The U.S. African Development Foundation’s $51 million budget cuts, including funds for shea butter marketing and mango drying facilities, raises concerns about America’s commitment to supporting African economies.
At a Glance
- The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, has cut $51 million from the U.S. African Development Foundation
- Specific projects affected include marketing for shea butter, pineapple juice, and mango drying facilities
- A federal judge ruled that reducing most grants and staff from USADF is legal
- DOGE claims to have saved Americans $140 billion overall, equivalent to about $870 per taxpayer
Major Cuts to African Development Programs
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a temporary White House organization led by Elon Musk, has announced significant budget cuts to the U.S. African Development Foundation (USADF). The $51 million reduction affects numerous development projects across Africa, including $229,000 previously allocated for marketing shea butter, along with funding for pineapple juice promotion and mango drying facilities. This decision is part of a broader initiative launched by President Donald Trump to streamline operations and reduce federal spending.
The USADF, an independent agency created by Congress in 1980, has been operating in 22 African countries with $46 million allocated by Congress. The foundation has focused on grassroots economic development projects aimed at helping communities become self-sufficient. These budget cuts raise questions about the long-term impact on African communities that have benefited from these initiatives, particularly those involved in agricultural processing and marketing projects.
Legal Challenges and Administrative Changes
A federal judge has ruled that the Trump administration’s decision to remove most grants and staff from the USADF is legal. U.S. District Judge Richard Leon stated that “Maintaining USADF’s board, a president and one or two grants would comply with the statutory requirements.” This ruling comes amid tensions between the administration and the USADF board, with the Trump team arguing that board members are avoiding compliance with presidential directives.
As part of the administrative changes, Pete Marocco has been announced as the new chair of USADF’s board. Marocco and DOGE staff previously closed the Inter-American Foundation, canceling grants and laying off staff in a similar efficiency-focused move. These actions highlight the administration’s approach to restructuring foreign aid and development programs with a focus on domestic priorities.
Broader Spending Cuts and Policy Shifts
The cuts to the African Development Foundation are part of a larger spending reduction initiative. DOGE has terminated 113 contracts valued at $4.7 billion, including a USDA consulting contract for climate change activities in Peru. Additional canceled funding included $10 million for gender equity programs in Mexico, $12.2 million for worker empowerment in South America, and $6.25 million for workers’ rights initiatives in Central America.
“In keeping with the vision of the President’s executive orders, we are taking action to end taxpayer funding for discriminatory DEI initiatives in our nation’s museums and libraries.”
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trumps-doge-targets-blue-states-massive-cuts-divisive-dei-contracts
The administration has also targeted diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, cutting $15 million in DEI grants from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Specific cuts include $6.7 million to the California State Library, $4 million to the Washington State Library, and $1.5 million to the Connecticut State Library. The IMLS has reduced its staff by 80% as part of these cost-cutting measures, though it’s worth noting that federal funding constitutes only 0.3% of public libraries’ total operating revenue.
Health and Economic Implications
For adults concerned about global health and economic stability, these cuts raise important questions about America’s role in supporting developing economies. The USADF has historically focused on projects that improve food security, economic opportunity, and community resilience—factors that contribute to global stability and health. The shea butter industry, for example, provides income for many women in rural African communities and has gained popularity in health and wellness markets worldwide.
“Our cultural institutions should bring Americans together—not promote divisive ideologies. Moving forward, we must champion programs that uphold our founding ideals and reaffirm that the American Dream is within reach for all, through hard work and determination, not identity politics.”, says Acting IMLS Director Keith Sonderling.
While DOGE claims these cuts have resulted in significant savings—$140 billion overall, or about $870 per American taxpayer—health experts and international development professionals question whether short-term financial gains might lead to long-term consequences for global health, economic stability, and diplomatic relationships. These considerations are particularly relevant for older adults who understand how international economic development can affect everything from immigration patterns to global pandemic prevention.
