State House, Freetown, Friday 14 June 2024 – Head of Grant Management Division at Global Fund, Mark Eldon-Edington, and his team from Geneva have officially presented a cheque for $136,244,674 to His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio as part of its new grant cycle to fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.
The launching ceremony of the Global Fund Grant Cycle 7 is a pivotal step in combating the three diseases and a demonstration of dedication and collaboration between the government of Sierra Leone and its partner, the Global Fund. The international financing and partnership organization aims to support attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The Head of the Grant Management Division expressed appreciation for the strong commitment of the government and people of Sierra Leone to addressing challenges in the health sector, especially in fighting HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. He acknowledged gains made in reducing malaria cases and available data on persons living with HIV in the country.
President Julius Maada Bio expressed profound gratitude to the Global Fund. He reminded the audience that since he became President in 2018, his government had pioneered advancements in human capital development across key pillars: education, health, agriculture, and social protection.
He stated that his government’s commitment to increasing access to healthcare was informed by a belief that “good health” is an equalizer allowing citizens to be more productive for longer periods and pursue economic activities.
“We have not been alone in this journey to improve health outcomes; we have a multitude of donors and technical partners. Among our most steadfast allies is the Global Fund to fight AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria. Together we have intensified our efforts to strengthen the health systems of our nation.”
“Today we gather on behalf of the people of Sierra Leone—particularly beneficiaries of this grant—to receive additional funds from the Global Fund for Grant Cycle 7 starting July 1, 2024 ending June 30, 2027.”
“I am also pleased to announce six million seven hundred thousand United States dollars (USD 6.7 million) in counterpart funding from the government as part of our commitment to improving human capital development within Big Five Game Changers. This substantial commitment increases our contribution by 43% from previous cycles where we met full obligations.”
“It is with great pleasure that I launch a total approved amount of one hundred thirty-six million two hundred forty-four thousand six hundred seventy-four United States dollars (USD 136,244,674) for Sierra Leoneans to fight against HIV/AIDS tuberculosis malaria strengthening health systems,” said President Bio.
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