After USAID’s demise, young Africans rethink dependence on foreign assistance
African nations have been adversely affected by cuts to USAID funding under the Trump administration. But a growing number of youth say that may not be a bad thing — calling on their own governments to fill the void and become more self-reliant.
South Africans allegedly lured into Russia’s war have exposed policy gaps in the country’s recruitment and consular protection processes. In February 2026, 17 men aged between 20 and 39 returned home after seeking help from the conflict zone in eastern Ukraine, allegedly drawn into "seemingly mercenary activities" after being offered lucrative employment opportunities.
South Africa's engagement with Moscow secured the return of group members and continued assistance for those unable to travel. The episode highlights the need for better scrutiny of seemingly civilian overseas opportunities before South Africans depart, as the country is currently better equipped to investigate unlawful military activity after it occurs.
Brief written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
- False jobs, foreign battlefields: Policy gaps that exposed South Africans dailymaverick.co.za
