Secretary of State Marco Rubio initially exempted lifesaving humanitarian work from a freeze on foreign aid, but a new directive has put these exemptions on hold, causing delays in approvals and funding disbursement at U.S.A.I.D. Despite promises to preserve core lifesaving aid, the agency has faced challenges accessing the payments system, leading to funding freezes for Ebola prevention and H.I.V. prevention programs. The State Department’s plans to drastically reduce U.S.A.I.D. staff and cancel hundreds of awards have sparked concerns among employees and partner organizations, prompting legal challenges against the downsizing measures.
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Africa: Power of Service – African Union Deploys New Cohort of Youth Volunteers.
The African Union has deployed its 12th cohort of Youth Volunteers, comprising 45 Young Professionals from 23 countries, to serve in various AU Commission Departments and government offices for 12 months. The African Union Youth Volunteers Corps aims to empower young Africans by providing professional experience, international exposure, and leadership skills to contribute to a prosperous and peaceful Africa, aligning with the 1 Million Next Level Initiative's priority areas. With a focus on youth development...
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