New York, 22 September 2023 (TDI): At the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the United Kingdom (UK) unveiled a global health support commitment.
The UK government pledged to combat future pandemics, increase vaccine research, minimize infectious disease casualties, and work towards eradicating preventable maternal and infant deaths.
The UK delegation announced plans to use the funds to develop affordable vaccines through the UK Vaccine Network and support crucial health products.
The primary aim is to curb infectious diseases and improve women’s sexual and reproductive health, ultimately saving lives.
Moreover, the UK leads in advanced technology to respond swiftly to outbreaks, especially in nations with middle or low incomes.
The £295 million funding will drive innovative drug administration techniques to reach even the most remote areas.
Additionally, £95 million will enhance the Tackling Deadly Diseases in Africa Programme II, partnering with nations to combat emerging epidemics.
These partners such as Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, Malawi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the World Health Organization, and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention collaborate to address the challenges of climate change.
International Development Minister Andrew Mitchell emphasized the transformative impact of the UK’s assistance on global health systems. Whereas, Health Minister Will Quince underscored the importance of this global health research investment in saving lives.
This UK pledge aligns perfectly with the UN’s third Sustainable Development Goal, securing healthy lives and promoting well-being.
The funding empowers partners to efficiently plan, prevent, and manage disease outbreaks, including potential pandemics like Ebola.
Furthermore, the UK will contribute an extra £5 million to the TB Alliance to speed up tuberculosis medication research, boosting recovery.
The UK government’s health initiatives at the UNGA build on its track record of investing in health security through international development.
Since 2017, UK-supported efforts have brought life-saving products to market, distributed malaria treatments, and developed crucial diagnostics.
In summary, the UK’s health package includes £295 million for health research and development partnerships, focusing on open and collaborative science.
This initiative aims to enhance global response to disease outbreaks with a dedicated research centre addressing infectious diseases.
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The UK also invests £80 million in the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). Also, a funding of £103.5 million for the UK Vaccine Network (UKVN) Project.
Additionally, £95 million is allocated for the Tackling Deadly Diseases in Africa Programme II, enhancing partner nations’ capacity to tackle emerging epidemics, drug-resistant infections, and global warming.
