A recent House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing, titled "USAID Betrayal," sparked debate about the agency's green energy programs and their impact on developing nations. Max Primorac, a former high-ranking USAID official during the Trump administration, argued that these programs have been detrimental, particularly in Africa.
Primorac asserted that promoting green energy while simultaneously discouraging fossil fuel development has left these nations reliant on China for materials and unable to generate necessary revenue. This dependence, he argues, hinders their ability to create jobs, fund essential services like healthcare and education, and ultimately achieve economic independence.
He also highlighted the increasing energy costs associated with green infrastructure and pointed out that many USAID recipient countries are also involved in China's Belt and Road Initiative, potentially creating a conflict of interest. Primorac suggested that these developing nations desire increased trade and investment but are wary of what he termed "woke" agendas.
The hearing also addressed the recent restructuring of USAID, including a significant staff reduction and its placement under the State Department's authority. Former Republican Representative Ted Yoho and Andrew Natsios, a former USAID administrator under President George W. Bush, cautioned against a complete halt to foreign aid, emphasizing the risk of other nations, like China and Russia, filling the void.
Yoho and Natsios expressed concerns about the politicization of USAID, with Natsios criticizing the Biden administration's involvement in "culture wars." While acknowledging the importance of foreign aid, they criticized what they perceived as "mission creep" within the agency.
The hearing also touched on controversial USAID-funded programs, including those related to abortion, condom distribution, and promoting atheism. These programs, according to Representative Michael McCaul, have damaged the agency's reputation. Committee Chairman Brian Mast pledged increased oversight of USAID's activities, promising to hold those responsible for these policies accountable.
The hearing was interrupted by protesters advocating for continued funding for PEPFAR, the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. Discussion also arose regarding the challenges faced by NGOs and charities in accessing aid funds due to bureaucratic hurdles and the recent firing of USAID's inspector general following a critical report.
