US reviewing its funding in Zimbabwe in line with Trump’s America First policy

By Staff Writer

The US Embassy has announced that it is currently reviewing all funds released to Zimbabwe through its State Department and USAID, as new President Donald Trump’s America First policy takes effect.

On inauguration, Trump announced a raft of changes to America’s funding model that emphasised “reasonable use of taxpayer’s money” and focus on developing the superpower first.

The policy paused millions of US dollars in funding for local civil society organisations (CSOs) and billions across the world.

With America being a major funder of development in Zimbabwe’s health and education sectors, fears abound they would crumble.

A waiver was later announced on health-related funding as most of Africa’s poorly resourced health systems threatened to crumble.

In a statement released Wednesday, the US Embassy revealed that funding will now be reviewed in line with its foreign policy.

“The review of all foreign assistance programs will ensure they are efficient and consistent with U.S. foreign policy under the America First agenda,” reads the statement.

“The US Embassy in Zimbabwe has paused its foreign assistance and is reviewing its programs to bring them in line with this Executive Order and the waiver.

“The United States is proud of the gains we have helped Zimbabwe make in health, food security, and development.

“Today, 1.2 million Zimbabweans live longer, healthier lives because of PEPFAR’s support for HIS services.

“Over 1600 public hospitals and clinics have benefited from training and technical support from the United States.”

America funds most of Zimbabwe’s fight against sexually transmitted diseases and HIV, with PEPFAR financing most condoms and antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) distributed by local hospitals.

Over half a million people affected by the recent El Nino induced drought have also benefited from its funding.

Added the statement: “More than 500,000 Zimbabweans have benefited from U.S. humanitarian assistance during the El Nino-induced drought.”