China and Korea Contribute $4 Million to Africa CDC Amid U.S. Funding Cuts
In a significant move to address immediate health funding shortfalls, China and Korea have pledged $4 million to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). This contribution comes in the wake of financial constraints exacerbated by former U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to freeze various aid programs, as noted by Africa CDC’s leadership.
Currently, Africa relies heavily on external funding for its healthcare initiatives, with approximately 84% of financial support sourced from abroad. Previously, the U.S. had committed $500 million to the Africa CDC, but this commitment has now been reduced to $385 million, creating an urgent need for additional resources, according to Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya.
During an online briefing on Thursday, Kaseya highlighted the necessity for Africa CDC to not only secure funding commitments but also to ensure that actual funds reach the organization. He indicated that the Africa CDC is actively engaging with the U.S. government, framing the conversation around mutual security interests. Additionally, efforts to tap into the private sector for funding support are ongoing, although specific organizations were not mentioned.
Kaseya announced the establishment of the African Epidemic Fund, which was approved recently and will incorporate leftover COVID-19 funds to tackle emerging health gaps. He characterized this fund as a transformative initiative, noting that it allows the Africa CDC to utilize resources without requiring approval from any African Union body. This flexibility is expected to enhance the agency’s ability to respond to health outbreaks effectively and promote the development of robust healthcare systems.
Highlighting a shift towards local manufacturing, Kaseya mentioned an anticipated technical transfer agreement for the mpox vaccine from Bavarian Nordic A/S to an undisclosed African company, with final contract details still being finalized.
Further insights reveal that Africa is currently grappling with a confluence of crises that could jeopardize decades of progress in both health security and economic development. Kaseya has previously cautioned against the severe ramifications of inaction, projecting that without prompt intervention, financial limitations could result in an additional 2 to 4 million preventable deaths each year. The economic repercussions could be equally alarming, with approximately 39 million more individuals at risk of falling into poverty, leading to financial losses totaling billions for the continent annually.
Join our Channel...