With Donald Trump back in office, the future of U.S. foreign aid is uncertain, especially for regions like Africa and the Middle East that rely heavily on American assistance. But while the anticipated changes may seem challenging, they also bring opportunities. Trump's new term, combined with the support of a conservative Congress, will likely shift U.S. aid priorities and focus. Yet, with careful adaptation and creative solutions, these regions can find new paths forward in international development, opening doors for regional partnerships and stronger local initiatives.
Africa and the Middle East: Adapting to Change
Africa, one of the largest recipients of U.S. aid, received nearly $3.7 billion last year, supporting critical areas like health, climate adaptation, and democratic governance. Although Trump has previously aimed to cut foreign aid budgets, often seeing aid as secondary to American interests, these adjustments can push African nations to explore new partnerships, diversify funding, and strengthen regional cooperation.
Take, for example, healthcare in Kenya. For years, U.S. funds have played a central role in fighting diseases like HIV/AIDS and malaria, but Kenya has been developing public-private partnerships that could help fill potential funding gaps. Additionally, Kenya is looking at impact investment and development bonds as new ways to finance health and education programs. Similarly, in Nigeria, local entrepreneurs are creating innovative health-tech solutions that can help provide healthcare access even as international funding becomes uncertain. These solutions show how Africa is increasingly able to mobilize its own resources and drive local development with or without U.S. aid.
In the Middle East, where American aid has been vital in supporting governance, economic reforms, and conflict stabilization, the potential reduction of U.S. aid may create an opening for regional and international partnerships. In Jordan, for instance, U.S. funds have long supported education and youth employment programs, but local organizations are now stepping up to attract funding from other sources, such as the EU and Gulf states. In Lebanon, where both political and economic challenges persist, there is room for new partnerships and stronger local initiatives to fill the void if American support decreases. As Middle Eastern countries strengthen ties with diverse international partners, they could become less dependent on a single nation’s policies and more resilient in the face of change.
Climate Change: Challenges and New Alliances
Perhaps the most visible area of potential change under Trump’s new administration is climate policy. Trump has previously deprioritized climate funding, and there is a strong possibility he may withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Agreement again. However, global support for climate action has only grown in recent years. With the U.S. potentially reducing its climate contributions, other players may step up to lead, and African and Middle Eastern countries are increasingly partnering with these international allies to promote climate resilience.
In Morocco, for example, investments in solar and wind energy have been successful, attracting funds from the EU and international climate financing institutions. Morocco’s Noor Solar Plant, one of the world’s largest, is a prime example of a locally driven initiative that has received significant international support. Similarly, South Africa is actively working with international investors on renewable energy projects to reduce reliance on coal. These examples show that while Trump’s return may impact U.S. climate funding, African countries are already leading innovative projects that can continue with the support of global climate allies like the EU and international development banks.
In the Middle East, climate change adaptation is equally urgent. Several countries in the region have already collaborated on water management projects to tackle the widespread challenge of severe water scarcity. These types of regional partnerships can gain even more importance if U.S. support for climate initiatives declines. By working together on these shared challenges, Middle Eastern countries can find ways to build resilience against environmental threats, even in a changing funding landscape.
Europe’s Role: An Opportunity for New Partnerships
With the potential for U.S. aid reductions, Europe could play a critical role in filling the gaps, especially in regions like Africa and the Middle East. Europe has long been a committed donor to areas like health, climate adaptation, and governance, and the EU’s development priorities often align well with the needs of these regions. If the U.S. reduces its role in international aid, the EU could take this as an opportunity to build stronger partnerships, supporting sustainable and resilient development.
In Africa, the EU has already established several initiatives, such as the Africa-Europe Alliance for Sustainable Investment and Jobs, which focuses on creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and promoting climate action. By increasing its development funding, the EU could support projects that are vital for economic stability and environmental protection in African countries. Similarly, in the Middle East, the EU can strengthen ties by funding education, health, and social programs, contributing to long-term stability in the region.
This shift is also an opportunity for the EU to redefine its role as a leader in international development. By aligning more closely with African and Middle Eastern nations, Europe can create more sustainable and equal partnerships that empower these regions to shape their own futures.
Local Development Organizations: A Time for Growth
If the Trump administration shifts away from large, multilateral organizations, preferring to work with local and faith-based groups, this could open new avenues for smaller, local development organizations in Africa and the Middle East. Local organizations often have a better understanding of their communities' needs and can offer solutions that are culturally relevant and effective.
In Uganda, for example, small organizations focused on women’s economic empowerment and healthcare are making great strides with limited resources. By connecting directly with international donors and the private sector, these groups can grow their impact even in uncertain times. Development organizations could also consider innovative funding models, like crowdfunding and social impact bonds, to support projects that might otherwise be at risk.
Additionally, this trend toward local partnerships could increase the effectiveness of aid, as local groups are often better positioned to deliver impactful results in their communities. If development organizations diversify their funding sources, they could become more resilient, reducing reliance on any single donor and strengthening local ownership of development projects.
Embracing a New Era of Resilient Development
As Trump begins his second term, the global aid landscape is entering a period of change, but change can also bring opportunity. For Africa and the Middle East, this is a chance to build stronger, more independent development pathways. Local governments, organizations, and communities can leverage their growing experience and expertise to drive projects that meet their own priorities, making them less dependent on external policies.
The next few years will be a test of resilience and creativity for development organizations and governments in feveloping countries. As they adapt to shifting donor landscapes, they have the opportunity to build more self-sufficient models of growth and collaboration. This is a pivotal time, where challenges may indeed arise, but so too will the opportunity to foster a more balanced and resilient approach to aid, one that supports communities, promotes innovation, and strengthens partnerships across regions.