The United States African Development Foundation (USADF), a modest agency with a $45 million budget, is facing resistance from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in its attempts to close down the organization.
Challenges Faced by USADF
DOGE informed USADF that a representative, along with State Department official Peter Marocco, intended to visit the foundation. However, USADF’s CEO, Ward Brehm, who was unavailable, declined the meeting request, effectively blocking DOGE’s access.
Despite this, Marocco and other officials made a second attempt to gain entry to the USADF premises, aiming to take control by appointing Marocco as the board chair, canceling grants, contracts, and reducing staff.
USADF’s Response
USADF, although one of the smallest federal agencies, plays a crucial role in African economic development. Recent executive orders have targeted to eliminate the agency, prompting USADF to resist DOGE’s interference through legal means.
Brehm emphasized that Marocco must follow the necessary procedures, including Senate confirmation, before assuming any role within USADF.
Broader Implications
This conflict reflects larger tensions within U.S. foreign aid agencies amid efforts to reduce government size and foreign assistance. The Trump administration’s drastic cuts to foreign aid have further complicated the situation.
USADF is leveraging its congressional connections to prevent unauthorized takeovers and maintain its independence.
Despite the ongoing struggle, USADF remains committed to its mission of fostering economic growth in Africa and ensuring responsible governance.
For the latest developments on this issue, stay tuned for updates on USADF’s efforts to safeguard its operations from external interference.
