By Iyemah David
As United States Secretary of State Mr Antony Blinken embarks on a diplomatic visit to Africa, the Health Sector Reform Coalition (HSRC) in Nigeria, welcomed his visit and urged the U.S. government to continue its leading role in tackling healthcare challenges in Africa.
The HSRC Coordinator, Mrs Chika Offor, stated this and called for continued support for two successful initiatives: the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance.
Mrs Offor said that PEPFAR has been one of the most impactful foreign policy initiatives by the United States in Africa, playing a crucial role in combating the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
“With over $7 billion invested, PEPFAR has ensured that almost two million Nigerians living with HIV/AIDS have comprehensive access to quality prevention, care and treatment services,” she said.
According to HSRC, the U.S. leadership in GAVI has significantly improved health outcomes in several African countries.
“Through direct financial contributions, governance, and technical assistance, GAVI has been at the forefront of efforts to improve access to new and under-used vaccines.
“Their work has reached over 360 million African children and prevented more than 8 million future deaths,” she explained.
The HSRC coordinator emphasised the transformative power of initiatives like PEPFAR and GAVI in improving healthcare across Africa.
She highlighted the progress made in combating diseases like HIV/AIDS and malaria, thanks to the support of the U.S.
However, the HSRC also stressed the need for continued funding for PEPFAR and increased backing for GAVI, sustained financial support from the U.S. would strengthen the progress made so far and play a crucial role in further advancing healthcare outcomes throughout the continent.
She urged the U.S. government to collaborate with African governments and other stakeholders to sustain these initiatives that directly impact millions of African lives.
The HSRC believed that by continuing to support PEPFAR and increasing support for GAVI, the U.S. could further strengthen health systems and make significant strides in improving healthcare in Africa.
The HSRC is a national health reform focused coalition dedicated to ensuring that all Nigerians access and use affordable, high-quality health services.
