Trump's scam rejected by African countries (tying aid to mineral mining rights)2 Apr 2026 23:16
Zambia has rejected a U.S. health funding deal worth over $1 billion from the Donald Trump administration, citing concerns over sovereignty, data privacy, and conditions tying aid to mineral mining rights. The government objected to mandatory, one-sided data-sharing rules and linked strategic resource concessions.
Key Aspects of the Rejection:
Controversial Conditions: The deal was designed to fund HIV, malaria, and maternal health programs, but was tied to a "bilateral compact on mining" by April 1st, prompting concerns that health aid was being used for economic leverage.
Data Privacy Concerns: The agreement included provisions that would grant external access to sensitive Zambian citizen health data and public health systems.
"America First" Pivot: The U.S. State Department, under the Trump administration, noted that foreign assistance is "not charity" and is designed to advance U.S. national interests, leading to the suspension of talks when Zambia did not immediately agree to the mining stipulations.
Impact on Aid: Despite the rejection, Zambia is working to take over programs that have historically relied on U.S. aid, such as medication supplies and HIV services, which were threatened with cuts.
Zambia joins other African nations, such as Zimbabwe, in pushing back against these conditional funding initiatives.