The UK government has confirmed deep reductions in foreign aid, with Africa bearing the brunt of the cuts. Programs supporting children’s education, women’s health, and clean water access will face severe funding slashes. Charities warn these UK aid cuts devastate Africa, risking increased disease, child mortality, and lost opportunities for millions.
A newly released Foreign Office report reveals Africa will see the sharpest declines in bilateral aid. Critical initiatives such as girls’ education, maternal healthcare, and sanitation face major rollbacks. The government insists multilateral organizations like the World Bank will retain funding, but direct support to vulnerable nations shrinks.
Baroness Chapman, Minister for Development, defended the decision, stating every pound must “work harder” for taxpayers. However, critics argue the UK aid cuts devastate Africa by abandoning the most marginalized. Sarah Champion, chair of the International Development Committee, called the move “a dereliction of duty.”
UNICEF condemned the cuts, warning they will “have a devastating and unequal impact on children and women.” Street Child, a British charity, confirmed programs in Sierra Leone, South Sudan, and DR Congo will end, leaving thousands without schooling. CEO Tom Dannatt called the decision “sad and short-sighted,” predicting more children will now labor instead of learning.
Monica Harding of the Liberal Democrats warned the worst is yet to come, with deeper cuts expected next year. Gideon Rabinowitz of Bond, a development network, noted the UK is retreating just as the US also reduces gender-focused aid.
The cuts follow a government pledge to boost military funding to 2.5% of national income. While Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan remain protected humanitarian priorities, African nations face stark reductions. The World Bank’s International Development Association escaped cuts, securing £1.98bn over three years.
Labour previously championed a 0.7% aid target, achieved in 2013. However, economic strains led the Conservatives to lower spending to 0.5% in 2021. Now, a further drop to 0.3% confirms a dramatic shift one that ensures UK aid cuts devastate Africa for years to come.
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