Ghana president warns of severe health crisis after USAID aid withdrawal

Abrupt cut threatens malaria, HIV, and maternal health programs, endangering millions

ACCRA, Ghana (MNTV) – Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has expressed grave concerns over the severe impact of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) aid withdrawal on the country’s health sector.

Speaking during his 2025 State of the Nation address in Accra, Mahama highlighted the abrupt halt of $78 million in funding for critical health initiatives, including malaria eradication, maternal and child health, nutrition, and HIV/AIDS programs.

“Mr. Speaker, one of the most pressing issues confronting our health sector is USAID’s sudden 90-day pause in services without prior notice and the looming threat of a complete withdrawal of programs that do not align with the US’s strategic interests,” Mahama said.

Key programs in regions such as Upper West, Upper East, Northern, and Savannah, including medical commodity deliveries, are now at risk. 

The National HIV/AIDS Control Program, including the supply of antiretroviral therapies in the Western, Northern, and Ahafo regions, will also be severely impacted.

“The withdrawal’s impact will be devastating without urgent intervention,” Mahama warned. 

He directed the Finance Ministry to arrange immediate funding to mitigate the crisis, urging this allocation to be reflected in the upcoming budget.

However, with Ghana’s struggling economy, sustaining vital health programs without external support remains a significant challenge. 

The abrupt aid withdrawal underscores the precarious reliance of many African nations on foreign assistance for essential health services, leaving millions vulnerable.