US Signals Shift Towards 'Health as Business' Model in Dialogue with African Leaders Post-Aid Reduction

Leaders from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) convened for a crucial five-hour discussion with Dr. Susan Monarez, the new chief of the US CDC, alongside other American officials on Wednesday. This marked their first meeting since significant funding reductions for Africa’s health initiatives by the US. The dialogue focused on health security, financial support for Africa CDC, and innovative health funding strategies on the continent, as stated by Dr. Ngashi Ngongo, Africa CDC’s incident management leader. He emphasized the US’s desire to approach health as a business rather than relying solely on grants. Programs severely impacted by funding cuts include those addressing maternal and child health, HIV, and malaria. Ngongo highlighted the urgent need for collaboration, expressing concern over a potential health crisis if current trends continue. Discussions will persist into April, coinciding with the World Bank’s spring meeting in Washington, ensuring a continued focus on global health security and Africa’s health priorities.