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Elon Musk's Unlawful DOGE Cuts Leave African Orphans Without Lifesaving Care [1]

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Date: 2025-03-09

In sub-Saharan Africa, orphans rely on international aid for basic necessities and medical care. However, recent cuts carried by DOGE have led to the dismantling of the USAID, leaving these vulnerable children without essential support.

The Impact of USAID's Closure

USAID has been instrumental in providing healthcare services, food assistance, and educational programs to millions across the globe. Its abrupt shutdown has resulted in healthcare termination; clinics offering vaccinations and treatments for diseases like malaria and HIV have closed, leaving children susceptible to preventable illnesses.​ Programs that supplied nutritious meals to orphans have been halted, increasing malnutrition rates.​ Schools supported by USAID lack resources, forcing many to shut down and denying children access to education.​

Elon Musk's Role in the Cuts

Elon Musk, appointed by President Trump to lead DOGE, has been a vocal critic of USAID, labeling it a "criminal organization" and advocating for its dissolution. Under his direction, DOGE has seized control of USAID operations. Musk's team gained unauthorized access to USAID's systems, leading to the agency's shutdown. Over 90% of USAID's contracts were canceled, resulting in mass layoffs and the cessation of critical aid programs. Musk also blocked two billion dollars in payments for work that had already been done, however, the Supreme Court found this to be unlawful.

Consequences for African Orphans

The dismantling of USAID has had dire consequences for orphans in Africa. Without access to medical care, preventable diseases are claiming more lives.​ With educational programs defunded, children are forced into labor to survive.​ The sudden loss of support systems has led to increased rates of mental illness among vulnerable children.​

Global Response and Criticism

The international community has expressed outrage over the abrupt cessation of aid:​ UN agencies have reported severe budget cuts and staff reductions, hindering their ability to provide humanitarian assistance. Lawsuits have been filed against the Trump administration's actions, with judges temporarily blocking the shutdown of agencies like the U.S. African Development Foundation.

Please tell your Members of Congress to support humanitarian aid. You can find their name and phone numbers here .

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