President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, to take immediate steps to bridge the $156 million funding gap caused by the suspension of the United States Agency for International Development(USAID) funding programme.
Deep concern
A press statement signed by Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, highlighted the President's deep concern over the shortfall, particularly the projected $78.2 million deficit affecting crucial health interventions.
These include malaria prevention, maternal and child health, family planning, reproductive health, nutrition, and HIV/AIDS programmes. These are key areas where funding cuts could threaten access to antiretroviral drugs, testing, and prevention efforts.
The President has instructed that funding solutions prioritise these critical healthcare services to prevent disruptions and safeguard public health.