President John Dramani Mahama has announced Ghana’s plan to boost local food production in response to the suspension of USAID, a key source of aid for Africa.
The suspension follows a decision by former U.S. President Donald Trump to shut down USAID, citing concerns over its use of taxpayers’ money on foreign aid.
This move is projected to have significant economic repercussions across Africa, with Ghana expected to lose $156 million in foreign exchange flow.
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference’s Town Hall forum in Germany on Friday, February 14, President Mahama acknowledged the potential challenges but urged Africans to take proactive steps, including increasing local food production and seeking alternative funding sources, to reduce dependency on foreign aid.
Of the projected funding shortfall, $78.2 million will affect essential health programs in Ghana, including malaria prevention, maternal and child health, family planning, and HIV/AIDS interventions.
