The Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, Dr Kingsley Agyeman has emphasized the United States’ withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) poses significant challenges to Ghana’s health system, with far-reaching implications for global health governance.
Dr Agyeman believes the loss of the US’s 15% contribution to the WHO’s budget will likely impact the organization’s ability to provide technical assistance, disease surveillance, and emergency response, areas where Ghana heavily relies on the WHO.
The MP in a prs release on Tuesday January 27, 2026, said the immediate threats for Ghana are particularly evident in public health security and the provision of critical services.
“Programs supported by the WHO bolster national initiatives in epidemic intelligence, immunization coordination, malaria control, maternity and child health, and the enhancement of health systems.”
He noted the WHO’s reduced budget will compromise its ability to support Ghana’s efforts to combat diseases like cholera, meningitis, and zoonoses.
This the MP emphasized could lead to increased susceptibility to health crises, given Ghana’s limited fiscal capacity.
“The departure also has implications for global health coordination at the systemic level,” Dr. Agyemang noted.
“The WHO’s convening authority is pivotal in coordinating donor activities, establishing evidence-based standards, and guaranteeing equitable access to global public goods, including vaccines and vital medicines.”
Ghana’s government has made progress in advancing national health priorities, but the situation calls for strategic measures to protect health system resilience and national health sovereignty.
Dr. Agyemang emphasized the need for enhanced diplomatic engagement with international and regional partners to stabilize global health financing and sustain health system effectiveness.
“We must prioritize accelerated investment in disease surveillance, emergency preparedness, and primary healthcare, despite financial challenges,” he said. “Robust domestic resource mobilization is crucial to reduce dependence on external funding.”
Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Jacob Agyenim Boateng
