By Gift Chiponde

Lilongwe, August 27, Mana: President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has underscored the government's commitment to nurturing collaboration with the Global Fund to enhance the well-being of Malawians.

He made the remarks on Tuesday during the official launch Global Fund Cycle 7 on HIV, TB and Malaria signing ceremony held at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe.

President Chakwera highlighted that this grant signifies a huge commitment in the ongoing battle against various health challenges that have impeded the progress towards a healthier Malawian populace.

He commended the Global Fund for its unwavering support in combating HIV, TB, and Malaria, as well as its assistance in fortifying the healthcare systems in Malawi through diverse means.

"Through the previous grants, we have expanded access health services, increased the availability of life savings and improved health infrastructure.

“We have also procured ambulances and utility vehicles, gas plants and modern hospital equipment such as CT Scanners and the recruitment of thousands of health care workers,” said Chakwera.

The President emphasized that this initiative will not only strengthen the country's efforts in combating these diseases but also contribute to the overall resilience and sustainability of Malawi's healthcare infrastructure.

Minister of Finance, Simplex Chithyola Banda, described the auspicious occasion as a milestone, signifying a substantial financial commitment of 525 million dollars which is expected to run from 2024 to 2027 respectively.

He affirmed the government's dedication by allocating 12.5 percent of the national budget, aligning with the Abuja declaration to bolster resilience and sustainability in the healthcare sector.

"The grant is pivotal in advancing the sustainable goals set forth in the fight against HIV, TB, and Malaria within the country" said Chithyola.

He extended his appreciation to all sustainable partners and the Global Fund for their collaborative efforts in strengthening the healthcare systems, including the supply chain.

He also noted that the hosting of the Global Fund meeting underscores the donors' confidence in the current administration led by President Chakwera.

Head of Grant Management Unit, Mark Eldon Edighton, lauded the ongoing collaboration between Malawi government and the Global Fund aimed at fortifying the national healthcare systems.

He expressed satisfaction with Malawi's exceptional performance in implementing the Global Fund grants, describing it as remarkable. He provided a detailed progress report on the country's achievements in managing HIV, TB, and Malaria, resulting in a notable decrease in disease burden.

Edighton commended all proactive stakeholders for their steadfast commitment and support in reducing the prevalence of such diseases in Malawi.

In her address, the American Charge D'Affairs, Amy Diaz, highlighted the significant advancements made in HIV treatment through antiretroviral medication in 2022, emphasizing the substantial progress in combating the disease.

She reaffirmed the American Government's dedication to continued collaboration with the Malawian Government, particularly through the Global Fund, to ensure the effective allocation of resources towards HIV programs.

Diaz emphasized the importance of initiatives such as establishing health center posts and providing technical support to enhance the quality of life for individuals in Malawi.

She also disclosed that Malawi is poised to host a Global Fund meeting in November, underscoring the robust partnership between Malawi and the international community.

The Japanese Charge D'Affairs, Seiji Tashira, commended the Malawi Government for successfully securing grants for HIV, TB, and Malaria, highlighting the substantial progress made in disease prevention.

He stressed the necessity of sustained efforts in the fight against HIV to create a conducive environment, urging for continuous support to further advance Malawi's healthcare sector.

The British High Commissioner, Olympia Wereko Brobby, praised the Malawian Government for effectively fostering sustainable partnerships with the Global Fund, reflecting on the positive outcomes of their collaboration.

The Norwegian Ambassador, Ingrid Marie Mikelsen commended all partners for their ongoing collaborative endeavors in maintaining sustainable partnerships, underscoring Norway's significant contribution of 190 million euros towards strengthening healthcare systems in Malawi.