The abrupt halt initiated by the Trump administration of US foreign aid risks jeopardizing the lives of millions in low-income countries where up to 60% of health budgets depend on such funding. Gregory Rockson, the co-founder and CEO of mPharma, argues that while there is a humanitarian imperative to protect these lives, the current model of perpetual aid—with no defined sunset clause—only fosters dependency, eliminating any motivation for self-sufficiency. He contends that better resource allocation and private capital integration could sustain vital services while empowering local development. Rockson proposes a measured transition period of two to three years, during which detailed sustainability plans and local ownership strategies can be implemented. This balanced approach would protect immediate welfare and lay the groundwork for long-term, self-reliant development, shifting from an unsustainable and vulnerable aid model to one that encourages local enterprise and resilience.
Source: SEMAFOR