The United States sent major shockwaves through the global health system by  leaving  the World Health Organization (WHO) in January 2026.  Not only is the  United States  one of the founding members of WHO, but it has also traditionally been the largest contributor, accounting for nearly 15% of its budget. Its withdrawal creates a critical funding gap that disproportionately affects Africa, where WHO spending is heavily invested in fighting  infectious diseases  and strengthening fragile