The decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) represents a substantial shift in American foreign policy, with potentially profound implications for global health dynamics. This withdrawal was one of Trump’s first actions upon returning to office, formalized through an executive order that signals a marked departure from the international cooperation that had been a hallmark of the previous administration. The move reflects Trump’s broader nationalist approach, which prioritizes America’s sovereignty over multilateral engagements and echoes his longstanding criticisms of the WHO. This shift stands as a stark contrast to the efforts aimed at fostering global health solidarity, as historically represented by WHO-led initiatives like the eradication of smallpox, significant strides against polio, and its essential interventions in health crises such as Ebola and COVID-19. The WHO has been a crucial entity for developing nations including Kenya, offering much-needed access to health expertise, resources, and coordination in combating endemic diseases and enhancing public health infrastructures. Trump’s executive order to cut ties with the WHO risks undermining these collaborative international networks, potentially stalling vital health programs and challenging Kenya’s ability to maintain and build on recent advancements in its health sector without the backing of global assistance.

The long-standing partnership between the WHO and USAID in Kenya serves as a testament to the impact of collaborative global health efforts. Through initiatives like the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the U.S. has provided expansive funding, while the WHO has aligned Kenya’s health programs with global standards, offering invaluable technical guidance. This dual support system has been instrumental in the fight against HIV/AIDS, malaria, and maternal and child health issues, resulting in favorable health outcomes such as reduced HIV prevalence and improved maternal health indicators. Kenya’s aim to achieve the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets—an ambitious goal focused on extensive HIV testing, treatment accessibility, and viral load suppression—highlights the indispensable role of such collaborations. However, Trump’s policy of withdrawal injects uncertainty into these programs, with risks including disrupted supply chains for antiretrovirals, stunted malaria prevention initiatives, and weakened maternal health services. The potential delay in emergency responses and compromised disease surveillance capabilities further complicate Kenya’s health landscape, underscoring the need for a steadfast strategic realignment to navigate these challenges.

In its strategic response to the withdrawal and its implications, Kenya must pivot towards strengthening regional health bodies and seeking new partnerships to buffer the impact of lost support. Institutions like the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as Kenya’s own Ministry of Health, can play pivotal roles in fostering continental and national self-reliance, reducing dependency on traditional Western aid. By actively pursuing partnerships with alternative global players such as the European Union, China, and philanthropic organizations like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Kenya can bridge financial gaps and ensure continuity in health service delivery. Moreover, increasing domestic investment in healthcare becomes crucial to building resilience and sustainability in local health systems. Regional alliances, particularly under the umbrella of the East African Community (EAC), present opportunities for shared resources and collaborative health solutions, reinforcing the region’s capability to tackle shared health challenges. This strategic recalibration not only allows Kenya to maintain its public health initiatives amid global political shifts but also positions it to advocate for more inclusive and equitable global health policies. In the broader context, the move away from multilateralism, as reflected in Trump’s policy, challenges Kenya and similarly positioned nations to reframe their health priorities, ensuring that progress is not undermined by geopolitical tensions and resource insecurities.

References:

U.S. EMBASSY IN KENYA PEPFAR in Kenya

NTV Kenya Trump era stirs concern in Kenya over aid and policy shifts

CHIMP Reports How Trump’s Withdrawal of U.S. from WHO will Affect Africa

Reuters Trump orders US exit from World Health Organization

The Standard WHO ‘regrets’ US decision to withdraw from organisation

BBC US exit from WHO could see fifth of budget disappear

Time What Leaving the WHO Means for the U.S and the World

The Guardian ‘Sowing seeds for next pandemic’: Trump order for US to exit WHO prompts alarm

CNN What is the World Health Organization and why does Trump want to leave it?