Business Daily USAID: What happened when the funding stopped?
Mar 24, 2025
The podcast explores the drastic impact of USAID funding cuts initiated by the Trump administration. Personal stories reveal the struggles faced by communities in Kenya, particularly in Kibera and Kisumu, where essential services have been halted. The discussion also delves into the criticism surrounding dependency on foreign aid and ongoing debates about USAID's effectiveness. Furthermore, it highlights the ripple effects on global health systems, emphasizing the urgent need for reforms to support resilience and sustainability in aid efforts.
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Kisumu's Economy Affected
- In Kisumu, Kenya, businesses dependent on USAID funding are struggling.
- Saloons are empty, and people are walking more due to lack of fuel.
Job Loss in Kibera
- Sharon Akoth, a mentor and facilitator in Kibera, lost her job due to USAID cuts.
- She worries about supporting her family, paying rent, and her child's school fees.
Impact on Young Girls
- USAID cuts disproportionately affect young girls in Kenya.
- Loss of menstrual hygiene support may increase risks of transactional sex.