By Isaac Dan Bw’Onyancha
American President Donald Trump who took the oath of office last month is on a mission and his actions are sending shock waves across the world.
Trump’s hurried withdrawal of international aid programs, such as USAID, has raised significant concerns about the long-term impact on America’s global influence and superpower status.
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USAID has long been a key instrument of American soft power, bolstering diplomatic ties and advancing the country’s interests worldwide.
In countries such as Kenya, USAID has played a critical role in health, education, and economic development, especially in areas like HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment.
“A sudden pullback from such initiatives could result in a loss of goodwill and a decline in the influence the U.S. has built over decades.”
-Dan Isaac Bw’Onyancha
Beyond humanitarian aid, USAID has served to foster stability and economic growth in developing nations, which in turn promoted regional security and supported U.S. interests.
The removal of these programs leaves a gap that other global players, such as China or the European Union, are likely to fill, shifting the balance of influence in regions traditionally aligned with the U.S.
Trump’s “America First” policy has been a driving force behind the reduction of foreign aid, reflecting a shift toward domestic priorities and a reduced global presence.
This approach signals a move away from the U.S.’s role as a leader in international development, as it increasingly embraces more transactional, nationalistic policies.
Additionally, the growing influence of China and the rise of a more “Easternized” global economy pose a challenge to the U.S.’s dominance.
As China continues to expand its reach through initiatives like the Belt and Road, the reduction of U.S. aid programs could weaken its global standing and open the door for rival powers to gain influence, especially in developing countries.
While Trump’s actions may have been politically motivated, catering to his base, the broader consequence could be a reshaping of the global order.
The loss of American soft power—due to the scaling back of aid programs—could limit the U.S.’s ability to maintain its influence, especially as countries look to diversify their alliances and partnerships beyond the United States.
At a time when global power dynamics are shifting, the question remains: will America still retain its supremacy without USAID?
If emerging powers continue to rise and the U.S. focuses more on domestic concerns, its influence on the world stage could diminish, prompting a reevaluation of its strategy to preserve its position as a global superpower.
-Bw’Onyancha is a Governance and Leadership expert and commentator. His e-mail address is: isonyancha@gmail.com
