Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minister of Finance, has been instructed by President John Dramani Mahama to act immediately to close a significant funding deficit after the USAID foreign grant program was suspended.
Important social and health initiatives in Ghana are seriously threatened by the anticipated $156 million financing shortfall.
The $78.2 million deficit is especially concerning since it may have an adverse effect on programs for HIV/AIDS treatment, nutrition, reproduction healthcare, maternity and child health, and malaria control.
The availability of antiretroviral medications, testing, and prevention programs have also been undermined by the funding stoppage.
President Mahama is deeply concerned about the financial setback and has directed the Finance Ministry to give priority to these vital development and health sectors in an attempt to lessen the possible effects of the funding reductions.
“The government is committed to ensuring that vital programs remain operational despite the withdrawal of USAID support,” said Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of Government Communications and Spokesperson to the President, in an official statement.
In order to continue its vital public health programs, Ghana’s government is anticipated to look into alternate funding sources as it manages the financial effects of the funding suspension.
“The President has requested that bridging arrangements focus on these priority areas to mitigate any deleterious effects occasioned by the USAID funding disruptions,” the statement read.
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Source: newsthemegh.com