Trump unfreezes funds for critical USAID-backed programs in 3 African nations

Trump reinstates funds for USAID-backed programs in South Sudan, Sudan, and Congo
The decision follows a U.S. Supreme Court ruling ordering the reversal of the aid freeze
Samaritan's Purse received $19 million in previously frozen USAID funds for humanitarian efforts

Trump's decision to unfreeze the blocked funds follows a U.S. Supreme Court ruling ordering the reversal of an aid freeze, marking a significant shift in U.S. policy.

The restored funding will enable the resumption of key initiatives in healthcare, infrastructure, and development in South Sudan, Sudan and Congo

Samaritan’s Purse, the recipient organization, confirmed that $19 million in previously frozen USAID funds has been released to support its humanitarian efforts.

The funding had been put on hold in January under Trump’s executive order imposing a 90-day freeze on foreign aid as part of broader efforts to curb government spending.

The restored funding will enable the resumption of key initiatives in South Sudan, Sudan and Congo Samaritan's Purse

This move signals a recalibration of U.S. strategic interests in Africa and is expected to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations with the affected nations.

The aid freeze and Samaritan’s purse activities in Africa

Samaritan’s Purse, a North Carolina-based evangelical aid organization has been actively engaged in humanitarian efforts across Africa, providing aid, support, and hope to vulnerable communities.

Samaritan's Purse secured reimbursement for $19 million from USAID to provide life-saving aid in Sudan.

This reimbursement is part of a funding agreement where Samaritan's Purse pays for supplies and staff upfront and is later reimbursed by USAID.

Initially, it was reported that $13 million had been frozen due to President Trump's crackdown on USAID.

However, Samaritan’s Purse’s media relations director, Mark Barber revealed that the amount owed increased following the ministry’s critical work in Sudan, South Sudan, and Congo.

Franklin Graham, President and CEO of the NGO, stated to MinistryWatch that Samaritan’s Purse's funding grants with USAID operate on a reimbursement basis.

“We cover the costs for supplies and staff upfront, and USAID reimburses us. We have just received $19 million in reimbursement to provide life-saving aid in Sudan.”

This agreement allows Samaritan's Purse to continue providing aid without being heavily impacted by the freeze on foreign aid

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the organization’s Agape Project aids displaced families through livelihood training and Gospel outreach.

Additionally, in South Sudan, they provide emergency food, clean water, and medical care to displaced populations. Across the continent, Samaritan's Purse continues to play a vital role in addressing humanitarian crises.