Summary
In 2025, the U.S. stopped providing global health aid, which experts say could increase deaths, mainly among children. The U.S. then offered new health deals to several African countries, asking for things like access to minerals in return for funding. Some countries, like Zimbabwe and Zambia, refused these deals, while others like Nigeria and Kenya agreed, but the details remain unclear.
Key Facts
- In 2025, the U.S. stopped its global health aid, potentially increasing child mortality.
- The new U.S. health deals with African countries have faced criticism and accusations of exploitation.
- Zimbabwe and Zambia rejected U.S. offers due to unfavorable terms, such as access to minerals.
- Nigeria and Kenya accepted the deals, but the full terms are not publicly available.
- The U.S. provided $5.4 billion in aid to African nations in 2024, primarily for health and disaster needs.
- Critics are concerned that linking aid to mineral access is exploitative and could harm both African countries and the U.S.
- Critics call for reform in how foreign aid is handled.
- Health experts worry that excluding NGOs from negotiations could affect planning and funding tracking.
