Is the Official Development Assistance in Guinea-Bissau "emergency" or "indispensable"? Perceptions of key stakeholders in the healthcare sector

Official Development Assistance (ODA) is a type of financial support for low and medium-income countries to promote economic development and well-being. This study explores the perceptions of key healthcare stakeholders on the role of ODA in the health sector in Guinea-Bissau, focusing on maternal and child health. This qualitative study, conducted in May 2022 and February 2024, utilized semi-structured interviews with ten national and international healthcare stakeholders. Participants included present and past Ministry of Public Health officials and global partners in Guinea-Bissau. An interview script was used, including questions about the role and effectiveness of ODA in development, challenges in implementing health programs, coordination mechanisms, alignment of assistance with countries strategic documents, and recommendations for future improvements. Thematic categorical analysis, identification of standards, themes, and emerging relationships were identified in the participants responses. Findings reveal as main topics: (1) Participants considered that foreign aid is seen as a "humanitarian" or "emergency" assistance that complements the government and has been indispensable for project implementation and improvement of health indicators (2) Stakeholders reported significant challenges, including inadequate alignment of donor agendas with national health strategies, insufficient coordination among actors, and limited government ownership. Political instability undermines projects sustainability and long-term impact (3). It is necessary to reinforce the management capacity of the Ministry of Health and ensure that the guiding tools are used. ODA has been crucial to avoid the collapse of the health sector in Guinea-Bissau. However, a more cohesive strategy is essential to enhance ODA effectiveness in Guinea-Bissau. Recommendations include strengthening government leadership, aligning donor programs with national health priorities, and fostering improved coordination among health actors. Increasing government ownership of ODA projects could improve sustainability. This research offers crucial insights for policymakers, emphasizing the balance between ODA and long-term health improvements in Guinea-Bissau.