The United States’ recent executive order suspending foreign aid spending for 90 days has sent shockwaves across Africa, where many countries rely heavily on US-funded health programs to combat diseases like malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis. The order, which mandates a review of foreign aid initiatives, has raised fears about potential disruptions to critical health services across the continent.
For decades, the US has been a cornerstone of Africa’s health sector, contributing approximately $8 billion annually in aid, with 70%—around $5.6 billion—channelled toward health-related initiatives. These funds support programs managed by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the U.S. Department of State, which have been pivotal in controlling infectious diseases and improving public health outcomes.
A significant area of concern is the impact on the fight against HIV/AIDS. The President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a flagship US initiative, has provided antiretroviral therapy (ART) to millions in sub-Saharan Africa, drastically reducing HIV-related deaths. The suspension of aid has raised alarms that this progress could be reversed, with the International AIDS Society warning that the halt threatens years of achievements in combating the epidemic.
The broader implications of the US’s decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) further exacerbate the situation. The US, which has historically funded around 20% of WHO’s global budget, played a critical role in initiatives such as disease surveillance, outbreak responses, and health system strengthening. The absence of this funding could weaken WHO’s capacity to address public health challenges, particularly in Africa, where the continent remains vulnerable to pandemics and infectious diseases.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, voiced deep concern over the developments, highlighting the indispensable role of US support in global health efforts. “The US has shaped global health policy and norms for decades. Its withdrawal from the WHO and aid cuts jeopardize the fight against infectious diseases and undermine health infrastructure, particularly in Africa,” Mahamat said.
The suspension of US aid has sparked calls for alternative funding mechanisms to prevent the collapse of essential health programs. African governments may need to collaborate with other international partners, development agencies, and the private sector to fill the funding gaps.
The World Health Organization has urged the United States to reconsider its stance, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in addressing public health crises. As the situation unfolds, the need for collective action remains critical to safeguarding the health and well-being of millions across Africa.
Article by Nyokabi Wanjiku
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