Community Initiative for Partnership and Development (CIPAD) Calls on the US Government to Reconsider the Suspension of US Foreign Aid for 90 Days

Press Statement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 29, 2025

Community Initiative for Partnership and Development (CIPAD) Calls on the US Government to Reconsider the Suspension of US Foreign Aid for 90 Days

Juba, South Sudan. The Community Initiative for Partnership and Development (CIPAD), a civil society organization working tirelessly to promote human rights, peace, and development in South Sudan, expresses grave concern regarding the recent decision by the US government, under President Donald J. Trump, to pause all foreign aid for 90 days and initiate a review of aid distribution.

As a humanitarian and development organization dedicated to supporting refugees, returnees, and the most vulnerable populations in South Sudan, we urge the US government to reconsider this temporary freeze. The implications of this decision are far-reaching, particularly in a fragile and conflict-affected countries such as South Sudan.

Impact on South Sudan

South Sudan, which has endured years of civil conflict, continues to face immense challenges in rebuilding its infrastructure, institutions, and the social fabric torn apart by war. The US government has been a key partner in providing humanitarian aid to millions, including refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and returnees who have been displaced due to ongoing violence and instability.

A 90-day freeze on foreign aid will disproportionately impact the most vulnerable populations, especially refugees and returnees who depend on assistance for survival. In South Sudan, where food insecurity, malnutrition, and inadequate healthcare are widespread, the loss of support from organizations funded by US foreign aid could result in dire consequences. People who have already lost so much will be left without basic necessities, including food, medicine, and shelter. We cannot afford to see lives lost due to a disruption in essential aid that has been a lifeline for so many.

Wider Impact on Africa

The effects of this decision are not limited to South Sudan alone. Throughout Africa, particularly in countries facing humanitarian crises, the freezing of US foreign aid will hinder the efforts of civil society organizations, NGOs, UN agencies, humanitarian, and development programs that work to address poverty, hunger, and disease. It is important to acknowledge the critical role the United States plays in supporting global initiatives that alleviate suffering and promote stability. For millions of people across the continent, US foreign aid has been a key source of hope and resilience.

Our Appeal to President Donald J. Trump

We implore President Trump and the US government to consider the unintended consequences of this decision. The humanitarian need in South Sudan and across Africa is acute, and any disruption to aid programs could lead to an escalation in human suffering and instability. We call for a reconsideration of the pause and a commitment to continue providing support to those in dire need, particularly as the world grapples with a range of complex crises.

At CIPAD, we remain committed to working in partnership with local, national, and international stakeholders to ensure that vulnerable communities have access to the support and resources they need. We believe that the US government can play a critical role in helping South Sudan and Africa build a better, more stable future.

We stand ready to collaborate with the US government, other civil society organizations, NGOs, UN Agencies, and our partners in the field to ensure that the most marginalized communities do not bear the brunt of this decision.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Deng William Makur, Executive Director

Email: cipadsouthsudan@gmail.com 

Phone: +211923278888/+211913133343

Community Initiative for Partnership and Development (CIPAD)
Together, we can foster partnership and sustainable development.

Deng William Makur, Executive Director, Community Initiative for Partnership and Development (CIPAD)