US Aid Cuts Slow Africa Vaccination

Vaccination programs across Africa are experiencing a slowdown in progress despite saving tens of millions of lives over the past two decades. This decline is primarily attributed to significant cuts in aid from the United States under President Donald Trump's 'America First' policy, which led to a 40% loss in overseas development funding for the World Health Organization. Additionally, disruptions from the war in the Middle East are straining aid budgets and supply chains, further exacerbating the situation. Health experts warn that funding shortages are the biggest threat to Africa's immunization efforts, with organizations like GAVI also facing financial challenges. African governments are urged to increase domestic health financing to mitigate these impacts and ensure continued protection for millions of children.