Stakeholders in the health sector say that the U.S. withdrawal from world health organisation creates a budget shortfall of over $1.2 billion out of WHO’s annual budget of approximately $5 billion.
‘’Unless offset by increased contributions from other countries and philanthropies, this shortfall threatens to weaken our global health security, especially arising from the most fragile health systems mainly in Africa.’’ Said in the position statement released by Amref Health Africa.
‘’African governments, already under debt distress, would struggle to fill this gap, leaving the world fragile and unsafe for everyone amid accelerating disease outbreaks from climate change and human-environmental ‘conflict. We urge the U.S. administration to reconsider its decision and engage with World Health Organisation to protect the health and well-being of millions in Africa and worldwide. Global cooperation is essential for a safer, healthier future.’’ Said Dr. Githinji Gitahi, Group CEO, Amref Health Africa.
President Donald Trump, on his first day in office, signed an executive order withdrawing the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO)—a move that undermines decades of global health and health security gains and leaves the U.S., Africa, and the world more vulnerable to infectious diseases and public health threats.
WHO through WHO Afro, alongside Africa CDC, plays a critical role in Africa’s public health by providing technical assistance in disease surveillance, control and response, and health systems strengthening alongside strengthening core capacities for the International Health Regulations.
