Home / Health / US Quits WHO: Africa Faces Health Crisis
US Quits WHO: Africa Faces Health Crisis
4 Feb
Summary
- US withdrawal from WHO strains Africa's health systems.
- Funding and coordination gaps may worsen disease outbreaks.
- Experts warn of deepened inequalities in medicine access.
Africa's health systems face heightened pressure after the United States fully withdrew from the World Health Organization on January 22nd. This departure is anticipated to leave a substantial funding and coordination void, impacting disease surveillance and frontline healthcare, particularly in conflict-affected areas.
Experts express concern that the US exit will exacerbate existing inequalities in access to crucial medicines. The WHO has acknowledged the withdrawal as a loss, while African policymakers caution about potentially fatal consequences for vulnerable populations. This situation serves as a wake-up call for African nations and the Global South to assume greater responsibility.
The implications extend beyond budgetary concerns, signaling a broader retreat from multilateralism that could destabilize the continent. The WHO's coordination is vital for disease response, vaccination campaigns, and health worker support in low-income and conflict zones. The loss of US backing risks weakening early-warning systems and emergency responses.
Nigeria, for example, anticipates acute impacts, as WHO support has been critical for healthcare delivery in areas where local authorities struggle. The withdrawal highlights a need for sustainable cooperation focused on capacity-building and local ownership, potentially accelerating Africa's drive towards greater health sovereignty, including local vaccine manufacturing.
