Burkina Faso Joins Controversial U.S. Global Health Deal Granting Access to Health Data and Minerals

OUAGADOUGOU, Burkina Faso (Running Africa) — Under the five-year memorandum of understanding (MOU), the United States will provide $107 million in health financing, matched by $107 million from Burkina Faso. In exchange, Washington will gain access to critical health data and strategic mineral resources, according to U.S. officials.

The deal is part of the “America First Global Health Strategy,” launched by the administration of Donald Trump, which aims to reshape how the U.S. funds international health programs, moving away from traditional aid models associated with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

“This MOU reflects the Trump Administration’s commitment to protecting American health security while building resilient, locally led health systems abroad,” the U.S. Department of State said in a statement.

Growing Controversy Across Africa

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The agreement has drawn criticism from civil society groups and health experts who warn it could expose sensitive medical data and undermine national sovereignty.

The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has also raised concerns about data confidentiality and long-term foreign access to African health systems, urging governments to carefully consider the implications.

18 African Countries Sign On

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According to the U.S. State Department, 18 African countries have joined similar agreements, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Liberia, Kenya, Rwanda, Nigeria, Madagascar, Sierra Leone, Uganda, Malawi, Ethiopia, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, the Ivory Coast, Mozambique, and Eswatini.

Traoré’s Decision Raises Questions

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Burkina Faso’s decision has surprised many observers, given the stance of Ibrahim Traoré, who seized power in a 2022 military takeover and has repeatedly promoted Pan-Africanism and reduced Western influence.

Analysts say the agreement highlights the tension many African governments face between securing health funding and protecting national sovereignty.

Zambia and Zimbabwe Push Back

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Not all countries have accepted the deal. Zambia recently stepped back from the agreement, calling it “prescriptive” and requesting revisions while negotiations continue with Washington.

Under the proposed terms, the U.S. would have gained access to Zambia’s health data for up to 25 years in exchange for cooperation involving minerals such as copper.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe rejected the agreement entirely, describing it as “lopsided” and a threat to national sovereignty.

Debate Over Africa’s Health Sovereignty

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The controversy surrounding the initiative underscores broader concerns about Africa’s control over public health data, strategic minerals, and international partnerships.

Supporters say the funding could strengthen fragile health systems across the continent, while critics warn the agreements may prioritize foreign strategic interests over African autonomy, intensifying debate over who ultimately controls Africa’s health data and resources.