President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, to take urgent steps to bridge the funding gap caused by the suspension of the USAID’s international funding programme.
A press release dated February 11, signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, outlined the President’s deep concern over the estimated $156 million shortfall.
Of particular worry is the projected $78.2 million deficit, which threatens critical health interventions, including malaria prevention, maternal and child health, family planning, reproductive health, nutrition, and HIV/AIDS programmes.
The availability of antiretroviral drugs, testing, and prevention initiatives are also at risk.
For over six decades, USAID has played a crucial role in Ghana’s development, supporting economic growth, democracy, education, health, and agriculture. However, the suspension of its funding is already having a tangible impact.
The Ghana Health Service has formally alerted Regional Directors in the three northern regions about looming disruptions to the supply chain and the availability of essential health commodities.
As the government scrambles to find alternative funding sources, stakeholders in the health sector remain anxious about the potential consequences of the funding gap on essential services and public health initiatives.
