The Central African Republic has honored the Global Fund with the “Commandant’s Medal” for its life-saving activities against HIV, tuberculosis and malaria – Press releases

The Central African Republic honored the Global Fund with the “Commander’s Medal” for its life-saving work against HIV, tuberculosis and malaria

November 8, 2024

– The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (Global Fund) received on October 16 on the Palais de Faustin-Archange Touadéra, the President of the Central African Republic, the medal of the “Commandant” of the Order of Merit of the Central African Republic la Renaissance in Bangui.

The prestigious distinction – certainly one of the best within the country – was awarded in recognition of the Global Fund’s crucial work to cut back HIV, tuberculosis (TB) and malaria, strengthen health systems and save lives within the Central African Republic.

“I have made improving the health of the people of Central Africa one of my highest priorities, with particular emphasis on strengthening international health partnerships, especially under the Global Fund,” said Faustin-Archange Touadéra, President of the Central African Republic. “The Global Fund is a key partner in my agenda that prioritizes developing human capital, accelerating progress towards universal health coverage and empowering women.”

“We are honored to receive this wonderful honor from the Global Fund – a great privilege for our organization, but also a true symbol of recognition of the work and collective efforts of all who contribute to the health and well-being of Central African people, from communities to donors and partners,” said Caty Fall Sow, Director of the Department of Africa and the Middle East, who accepted the award on behalf of the Global Fund. “We are grateful for the leadership and commitment of President Touadéra and Dr. Pierre Somse, Minister of Health and Population, to the health of the people of Central Africa, which is the basis of the country’s economic development. We are confident that in the face of challenges, collaboration, alignment, optimization and accountability will help achieve our key goals: integrated primary care delivery; decentralization, digitization and strengthening of the supply chain and laboratory network; and human resources for health.”

The Central African Republic and the Global Fund have been partners since 2003, with combined investments of over USD 418 million to this point, achieving significant progress within the fight against AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria and in strengthening health systems.

The Central African Republic is each an implementer of programs supported by the Global Fund and a donor to the Global Fund. The country has committed $1 million to the seventh replenishment of the Global Fund, covering 2023-2025, demonstrating its commitment to reducing the burden of three diseases and constructing strong and resilient health systems.