Trump Ends Old USAID Model, Pledges New Economic Ties with Africa

At a high-level multilateral luncheon with African leaders, former U.S. President Donald J. Trump reaffirmed his commitment to deepening economic cooperation between the United States and the African continent.

In his remarks, President Trump emphasized a new direction in U.S. foreign aid policy, stating:

“We have closed the USAID group to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse… and we’re working tirelessly to forge new economic opportunities involving both the United States and many African nations.”

The former U.S. leader stressed that the decision was part of a broader strategy to ensure American taxpayer dollars are used more effectively, while also promoting mutual growth through stronger trade and investment partnerships.

President Trump’s comments were welcomed by several African heads of state in attendance, who expressed optimism about a more transparent and business-driven U.S.–Africa relationship.

This latest engagement signals a shift from aid-dependency models to a focus on economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, and fair trade—hallmarks of Trump’s “America First” diplomacy adapted for global collaboration.