies. The Trump administration reportedly eliminated more than ninety percent of foreign aid contracts, reducing nearly sixty billion dollars in international assistance. Aid organizations and analysts say the impact was deeply felt in regions where governments and local agencies depended heavily on American support.

Countries like Nigeria, Ethiopia and Ivory Coast were among the areas affected by the funding cuts. In Nigeria, USAID had helped communities affected by Boko Haram violence through food aid, shelter and recovery programs. In Ethiopia’s Tigray region, American assistance supported humanitarian services after years of devastating conflict. Northern Ivory Coast also received support aimed at preventing extremist groups linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State from expanding their influence.

Conflict monitoring experts have warned that Africa continues to face increasing threats from militant and extremist groups. According to recent reports, jihadist violence and attacks against civilians have continued to rise in several parts of the continent over the past few years. Analysts believe that weakening humanitarian programs and social support systems can increase vulnerability in already unstable communities.

Researchers involved in the study emphasized that the issue is not simply about increasing aid but about avoiding sudden and large-scale disruptions. They argued that unexpected cuts to long-running support systems can damage local institutions, weaken trust and reduce the ability of communities to respond to emergencies and security threats.

Humanitarian experts also expressed concern about the long-term impact of losing experienced aid workers and established support networks. Some specialists warned that even if funding is restored later, rebuilding programs and restoring trust inside affected communities could take many years.

The findings have renewed debate over international aid policies and their connection to global security and stability. Observers say the report highlights how humanitarian assistance, development programs and conflict prevention efforts often work together in regions already facing deep social and political challenges.

#world news #Global News #Africa