The African Union Commission (AUC) has voiced concern over the U.S. decision to exit the World Health Organization (WHO), a move announced by President Donald Trump. Highlighting America’s long-standing contributions to global health initiatives, AUC Chairperson Moussa Faki emphasized the significance of U.S. support in shaping WHO’s policies and fostering international health collaborations.
Faki pointed out the critical partnership between the U.S. and Africa, particularly through the establishment of the Africa CDC, which has worked closely with WHO to address public health emergencies on the continent.
The AUC underscored the global reliance on WHO to uphold public health security, describing the organization as an essential collective asset. Faki expressed hope that the U.S. government would reconsider its decision, given its foundational role in the organization.
President Trump justified the withdrawal by criticizing WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and alleged susceptibility to political pressures from certain member states. He further argued that the financial contributions of the U.S. to WHO were unfairly high compared to other nations, including China.