By Violet Auma
Recent Executive Orders signed by U.S. President Donald Trump have raised concerns across Kenya and Africa at large, as they could lead to significant repercussions for global health and foreign aid. Hours after his inauguration, Trump signed several orders, including one that suspended new foreign aid for 90 days pending a policy review and another initiating the withdrawal of the U.S. from the World Health Organization (WHO) for the second time in five years. These decisions have sparked debate and anxiety about their impact on global health and development in Africa.
The Foreign Aid Freeze
The Executive Order suspending new foreign aid casts uncertainty over Kenya’s economy, which relies heavily on U.S. assistance. According to the Aid Data Network, the U.S. government contributes approximately $1.68 billion (Ksh. 252 billion) annually to Kenya, including $1 billion (Ksh. 129.4 billion) in direct aid. This funding supports critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
The suspension and potential realignment of U.S. foreign aid priorities could disrupt these programs, affecting millions of Kenyans who depend on them. The move aligns with Trump’s assertion that foreign aid often runs counter to U.S. interests and values. However, many experts argue that such a decision overlooks the long-term benefits of aid in fostering stability and economic growth in recipient countries.
Withdrawal from WHO: A Global Health Blow
The decision to withdraw the U.S. from WHO could significantly undermine global health initiatives. WHO, a United Nations agency, coordinates worldwide responses to health crises, including outbreaks of diseases like Ebola, malaria, and tuberculosis. The U.S. is WHO’s largest donor, contributing approximately 18% of its budget in 2023. This funding is vital for WHO’s work in disease surveillance, vaccine distribution, and health policy development.
Experts warn that the U.S. withdrawal could derail decades-long progress in combating diseases and weaken global defenses against future pandemics. For Africa, which relies heavily on WHO support, the consequences could be severe. WHO’s programs in the region—ranging from polio eradication to maternal health—are critical for improving public health outcomes.
“A U.S. withdrawal from WHO would make the world far less healthy and safe,” said Lawrence Gostin, director of the WHO Collaborating Center on Global Health Law at Georgetown University. WHO’s collaboration with American institutions like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been instrumental in addressing health challenges worldwide.
Historical Context and Implications
Trump’s strained relationship with WHO dates back to the COVID-19 pandemic, during which he criticized the organization’s response and accused it of being unduly influenced by China. While his decision was reversed by President Joe Biden in 2021, Trump’s return to the White House has reignited concerns about U.S. disengagement from global health leadership.
Helen Clark, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, described Trump’s move as a “serious blow” to international health efforts. She highlighted the “ghastly proposition” of the spread of diseases like bird flu becoming pandemics in the absence of coordinated global responses.
The African Perspective
In Kenya and across Africa, Trump’s policies threaten to disrupt essential health services and development projects. U.S. contributions support programs like PEPFAR (President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief), which has been pivotal in combating HIV/AIDS. WHO’s role in providing technical assistance, distributing vaccines, and setting health guidelines is equally indispensable.
Kenyan health officials and policymakers fear that reduced funding and resources could compromise efforts to control diseases, improve maternal and child health, and strengthen health systems. The ripple effects could be felt beyond healthcare, affecting economic stability and human development across the continent.
Calls for Reconsideration
The global reaction to Trump’s orders has been swift, with calls for the U.S. to reconsider its stance. Germany’s Health Minister Karl Lauterbach stated, “The new U.S. president’s announcement to withdraw from WHO is a serious blow to the international fight against global health crises.” Similarly, public health experts argue that the U.S. should engage constructively with WHO to address shortcomings rather than severing ties.
Dr. Tom Frieden, a former CDC director, emphasized that “walking away from WHO” weakens America’s influence and increases global health risks. Meanwhile, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has pledged to continue supporting WHO initiatives, but experts stress that other nations must also step up to fill the funding gap.
The Way Forward
As the world grapples with ongoing health challenges, including the threat of new pandemics, global cooperation remains paramount. For Kenya and Africa, sustained partnerships with international organizations like WHO and continued foreign aid are vital for achieving health and development goals.
The Executive Orders signed by Trump present a critical juncture. While they underscore the need for reforms in global health governance, they also highlight the risks of unilateral actions. Policymakers in Africa and beyond must advocate for inclusive dialogue and cooperation to address these challenges effectively. In doing so, they can safeguard the progress made in global health and ensure a more resilient future for all.
