Trump’s Aid Suspension Hits Cameroon: Health Programs in Jeopardy

According to a circular issued by Cameroonian Minister of Public Health Malachie Manaouda, the aid suspension, effective since January 21, 2025, was ordered by President Donald Trump. The move affects critical U.S.-funded health initiatives, including efforts to combat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria.

Major U.S. Health Programs Affected

Two key programs will bear the brunt of this suspension:

1. The President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)
2. The President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI)

These programs have been crucial in supporting Cameroon’s health system, ensuring access to lifesaving treatment for millions of vulnerable people. Public health officials fear that the sudden disruption could roll back years of progress in disease control and patient care.

According to an initial assessment by the Cameroonian Ministry of Public Health, this funding freeze threatens the continuity of treatment for thousands of HIV/AIDS patients and could lead to increased malaria infections due to disruptions in prevention measures.

U.S. Aid to Cameroon: A Long-Term Partnership at Risk

The United States has been a major partner in Cameroon’s health sector, contributing $1 billion in medical and humanitarian assistance over the past two decades.

• In 2024, U.S. Ambassador Christopher J. Lamora confirmed that Washington had invested 617.5 billion FCFA ($1 billion) in health programs in Cameroon.
• In 2022, the PEPFAR budget for Cameroon alone stood at $26 million (over 16 billion FCFA).
• PEPFAR, launched under the George W. Bush administration, provides critical HIV/AIDS treatment for over 20 million people globally, including a significant number in Cameroon.

The Trump administration’s decision to suspend aid puts this entire support system in jeopardy.

Cameroon’s Response: Struggling to Fill the Gap

In response to the unexpected financial cut, the Cameroonian government is mobilizing resources to maintain essential health services. Authorities are prioritizing the most vulnerable populations and ensuring that community health centers remain operational despite the funding shortfall.

However, local officials acknowledge that the loss of U.S. support will be difficult to overcome, especially for HIV/AIDS patients who rely on uninterrupted antiretroviral treatment.

The situation remains fluid, and the Cameroonian government is actively seeking alternative funding sources to prevent a healthcare crisis.

With millions at risk, the international community is watching closely to see whether the Trump administration will reconsider its decision or if Cameroon must navigate this crisis alone.