The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Fund have signed an agreement to implement ten strategic initiatives to accelerate the end of HIV, tuberculosis (TB) and malaria as epidemics and strengthen systems for health.

The new agreement which will cover the 2021-2023 implementation period, aims to address some of the persistent challenges that hinder progress against the three diseases and protect hard-won gains from new pandemics like COVID-19.

Statistics from the world health organization indicate that a total of 1.4 million people died from tuberculosis, an estimated 409,000 people died from malaria an in 2020 690,000 people died from AIDS related illnesses.

It is against this backdrop that the WHO and Global fund are supporting 26 countries and territories to eliminate malaria by 2025, strengthen efforts to provide differentiated HIV service delivery among other strategies.

Dr Mubashar Sheikh, who works in the office of deputy director general for WHO  said “The  agreement supports countries to develop more effective responses to HIV, tuberculosis and malaria epidemics and build the resilient health systems they need to reach the most vulnerable.”

Michael Byrne, Head of Technical Advice and Partnerships at the Global Fund said, “This new agreement will help overcome the multiple challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, safeguard and expand HIV, TB and malaria programs.”