Category: General

The sudden discontinuation of USAID and sharp cuts in U.S. foreign assistance have shocked the world. For those of us who worked directly or indirectly with USAID, the loss feels personal. While the suddenness of these cuts has been deeply disruptive, it is important to remember that USAID’s long-term vision had already begun to shift—toward a future where foreign assistance would gradually give way to locally led solutions.

After decades of partnership, USAID has now closed its missions globally. But the impact remains—woven into policies, institutions, communities, and lives. Over the next five weeks, we’ll be reflecting together on how USAID left its mark: the distinctive approaches, programs, and legacies that continue shaping development long after projects close.

With the dissolution of USAID, we risk losing not only an institution but also the models, tools, and lessons that shaped development practice for decades. We all connected with USAID in different ways. For me, my engagement came mainly in the past 10 years as an independent consultant in policy, strategy, and resilience. In that time, I was privileged to work with about 15 programs — mostly in Kenya and East Africa, but also in Somalia, Ethiopia, and Uganda.