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The Initial Support and Ashes of Glory
President Donald Trump, during his tenure, celebrated the US Agency for International Development (USAID) as a pivotal tool for global progress. Once a lauded institution, USAID was championed by Trump’s daughter, Ivanka, who played a central role in launching the Women’s Global Development and Prosperity (W-GDP) initiative. This program, aiming to empower women in developing nations, was a cornerstone of Trump’s foreign policy, drawing praise from both domestic and international stakeholders. -
A Program Born from Ivanka’s Vision
The W-GDP initiative, spearheaded by Ivanka, sought to address systemic barriers preventing women’s economic participation. By leveraging USAID’s expertise and global reach, it became a signature achievement, impacting millions of women across the globe. The initiative’s success was evident in its first-year reach of 12 million women, exemplified by projects like Lillian Achomo’s work in Uganda, which significantly improved lives in rural communities. -
The Abrupt Dismantling of USAID
In a stark turnaround, Trump’s administration has moved to dismantle USAID, freezing foreign aid and gutting the agency. This decision has left former beneficiaries, like Georgian farmer Zambakhidze, devastated. USAID staff faced abrupt orders to return to the US, only to see their efforts halted by court injunctions, highlighting the sudden and sweeping nature of the administration’s changes. -
The Personal Impact on Benefactors
Zambakhidze, a nun whose farm was transformed through W-GDP funding, found her world turned upside down by the rollback of USAID. She had hoped Trump, a supporter of her initiative, would continue the program, but the abrupt changes have left her and others in a state of disbelief and despair. -
Ivanka’s Current Role and Her Legacy
Ivanka Trump has withdrawn from active politics, leaving her role as a political figure behind. While she remains a private citizen in Florida, her contributions to W-GDP and USAID’s work endure. Her initiative, now rebranded under the Biden administration, continues to thrive, benefiting millions with initiatives that promote economic empowerment and gender equality. - The Uncertain Future of Foreign Aid and Women’s Empowerment
Despite the program’s past successes, the current administration’s move to dismantle USAID raises questions about the future of international assistance. Critics argue that such moves weaken American influence and security, particularly for programs that have shown measurable impact. While some, like Zambakhidze, remain hopeful for a restart, others fear a loss of momentum that could hinder global progress.
