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World AIDS Day 2024: Take the Rights Path

Walking the Rights Path: Civil Society’s Role in Ending AIDS by 2030

World AIDS Day 2024 under the theme “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!” challenges us to consider how we are advancing health and human rights, especially in the context of the HIV epidemic. 

The global HIV response has made significant progress. The 2024 UNAIDS report, The Urgency of Now: AIDS at a Crossroads, reminds us that the tools to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 are within reach. We are at a critical point in our decades-long fight against HIV.

However, achieving this goal hinges on our collective ability to protect human rights and address the inequalities that keep individuals from accessing life-saving HIV prevention and treatment services.

We must urgently tackle gaps in the realization of human rights for everyone. Civil society and community-led organizations must stand together to advocate against punitive laws, push for inclusive policies, promote a rights-based approach in all elements of HIV programmes, and hold our leaders accountable to their commitments to health and human rights. There is a critical need for our systematic and collective action in the face of a global rise in rights-related threats to the HIV response.

Domestic Investment: A Critical Pillar

Domestic investment in health systems remains fundamental to building a robust and sustainable HIV response. The 2024 global AIDS update highlights that progress towards the 95–95–95 testing and treatment targets lags most in regions where investments in health systems are inadequate. Prevention services often reach fewer than 50 percent of populations at the greatest risk of HIV and some regions continue to report a rise in new HIV infections, particularly among adolescent girls and young women, and other vulnerable and marginalized populations. Investing in strong and inclusive health systems is thus also a matter of protecting human rights—vital to realizing the right to health for people living with, affected by or at risk of HIV.

Scaling up HIV prevention is essential. This includes scaling up pre-exposure prophylaxis (oral PrEP), rolling out new prevention options for choice, the dapivirine vaginal ring (PrEP ring), long injectable prep (cabotegravir), and lenacapavir, post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and other even driven prevention, increased access to condoms, treatment as prevention (U=U), comprehensive sex education, and harm reduction programs. These investments not only address immediate needs, but also yield long-term benefits by reducing the financial and social costs of untreated HIV.

Governments, as duty-bearers of human rights, must fulfill their commitments and sustainability to health by prioritizing domestic funding for these critical services. We must continue to advocate for more sustainable, inclusive health financing. 

Rights-Based Approaches for Better Outcomes

The UNAIDS World AIDS Day report, Take the Rights Path, underscores the clear link between human rights protections and better outcomes in HIV prevention and treatment. Human rights violations – such as punitive laws, stigma, and discrimination – perpetuate vulnerabilities to HIV and worsen inequalities in access to services. 

For example, laws that criminalize same-sex relationships, drug use, or sex work create significant barriers to accessing lifesaving HIV services. Similarly, impunity for gender-based violence and unsafe health services further block progress. Even with evidence that investing in girls’ education significantly reduces the risk of HIV infection among girls and young women, disparities in access to education persist. 

All of these are intrinsically linked. People who are being discriminated against, threatened with and facing violence, kept from education or an adequate standard of living do not have the opportunity to realize their right to health. Human rights-based approaches are not only a moral imperative but also the only solution to tackle the social and structural factors linked to HIV.

Choice and Equity in HIV Services

Empowering individuals with the ability to make informed choices about their health is also central to ending AIDS as a public health threat. In turn, choice can only exist in an environment free from fear, stigma, and discrimination. We must ensure that the full range of effective HIV prevention options are available to everyone, particularly marginalized populations disproportionately affected by HIV, in order to enable choice.

Equity must be further prioritized in the HIV response with a close consideration of the communities that are facing increased human rights threats. In 2023, 9.3 million people – nearly a quarter of those living with HIV – are not receiving antiretroviral therapy, and many communities remain underserved by prevention services. Community-led initiatives are vital to closing gaps and in particular, supporting services for key populations. By directing resources to underfunded areas, we can better ensure that no one is left behind.

A Call to Action

‘Taking the rights path’ to ending AIDS requires political courage and sustained leadership but it is also the only option for lasting change. As the UNAIDS report stresses:

Many of the disparities that undermine progress towards ending AIDS as a public health threat are the direct result of violations of fundamental human rights, which generate inequalities that prevent realization for many millions of people of the right to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health.

To end this crisis, we must work together to uphold fundamental human rights. We must push for investments in inclusive health systems, champion choice, advance equity, and protect the rights of all. Civil society must be a bridge and anchor in grounding every part of the HIV response to securing human rights. We call on civil society partners, stakeholders, political leaders, advocates, development partners, and communities to commit towards a future where “My Health, My Right” is a reality for everyone.

