Medical experts warn of potential crisis as Trump administration’s WHO exit threatens funding for critical health programs in developing nations.

Zimbabwean health professionals have raised serious concerns over the United States’ withdrawal from the World Health Organisation, warning of severe implications for developing nations’ healthcare systems.

Recently re-elected President Donald Trump signed an executive order confirming the exit, claiming the WHO had been “ripped off” by member states and criticizing its handling of global health crises.

Johannes Marisa, who heads the Medical and Dental Private Practitioners of Zimbabwe Association, called the move a significant setback for global health initiatives. He emphasized that WHO’s essential programs, including disease surveillance and contact tracing, heavily depend on US funding.

“Without this funding, the organisation could face significant operational challenges,” said Itai Rusike, executive director of the Community Working Group on Health. He noted that the US currently provides about 20% of WHO’s budget.

Tendai Westerhof, from the Pan-African Positive Women’s Coalition Zimbabwe, urged developing nations to reduce dependency on external funding. She highlighted Zimbabwe’s reliance on US-backed initiatives like PEPFAR for healthcare support.

WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has called for continued dialogue with the US, emphasizing the organization’s crucial role in global health security.