By Michael Gwarisa
Amref Health Africa Group CEO, Dr. Githinji Gitahi, has raised concerns over the decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to halt funding for the World Health Organization (WHO). Dr. Gitahi warns that the move could severely impact global health initiatives, leaving Africa particularly exposed.
President Trump justified the U.S. withdrawal by criticizing WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global health crises. As part of the decision, the U.S. plans to cease all financial contributions and formally exit WHO within 12 months.
The United States has been the largest financial supporter of WHO, contributing approximately 18% of its funding. For the 2024-2025 biennium, WHO’s budget stands at $6.8 billion, making the U.S. withdrawal a critical blow.
Commenting on the development, Dr. Gitahi highlighted the financial implications of this decision. “The U.S. withdrawal creates a budget shortfall of over $1.2 billion out of WHO’s annual budget of approximately $5 billion,” he said.
Dr. Gitahi warned that without increased contributions from other countries or philanthropies, this funding gap could compromise global health security.
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,” he stated.
The financial void could have far-reaching consequences for Africa, where fragile health systems rely heavily on WHO and other international support. WHO, through its African regional office (WHO Afro) and Africa CDC, provides critical assistance in disease surveillance, response, and health system strengthening.
The U.S. decision is further compounded by an executive order pausing foreign development assistance for 90 days pending a review, which could exacerbate the strain on global health programs.
Dr. Gitahi urged the U.S. administration to reconsider its stance. “We urge the U.S. administration to reconsider its decision and engage with WHO to protect the health and well-being of millions in Africa and worldwide. Global cooperation is essential for a safer, healthier future,” he added.
