President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, to take immediate steps to address a funding shortfall following the suspension of USAID’s international funding program.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, February 11, and signed by the Minister for Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Presidency expressed deep concern over the estimated $156 million deficit.
The funding gap poses a serious threat to critical healthcare programs, including malaria prevention, maternal and child health, family planning, reproductive health, nutrition, and HIV/AIDS interventions. The availability of antiretroviral drugs and testing services is also at risk.
To prevent disruptions to these essential services, President Mahama has instructed the Finance Ministry to prioritize securing alternative funding sources.
The statement reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted public health services despite the USAID funding suspension.
