In a historic move, 14 African countries, alongside key global partners, have pledged over $45 million to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) inaugural Investment Round. This initiative, launched three months ago, is focused on securing sustainable financing for the WHO, which plays a central role in global health governance.
The pledges were made during the WHO Regional Committee for Africa meeting, where African heads of state and government emphasized the critical need for investment in global health and a robust WHO. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, expressed gratitude to the African Member States for their active participation in the Investment Round, noting that sustainable funding is crucial for WHO to assist countries in building healthier, more resilient populations.
Countries such as Botswana, Cabo Verde, Chad, Congo, Ethiopia, Gambia, Mauritius, Namibia, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, Seychelles, South Africa, and Tanzania were among those committing to the cause. Additionally, prominent 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 made pledges or committed to future support.
Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, highlighted the importance of a well-funded WHO, stating that it is essential for addressing health threats and preventing disease globally. The Investment Round, which began at the World Health Assembly in May 2024, aims to secure flexible, predictable, and resilient contributions aligned with WHO’s strategic goals for the next four years.
The WHO Investment Round will continue to attract further commitments in the coming months, with key moments planned worldwide to bolster support for global health initiatives.
