African Nations Rally Behind WHO with Landmark Financial Commitment of More Than $45 Million

In a powerful display of solidarity, 14 African nations, along with several key partners, have pledged more than $45 million to support the World Health Organization (WHO) through its new Investment Round. This initiative, which is only three months old, is designed to secure sustainable funding for WHO, a cornerstone of global health efforts.

These pledges were made during the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, where leaders from across the continent emphasized the critical need for investment in global health and the importance of strengthening WHO’s capacity. The event saw heads of state and government underscore that a robust WHO is essential for building resilient and prosperous populations worldwide.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO Director-General, expressed his gratitude to the African Member States for their active involvement in the first Investment Round. He remarked that reliable and flexible funding would empower WHO to better assist countries in enhancing public health and resilience.

The gathering marked a historic moment, uniting countries and partners in their commitment to sustainably finance WHO, thereby enabling it to more effectively fulfill its mission of promoting global health and well-being. The African nations participating included Botswana, Cabo Verde, Chad, Congo, Ethiopia, Gambia, Mauritius, Namibia, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, Seychelles, South Africa, and Tanzania.

In addition to these nations, several partners, including the Helmsley Charitable Trust, World Diabetes Foundation, Roche, Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, African Development Bank, and the WHO Foundation, also committed their support. Many of these partners plan to make further pledges later in the year.

Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, emphasized the significance of a well-funded WHO, stating that such financial backing is crucial for addressing the numerous health challenges facing the region and the world. She highlighted the importance of every pledge and partnership in achieving a future where health and well-being are accessible to all.

The WHO Investment Round, which began at the World Health Assembly in May 2024, will continue to seek contributions over the coming months. The goal is to secure funds that are flexible, aligned with WHO’s strategic priorities, and predictably available at the start of each four-year budget cycle, ensuring that WHO can make strategic decisions with confidence.

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