The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) Statement on the Allocation of Funding in the First Call for Proposals by the Pandemic Fund

… Overlooking the inclusion of Africa CDC, which is the sole continental public health institution, was an unfortunate oversight. As a result, Africa’s health security gaps remain inadequately addressed, leading to the absence of multi-country/regional proposals from the continent. Africa CDC would like to recall that in February 2023, it reiterated its stance as an observer at the Pandemic Fund’s Board, emphasizing the significance of inclusive representation in the Fund’s governance structures, technical teams, and Secretariat to inform its crucial work. Africa CDC would also like to echo the call from African Heads of State and Government for a better representation of Africa in all multilateral constituencies. Africa CDC further urges for equitable representation of African countries and regional organizations in the relevant structures to ensure fair and inclusive outcomes. Therefore, Africa CDC once again urges the Pandemic Fund to take decisive action for the admission of Africa CDC as an Implementing Entity to join the ones identified in 2022. Moving forward, Africa CDC strongly advocates for an equity-based approach, emphasizing transparency and open dialogue throughout the decision-making process. Africa CDC, under the guidance of our Heads of State and Government, will actively support regional proposals that align with the newly approved Africa CDC Strategic Plan 2023-2027 by the Governing Board. These proposals will be guided by the principles of the New Public Health Order, which promotes respectful and action-driven partnerships, fostering a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to combating disease threats locally and globally.