World AIDS Day 2024 graphic from UNAIDS of people facing right with an arrow that says "Take the RIGHTS path" and text that says "to end AIDS."
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byWACI Health

Shaping Policy with Purpose: The Role of Civil Society and Budget Advocacy

Shaping Policy with Purpose: The Role of Civil Society and Budget Advocacy

What is Budget Advocacy? Budget advocacy is the process of examining public budgets—how funds are planned, allocated, and spent—and influencing these decisions to direct resources toward vital, yet often underfunded, areas. For example, if maternal health programs or research initiatives are consistently underfunded, advocates can bring evidence to the table, demonstrating the value and need for increased investment. By engaging through public campaigns, research, and direct dialogue with decision-makers, budget advocates highlight essential funding needs that align with both policy goals and community priorities.

“Every day is a budget day, everything is a budget thing, everyone is a budget person.” These are words that were echoed repeatedly by the trainers at the CHReaD budget advocacy training that took place from the 30th September to 3rd October 2024 in Machakos County, Kenya.

The Coalition for Health Research and Development (CHReaD) is a partnership of civil society organizations, research institutions, academia, and the private sector working together to promote research, innovation, and access to exciting new technologies in Kenya. WACI Health, as a founding member of CHreaD, has been an active member of the partnership since 2015.

The budget advocacy training aimed to build capacity around public financial management (PFM), with a special focus on budget advocacy for health research and development (R&D). The two-day training provided an opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of the Kenyan budget process at both national and county levels, while gaining the tools and skills necessary to influence budget decisions in favor of health R&D. The training was conducted by the Bajeti Hub. 

Fifteen people pose for a photo during the budget advocacy workshop.

Reflecting on the session, Gloria Mululu-Gathuru (Programs Officer) shared several key takeaways that highlight the importance of strategic budget advocacy in advancing health R&D goals. Here are her insights:

1. Budget Advocacy as a Strategic Tool

Budget advocacy is not just about numbers but about influencing decisions to ensure funding aligns with public needs. This involves not only understanding budget allocations but advocating for changes that support health, education, and social welfare priorities.

2. Understanding the Budget Cycle

Timing is an important factor in advocacy. Knowing the budget cycle stages—from formulation to implementation—allows advocates to engage effectively at each phase. For example, engaging early in the cycle is crucial for pushing health research and development financing, especially in Kenya’s public health sector where funding can be limited and competition high. By advocating during the initial stages, advocates can help ensure that critical issues, like research funding, gain visibility and prioritization within the budget. Additionally, timing advocacy efforts during the review and evaluation phases allows advocates to hold institutions accountable.

3. Promoting Accountability and Transparency

Budget advocacy drives accountability by pushing for transparency in how funds are allocated and spent. By analyzing budgets, advocates help hold decision-makers accountable to ensure resources reach their intended goals, supporting fair, community-oriented policies.

4. Empowering Communities Through Budget Advocacy

Budget advocacy can play a big role in amplifying marginalized voices. By representing community needs in budget discussions, advocates can ensure underserved populations have their priorities reflected in funding allocations, policy planning, and resource distribution.

5. Advocating for Long-term Investment

Sustained advocacy is needed for long-term investments in critical sectors like healthcare and education. These sectors often require continuous funding to drive meaningful, lasting change, which can only be achieved through steady, committed budget support.

6. Everyday Relevance of Budgeting

Lastly, as the phrase “Every day is a budget day, everything is a budget thing, everyone is a budget person” highlights, budgeting plays a pervasive role in advocacy. Integrating budget awareness and advocacy in everyday decision-making is essential for shaping effective policies and driving meaningful community impact.

Budget advocacy is essential for impactful policy work. It fosters transparency, empowers communities, and ensures that critical areas like health and education receive the resources they need. Understanding the budget cycle helps advocates engage strategically, securing funding for health research, development, and other vital programs. As we continue to advance these goals, budget advocacy remains a vital tool for achieving sustainable, equitable progress. 

CategoriesAfNHI Article
byWACI Health

Youth Cohort Perspective: 2024 International Workshop on Adolescence, SRHR, & HIV

Youth Cohort Perspective: 2024 International Workshop on Adolescence, SRHR, & HIV

The AfNHi Youth Cohort Mentorship Program is WACI Health’s signature youth leadership and advocacy initiative, designed to build a new generation of impactful health advocates. Each year, young people from across Africa participate in this mentorship program, learning from experienced mentors and experts in health advocacy. Beyond fostering individual growth, AfNHI is building a collective force committed to advancing sustainable health solutions on the continent, particularly in HIV prevention.
Hear from our 2024 Youth Cohort Mentee, Mariah Onyango!

