In an unexpected twist, Rwandan President Paul Kagame has expressed agreement with former U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to close the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), despite its significant impact on Rwanda's development efforts.

Trump announced on Friday via Truth Social that he would shut down USAID, citing allegations of corruption and administrative inefficiency as motivations for the closure, as the Daily Maili reports, with outlets such as CNN now surprised by some of the support the move has received.

USAID has played a pivotal role in the global humanitarian and developmental landscape since its establishment in 1961 under President John F. Kennedy.

It has provided aid and development programs in approximately 120 countries, with a broad focus including health, economic growth, and educational support. This move is consistent with Trump's prior administration, which targeted USAID in efforts to reduce government spending.

Trump's Announcement Shocks Global Community

Trump, 78, declared on his social media platform, "CLOSE IT DOWN!" and emphasized his intention to uproot what he referred to as a group of radical administrators within USAID. This decision has sparked international debate due to USAID's extensive contributions to global development.

Among those reacting to Trump's announcement was Rwandan President Paul Kagame, who has been at the helm of his nation since 2000.

Kagame's response was supportive, even though USAID has significantly contributed to Rwanda's healthcare and development sectors. He commented that he "completely agreed" with Trump and suggested the necessity of learning transformative lessons from potentially losing U.S. aid.

Kagame's Support Raises Questions

Kagame's endorsement of Trump's decision was met with surprise. CNN’s foreign correspondent, Larry Madowo, critically questioned Kagame about Rwanda's reliance on U.S. aid, indicating that the support withdrawal could adversely affect essential sectors in the nation. Despite this, Kagame maintained his stance, implying that the adversity could foster valuable insights and growth.

Since the 1960s, USAID has been a steadfast supporter of Rwanda, initially contributing a modest $400,000 annually. Over the years, the aid has expanded, making the U.S. Rwanda's largest bilateral donor, with a focus on agriculture and poverty alleviation.

Noteworthy improvements in Rwanda's health sector, attributed to USAID's influence, include a significant reduction in maternal and child mortality rates from 2010 to 2015, as well as achieving a 97% primary school enrollment rate.

Impact of USAID's Global Operations

Until its abrupt cessation, USAID was managing over $40 billion in funds in 2023 and supported more than 10,000 personnel worldwide. Key beneficiaries included countries like Ukraine, Ethiopia, and Nigeria, where the agency provided relief, development, and security programs.

Aside from its health initiatives, USAID has historically championed pro-democracy efforts and supported independent media globally. It funded LGBTQ initiatives, exemplified by support for Grupa Izadji in Serbia. Under the Biden administration, USAID was led by Samantha Power, enhancing efforts in these sectors.

Rising Criticism and Internal Shifts

Elon Musk, a notable Trump ally and a critic of USAID, has been vocal about dismantling the agency. Leading a civilian review through the Department of Government Efficiency, Musk described USAID as irreparably flawed and advocated for its complete shutdown.

On Monday, USAID staff were directed to avoid their Washington, D.C., offices, and the agency’s online presence inexplicably vanished on Saturday.

The archival legacy of USAID emphasized promoting democratic values and global prosperity. Despite these intentions, Musk's review pointed to systemic failures warranting drastic action.

USAID's Future and Global Concerns

The sudden closure of USAID has prompted widespread concern about the future of international aid and the possible void it leaves.

As policymakers and global leaders reckon with Trump's bold move, nations like Rwanda must navigate the developmental challenges posed by the withdrawal of such a prominent aid contributor.

Thus, President Kagame's supportive stance remains controversial, raising important questions about his vision for Rwanda’s future without USAID's backing.