The recent decision by the UK to slash its financial support for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria by £150 million signals a retreat from its once pivotal role in international development (UK cuts contribution to Aids, tuberculosis and malaria fund by £150m, 11 November). This move is seen as a step back in global health leadership.

Since 2022, the fund has been credited with saving 70 million lives. Nonetheless, there’s a pressing need to enhance regional capabilities in producing medicines and vaccines, fortifying local healthcare systems, and expanding successful preventative measures. These essential actions are at risk of being compromised to maintain the supply of critical life-saving resources.

A key element of the fund’s strategy highlights the necessity of improving indoor air quality to mitigate the transmission of diseases such as tuberculosis, flu, and Covid-19, and to bolster defenses against future pandemics. Yet, the fund’s current monitoring mechanisms lack specific targets, indicators, budgets, or planned activities to tackle this pressing issue.

As discussed in Mara Kardas-Nelson’s recent Guardian article on her insights from Sierra Leone and other regions, the imperative for robust healthcare systems and local pharmaceutical production is clear. Moving away from relying on the unpredictable generosity of affluent nations is crucial (‘They take the money and go’: why not everyone is mourning the end of USAID, 4 November).

Our global health strategies and pandemic preparedness must transcend short-term cost-cutting, focusing instead on expanding access to effective treatments and preventive measures that safeguard everyone.
Desmond Whyms
Former health adviser, Department for International Development