A number of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating in the Solomon Islands are feeling the impact of the recent freeze on US aid programs.
They have expressed expressing concerns over funding shortages and disruptions to ongoing projects.
The freeze happened after newly elected US President, Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14169 on January 20, 2025.
The order titled “Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid,” initiated a 90-day pause on all U.S. foreign development assistance programs to conduct a comprehensive review.
According to David Boseto, Co-Director at Ecological Solution Solomon Islands (ESSI), the freeze has had widespread consequences, impacting the Solomon Islands Rangers Association (SIRA), Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), SCALE, Positive Change 4 Marine Life, and several other organizations across the country.
“It is obvious that the 90-day policy review has affected many projects across the country funded by USAID. Workers and their families are also feeling the impact. It’s truly unfortunate,” Mr. Boseto told Solomon Star in an interview.
“This freeze has placed us in a difficult position, especially for programs that directly benefit local communities. We are now looking at ways to sustain our work despite these financial constraints,” he added.
A spokesperson from another NGO echoed similar concerns, highlighting how the freeze has led to workforce reductions, forcing many employees to either leave their jobs or seek alternative casual work.
“Many have been forced to leave the office, stay home, or find other temporary employment,” the spokesperson added.
The freeze has also raised concerns among community leaders, who fear that the reduction in aid could negatively impact development initiatives across the country.
Many of these projects focus on improving healthcare access, empowering women and youth, and strengthening climate change resilience and areas where international aid has played a crucial role.
Government officials have acknowledged the challenges posed by the suspension and are reportedly engaging in discussions with stakeholders to explore possible solutions.
The long-term effects of the aid freeze remain uncertain, but many NGOs remain hopeful that the situation will be resolved soon so that critical development work can continue without further disruption.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
