The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has ordered the immediate suspension of its operations in Zimbabwe, affecting crucial health programs focused on HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis.
This decision aligns with newly-elected U.S. President Donald Trump’s directives aimed at reevaluating and realigning foreign aid initiatives.
USAID has historically been a vital supporter of Zimbabwe’s development efforts. In 2024, the agency allocated approximately US$360 million to various programs, impacting health, agriculture, and governance sectors.
However, a notice issued on January 27, 2025, by Andrea M. Plucknett, USAID Zimbabwe supervisory agreement officer, instructed all grant recipients to halt their activities without delay.
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“Dear implementing Partner: Effective January 24, 2025, the Agreement Officer hereby issues an order for the recipient to immediately suspend performance under the agreement your organisation was awarded by USAID/Zimbabwe,” wrote Plucknett.
She further emphasized that organizations must take reasonable steps to minimize costs during the suspension period.
Main grant recipients and sub-grantees have been explicitly informed not to resume operations under any existing agreements with USAID until they receive written communication lifting the suspension.
Additionally, all diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) initiatives in Zimbabwe have been suspended with immediate effect.
“All DEIA activities under all ongoing awards are to cease immediately. Please have your authorized representative certify that any DEIA-related activities have completely ceased,” she stated.
The Trump administration has adopted a broader strategy to halt the supply of lifesaving drugs, including those necessary for treating HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis, along with medical supplies for newborns, in countries receiving USAID support.
