History

USAID has been working in Bolivia since 1964, implementing development programs in nine geographic areas of the country. During the 1940s - 1960s U.S. assistance to Bolivia contributed millions in health, education, agriculture, and road construction programs.

In the 1960s, USAID's cooperation program with Bolivia emphasized economic progress through the construction of road and airport infrastructure and the provision of basic services. It also supported sectors such as mining –accounting for 80 per cent of the country's exports at the time – as well as transportation, agriculture, and industry.

Throughout the 1970s USAID supported  improvements to farming practices to expand the food supply and improve nutrition among low-income populations. USAID also worked to advance human capital  in the fields of health, nutrition, and education, and to encourage the development of renewable and non-conventional sources of energy.

As a result of the political situation in Bolivia in the 1980s, the U.S. altered its assistance program, reducing its support for projects and even suspending program implementation. In 1982, following a return to democracy, USAID assistance focused on advancing the new democratic process and alleviating the effects of the economic crisis. To achieve this, USAID backed programs to encourage increased participation by the private sector in production processes.

In the 1990s, USAID supported sustainable and participatory economic growth, a democratic process, and an anti-narcotics program through alternative development activities. Between 1980 and 1999, the assistance provided by USAID worked to stimulate economic growth, trade and investment.

Since 2000, USAID has helped Bolivia to achieve sustainable economic development that avoids environmental degradation. USAID supports projects that enhance the management of forest resources and watersheds and works with national and local governments, the private sector, micro and small enterprises, farmers and communities in the sectors of health, environment, and economic growth. Today, USAID’s programs support the Government of Bolivia´s National Development Plan, which aims to reduce poverty and create a more inclusive society.