Youth Advocacy in Action: A conference experience
By Mariah Onyango

Africa free of New HIV infections (AfNHi) mentorship program, powered by WACI Health, is an annual initiative designed to support young people from countries across Africa to become high-impact advocates for HIV prevention. I was fortunate to be part of this program, which not only helps us develop our skills but also connects us with like-minded peers, fosters meaningful engagement and builds our leadership capacities.

On October 2 to 4, I attended the International Workshop on Adolescence, SRHR, & HIV 2024 conference in Kenya focused on adolescent sexual and reproductive health, and HIV.  The conference brought together advocates, clinicians, researchers, doctors, policy makers and activists. As a member of AfNHi mentorship program, I had the opportunity to speak on the challenges adolescent girls face in accessing information and services related to reproductive health in my community.

Sharing an account on the lived experiences of adolescents seeking information and services was an incredible opportunity that allowed me to bring real stories to the forefront and humanize the data. A key highlight was discussing the importance of providing diverse HIV prevention options, especially for sex workers. I also shared a scenario where an adolescent, who was seeking medical help, was met with a lecture on abstinence rather than receiving age-appropriate, respectful care. It is vital for service providers to deliver accurate health information without judgment, fostering a supportive environment for youth seeking reproductive health services and information.

During the conference, I connected with incredible individuals and we discussed the common challenges young people face globally. Many adolescents encounter service providers who lack proper training in youth-friendly care, resulting in experiences that can be disrespectful and dismissive of client needs. Limited access to contraceptive options and new HIV prevention methods is also a widespread issue. Mental health emerged as a significant concern across the discussions at the conference, and Y+ facilitated a session on self-care strategies for mental well-being.

One memorable moment for me was when a participant remarked, “Muting your friends and family is a form of self-care, even if they think you’re selfish.” This resonated deeply with me, knowing very well that takers will always take without caring if you have anything left to give.

Overall, the conference was an amazing experience, and I am grateful to the AfNHi mentorship program for making my participation possible.

CategoriesWACI Health News Article
byWACI Health

WACI Health at the World Health Summit

WACI Health at the World Health Summit

In October, WACI Health  joined global health stakeholders for the World Health Summit in Berlin, centered on the theme, “Building Trust for a Healthier World.” This year’s theme underscored the pressing need to restore confidence in health systems strained by inequities in a more complex global governance landscape. As Dr. Tedros A. Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the WHO, said in his opening: “Trust itself does not make people healthy, but no one can be healthy without trust.”

Civil society plays a critical role in building the trust necessary for effective health interventions. For WACI Health, the Summit was a vital platform to engage with civil society colleagues and experts around the world working to advance health equity, as well as partners from global health institutions, private sector, academia, and governments. The discussions reinforced the transformative shifts needed to build and maintain health systems that are resilient, well-resourced, and people-centered.

Highlights from our engagement at the World Health Summit:

Panel on Regional Manufacturing of Health Technologies
Rosemary Mburu, Executive Director of WACI Health, took part in a panel hosted by Africa Centres for Disease Control (Africa CDC) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). The session delved into regional manufacturing of medicines and other health technologies. Our intervention highlighted the need to create demand for locally-manufactured products through effective engagement with country governments and civil society. Ms Mburu emphasized the importance of including civil society and communities through all stages of the R&D process to ensure there is a market for the solutions that are being developed and they respond to the needs on the ground. The conversation was a powerful reminder of the role of regional manufacturing in building health resilience in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Collaboration with CEPI
As a civil society delegate with the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Rosemary Mburu joined various discussions with CEPI and other LMIC representatives. The civil society delegates shared their knowledge and insights on ways to strengthen collaboration for pandemic preparedness. More needs to be done to elevate these voices in global pandemic preparedness conversations, and ensure equitable access to vaccines and treatments in future crises.

Participants sitting around a table at a town hall session at the World Health Summit. Global Fund Executive Director Peter Sands is speaking.

Town Hall with the Global Fund
Rosemary Mburu moderated a town hall discussion with Peter Sands, Executive Director of the Global Fund, and fellow advocates of the Global Fund. The discussion offered an invaluable opportunity to discuss the Fund’s impact on communities and strategize together for its 8th Replenishment. Last month, the Global Fund Advocates Network (GFAN) released 8 Asks for the 8th Replenishment, a set of priorities that aim to maximize the Global Fund’s capacity to serve the world’s most vulnerable communities and set a renewed vision for global health. 

