Zimbabwe health officials asked the Treasury Department for extra money after America cut health funding. Dr. Aspect Maunganidze said the country struggles to buy HIV medicines and prevention supplies since President Trump ended the emergency AIDS relief program. The Health Secretary explained this when meeting with government committees about finding new ways to fund healthcare programs.
When he returned to office, Donald Trump halted all foreign assistance managed by American aid agencies. The Zimbabwe health system previously received almost half its budget from international partners, with substantial amounts coming from American sources. Officials expected gradual reductions in foreign support over time, but nobody anticipated such an immediate and complete shutdown of funds.
Dr. Maunganidze stressed that quick release of already promised government money would help address urgent needs. He requested special protection for existing healthcare taxes, like the small fee added to every phone call or text message sent in Zimbabwe. These protected funds could partially replace lost international assistance, though extra emergency allocations appear necessary.
The health department also mentioned plans for a National Health Insurance system as a long-term solution to healthcare funding problems. This insurance program, discussed for years but never implemented, might create a sustainable funding stream that reduces dependence on foreign donors. Dr. Maunganidze emphasized that creating more self-sufficient healthcare financing remains essential for Zimbabwe going forward.
When he returned to office, Donald Trump halted all foreign assistance managed by American aid agencies. The Zimbabwe health system previously received almost half its budget from international partners, with substantial amounts coming from American sources. Officials expected gradual reductions in foreign support over time, but nobody anticipated such an immediate and complete shutdown of funds.
Dr. Maunganidze stressed that quick release of already promised government money would help address urgent needs. He requested special protection for existing healthcare taxes, like the small fee added to every phone call or text message sent in Zimbabwe. These protected funds could partially replace lost international assistance, though extra emergency allocations appear necessary.
The health department also mentioned plans for a National Health Insurance system as a long-term solution to healthcare funding problems. This insurance program, discussed for years but never implemented, might create a sustainable funding stream that reduces dependence on foreign donors. Dr. Maunganidze emphasized that creating more self-sufficient healthcare financing remains essential for Zimbabwe going forward.
