The gradual withdrawal of USAID, the United States Agency for International Development, appears to have alarming consequences for security in Africa. Research published in the journal Science indicates that this reduction in aid has led to a rise in violent events, with an estimated increase of between 5 and 10% in certain regions of the continent.

The impacts of the end of USAID are particularly evident among the youth. According to the authors of the study, when American support shrank or disappeared, many young people turned to armed groups or were pushed to commit violent acts. The dismantling of this agency is often perceived as abandonment by the global power, exacerbating feelings of helplessness among young populations.

Researchers emphasize that the negative effects also impact other crucial sectors such as health systems and food aid. Millions of Africans find themselves in critical situations, with reduced access to medical care and nutrition, further exacerbating conditions conducive to violence.

According to RFI, these findings highlight a troubling phenomenon: the direct link between the withdrawal of significant international aid and the worsening of social tensions. Young people, often in search of opportunities, face a wall of lack of future prospects.

Security experts assert that this situation could become a vicious cycle. The increase in violence may further discourage foreign investment and worsen poverty, creating fertile ground for conflicts. Such dynamics could compromise years of efforts to stabilize certain regions of the continent.

In response to these growing challenges, several African heads of state recently expressed their willingness to revive the continent's economy at a summit in Abidjan. In July 2021, thirteen leaders committed to finding sustainable solutions to overcome economic crises exacerbated by the pandemic and the lack of international assistance.

However, without swift and effective intervention to fill the void left by USAID, it seems unlikely that these initiatives will have a significant impact on security in the short term. The international community is called upon to reconsider its approach towards Africa to avoid a worsening of the security situation.