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October 1 ushered in a new era in U.S. foreign aid. What's the plan? Will it work?

Oct 2, 2026 · Fatma Tanis

Originally published by NPR News Read the original

October 1 ushered in a new era in U.S. foreign aid. What's the plan? Will it work?
In December, State Department senior official Jeremy Lewin welcomed Rwanda Foreign Minister Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe for the signing of a multi-year Memorandum of Understanding on global health cooperation.
In December, State Department senior official Jeremy Lewin welcomed Rwanda Foreign Minister Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe for the signing of a multi-year Memorandum of Understanding on global health cooperation.

The America First strategy asks for a Memorandum of Understanding as a condition for healthcare and development aid. It's been praised for promoting self-reliance but criticized for its conditions.

(Image credit: U.S. Office of Foreign Assistance)

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