USAID Employees Share Harrowing Evacuation Stories Amidst Turmoil in Congo

USAID workers based in Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo, recount a harrowing experience of how the agency's turmoil complicated their evacuation.

On January 28, Marcus Doe, a USAID employee, began his day like any other, boarding a shuttle to the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa. Meanwhile, his children boarded a school bus for their day. However, within hours, violent political demonstrations erupted, leading to attacks on the embassy, resulting in an evacuation order for most staff.

Compounding the chaos was the recent freeze on foreign aid spending by the White House and the leave placed on senior USAID leaders. Marcus experienced an overwhelming sense of panic, fearing that the U.S. government would abandon its personnel in Kinshasa. After a perilous journey that involved both boat and plane travel, he arrived in Washington, only to be placed on administrative leave.

This account is one of many included in a lawsuit filed by unions representing USAID staff and U.S. Foreign Service officers, seeking a temporary restraining order against the White House’s actions against the agency.

Fear of reprisal is prevalent among the employees, who filed their accounts under pseudonyms to protect against government retaliation. Attorney Lauren Bateman expressed concern over public declarations made by individuals such as Elon Musk, who have openly criticized federal employees.

Musk and former President Trump have voiced intentions to shut down USAID, jeopardizing the future of the agency and its workforce. Data reveals that the majority of USAID's employees, approximately 6,000 out of 10,000, are stationed overseas.

The evacuating employees expressed worry over personal belongings left behind, including essential items and even pets. As they arrived at Dulles International Airport, uncertainty loomed regarding their employment status and financial support.

Ruth Doe, a USAID health officer, detailed the last-minute evacuation with only 12.5 hours to gather crucial documents and a few clothing items, leaving behind valuable assets, including two vehicles. Being pregnant added to her distress, as she struggled to secure timely prenatal care upon returning to D.C.

Similarly, Nathan Doe faced challenges as a deputy office director, dealing with mounting hotel costs while minimizing expenses for his family relocated to Michigan. His children's inquiries about his job compounded his emotional distress.

Ulysses Doe, a chief executive of a business working with USAID, described the financial toll of the freeze affecting his company and leading to layoffs for more than 30 consultants due to canceled contracts.

Olivia Doe, another USAID worker, spoke on her efforts to establish direct trade lines in critical minerals from Congo to the United States before the chaos ensued, highlighting the potential shift in market dynamics to China as a result of the disruptions.

As the lawsuit proceeds, the future of the affected USAID employees and their families hangs in the balance. A recent development saw U.S. District Judge Carl J. Nichols extend a temporary ban on involuntary evacuations of USAID workers while legal discussions continue.