The Ugandan government has asked health workers paid by American funds to work for free as volunteers in the spirit of patriotism after the Donald Trump administration froze funding for USAID.
A notice issued to all staff supported by USAID and CDE said the Ugandan government is exploring other ways of integrating these services which were sponsored by USAID into the routine healthcare to minimise disruptions.
‘’As such, contracted staff that are willing to continue working in the spirit of patriotism as volunteers until we harmonise with United States government are encouraged to contact the respective Hospital Directors or my office, for those deployed at the Ministry Headquarters, for integration into the existing healthcare system.’’
The notice, which was signed by Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary, encouraged those affected to remain optimistic as the government engages relevant stakeholders in an effort to deal with the challenge.
Background
The United States government, under the leadership of President Donald Trump, has ordered all directly hired staff of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) to be placed on leave.
USAID said in a statement released on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, that all direct hire personnel would be put on leave from Friday, 7, 2025, apart from “designated personnel responsible for mission-critical functions, core leadership, and specially designated programs.”.
It promised to consider case-by-case exceptions and extensions based on “personal or family hardship, mobility or safety concerns, or other reasons”.
“For example, the agency will consider exceptions based on the timing of dependents’ school term, personal or familial medical needs, pregnancy, and other reasons. Further guidance on how to request an exception will be forthcoming,” the statement added.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is the lead U.S. government agency that works to end extreme global poverty and enable resilient, democratic societies to realise their potential.
USAID’s work advances an integrated approach to development. It promotes accountability, sustainable systems, and inclusive development.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
