A non-profit organization that is dedicated to fighting child trafficking in Ghana, Challenging Heights, has explained that it would have to explore internal and external strategies to maintain its operation following the suspension of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
In an interview with Xtreme Media Online on Friday, February 7, 2025, the General Manager of Challenging Heights, Jonathan Anderson, cited the US as one of their major contributors to their cause, noting that the suspension would have a significant effect on the organization’s operation.
Mr. Anderson emphasized that the organization is seeking alternative funding sources, including support from the African Union (AU), which has a similar program to USAID and other private donors in the US and around the world.
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The general manager noted that even though Challenging Heights was yet to receive donations from USAID, plans were busily underway to apply for help. However, he noted that he fears other donors would also suspend their donations because working with USAID as an organization paves ways for other donors to aid because they believe USAID is trustworthy.
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“It’s a new door we are knocking so that when we get there, big things can happen. So now that they are closed, it means we cannot knock on that door. And also, once USAID is out, it could also influence other donors and their support.”
Backgound:
On February 7, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump called for the immediate closure of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
This suspension has caused discussions in Africa and Ghana on how most of these sectors that were supported by the aid are going to function. In Ghana, it has been reported that the health sector has been the most affected.