This is a staggering own goal. Africa’s population is set to explode over the next century, becoming the world’s largest labour force and a dominant geopolitical player. Instead of ensuring the US is remembered as a friend and ally, Trump’s actions will be remembered as a betrayal. Mothers cut off from lifesaving aid. Children denied vaccines. Entire communities abandoned. This will reshape African perceptions of the US for generations.
Ridley and Mieke Bell, of Australia-based charity Mountain Blue, meet staff at one of the four hospitals they have built over the past 10 years in Northern Uganda.Credit:
For Australia, it is a stark reminder of why our engagement in the Pacific is so crucial. We have spent decades building deep partnerships with our neighbours – not just through aid, but through education, health, trade and security ties. The Pacific nations see Australia as a trusted friend, but that trust must continually be renewed through action, not just rhetoric. If we fail to show up, others will fill the void. This is about more than charity; it is about stability, security and ensuring that Australia remains a valued partner in the region.
We must remember that a former Republican president’s commitment to the world’s poorest – particularly in Africa – has been trashed by another Republican president. One who is supposedly “pro-birth” – he has pardoned individuals convicted of blocking access to US abortion clinics – but not pro-life when it comes to Africa.
Again and again, local staff asked me, “But we are Christian nations – we have had no quarrel with the US. Why is this happening?” I tried to give them hope, saying, “Maybe US Christians will wake up to Musk’s outrageous claim that USAID is a criminal organisation.” US citizens are generous in giving to organisations such as Reverend Franklin Graham’s Samaritan’s Purse. Graham, the son of renowned evangelist Billy Graham, is a vocal Trump supporter. Perhaps they will speak up.
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How will I explain to my African friends that Trump understands he was elected to make the US a great Christian country, but that Christian sentiment and solidarity do not extend to them? The decisions made today will not be forgotten. America’s leadership in global health once saved millions, built trust and strengthened its standing in the world. Now, that legacy is being dismantled. Australia would be wise to take heed.
Tim Costello is executive director of Micah Australia, a coalition of Christian development agencies, and a senior fellow at the Centre for Public Christianity.
