Britain’s new minister for international development, Jenny Chapman, has faced the reality of her government’s sharp aid reductions during her first official trip abroad, visiting Ghana where UK support has been drastically scaled back in recent years.
A challenging assignment
Chapman, appointed earlier this year, has been tasked with defending the government’s policy of reducing foreign aid from 0.7% to 0.5% of gross national income. In Ghana, where UK funding once supported health programmes, education, and infrastructure, she was met with concerns from local officials and aid workers about the long-term consequences of shrinking assistance.
Impact on the ground
During her visit, Chapman toured community projects that had previously relied on UK aid but are now struggling to maintain services. Health clinics face shortages of medicines and staff, while educational initiatives have been scaled back. Local NGOs warned that the cuts are undermining progress on poverty reduction and limiting Ghana’s ability to meet development goals.
Government defence
The minister defended the cuts as a necessary measure during a period of fiscal constraint in Britain, stressing that the UK continues to provide support in priority areas such as climate resilience, trade partnerships, and security cooperation. She also argued that the government’s approach focuses on leveraging private investment rather than relying solely on aid budgets.
Diplomatic backdrop
The visit comes at a time when Britain is seeking to strengthen trade and security ties with African nations, positioning itself as a partner in investment and growth rather than traditional aid. Critics, however, say the sharp reduction in direct development funding undermines trust and weakens the UK’s influence in a region where China and other powers are expanding their presence.
Looking forward
Chapman acknowledged the challenges but insisted the UK remains committed to its relationship with Ghana. She pointed to ongoing collaboration in education, green energy and governance, while pledging to review how limited aid funds can be better targeted. Whether her assurances will satisfy local leaders and communities affected by the cuts remains an open question.
Newshub Editorial, 18 September 2025
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