The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has expressed deep concerns over the suspension of USAID-funded procurement and distribution services, warning that the move could severely disrupt healthcare delivery in the Northern, North East, and Savannah Regions.
These regions heavily rely on the Northern Regional Medical Stores for the distribution of essential medicines, vaccines, and health supplies.
The suspension follows an executive directive by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which led to a global freeze on U.S. aid.
This decision has left many health programmes in limbo, particularly those dependent on USAID support for procurement, logistics, and technical assistance.
In a letter addressed to the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Abdulai Abukari, the Northern Regional Director of Health Services, highlighted the potential impact of the suspension on key areas of the healthcare system. These include:
- Last Mile Distribution (LMD): The halt in distribution services is likely to cause stockouts of essential medicines, vaccines, and other critical health supplies, severely affecting healthcare service delivery in the affected regions.
- Procurement and Supply Chain Management: The withdrawal of technical assistance and logistics coordination previously provided through Chemonics, a USAID partner, will undermine inventory management, tracking, and reporting systems, making it harder to maintain a steady supply of commodities.
- Public Health Programme Implementation: USAID-funded programmes supporting maternal and child health, malaria prevention and treatment, family planning, and HIV/AIDS services are at risk of experiencing shortages, which could negatively impact service delivery and patient care.
In response to the crisis, the Regional Health Management Team (RHMT) convened an emergency meeting with District Health Management Teams (DHMTs) and Budget Management Centre (BMC) heads to assess the impact and explore mitigation strategies.
Following deliberations, it was agreed that SkyNet Express—previously engaged by USAID for LMD—could serve as a temporary solution to maintain scheduled distributions for 2025 while alternative funding and long-term strategies are sought.
Dr. Abukari emphasized the urgent need for interventions to bridge the supply chain gaps. He called for increased engagement with key stakeholders and development partners to explore contingency measures, including alternative funding sources and distribution mechanisms, to sustain critical health services.
“The suspension of USAID support poses a significant threat to healthcare delivery in the Northern Regions,” Dr. Abukari stated.
“We must act swiftly to ensure that essential medicines and supplies reach those who need them most, particularly vulnerable populations who depend on these services.”
The Ghana Health Service is now working to mobilise resources and coordinate with partners to mitigate the impact of the suspension.
However, the situation remains precarious, with the potential for widespread disruptions if immediate solutions are not found.