Intervention at the ONE Campaign’s Global Health Lab
WACI Health joined a critical discussion on the changing landscape of global health financing at the ONE Campaign’s Global Health Lab session. The session examined the mounting challenges to bridging funding gaps, especially in Africa, as donor support stagnates and an increasing number of global challenges reshape the landscape. WACI Health’s intervention called for a restructuring of the global financing ecosystem with a framework that better aligns resources to meet the needs of all nations, especially those in the Global South. We must ensure a more effective and equitable resource allocation that strengthens health systems in our countries and builds long-term sustainability.

Throughout the sessions, we noted the role of African leadership and the importance of the localization agenda, advocating for health systems that are led by and truly responsive to the communities they serve. Civil society engagement remains crucial, both to hold institutions accountable and to ensure that health strategies reflect and prioritize the community. As Dr. Tedros emphasized, “Everything we do depends on the trust of the communities we serve.”

In upcoming global governance conversations, including at the G20, WACI Health is committed to supporting equitable partnerships, elevating African leadership in health, and advocating for systems that place health equity at the forefront. We will continue amplifying civil society voices to ensure that health and community needs remain a central focus in global dialogues. 

CategoriesMeet the Team Edition Article
byWACI Health

Meet ‘Joyce’

‘Meet the Team Edition’ is a new series where you get to know our WACI Health Team much better. This month we will be focusing on Joyce Ng’ang’a, the Senior Policy Advisor at WACI Health. She is a senior WACI Health representative to high profile policymakers, practitioners, think-tanks, academic partners, the media and the public.

Question: What made you interested in advocacy and how long have you worked in this field?

Answer:
With 8 years at WACI Health and 17 years in advocacy overall, my career has transitioned from a background in nursing and health systems management to policy advocacy. My passion for policy advocacy stems from the significant impact it has on shaping global policies, which continually fuels my dedication and interest in this field.

Question: What has your experience been at WACI and what are your key takeaways?

Answer:

Over the past eight years at WACI Health, I’ve had an enriching experience that has significantly shaped my personal and professional growth. I’ve acquired valuable skills such as policy analysis, advocacy, and gained exposure to global health policymaking and fundraising processes. Networking has also been a key part of this journey. The skills I’ve developed in advocacy have fostered a mindset that believes “everything is achievable.”

To achieve success, it’s essential to start with a clear end goal. If you fall short, it’s important to revisit and adjust your strategy. Success often comes through careful planning, involving the right stakeholders, and engaging the right people and processes. Even when outcomes don’t align with expectations, failure isn’t a loss but rather a valuable learning opportunity.

Question: What advice would you give to Africans looking to strengthen their advocacy and pushing for health for all?

Answer:

Collaboration is essential for success in this sector. To see results, you must work with others, strategize together, and leverage skills from various players and sectors. Timely planning is crucial, as processes like Universal Health Coverage (UHC) follow strict timelines, and there are related global, regional, and country-level processes to consider.

A shift in mindset is also necessary—Africa is often perceived as poor and dependent on external support, but it is rich in resources. These resources must be unlocked and directed towards important causes like HIV prevention. Supporting drug manufacturing within Africa is vital, as not all countries have the capacity to do so.

Question: What do you think is the most critical issue facing the communities we serve, and how are we addressing it at WACI Health?

Answer:

One of the greatest challenges communities face is being consistently overlooked in ongoing processes and planning, resulting in them being placed last. At WACI Health, our advocacy centers on equity, ensuring that everyone receives the care or treatment they need in an equitable manner. We emphasize that communities must be prioritized first. They have the capacity to design interventions that work for them, leading to impactful results. By placing communities at the forefront, we can use resources and time more effectively, focusing on high-impact interventions created by the communities themselves.

Additionally, communities receive minimal resources. One of WACI Health’s key advocacy areas is ensuring that funding directed toward countries significantly reaches communities. We also advocate for preventive and promotive care as part of primary healthcare, with communities leading the way in prevention efforts. Prioritizing those most affected by or living with particular conditions is essential, and we have data showing which communities have been left behind.

For example, rising HIV infections, teenage pregnancies, and gender-based violence disproportionately affect adolescent girls and young women. Targeted interventions are necessary for these groups. Moreover, community-led monitoring, where communities collect and analyze their own data, is critical. This data must be considered in decision-making processes to ensure no one is left behind.

Question: What upcoming project or area of work are you excited about, and why?

