Upon his inauguration, President Donald Trump swiftly made the decision to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing the organization’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and claims of financial mismanagement. This bold move has sent shockwaves across global health and political spheres. As the U.S. navigates the consequences of its departure, the critical question for Africa becomes: Will this be a catalyst for greater independence, or will the continent continue to depend on international institutions like the WHO?
Trump’s public criticisms of the WHO were well-documented, with accusations of bias towards China and inefficiency in addressing global health crises. His opposition to the proposed “pandemic treaty” aimed at strengthening international collaboration only heightened tensions. While some saw the treaty as a positive step, others, particularly in the U.S., feared it would undermine national sovereignty. The withdrawal reflects these concerns, raising doubts about the stability of global health systems.
For Africa, this decision has significant ramifications. The continent has long relied on the WHO for disease surveillance, technical assistance, and funding. The organization’s involvement in major health responses, such as the Ebola outbreak in West Africa and the COVID-19 pandemic, has been crucial. The WHO allocates about 15% of its overall budget to programs in Africa, and with the U.S. contributing nearly 20% of the WHO’s funding before the withdrawal, African health initiatives now face potential disruptions.
This development prompts a critical question for Africa: should the continent reconsider its dependency on external health resources? The reliance on global funding and support has often raised concerns. During the pandemic, for example, delays in vaccine distribution highlighted Africa’s vulnerability to global mechanisms like COVAX. By mid-2022, only 26% of Africa’s population had been fully vaccinated, compared to over 70% in wealthier nations.
This moment presents an opportunity for African nations to invest more heavily in their own healthcare systems. Regional organizations like the Africa CDC have demonstrated the potential for locally-driven solutions to health crises. Efforts to establish vaccine manufacturing plants in countries like South Africa, Rwanda, and Senegal are important steps forward. Strengthening public-private partnerships could also provide the financial and technological support needed to reduce reliance on international aid.
Yet, the challenge remains daunting. Despite housing nearly 17% of the world’s population, Africa accounts for only 5% of global healthcare spending. To address this gap, governments must prioritize healthcare in their national budgets, incentivize innovation, and foster deeper regional collaboration.
The U.S. withdrawal from the WHO serves as a stark reminder that no country or continent should rely solely on external powers to shape its future. For Africa, it’s a call to action—a chance to reevaluate its healthcare strategy and take ownership of its health systems. Whether this moment will spark a move towards greater independence or continued dependence will depend on the decisions Africa makes today.