The African Union Commission Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, has expressed profound disappointment at the recent announcement by the United States government to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO).
In a press statement, Mahamat emphasised the critical role the United States has played in shaping global health policy and supporting international health security initiatives over the past seven decades.
The US has been a key partner in the establishment of WHO standards and norms, which have been vital in promoting public health security worldwide.
Particularly in Africa, the Chairperson noted the significant contributions of the United States in supporting the establishment of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).
As the African Union’s technical agency for public health emergencies, Africa CDC collaborates closely with WHO to detect, prepare for, and respond to pandemics. Mahamat highlighted that the US’s involvement was instrumental in building this vital institution, which plays a critical role in safeguarding the health and well-being of African populations.
“Today, now more than ever, the world depends on WHO to carry out its mandate to ensure global public health security as a shared common good,” Mahamat stated. He urged the US government to reconsider its decision, stressing the importance of the WHO’s global role and the United States’ historical contributions as a founding member of the organisation.
The announcement of the US withdrawal comes at a time when global cooperation in health matters is critical. The African Union Chairperson's remarks underscore the broader implications of such a move, not only for Africa but for global health security.
The United States' withdrawal from WHO raises concerns about the potential weakening of coordinated international responses to health crises.
The African Union joins a growing chorus of global leaders advocating for continued multilateral engagement to tackle pressing health challenges.