Let's Stop Talking About Trump

In the world of business, focus should always be on strategy, execution, and tangible economic factors—not political distractions. Yet, time and again, we see narratives spun around policy changes, aid withdrawals, and leadership shifts, as if these alone dictate the success or failure of international trade. The latest example? The withdrawal of U.S. aid to South Africa.

For some, this decision is being framed as a barrier to trade. That notion is simply incorrect. Those making this argument either lack a proper understanding of global business dynamics or are suffering from what can only be described as Trump Derangement Syndrome (TDS). The reality is that the aid being cut had nothing to do with actual trade or economic viability. Instead, it was funneled into questionable and ideologically driven programs that had no direct benefit to economic growth or stability.

Facts Over Fiction

To claim that this aid was crucial to maintaining business operations in South Africa is disingenuous at best. The facts paint a different picture:

• Amazon has expanded its Cape Town facility to 2,500 full-time employees and reaffirmed its long-term commitment to South Africa.
• Over 6,000 U.S. companies continue to operate in South Africa, demonstrating sustained confidence in the market.
• The BPO sector in South Africa has grown to 47,000 seats, with over 70% serving U.S. clients.
• The exchange rate has shifted from 14.90 ZAR/USD in 2020 to 18.73 ZAR/USD today, offering a 21% cost advantage.

These are real, measurable economic drivers—far outweighing any supposed impact of aid withdrawal.

Where Was the Money Going?

The now-axed USAID programs were not business-critical initiatives. Instead, billions were spent on projects that, while socially or politically motivated, had little to no direct impact on trade and economic development. Consider these expenditures:

• $2 million for sex changes and "LGBT activism" in Guatemala.
• $6 million to fund tourism in Egypt.
• $20 million for a new Sesame Street show in Iraq.
• $4.5 million to “combat disinformation” in Kazakhstan.
• $10 million worth of USAID-funded meals went to al Qaeda-linked terrorist group the Nusra Front.
• $25 million to Deloitte to promote green transportation in Georgia (the country).
• $4.67 million to EcoHealth Alliance, which funded bat virus research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology.
• $150 billion for a climate strategy aiming to build an "equitable world with net-zero greenhouse gas emissions."

These are just a few examples of how USAID funds were being allocated. The removal of such programs is a rational fiscal decision, not a blow to business interests.

Focus on Business, Not Politics

As business leaders, our focus must remain on commercial incentives, operational efficiency, and market expansion. Any pushback on the basis of aid withdrawal is simply an excuse. The South African BPO sector is thriving, and the opportunities are vast.

Less political noise. More strategic execution. Let’s stay focused on the real objective: $2-3 million in Total Contract Value over the next 12 months. USAID has nothing to do with that.

And maybe, just maybe, we should stop talking about Trump. He won, and democracy is the rule of the majority. No amount of bickering will change that. Adapt, move on, and get to work.

Moving Forward

The path forward is clear. The market is strong, the business case is compelling, and the opportunities are abundant. The distractions? They’re just that—distractions. Let’s keep our eyes on the prize and push forward with focused, intelligent, and strategic efforts.

Looking forward to keeping the momentum going with actual focused work.

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