Melania Trump’s Early Advocacy in Africa
During her first significant solo international visit in 2018, Melania Trump, then the First Lady, took the opportunity to commend the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). While in Africa, she distributed school supplies to children as part of her “Be Best” initiative, which was in partnership with USAID. “It’s really touching. I’m glad to be here to witness firsthand what the children are experiencing and see that they are being educated correctly,” she expressed at the time.
Ivanka Trump’s Contribution to Women Entrepreneurs
Records from 2019 reveal that Ivanka Trump also engaged with USAID during her travels to Africa, where she met with women entrepreneurs in Ethiopia and rural cocoa farmers. Both Melania and Ivanka utilized substantial amounts of USAID funding for their chosen programs during the Trump administration’s first term; specifically, Melania’s Be Best program and Ivanka’s Women’s Global Development and Prosperity Initiative, while traveling on separate occasions to Africa to acknowledge the impactful work of USAID.
Controversies Surrounding USAID
During his presidency, Donald Trump made significant cuts to USAID’s funding, even as records indicate that the agency was involved in various family-related governmental initiatives. Recently, Elon Musk announced plans to cease operations at USAID, citing the agency’s mismanagement of funds as a primary concern. President Trump voiced his agreement with this action, asserting that USAID provoked frustration among progressive groups and that the reported levels of fraud and corruption were unprecedented. “USAID is driving the radical Left crazy, and there is nothing they can do about it. The way funds have been mismanaged is beyond explanation. The corruption is astonishing. Let’s shut it down!” Trump declared, showing his support for Musk’s initiative.
Impact on Workers and Operations
As a result of these changes, numerous USAID contractors faced unpaid leave, and several were terminated. The agency’s Washington D.C. office has been closed, with employees either placed on leave or instructed to work remotely. However, a recent court ruling has temporarily prevented Trump from implementing these leaves, leaving many workers in a state of uncertainty.