Answer:

At WACI Health, we are engaged in several exciting and impactful programs. Firstly, the Bridge for Health project integrates sexual reproductive health, HIV prevention and treatment, and Universal Health Coverage (UHC) with a focus on sustainability beyond donor funding. The goal is to ensure that by 2030, countries can sustain their health systems domestically, even without external financial support.

Secondly, in HIV prevention, new tools like the LEN injection, Dapivirine vaginal ring, and Cabotegravir (CAB LA) injections are now available, offering more options beyond oral PrEP. We advocate for providing communities with a range of choices, allowing them to select what works best for them at different stages in life. A dual prevention pill for both pregnancy and HIV prevention is also on the horizon, which will be a significant breakthrough alongside existing methods like condoms.

Thirdly, our advocacy for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has gained momentum recently, and we are optimistic that it will lead to critical solutions in this area. Lastly, we are excited to advocate for local manufacturing in Africa.

Question: One interesting/ unique thing you love doing.

Answer:

I enjoy taking long drives while listening to music as a way to clear my mind.

Question: Best song you’re currently listening to?

Answer:

I enjoy R&B music from the 80s and 90s, and I am currently listening to “Greatest Love of All” by Whitney Houston.

 

CategoriesWACI Health News Article
byWACI Health

Celebrating 20 Years of ACTION

Celebrating 20 Years of ACTION

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In October 2024, the ACTION Global Health Partnership marked its 20th anniversary, celebrating two decades of advancing political leadership for major global health initiatives and equitable health outcomes across the world. ACTION is a partnership of 14 locally rooted, independent civil society organizations working across continents in both the Global North and South, driven by a shared mission to ensure equitable health outcomes for all. 

Since joining the Partnership in 2014, WACI Health has worked closely with partners to strengthen political will and leadership to end the TB epidemic, improve immunization and nutrition efforts, and build sustainable health systems.

Through ACTION, partners leverage their insights, experiences, and networks for coordinated advocacy on critical global health issues. Being part of ACTION provides WACI Health with unique opportunities for knowledge-sharing, coordinating messaging, and conducting joint advocacy through multiple entry points in the Global South and Global North. 

We convene civil society groups and facilitate their engagement with global decision-makers, informing health policies and programs that prioritize equity and accountability. Together, we also engage communities and political leaders to demonstrate the value and impact of health investments. This collaboration amplifies our collective voice and expands the reach of our strategic and targeted advocacy.

WACI Health congratulates the ACTION Global Health Partnership for 20 years of effecting change and looks forward to our continued work together to advance health equity.

Learn more about ACTION.

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CategoriesArticle WACI Health News
byWACI Health

WACI Health at UNGA 79

WACI Health at UNGA 79

As the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) unfolded in New York, civil society and communities from across the world joined the discussions both within and outside the UN’s formal halls, striving to hold leaders accountable to the people-centered principle that begins the UN Charter: “We the peoples of the United Nations.”

Nombasa Gxuluwe (Programs Manager), Fitsum Lakew Alemayahu (AU Liaison Manager, CiSPHA Coordinator), Laura Philidor (CSEM Advocacy and Communications Officer), and Carthi Mannikarottu (Communications Lead) from WACI Health attended the Summit of the Future Action Days, the High Level Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance, and various side events discussing issues of health and civil society engagement in global governance.

IMG 20240922 WA0001 edit

Highlights from #UNGA79

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Looking to the Future
At the Summit of the Future (20-23 September), Member States adopted The Pact for the Future, which includes a Global Digital Compact and a Declaration on Future Generations. The Pact pledges actions in five focus areas: peace and security, sustainable development, science and technology, youth and future generations, and the transformation of global governance. While it includes aspirational statements on the future we want, it lacks specific timelines and targets or commitments to resources for the change we need. It also fails to highlight health as a specific action clause despite the outsized role health plays in driving success of all other sustainable development goals.

Leading up to the Summit, the Health ImPACT Coalition – co-led by STOPAIDS, International Treatment Preparedness Coalition, Global (ITPC), Frontline AIDS, Global Fund Advocates Network (GFAN), Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+) and WACI Health – mobilized over 300 health advocates to elevate issues of health, community leadership and engagement, community data, and accountability in the Pact discussions (See toolkit for more). At the Summit of the Future, ITPC’s Executive Director Solange Baptiste delivered a statement on behalf of the Coalition.

The Health ImPACT Coalition co-leads hosted a civil society side event to discuss next steps for the coalition and take stock on our joint advocacy since the Coalition’s creation in May. The co-leads agreed to maintain the momentum through continued consultations and connect with other advocacy groups for experience sharing. While the Pact for the Future lacks the concrete targets and accountability mechanisms needed to drive true transformation, we – along with our civil society partners – remain committed to holding world leaders accountable to their commitments for a better future for all. This includes continuing to push for more inclusive and effective governance, including within the UN system and global initiatives.

