Show Notes
The abrupt defunding of USAID in 2025 caused global shockwaves. The cuts thrust recipient countries who were dependent on foreign aid for medical care into health crises. One area that has been particularly hard hit is Malawi, a country in southeastern Africa where doctors and community organizers are struggling to fill the gaps in essential services left in the wake of the USAID cuts. The loss of local outreach clinics and lack of fuel for ambulances has caused severe delays—and sometimes tragic outcomes—in providing care to mothers and children. A year out from the cuts, we look at how Malawi is rethinking its relationship to foreign aid as it considers how to continue providing vital health services.
In the first of a series supported by the nonprofit Pulitzer Center and in collaboration with Science Magazine, we provide an on-the-ground look at the impact of USAID defunding on health services in key spots across the globe.
Guests:
Catherine Offord – journalist, Science Magazine. Her article, “An Uncertain Path,” appeared in the July 16 issue of the magazine
Voices heard in the show:
Fanizo Simenti – community health worker at Katenje Health Post, Kasungu district
Emily Mvula – former recipient of services provided by USAID MOMENTUM
Issah Omar Nicks – nursing officer overseeing the maternity ward at the Makiyoni Health Center, Salima District
Aran Nkhata – medical clinician in charge of Makiyoni Health Center, Salima District
Flywell Elenesto – cold chain technician for Salima District, Malawi
Sungeni Thole – nurse midwife technician at Makiyoni Health Center, Salima District
Anthony Masamba – MP and chair of The Parliamentary Committee on Health
Show theme by Jun Miyake. Episode image by Thoko Chikondi.
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