Govt. seeks alternative funding amid USAID operations halt globally

Friday, 7 February 2025 00:08 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Government on Wednesday said it will seek alternative sources of funding for ongoing development projects amid the Trump administration announcing that all United States Agency for International Development (USAID) direct-hire personnel will be placed on administrative leave globally, from today (7).

Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said the Government will continue USAID-funded projects in the country and seek possible alternative sources of funding.

“We are not solely dependent on USAID funds. It is good if they can grant funds, but if not, we will ensure that these projects progress using alternative funding sources,” he said in response to a query posed at the post-Cabinet meeting media briefing.

Thousands of USAID employees had already been laid off, and numerous programs worldwide were shut down after US President Donald Trump imposed a broad freeze on foreign assistance.

Exceptions will be made for designated personnel handling mission-critical functions, core leadership, and specially designated programs. Those required to continue working were notified by 6 February at 3 p.m. (EST), USAID in a statement said.

For USAID personnel stationed outside the US, the agency, in coordination with missions and the Department of State, is preparing a plan to facilitate their return travel within 30 days. Non-essential personal services (PSC) and institutional support (ISC) contracts will be terminated, the statement said.

USAID said exceptions for extended stay may be granted on a case-by-case basis for reasons such as dependents’ school terms, medical needs, pregnancy, or safety concerns.

“The Agency will consider case-by-case exceptions and return travel extensions based on personal or family hardship, mobility or safety concerns, or other reasons. For example, the Agency will consider exceptions based on the timing of dependents’ school term, personal or familial medical needs, pregnancy, and other reasons. Further guidance on how to request an exception will be forthcoming.”