Add a little bit of body text 3Tackling the Silent Pandemic
At the UN High-Level Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) on September 26, world leaders adopted a political declaration, which sets key targets to combat AMR and address the growing threat of drug-resistant infections. Antibiotic resistance directly caused 1.2 million deaths in 2019 and was linked to nearly 5 million associated deaths; a recent study projects that from 2025 to 2050, 39 million deaths will be directly attributable to AMR. The declaration emphasizes a One Health approach to tackle antibiotic resistance and includes targets such as reducing AMR-related deaths by 10 percent by 2030 and mobilizing USD $100 million to implement AMR National Action Plans. It also reiterates a commitment to universal health coverage (UHC) as being critical in AMR efforts, aligned with CSEM messages.

WACI Health worked with the Stop TB Partnership to amplify a set of Key Asks developed by Stop TB Partnership, along with partners. Strong advocacy resulted in TB being a top priority in the Political Declaration on AMR with seven references to TB in the final declaration. In addition, WACI Health with other CiSPHA partners and the Ecumenical Pharmaceutical Network (EPN) produced an African CSOs Common Position on AMR through consultations and inputs from CSOs in Africa and around the world.

Notably, the final declaration fell short in addressing antibiotic use in food systems. At a civil society side event hosted by ReAct and a global coalition of civil society and community advocates, environmentalist Sunita Narain emphasized that the role of civil society is in advocating for the prevention agenda – ensuring that antibiotic misuse is prevented, particularly in industrial food systems, before drug-resistant infections threaten the overburdened health systems of LMICs. A civil society Call to Action was shared with leaders ahead of the High-Level Meeting.

The link between climate and AMR is a critical priority for our advocacy for the upcoming G20. Dr. Ethel Maciel (Ministry of Health, Brazil) noted at a side event hosted by the Pandemic Action Network that the G20 declaration that is being developed will focus on linking climate change, a One Health approach, and AMR. WACI Health is an active participant in the C20 discussions on health, including on the sidelines of UNGA. Civil society continues to engage in TB and AMR advocacy to the G20, calling for investments in TB research and development for better diagnostics and shorter treatment regimens as well as for the implementation of local and regional manufacturing that supports equitable access and affordability. 

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Recommitting to UHC
At the 5th Annual Ministerial Meeting of the Group of Friends of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Global Health on September 24, global leaders emphasized the need for financial protection to achieve equitable health access for all. Several ministers shared stories of national progress in increasing domestic resources for health, such as Uganda’s health budget reforms that helped lower out-of-pocket spending and Sierra Leone’s experience with a debt swap program to increase health investments.

The CSEM with WACI Health and other Health ImPACT Coalition partners held a civil society discussion on the Lusaka Agenda on September 24. The Lusaka Agenda, launched in December 2023, presents five key shifts for the evolution of global health initiatives and the long-term strengthening of the global health financing ecosystem. WACI Health’s Fitsum Lakew Alemayahu participated in the presentation about implementing the Agenda and principles of civil society engagement.

UHC2030 and the UN Foundation also hosted a multi-stakeholder roundtable on the Lusaka Agenda along with leadership from the governments of Canada, Japan, Mozambique, and Nigeria. Participants discussed concrete steps for advancing the Agenda, focusing on country implementation, areas of joint work, and cross-sector collaboration. WACI Health participated in the roundtable as part of the Future of Global Health Initiatives consultation group.

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Financing Health
The World Health Organization (WHO) announced a new Health Impact Investment Platform in partnership with regional multilateral development banks (MDBs), and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The Platform aims to strengthen primary healthcare and build resilience against pandemic threats. An initial contribution of EUR €10 million was signed by the European Investment Bank (EIB) and WHO to support efforts in 15 countries. The countries identified for phase one investment plans include Ethiopia, Senegal, and Zambia. 

At UNGA, the President of Kenya highlighted the International Development Association (IDA), the World Bank’s fund for LMICs, and reinforced the call for USD $120 billion made by African heads of states at the IDA 21 Summit in April 2024. Denmark announced a pledge of USD $491.7 million, a 40 percent increase over the country’s contribution in the last replenishment cycle. WACI Health continues advocacy efforts for a successful IDA replenishment with the ACTION Global Health Partnership and will participate in the World Bank Annual Meetings in October 2024 in order to ensure civil society priorities are elevated in financing discussions.

