Ghana is set to lose approximately $138.7 million in financial assistance this year following the United States’ decision to withdraw aid for HIV/AIDS programs.
The funding, which was requested under the USAID Foreign Assistance Discretionary Request Report, was meant to support key sectors such as health, economic growth, education, and governance.
“In terms of aid, Ghana on average receives more than $130 million annually,” a Joy News source revealed.
“Last year alone, bilateral support from USAID totalled over $150 million, which was dedicated to health, agriculture, education, governance, and other critical sectors. This year, Ghana submitted a request for $138.7 million, and now, that amount will no longer be available.”
One of the hardest-hit sectors will be health, which had a $69.2 million aid request dedicated to combating malaria, improving health security, maternal and child health, family planning, reproductive health, and nutrition. With the withdrawal of US funding, these essential programs are now at risk.
The fight against HIV/AIDS will also suffer significantly.
Since 2007, Ghana has benefited from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), an initiative designed to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS and support those living with the disease.
Over the years, the program has invested more than $132 million in Ghana, working closely with local partners to tackle the epidemic.
However, with the latest funding cut, efforts to provide antiretroviral therapy, testing, and prevention programs will be affected.
The US aid withdrawal poses a major challenge for Ghana, as funding shortfalls could impact crucial public health initiatives and economic development programs.
Moving forward, Ghana may have to explore alternative funding sources to sustain its progress in these sectors.
Myjoyonline