President John Dramani Mahama has instructed Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson to take urgent steps to bridge a significant funding gap resulting from the suspension of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) international funding program.
According to a statement from the Presidency, the funding shortfall is estimated at $156 million, raising serious concerns over its potential impact on critical health and social intervention programs. President Mahama expressed particular worry over a projected $78.2 million deficit, which could negatively affect malaria prevention, maternal and child health, family planning, reproductive health, nutrition, and the fight against HIV/AIDS. The suspension threatens the availability of antiretroviral drugs, testing, and other key prevention programs.
To mitigate these effects, the President has directed that the government’s financial intervention should prioritize these key health areas.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the President’s spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications, signed the statement, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to minimizing the negative consequences of the funding disruption.
