President Joseph N. Boakai has officially launched the Global Fund Grant Cycle 7 (GC7) in Liberia, securing over US$117 million to bolster the fight against HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria.
This significant financial injection is poised to strengthen Liberia’s healthcare system and substantially improve health outcomes across the nation.
During the launch, President Boakai expressed deep gratitude to the Global Fund and its donors for their continuous support.
He underscored the critical need for transparent and effective utilization of these funds to maximize their impact.
Boakai highlighted the tangible progress achieved through previous grant cycles, such as enhanced access to essential health services, the provision of life-saving medications, and the development of healthcare infrastructure.
However, the President was candid about the persistent challenges that Liberia’s healthcare system faces.
He reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to improving the system’s resilience, efficiency, and accessibility.
“We have made significant strides, but the journey is far from over. This new grant cycle represents not just financial support but a renewed opportunity to advance our healthcare agenda,” Boakai stated.
The GC7 grant will focus on several key areas, including the expanded training of healthcare professionals, enhancement of supply chain management, and the implementation of comprehensive strategies for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria.
This approach aims to build a more robust and responsive healthcare system capable of addressing current and future health crises.
President Boakai emphasized the necessity of multi-sectorial coordination and community engagement.
He noted that innovative approaches are crucial to reducing stigma and discrimination associated with these diseases.
A special focus will be placed on scaling up anti-retroviral therapy for HIV, addressing the challenges of multi-drug-resistant TB, and intensifying malaria prevention efforts, especially for vulnerable populations.
“The success of this grant will depend on our ability to work together. Government agencies, development partners, civil society organizations, and the private sector must all play their part. Our collective efforts will determine how effectively we can combat these diseases,” Boakai asserted.
President Boakai also stressed the importance of securing additional funding and prioritizing health as a cornerstone of national development.
He reiterated his government’s dedication to ensuring that no Liberian is left behind in the fight against these deadly diseases. “Health is not just a priority; it is a fundamental right of every Liberian.
Our goal is to create a future where these diseases no longer pose a threat to our people,” he added.
The President called on all stakeholders to join forces in this critical endeavor.
The Liberian leader assured that his administration would uphold the highest standards of accountability and transparency in managing the grant. “We owe it to our citizens and to our international partners to demonstrate that we can manage these resources effectively and deliver meaningful results,” the President concluded.
As Liberia embarks on this ambitious project, the hope is that the GC7 grant will not only improve health outcomes but also serve as a model of effective international cooperation and national commitment.
With concerted efforts and a clear vision, Liberia aims to make significant strides in eradicating HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria, ensuring a healthier future for all its citizens.
By: G. Watson Richards