Reform was a key theme across UNGA79 and side event discussions. It is clear that today’s challenges and opportunities – including climate change, the largest youth population in history, and artificial intelligence – require reforms in global governance institutions and financing structures as well as in the thinking around leadership and decision-making. Other critical conversations we participated in included protecting the right to health for all, championing gender equality, enabling the digital transformation of health, strengthening cross-sectoral local governance, harnessing African leadership including in research and manufacturing, and building sustained inclusion of civil society and communities in governance. Many of these discussions will continue as we look into the last quarter of the year, carrying forward the momentum of UNGA 79 to build a better future for all.

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CategoriesMeet the Team Edition Article
byWACI Health

Meet ‘Gloria’

‘Meet the Team Edition’ is a new series where you get to know our WACI Health Team much better. This month we will be focusing on Gloria Mululu, the Programs Officer at WACI Health. She is an experienced Public and Occupational Health advocate.

Question: What made you interested in advocacy and how long have you worked in this field?

Answer:
I have always had a passion for working with people but could not figure out how to channel it. When I was younger, I dreamed of being in the medical field, either as a nurse or a doctor; however, I didn’t make it to medical school. The closest I got to my ambitions was through my undergraduate studies in social work and psychology. I then pursued a Master’s in Public Health, which allowed me to enter the advocacy space.

Question: What has your experience been at WACI and what are your key takeaways?

Answer:

Working at WACI Health has been an incredibly educational experience. The organization continues to give me the runway to learn and numerous opportunities to constantly sharpen my advocacy skills. I recently chaired the Regional Adolescent Health Indaba (RAHI) Conference 2024, which was a successful and humbling experience in my advocacy career, as it was the first conference I chaired. In addition, the opportunity to work from home enables me to deliver quality work but at the same time, I am able to be present in my young daughters’ lives as I journey with them as they grow.

Question: What advice would you give to Africans looking to strengthen their advocacy and pushing for health for all?

Answer:

Foremost, Africans need to speak up. We are not in the era where we don’t care what happens in our health facilities and choose to ignore substandard delivery of services that we outrightly deserve. Being a Kenyan, I have observed my fellow country people being very bold at speaking out on matters that concern them, which is a key lesson others should note. I would encourage us all to continue speaking up, especially in the right places, not only in the service provision levels but also in meetings where donors, partners, and other key health stakeholders are present in order to make the message effective and have a bigger impact.

Question: What challenges have you faced and how have they shaped you?

Answer:

I wouldn’t call it a challenge but rather an technical obstacle that I overcame. In the advocacy space, it’s crucial to stay updated on global and regional conversations. This requires a lot of reading and engagement to fully grasp concepts and navigate the work more effectively and efficiently. My incredible colleague, Joyce Ng’ang’a, frequently shares valuable materials with me. Additionally, my continuous exposure to the various lines of work at WACI Health, combined with my steady engagement and inquisitive nature, enables me to quickly understand and contribute meaningfully.

Question: Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

Answer:

To finally graduate from my Master’s program that I have been pursuing has been a long-awaited achievement. My passion and joy come from being in spaces where I have little prior knowledge, as I love the challenge of satisfying my hunger for learning and constantly acquiring new knowledge. I am confident that I will find myself in academia. While I am unsure of when, how, or which program I will pursue next, I know it will be a degree that I will actively apply and that will play a significant role in shaping my career path.

Question: One interesting/ unique thing you love doing.

Answer:

I really love cooking, even though there have been times when I get the recipe wrong and the meal doesn’t turn out as expected. Still, I always go back to the drawing board and keep trying until I get it right. This process is especially meaningful to me because I do it with my daughter, making it a cherished bonding experience that I hold dear.

Question: Best song you’re currently listening to?

Answer:

I have two songs and one artist that I really enjoy. The first is ‘Kana Ndanyura’ by Killer T, a Zimbabwean artist. I came across this catchy song at the RAHI 2024 conference – it was heartwarming to see young people dancing to it and adopting it as the conference’s theme song. The second song is ‘Nikukonde’ by Ty2, a Zambian artist. Lastly, I love the music of a Kenyan local artist named Njerae.

 

CategoriesArticle WACI Health News
byWACI Health

Panel: Domestic Resource Mobilisation for Sustainable Health Systems

Panel: Domestic Resource Mobilisation for Sustainable Health Systems

On September 6, WACI Health participated in a panel discussion, “A Resolute Pathway to Sustainable Domestic Resource Mobilisation for Health” led by the Health NGOs Network (HENNET). The session was held at the Kenyatta International Conference Center in Nairobi, Kenya under the Medic East Africa and Medlab East Africa Expo and Conference 2024.

