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So They Can is deeply concerned about the 90-day suspension of US foreign aid, which is having immediate and crippling consequences for marginalised communities around the world — denying tens of millions of people their basic human rights, including access to critical healthcare, education, food and water. 

The dismantling of the United States Agency for International Development (US Aid) programs risks decades-worth of global efforts to build peace, safety, and economic stability, and the long-term consequences are projected to be catastrophic.

“In just two weeks the largest donor in the world has been shut down. While the repercussions of this are yet to be empirically evidenced, we know that in Africa alone millions of the most vulnerable have lost access to vital health services, emergency aid, and gender-based violence support.” – Cassandra Treadwell, So They Can Founder and CEO.

These turbulent times reinforce So They Can’s steadfast commitment to sustainable international development, empowering vulnerable communities to become self-sustaining, rather than reliant on overseas aid as a long-term solution. 

“Our teams on the ground are already seeing the impact of the USAid’s abrupt dismantling, with health agencies being the hardest hit and, as always seems to be the case in international disasters, So They Can’s partner communities are among the biggest victims.” – Cassandra Treadwell

As the humanitarian cost of this aid suspension unfolds, So They Can is unwaveringly committed to:

1. Listening to and working closely with our partners and stakeholders in Kenya and Tanzania to thoroughly understand the immediate and long-term effects of the US Aid dismantling;
2. Uniting with our international NGO partners around the world to identify ways we can collaborate to strengthen global development and minimise reliance on overseas aid; and
3. Increasing funding and opportunities through our Education and Community Development programs, enabling communities to become self-reliant and empowered. 

“So They Can’s mission to provide quality education to as many children as possible in Kenya and Tanzania runs parallel to our vision of a world without poverty. We are committed to providing grass roots, sustainable financial security through an educated population that can flourish and provide for their own people. Partnering with So They Can is key to achieving just that.We call on all those not giving internationally to do so and those who are to increase their giving.” – Cassandra Treadwell

So They Can’s team, including our CEO and executive team in Kenya and Tanzania, are available for media enquiries and requests for comment on this unfolding issue. Please contact ellie@sotheycan.org if you would like to connect.