President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, to take urgent steps to bridge the funding gap arising out of the suspension of the USAID’s international funding program.
This is contained in a press release dated February 11 and signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister, Government Communications.
According to the release, “The President expressed deep concern over the funding gap estimated at $156 million. Of particular concern to the President, is the impact of the projected $78.2 million shortfall that will adversely impact such critical interventions as malaria prevention, maternal and child health, family planning, reproductive health, nutrition and the fight against HIV/AIDS under which the availability of antiretroviral drugs, testing, and prevention programs are threatened.
The United States, through its USAID support has contributed significantly to Ghana’s development, particularly in areas like economic growth, democracy, education, health, and agriculture since the agency’s six-decade mission overseas.
Already, the impact is being felt, with the Ghana Health Service issuing a formal notice to Regional Directors in the three northern regions, warning of disruptions to the supply chain and availability of essential health commodities.
Consequently, the President has requested that the bridging arrangements focus on these priority areas to mitigate any deleterious effects occasioned by the USAID funding disruptions.
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