The U.S. Ambassador and Kwabena Mintah Akandoh
The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, met with the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, in Accra to discuss pressing health issues and the potential impact of recent U.S. foreign aid cuts on Ghana’s healthcare system.
The high-level meeting, held at the Ministry of Health on February 14, 2025, focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in health and mitigating the possible effects of the U.S. government’s decision to reduce foreign aid, a move that could affect funding for key health initiatives in Ghana.
During the meeting, the minister highlighted Ghana’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare delivery, including plans to expand maternal and child health services, strengthen the fight against infectious diseases, and enhance emergency medical response systems.
He acknowledged the significant contributions of U.S. aid to Ghana’s health sector over the years, particularly in areas such as malaria prevention, maternal healthcare, and HIV/AIDS programmes.
The discussion also addressed concerns regarding the recent U.S. decision to cut foreign aid spending, which has sparked global reactions. These reductions, part of broader policy shifts, have raised fears about their impact on developing nations that rely on U.S. support for critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Akandoh expressed concerns that a reduction in funding could disrupt ongoing health projects, including those aimed at combating infectious diseases. He emphasized the need for alternative funding sources and strategic partnerships to ensure the continuity of essential healthcare programs.
To address potential shortfalls, both parties agreed to explore innovative financing models, including increased public-private partnerships. The minister also assured Ghanaians that the government remains committed to ensuring that healthcare services are not compromised despite the challenges posed by foreign aid cuts.
Ambassador Palmer, who congratulated the minister on his assumption of office, reaffirmed the U.S. government’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s health sector despite the reduction in foreign aid.
AM/KA