The decision by former US President Donald Trump to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) has left African nations facing significant challenges. For years, African countries have relied on American support to strengthen their health systems, particularly through initiatives such as PEPFAR (President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) and collaboration with the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Trump’s move to cut ties with WHO means African countries are now confronted with a funding vacuum that could severely impact crucial health programs targeting HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, and pandemic response efforts.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairman of the African Union Commission, voiced concerns over the potential disruption of vital programs. The loss of American backing leaves African nations with the urgent task of finding new sources of funding to sustain health interventions. This situation could further strain Africa’s already vulnerable health systems.
In contrast, China’s growing partnership with Africa presents a timely opportunity to fill this gap. At the Ninth Forum on China-Africa Cooperation summit in September 2024, Chinese President Xi Jinping outlined a series of action plans to deepen collaboration in areas like trade, agriculture, and health. China’s Belt and Road Initiative and FOCAC (Forum on China-Africa Cooperation) have already played pivotal roles in supporting African infrastructure and economic development. With the US stepping back, China now has a unique chance to expand its influence in Africa’s health sector.
China’s track record in global health crises—such as providing aid during the 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, sending public health workers to Angola in 2016, and assisting with the yellow fever outbreak—demonstrates its capacity to support African health initiatives. Additionally, China’s provision of essential medicines, like antimalarial drugs, and contraceptive technologies, has already had a significant impact on the continent.
The US withdrawal underscores a key lesson for Africa: the dangers of overreliance on foreign donors. As the continent faces increasing health challenges, African leaders should focus on strengthening their own health systems. The upcoming February 2025 meeting chaired by Rwandan President Paul Kagame will be crucial in exploring alternative health funding sources, with China positioned as a critical partner. By fostering deeper cooperation in health and economic development, Africa and China can work together toward a healthier and more prosperous future for the continent.
