Regain Trust halts key project over US aid cut

Regain Trust, a key organisation in the fight against gender-based violence and HIV prevention in Namibia, has announced the termination of its activities under the REACH1 project due to aid cuts imposed by the United States government.This decision follows a 90-day work-stop order, waiver, and eventual termination order issued by the Trump administration as part of its foreign aid policy review and realignment.In partnership with Project Hope Namibia and funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Regain Trust played a critical role in community-based interventions aimed at male engagement and GBV prevention.The organisation actively mobilised adolescent boys and young men (ABYM) for HIV prevention sessions, educating them about harmful gender norms and toxic masculinity. It also connected them to essential biomedical services, including HIV testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC).Additionally, Regain Trust worked to engage potential sexual partners of adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), raising awareness of the gender norms that increase the risk of GBV, sexual and reproductive health (SRHR) challenges, and HIV among AGYW.Through targeted education and outreach, the organisation promoted behavioural change and facilitated access to crucial biomedical prevention services.A significant aspect of Regain Trust’s work was the implementation of the SASA! Together approach in the Khomas and Zambezi regions. This evidence-based initiative empowered communities to challenge harmful gender norms and reduce GBV through activism and leadership training.“This is a heartbreaking moment for us,” said James Itana, Executive Director of Regain Trust. “The work we have been doing is essential for the well-being of Namibian communities, and this decision forces us to halt programmes that were making a real difference.”The funding freeze has also affected other Namibian organisations. The Ombetja Yehinga Organisation (OYO), known for its work in youth education and development, faced an abrupt suspension of funds due to the USAID audit. “We did not receive direct USAID funding, but because we had contracts with institutions that did, the cuts have severely impacted our ability to operate,” an OYO representative told Namibian Sun recently. In response, OYO launched a crowdfunding campaign to sustain its activities during this period.Despite the cessation of activities under REACH1, Regain Trust remains committed to its mission. “We are actively exploring new partnerships and funding opportunities,” Itana affirmed. “This setback will not deter us from continuing the fight against GBV, promoting gender equality, and improving access to SRHR services.”“We thank our supporters for their steadfast commitment, and we look forward to finding new ways to create a lasting impact,” he added.

Regain Trust halts key project over US aid cut

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-01

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Regain Trust halts key project over US aid cut

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-01

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