Panellists – including Dr. Margaret Lubaale of HENNET, Regina Ombam from the East Africa Community, Dr. Samual Kinyanjui of AHF Kenya, and David Kabera from WACI Health – discussed the need for Domestic Resource Mobilisation (DRM) for health and strategies to improve domestic funding. DRM aims to reduce dependence on external funding and ensure sustainable financing for health services. The session was moderated by Rosemarie Muganda from PATH.

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David Kabera (left), Regina Ombam (centre) and Dr. Samual Kinyanjui (right)

David Kabera, Policy and Advocacy Officer at WACI Health, spoke about essential components needed to build resilient health systems, including the critical role of domestic funding for health. He emphasised that it is not enough to increase resources but rather, ensure that strategic investments are made in critical areas like primary health care. He noted that strategies must be tailored to each country’s unique context and that in addition to developing better health policies, ensuring their effective implementation is the pressing charge for the African continent today.

The panel highlighted approaches to ensure the efficient use of available resources, improving budget absorption, and using evidence to ensure strategic upstream investments. Accountability was a recurring theme with panellists noting the role of localised decision-making to promote transparency and ensure health systems are responsive.

A healthcare model that focuses on community welfare and value-based care is needed to reduce inefficiencies and strengthen systems.

The session was attended by healthcare professionals, policymakers, industry experts, and civil society representatives interested in the evolving healthcare landscape in the region. A recording is available here.

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CategoriesMeet the Team Edition Article
byWACI Health

Meet ‘Nombasa’

‘Meet the Team Edition’ is a new series where you get to know our WACI Health Team much better. This month we will be focusing on Nombasa Gxuluwe, the Programs Manager at WACI Health. She is a Health and Human Rights activist with extensive experience in campaigning, lobbying and advocacy.

Question: What made you interested in advocacy and how long have you worked in this field?

Answer:
It was a mere coincidence – during the period I had just completed my university education and was searching for work, I attended HIV Prevention workshops in my area, courtesy of my mother who happened to be a healthcare worker and facilitator of these workshops. I became passionate when I got to better understand the challenges South Africa was facing in regards to HIV/AIDS then and the scarcity of access to prevention measures as opposed to today. This became my entry into advocacy. I then began exploring other avenues as I wanted to be the change I wanted to see.

Question: What has your experience been at WACI and what are your key takeaways?

Answer:

It has been a wonderful experience. WACI Health has taken my work to new heights. I have been able to broaden my scope from local advocacy in South Africa to regional advocacy in Africa. I have come to realise that health challenges in Africa are quite similar and that we need to collectively put forward tremendous efforts in addressing these recurrent challenges by coming up with proper solutions. In addition, WACI Health is women-led, which is quite encouraging to me – seeing women in our society playing a big role in agitating for better healthcare in our continent.

Question: What advice would you give to Africans looking to strengthen their advocacy and pushing for health for all?

Answer:

First is to reduce the ignorance many of us have in regards to healthcare in Africa, so that there are many Africans understanding and tackling challenges affecting health in Africa. Mobilising Africans and informing them on the depth of the challenges we are currently facing and the cause of inaction would, in my opinion, grow the number of passionate and self driven Africans who would join the advocacy space and agitate for better healthcare services for their people.

Question: What challenges have you faced and how have they shaped you?

Answer:

Working with people with different backgrounds and beliefs is quite a challenge. It is important to always have alternative ideas and strategies in tackling challenges and delivery of objectives. Having an open mind and understanding people’s diversity helps me strategise and properly plan for myself. This helps diversify my approach in order to achieve my set goals and the goals of WACI Health.

Question: Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

Answer:

The biggest chunk of my work and passion is towards protecting human rights. My heart bleeds seeing what is currently happening in Africa and the passing of draconian laws. My hope is that in the next five years, we would manage to mobilise champions and voices that can talk more sense to power, and ensure people’s rights are protected and promoted in order for them to live freely and enjoy their freedom. On top of that, we must build a second layer of leadership by taking our youth to the table and ensuring that we have diverse approaches in tackling Africa’s healthcare problems.

Question: One interesting/ unique thing you love doing.

Answer:

I really love organising social gatherings that involve my family and friends. I ensure everything is in order and flows seamlessly as the event takes place.

Question: Best song you’re currently listening to?

Answer:

I currently love listening to Molo Sisi by our local artist, Mandisi Dyantis.

 

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