By A Correspondent -Harare, Zimbabwe – February 24, 2026
Civil society groups under the banner of Coalition Action Coalition of Zimbabwe have expressed deep concern following the government’s decision to withdraw from negotiations on a proposed bilateral health Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the United States.

The agreement, valued at $367 million over five years, was set to bolster Zimbabwe’s fight against HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, maternal and child health, and disease outbreak preparedness.

While acknowledging the government’s reservations about the terms of the MOU, the Coalition warned that the withdrawal risks creating a “double tragedy” for the nation—one rooted in both health and climate vulnerabilities. “Zimbabwe cannot afford to lose ground in the fight against HIV/AIDS and other diseases at the very moment climate change is intensifying food insecurity, displacement, and health risks,” the Coalition said in a statement.

The proposed MOU would have represented the largest single health investment in Zimbabwe by any international partner, building on more than $1.9 billion in U.S. health support since 2006. That support has been credited with helping Zimbabwe reach the UNAIDS 95-95-95 goals, ensuring that 1.2 million citizens currently receive life-saving HIV treatment.

Sixteen other African countries have already signed similar MOUs, unlocking more than $18.3 billion in new health funding. Zimbabwe’s withdrawal, however, leaves a significant gap. The Coalition urged the government to urgently explore alternative financing mechanisms—whether through regional partnerships, climate resilience funds, or domestic resource mobilization—to safeguard the progress made in public health.

“We recognize the government’s concerns, but the cost of inaction will be borne by ordinary Zimbabweans. Health and climate change are inseparable challenges, and failure to secure funding for one will undermine the other,” the Coalition emphasized.

As the United States begins winding down its health assistance, the Coalition called for transparency in how Zimbabwe plans to sustain critical programs. Without clear commitments, they warned, the country risks reversing hard-won gains in both health and climate resilience.

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Twitter: Climate Action Coalition of Zimbabwe