HIV, Malaria, and TB at Risk in Cameroon Following Global Fund Cutbacks

The United States, historically the largest contributor to the Global Fund—accounting for nearly one-third of its total budget—has partially suspended its financial support. This decision directly impacts Cameroon, which has benefited from over $1.3 billion in Global Fund support over the years to bolster its public health infrastructure and life-saving programs.

Essential Services Protected, but Non-Essential Interventions Cut

In a joint decision with Cameroonian health authorities, the Global Fund has announced a “strategic readjustment” of its operations in the country. According to officials, non-essential interventions will be scaled down in order to “safeguard vital actions for the population.”

“Cameroon must also honor its co-financing commitments,” the Ministry of Public Health warned in a statement. “Failure to do so could result in a 20% reduction in grants.”

High-Stakes Talks in Geneva

These new terms emerged from high-level meetings in Geneva between Cameroon’s Minister of Public Health, Dr. Malachie Manaouda, and Mark Eldon-Edington, Director of Grant Management at the Global Fund. During the discussions, both parties emphasized the urgent need to prioritize essential medical inputs and core activities to ensure the continuity of healthcare services and save lives.

In response to the looming funding gap, the Cameroonian government has developed a risk mitigation strategy estimated to cover 63% of the shortfall. Minister Manaouda revealed that a broader sustainability plan has already been submitted to Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute for approval.

An Uncertain Future for Critical Health Programs

Experts warn that the funding cuts could jeopardize progress made in battling Cameroon’s “big three” diseases. HIV prevalence remains high, particularly among young women and key populations, while malaria continues to claim thousands of lives annually, especially among children under five. Tuberculosis, often underdiagnosed, has also seen a resurgence in some regions.

Public health advocates are calling on other donors and partners to step up. “This is a dangerous moment,” said a Yaoundé-based health economist who requested anonymity. “The Global Fund plays a central role in financing diagnostics, medicines, and prevention campaigns. Without full support, our entire health system is at risk of backsliding.”

As Cameroon navigates this critical juncture, all eyes will be on how quickly the government can implement its sustainability plan—and whether alternative sources of funding can be secured to fill the gap.