Mozambique’s Finance Minister Engages US Ambassador on Aid Suspension Impact

Mozambican Finance Minister Carla Louveira has stated that the US aid suspension will severely impact healthcare, particularly HIV/AIDS programs. Despite these challenges, the Mozambican government seeks to enhance cooperation with the US. Louveira expressed fears over the aid suspension’s long-term effects, while US Ambassador Peter Vrooman assured ongoing support through PEPFAR.

Mozambican Finance Minister Carla Louveira has acknowledged that the suspension of foreign aid from the United States under the Trump administration will severely impact the healthcare sector. Despite this challenge, she expressed the Mozambican government’s readiness to enhance cooperation and friendships with the United States through various partnerships. Louveira’s remarks came during a meeting with US Ambassador Peter Vrooman, where she highlighted the significant role of the US as a key partner in Mozambique’s national health system, particularly through agencies like USAID, CDC, and PEPFAR.

Louveira voiced her concerns regarding the substantial impact of the suspension of US funding on health programs, specifically in the fight against HIV/AIDS. She noted that this funding cut threatens critical services such as HIV testing, counseling, and treatment, as well as the prevention of HIV transmission from mothers to their children. She stressed that the suspension poses a serious obstacle for the health sector, jeopardizing essential health services and the sustainability of key health initiatives.

The Finance Minister warned that the suspension of US aid could endanger the lives of millions of Mozambicans and raised concerns about the unknown duration of this funding halt. She indicated that the 2025 Mozambican state budget lacks resources to address the consequences of the suspension. In contrast, Ambassador Vrooman assured that US assistance through PEPFAR would continue, facilitating ongoing efforts to prevent HIV infections, including the transmission from mother to child.

In summary, the suspension of US foreign aid presents a significant challenge to Mozambique’s healthcare sector, particularly affecting crucial HIV/AIDS programs. Minister Carla Louveira is committed to strengthening ties with the United States, despite the funding challenges posed by the Trump administration’s policies. Meanwhile, US Ambassador Peter Vrooman confirmed the continuation of assistance through PEPFAR, vital for preventing HIV transmission in Mozambique.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com