The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged leaders attending the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to guarantee equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines and other life-saving tools.
WHO through a media statement, has made the call ahead of the 76th UNGA sessions which starts Monday next week
The organization has further called on the leaders to explore mechanisms that will ensure the world is better prepared to respond to future pandemics and renew efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Reads part of the statement; “WHO is calling on countries to fulfill their dose-sharing pledges immediately and to swap their near-term vaccine deliveries with COVAX and African COVID-19 Vaccine Acquisition Task Team (AVAT) and that manufacturers should prioritize supplies to COVAX and partners, and for countries and manufacturers to facilitate the sharing of technology know-how and intellectual property to support regional vaccine manufacturing.”
The organization reechoes that vaccines are the most critical tool to end the pandemic and save lives and livelihoods, hence the need to facilitate the process.
In addition, it has also urged countries to prepare for future pandemics and other health emergencies by breaking the cycle of panic and neglect and committing adequate financial resources, as well as political will.
Further to this, WHO has asked for more investment towards the Universal Health Coverage and pandemic preparedness as they are critical not only to bolster global health security but also to getting the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda back on track.
WHO has thus pleaded with world leaders gathering at UNGA this week to seize the moment and commit to concerted action, adequate resources and solidarity, in order to build a better future for people and the planet.
