Monrovia, Liberia – The suspension of U.S. foreign assistance under President Donald Trump’s “America First” policy is raising concerns in Liberia, where essential programs in health, education, and agriculture rely heavily on American support. Liberian lawmakers and civil society groups fear the decision could have far-reaching consequences for the country’s development and public welfare.

For years, Liberia has benefited from U.S. funding through initiatives such as the President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI), which provides millions of dollars annually to combat malaria. The program, which has contributed $14 million each year, was set to increase its support to $15 million in 2025. This funding has been instrumental in reducing malaria prevalence, with the 2020 Liberia Malaria Indicator Survey showing a drop to between 10 and 13 percent.

Senator Edwin M. Snowe Jr., who represents Liberia at the ECOWAS Parliament, warned that the withdrawal of these funds could disrupt access to malaria medications and critical health supplies. He said the suspension threatens the lives of vulnerable groups, especially pregnant women and young children who rely on these resources for protection against the disease.

Beyond health care, the aid freeze affects other essential sectors. USAID has historically supported education and community development programs in Liberia, including initiatives aimed at promoting peace and social stability. Civil society organizations like the Starks Foundation, which focuses on malaria prevention, have voiced concern that halting U.S. funding could erase years of progress and leave critical programs without the resources to continue.

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President Trump defended his decision in a speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference, where he criticized U.S. spending on international programs. He singled out a $14 million social cohesion project in Liberia, dismissing it as a “scam.” The project, designed to strengthen reconciliation efforts and empower communities, aims to foster peace by encouraging dialogue among different ethnic groups and supporting youth and women’s participation in conflict resolution.

Trump also took aim at a $1.4 million USAID-funded program meant to increase voter confidence in Liberia’s electoral system, labeling it a “fraud.” The initiative was created to support free and fair elections by promoting transparency and public trust in the voting process.

Liberian officials argue that these programs play a crucial role in maintaining peace and supporting democratic institutions. With the country still recovering from the effects of civil conflict, they fear that cutting U.S. assistance could destabilize ongoing efforts to rebuild and foster long-term social harmony.