** Title: towards African autonomy: when Usaid tightens his reins **
For decades, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been much more than a simple donor. By supporting health, education and development projects through the African continent, it has shaped savings, improved the lives of millions of people and strengthened the capacity of African states to deal with multiple crises. However, with the evolution of American priorities and growing discussions around the reduction of aid, a big question emerges: what happens to Africa if USAID reduces its commitment?
The recent edition of Africanews’ debates highlighted these issues. An expert said that this possibility could be an alarm signal for Africa, inciting him to appropriate his own development. But is it really an opportunity to seize, or a risk of future crises?
### A strongly anchored dependence
To understand the scope of this possible reduction in aid, let us examine the figures. According to World Bank data, international aid flows have represented almost 8% of the gross domestic product (GDP) of certain African countries, a dependence which, in many cases, has slowed economic autonomy. The withdrawal of a major actor like USAID could lead to a significant economic contraction, aggravating the living conditions in countries which are massively dependent on this aid.
For comparison, Brazil, during its transition to economic autonomy, has invested in its own internal resources and has set up solid mechanisms to channel public funds to development. In contrast, many African countries continue to depend on external aid, a scheme which, if it is not broken, could turn into a real governance crisis.
### An emerging African response?
It is important to consider that this situation could also be an opportunity to reinvent the paradigm of development aid. The initiative of the Great Green Wall, which aims to fight against desertification in the Sahel, is an example of African engagement which could inspire other initiatives. However, the challenge will be to ensure that these projects are sufficiently funded and managed by African entities, not to mention solely on external aid.
A cross pollination of knowledge will be essential. If the international community ceased to finance certain projects, how could African countries prospect their own solutions? A study of the World Economic Forum has shown that African startups have raised nearly $ 4.5 billion in 2021. Technology and entrepreneurship will play a key role in the search for sustainable solutions.
### A new dynamic of power?
USAID’s withdrawal could redefine alliances on the continent. In the current geopolitical context, the rise of countries like China and Russia opens up a field of possibilities, but also concerns. Chinese investments in Africa, often criticized for their lack of transparency, offer an alternative to traditional humanitarian aid. The question therefore remains: will these new dynamics of power be bencuanous for African countries or will they pose more in a dependence?
### The importance of resilience and collaboration
So what does the future draw? The key perhaps lies in resilience and collaboration. African countries must not only develop their own resources, but also strengthen intra-African collaborations. The African continental free trade area (ZLECA) brings a glimmer of hope in terms of an interafican trade, which could reduce external dependence.
Then, it is essential that African countries engage in strategic dialogues with other global actors. By diversifying their partnerships, by establishing alliances that transcend the simple framework of aid, they cultivate real autonomy.
### Conclusion
The possibility of a reduction in American aid is not just a threat; It is a call for action for Africa. Rather than staying in a posture of dependence, the future could see the emergence of a dynamic and resilient continent, capable of tracing your own path. This future does not only depend on the absence of Dusaid, but on the capacity of African nations to come together, innovate and to invest in their own potential. Meta-analyzing the past results could refer us to a more autonomous and lasting future, a vision integrating lessons from the past and the hopes of a future generation.
Join the debate: how do you perceive the issues related to the reduction of American aid on African development? How could African countries sail in this potential crisis? The comments are open!