By Adonis Byemelwa
Dar es Salaam– The Chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat on January 21, 2025, delivered a sharp and poignant critique of the United States' unexpected decision to withdraw from the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Describing the move as a monumental setback to global health security, Mahamat emphasized the far-reaching consequences for international cooperation and regions like Africa, which heavily depend on collective efforts to combat pandemics and strengthen fragile health systems.
Calling the move a blow to global health security, Mahamat highlighted the implications for regions like Africa, which heavily depend on international partnerships to address pandemics and other public health challenges.
For over seven decades, the US has been a cornerstone of WHO support, helping shape global health strategies. Its exit sends shockwaves through the international health community.
"The USA has been instrumental in supporting the Africa CDC and the WHO in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from pandemics," Mahamat stated.
He warned that the withdrawal could undo years of progress in strengthening health systems across Africa and beyond. Social media has been ablaze with reactions, with Euphrasia Makata, a prominent voice online, saying, “African leaders, it’s time to get serious. Start funding the AU and our African health organisations. We need visionaries who act, not beggars.”
The US decision aligns with a broader trend under Trump’s administration, which has focused on scaling back involvement in global institutions.
The country has also exited the Paris Climate Agreement, reduced financial commitments to NATO, and pulled funding from UN sub-organisations such as UNHCR and UNDP. While this strategy reflects an "America First" approach, critics view it as a retreat from the global stage.
Analysts believe African leaders should take this as a wake-up call. “Trump’s decision is not surprising,” remarked Hon. Peter Maina, a political observer. “His administration is prioritising domestic challenges and low prioritising global organisations. African leaders must stop expecting perpetual funding from the West. This is a moment to shift towards African solutions to African problems.”
Others on social media pointed out contradictions within the US itself. Wisdom Onyeka commented, “The US struggles with issues like mass incarceration, gun violence, and broken family systems. Perhaps stepping back from global responsibilities will help them focus on fixing their challenges, while Africa uses this opportunity to step up.”
The withdrawal raises urgent questions about Africa’s dependency on donor funding from Western nations. For decades, international assistance has sustained key health initiatives, infrastructure, and trade agreements. The US departure from the WHO underlines the fragility of this reliance, challenging African leaders to take greater responsibility for the continent’s future.
Chairperson Mahamat urged the US to reconsider its decision, stressing that public health is a shared global good that transcends borders.
However, he also emphasised the need for African nations to step up and fund their health organisations to ensure long-term sustainability. Euphrasia Makata’s online post resonated widely, declaring, “We need to stop begging. The AU and Africa’s health institutions must rise to the occasion. This is a blessing in disguise if only we use it to build stronger, self-funded systems.”
Many see this as a defining moment for Africa. The shifting geopolitical landscape requires innovative solutions and regional collaboration. Hon. Maina added, “The world is moving into a multipolar order where Africa must prioritise independence. Our leaders need to act swiftly to ensure we can handle our challenges without waiting for external aid.”
Social media reactions have been divided. While some expressed dismay at the US decision, others saw it as an opportunity for Africa to chart its course. Wisdom Onyeka remarked, “If the withdrawal is truly about prioritising their issues, then maybe it’s better this way. Africa must now focus on what’s within its control and find new alternatives.”
The sentiment was echoed by many who see the dependency on external donors as unsustainable. Makata’s call for self-reliance has reignited conversations about the AU’s financial strategies. With the US cutting back on funding for institutions like the WHO, climate agreements, and NATO, the message to Africa is clear: the continent can no longer afford to rely on the West to sustain its development.
The African Union now faces the challenge of turning this moment into an opportunity. Chairperson Mahamat concluded, “This is a wake-up call. By investing in our initiatives and reducing dependency, we can protect our people’s health and well-being regardless of external developments.”
As global leaders prepare for emergency discussions on the implications of the US decision, Africa stands at a critical crossroads. This is a chance to redefine its path, focusing on homegrown solutions and regional cooperation. Whether the continent rises to the occasion or remains entangled in dependency will shape its trajectory in the years to come.
