U.S.-Africa Health Deals: Controversies and Concerns

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention voices concerns on U.S.-Africa health deals, focusing on data and pathogen sharing. Zimbabwe and Zambia push back on agreements, highlighting unequal terms. The U.S. strategy aims for direct funding, igniting debate on sovereignty and fair pharmaceutical distribution.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has raised concerns about the agreements being negotiated between the United States and African nations that dictate the future of U.S. global health funding, said Jean Kaseya, the center's Director-General.

Among the major worries are issues related to data management and pathogen sharing. On Wednesday, Zimbabwe halted its $367 million agreement discussions, citing data sensitivity concerns and labeling the deal unequal. Similarly, Zambia has expressed reservations, pushing back on certain terms.

Global health advocates criticize the deals for mandating data sharing with Washington, without ensuring that drugs or vaccines developed as a result would benefit the affected countries. The U.S. strategy involves reshaping global health funding under a new framework, which initially appeared promising but is now sparking debate.

(With inputs from agencies.)