Lilongwe – Yesterday, President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera welcomed members of the Global Fund Board to Malawi for their 52nd meeting, emphasizing the nation’s resilience and the critical role of partnerships in overcoming health challenges. In his opening remarks, Chakwera expressed gratitude for the Global Fund’s support, which he credited for significant health advancements across the country.
The President recounted how every Malawian who has sought treatment for HIV, Tuberculosis, or Malaria has benefited from the Global Fund’s contributions. He noted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, public health facilities were able to provide care, thanks to the collaboration with the Global Fund. “From the moment I announced that we would expand access to health facilities by constructing new health posts, it was the support of the Global Fund that gave me confidence that we would succeed,” he stated, highlighting the multitude of new health facilities established in rural areas.
Chakwera also addressed the devastating impact of climate change on Malawi, recounting the destruction wrought by natural disasters, including Tropical Storms Ana and Gombe in January 2022, and Cyclone Freddy, which resulted in the loss of thousands of lives and widespread displacement. He remarked on the successive climate shocks, including the ongoing drought attributed to El Niño, which led him to declare a State of Natural Disaster in 23 of the country’s 28 districts, exacerbating food shortages and straining healthcare services.
Despite these challenges, Chakwera proudly affirmed that Malawi continues to stand resilient, attributing the nation’s endurance to both divine grace and the support of the Global Fund. “If you are listening to all this and wondering how Malawi is still standing, the answer is that Malawi is a beneficiary of the friendship and partnership of the Global Fund,” he said.
In a heartfelt message, the President thanked the Global Fund for their compassion and respect towards Malawi, referring to them as more than just donors, but as family. “You are family,” he reiterated, reflecting the deep trust and collaboration between Malawi and the Global Fund.
Chakwera concluded his remarks by officially opening the 52nd Global Fund Board Meeting, inviting attendees to engage in discussions that would further bolster the health sector and improve the lives of Malawians.
The meeting is expected to address key issues surrounding global health funding and strategies for combating diseases in the context of climate impacts, fostering a collaborative environment for identifying innovative solutions to emerging health challenges.
