The Top Ten Most Shocking Ways That USAID Spent US Taxpayers Money.

Bruce News MA Ed.

This is my list of the ten most shocking ways USAID (The United States International Development) spent US taxpayers money.

1. Gender Programs in Pakistan – $100 Million

USAID allocated $100 million to gender equality programs in Pakistan, a country with deeply rooted cultural resistance to such initiatives. Critics argue that the funds had little impact while American taxpayers footed the bill.

2. Funding Drag Shows in Ecuador – $20,600

USAID came under fire for spending $20,600 on drag theater performances in Ecuador to promote diversity and inclusion. Many questioned why U.S. tax dollars were funding cultural events in another country.

3. Cash Payments to the Taliban

Following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, USAID continued to send hundreds of millions of dollars in humanitarian aid, which some reports suggest ended up in the hands of the Taliban due to their control over the country’s institutions.

4. A Mango Farming Initiative in Pakistan – $30 Million

USAID spent $30 million on a mango farming program in Pakistan to increase exports. While improving agriculture is valuable, many questioned why U.S. taxpayers were subsidizing fruit farming in a foreign nation instead of supporting American farmers.

5. Promoting Tourism in Tunisia – $50 Million

USAID funneled $50 million into Tunisia’s tourism industry, including marketing campaigns and business grants. Critics argued that Tunisia, a country with strong European tourism, shouldn’t be a priority for U.S. taxpayers.

6. Investing in a Sesame Street Program for Muppets in Afghanistan – $20 Million

In an attempt to promote early childhood education, USAID funded a Sesame Street-inspired TV program in Afghanistan. The show never gained traction, making the $20 million investment essentially worthless after the Taliban takeover.

7. A Failed Solar Power Plant in Haiti – $10 Million

USAID allocated $10 million to build a solar power plant in Haiti. However, due to corruption and mismanagement, the project never provided reliable electricity, leaving locals without power and taxpayers footing the bill.

8. “Climate Resilience” Training for Farmers in Zimbabwe – $45 Million

USAID spent $45 million on climate training programs for farmers in Zimbabwe. Many questioned why America was funding farming workshops in a country under dictatorship, instead of focusing on domestic agriculture issues.

9. Sending Money to China for Green Energy Development

Despite China being the world's largest economy after the U.S., USAID has sent millions of dollars to support green energy projects in China—while Beijing itself invests heavily in coal power.

10. Giving Away Free Smartphones in Mexico – $20 Million

A USAID program distributed free smartphones to people in Mexico to help them access financial services. While digital inclusion is important, critics argued that American taxpayers shouldn’t be buying phones for foreign citizens when millions in the U.S. struggle financially.

Conclusion:

While USAID was established to promote international development and humanitarian aid, these examples highlight how billions of U.S. taxpayer dollars are often funneled into questionable, ineffective, or outright wasteful projects. From funding drag shows in Ecuador to giving free smartphones to Mexicans, these expenditures raise serious concerns about accountability, transparency, and priorities.

At a time when the U.S. faces record-high debt, rising inflation, and domestic crises, many Americans are asking: Why are we spending millions on foreign projects that often provide little benefit to our own citizens? Instead of frivolous spending abroad, it may be time for a serious overhaul of USAID’s budget—one that prioritizes American taxpayers and ensures every dollar is used responsibly.

It's important to note that these initiatives occurred during the Biden Presidency which was strongly influenced by Barack Obama and Company. The list above is about the top ten. I did extensive research for this article. I could have made it a top 50 very easily. To spare my loyal readership more agita I cut it down to the top ten. President Trump has championed the DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency). Isn't it ironic that its the same people who supported The Biden Presidency which was influenced by the Barack Obama, are the ones who are trying to derail the efforts of DOGE? Donald Trump is a blessing and his efforts to Make America Great Again will be achieved by vetting through these types of unethical spending of the taxpayers money.

Pray, Vote and be Active - Bruce

Peter M. Katz

Executive Proofreader