In a development that has significant implications for public health in Southern Africa, the United States Government has formally expressed deep regret over the Government of Zimbabwe’s decision to halt negotiations on a proposed bilateral health Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement was poised to be one of the most impactful international health partnerships in Zimbabwe’s recent history, bringing an estimated $367 million in health investment over five years. The decision, announced on February 24, 2026, in Harare, Zimbabwe, comes as a blow to efforts aimed at strengthening health systems, combating infectious diseases, and improving care for vulnerable populations across Zimbabwe. In response, the U.S. Embassy in Zimbabwe reiterated its commitment to promoting sustainable, results‑oriented health cooperation, expressing both disappointment and hope for Zimbabwe’s continued fight against disease. What the Proposed Health MOU Would Have Done The proposed Memorandum of Understanding was more than just a funding agreement. It was designed to support Zimbabwe’s health sector across a range of critical areas: If ratified, the MOU would have represented the largest planned health investment by any international partner in Zimbabwe. With an estimated $367 million in new resources over five years, the agreement was structured to elevate Zimbabwe’s health outcomes