Farewell to USAID from Notables

On Monday, former presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush, along with musician Bono, expressed their sorrow over the closure of the United States International Development Agency (USAID). Bono even shared a heartfelt poem he wrote to commemorate the loss.

A poignant video farewell was released by the trio, marking the end of USAID and acknowledging its 10,000 employees. The emotional farewell reached many in the USAID community across the globe.

During a virtual gathering, Obama and Bono reiterated concerns that the closure of USAID would severely impact many who relied on its support. There were hints of untested allegations suggesting that ending the agency was detrimental to its original beneficiaries.

In coverage by various outlets, it was noted that Obama labeled the Trump administration’s decision regarding USAID as “a huge mistake.” This came after President Trump declared the agency’s closure early in his tenure, criticizing its leadership and alleging it was plagued by “risky fraud.” Trump had previously referred to it as being run by “radical left madmen.”

The agency was responsible for humanitarian and development programs in roughly 120 countries, but faced significant opposition from Trump and a number of Republican lawmakers, who claimed it had lost its mission.

In his recorded remarks, Obama reassured aid and development workers, saying, “Your work is important and it’s important for generations.”

Bono, often seen as a surprise guest in his stylish shades and cap, humorously dubbed USAID staff as “secret agents of international development,” reflecting the casual atmosphere of the gathering.

He passionately recited poetry during the event, touching on the courage provided by USAID and the tragic deaths of children from malnutrition—linking these issues to funding cuts for vital programs abroad, suggesting a direct consequence of the agency’s closure.

“They called you a con man when you were our best,” Bono lamented, expressing solidarity with the agency’s mission.

Historically, USAID’s funding was determined by Congress, with a recent report indicating a budget of about $400 billion for 2023. As of 2016, USAID employed over 10,000 people funded by U.S. taxpayer dollars.