Establishment of the AfEF demonstrates AU member states’ commitment to collective action on health security. However, operational success requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders, emphasising determination and action for Africa’s health security and beyond.
Africa has faced numerous challenges in combating recurring disease outbreaks, with 164 reported public health events in 2023 alone. In response, the African Union established the Africa Epidemics Fund (AfEF) in February 2022 to provide financial support for preparedness and response efforts. This blog by the Centre for Development discusses key considerations for the success of AfEF as its governance and operational mechanisms are being developed and presented to AU policy organs.
Key considerations on fundraising:
- Member states’ contributions: The AfEF aims to mobilise domestic resources from AU member states, leveraging momentum from previous funding initiatives like the COVID Fund and the AU Peace Fund.
- Engagement with Heads of State: Involving Heads of State in the governance of Africa CDC can facilitate top-level political leadership and resource mobilisation, with President Cyril Ramaphosa leading fundraising efforts.
- Private sector engagement: The AfEF must tap into private sector funding and expertise to mitigate economic consequences of public health crises and align with Africa’s evolving economic landscape.
- Synergy with other mechanisms: Collaboration with the Pandemic Fund can optimise resource allocation for strengthening pandemic preparedness and response capacities.
Key considerations on fund spending:
- Flexibility and speed: Africa CDC must deploy resources swiftly during outbreaks, necessitating lean approval and disbursement procedures to enhance responsiveness.
- Priority to regional and national institutions: AfEF funding should prioritise strengthening continental, regional, and national institutions to foster sustainability and self-reliance in health systems.
