PRESIDENT MAHAMA ORDERS EMERGENCY MEASURES TO ADDRESS $156M USAID FUNDING GAP

President John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has directed Ghana's Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, to implement urgent measures addressing a significant funding gap following the suspension of USAID's international funding program, according to a statement released Tuesday by the Presidency.

The directive comes in response to an estimated $156 million shortfall in funding, with $78.2 million specifically impacting critical healthcare initiatives. The affected programs include malaria prevention, maternal and child health services, family planning, reproductive health, nutrition, and HIV/AIDS interventions. The suspension particularly threatens the availability of antiretroviral drugs, testing capabilities, and prevention programs.

"The President has requested that the bridging arrangements focus on these priority areas to mitigate any deleterious effects occasioned by the USAID funding disruptions," stated Felix Kwakye Ofosu, MP, the Presidential Spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications.

The announcement underscores the Ghanaian government's commitment to maintaining essential health services despite the funding challenges. However, the statement did not specify the source of the bridging funds or provide a timeline for implementation of these emergency measures.

Official presidency communications release on USAID funding gap measures

This development highlights the significant role of international aid in supporting Ghana's healthcare system and the potential vulnerability of critical health programs to changes in foreign assistance. The situation raises questions about the long-term sustainability of these essential health services and the need for diversified funding sources.