USAID Cuts Force Malawi to Rethink Education Funding

More than a year ago, the Trump administration dismantled USAID, cutting over 5,000 programs and slashing US$40 billion in global funding. The move left Malawi—one of the most aid-dependent countries in Africa—scrambling to keep its education system afloat. Without the US support, schools now face shortages of teachers, learning materials, and basic infrastructure. The government has had to make difficult choices: reduce class sizes? Cut back on school feeding programs? Or seek new donors? Education officials say they are exploring partnerships with other countries and international organizations. But the gap remains wide. For now, Malawi is learning to teach with less, one classroom at a time.