A Major Shift with Global Economic Implications

Introduction In a surprising turn of events, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has officially closed its headquarters in Washington, D.C., following an executive decision endorsed by former President Donald Trump and suggested by Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This unprecedented move has sent shockwaves through the international community, raising concerns about its far-reaching impact on global economic stability, particularly in vulnerable regions like Afghanistan. The Decision and Its Rationale Elon Musk, known for his disruptive innovations in technology and space exploration, criticized USAID as a "criminal organization," claiming that less than 10% of its budget effectively aids those in need. In line with Musk's recommendation, Trump approved the shutdown, citing the need to reduce government expenditures and eliminate inefficiencies. The closure resulted in the furlough of hundreds of contractors, suspension of foreign aid programs, and the deactivation of USAID's digital platforms. Global Economic Implications

1. Reduction in Foreign Aid: The immediate effect is a significant reduction in foreign aid, particularly in developing countries reliant on USAID for humanitarian assistance, health programs, and economic development projects.
2. Destabilization of Emerging Economies: Countries facing political instability and economic hardship, such as Afghanistan, could experience worsening conditions. The absence of USAID funding may lead to decreased support for education, healthcare, infrastructure, and governance initiatives.
3. Impact on Global Markets: The withdrawal of U.S. aid could disrupt global supply chains, particularly in sectors dependent on international development projects. This may lead to increased economic volatility in regions that serve as critical nodes in these networks.

Impact on Afghanistan Afghanistan has been one of the largest recipients of USAID support, benefiting from programs focused on:

• Education and Women's Empowerment: Reduced funding will jeopardize ongoing efforts to improve literacy rates and support women's participation in the workforce.
• Healthcare Services: Critical health programs, including maternal and child health services, may face severe budget cuts, impacting public health outcomes.
• Agricultural Development: Farmers relying on USAID-backed initiatives for modern farming techniques and market access will struggle to maintain productivity.
• Governance and Stability: The reduction in governance programs could hinder efforts to build transparent institutions, potentially increasing the risk of corruption and political instability.

Our Experience with USAID: A Reflection At Fanoos Accounting Services, we had the privilege of collaborating with USAID on several impactful projects. These experiences allowed us to contribute meaningfully to Afghanistan's development, particularly in areas related to financial management, capacity building, and economic sustainability. The partnerships fostered growth, innovation, and hope within our communities. With the closure of USAID, we find ourselves not only facing professional uncertainty but also a deep sense of loss. The programs we supported were more than just projects; they represented dreams, aspirations, and tangible improvements in the lives of countless Afghans. The images of our past experiences with USAID serve as powerful reminders of the milestones achieved and the communities uplifted. This closure leaves us saddened and disheartened, as we reflect on the significant strides made and the potential now left unrealized. Nevertheless, our commitment to fostering economic resilience and community development remains unwavering. We honor the legacy of these collaborations by continuing to support initiatives that embody the spirit of growth and empowerment. The Way Forward With USAID's closure, Afghanistan and other affected countries must explore alternative strategies:

• Diversifying Aid Sources: Seeking support from other international donors, NGOs, and private sector partnerships.
• Strengthening Local Economies: Investing in self-sustaining economic activities to reduce reliance on foreign aid.
• Promoting Regional Cooperation: Enhancing trade and economic ties with neighboring countries to foster regional stability.

Conclusion The closure of USAID marks a pivotal moment in global economic history. Its ripple effects will be felt across continents, particularly in fragile states like Afghanistan. As the world adjusts to this new reality, the resilience and adaptability of affected nations will determine their ability to navigate these challenging times. At Fanoos Accounting Services, we will continue to monitor these developments, providing insights and analysis to help businesses and individuals understand and adapt to the evolving global landscape.

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Are you an accounting professional looking to elevate your career? Becoming a member of Certified Professional Accountants (CPA) Afghanistan can be a game-changer. CPA Afghanistan, established in 2013 under the Ministry of Finance, ensures that accountants in Afghanistan adhere to global standards, promoting transparency, trust, and excellence in the financial sector.

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1. Recognized Professional Qualification: CPA Afghanistan recognizes globally respected qualifications, including ACCA, CPA Australia, CPA Canada, ICAEW, and more. This global recognition enhances your professional credibility. 2. Career Advancement: Membership opens doors to networking events, professional development programs, and exclusive job opportunities, helping you stay competitive in the industry. 3. Continuous Professional Development (CPD): CPA Afghanistan mandates CPD, ensuring that members are always updated with the latest industry practices. 4. Regulatory Support: As a CPA member, you receive guidance on professional ethics, compliance, and regulatory requirements, safeguarding your professional integrity.

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Syed Bilal Hashmi ACCA made the difficult decision to leave Afghanistan in December 2021, uprooting his family to seek a new life in Ireland. As the deputy auditor general of Afghanistan, he had dedicated over 12 years to his career, but the circumstances under Taliban rule made it impossible for him to stay.

When Kabul fell, Hashmi initially tried to continue his work but soon realized he had to leave for the sake of his family. They departed without saying goodbye, carrying only a few belongings. Their journey took them to Dubai, where they lived in a refugee camp for 11 months before finally settling in Ireland. Thanks to the support from ACCA, Hashmi was able to secure a position as an audit senior at Dillon Kelly Cregan, a Dublin-based accountancy firm. Ireland offered a fresh start with strong education and healthcare systems for his children. Hashmi's wife played a crucial role in easing their transition, teaching their children English, and helping them adapt to their new environment. His children are now in school, with one even launching a YouTube channel. Hashmi’s professional journey began in Kabul in 2009, working for Zia Massoud. He later became CFO of Kabul Bank, which was under receivership, before moving to Malaysia to complete his ACCA qualification. Upon returning to Afghanistan, he took on leadership roles, including deputy head of CPA Afghanistan, contributing to the advancement of the accounting profession in the country. Under his leadership, Afghanistan's first accountancy law was passed, a bachelor’s degree program in accounting was launched at Kabul University, and international recognition was achieved through ACCA's support. His work was not just a profession but a mission to fight corruption and bring transparency to Afghanistan. While many of his former colleagues have been evacuated, some remain in Kabul, making communication difficult. Mohammad Aman Ahmadi, who met Hashmi multiple times at ACCA events held at Kabul Intercontinental Hotel and the Ministry of Finance, speaks highly of his professionalism and ethical conduct. Hashmi's dedication to the accounting profession and his strong moral compass were evident in every interaction. Despite the new opportunities in Ireland, Hashmi still hopes to return to Afghanistan if conditions improve, continuing his mission to strengthen the country's financial and auditing institutions. For now, he is focused on building his career and supporting his family in their new home. For more information visit: https://abmagazine.accaglobal.com/global/articles/2023/jan/interviews/exit-from-kabul.html

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