By FRANCA OFILI

World leaders have pledged an additional 170 million dollars to the World Health Organisation (WHO) during a high-level pledging event at the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva.

In a statement issued by WHO on Wednesday, the contributions were made in support of WHO?s ongoing Investment Round (IR), aimed at addressing rising global health challenges.

?Earlier in the day, WHO member states approved an increase in Assessed Contributions, providing an additional 90 million dollars annually, marking a significant step toward more sustainable financing.

?The IR is raising funds for WHO?s 14th General Programme of Work, a global health strategy projected to save an additional 40 million lives over the next four years.

?These pledges represent significant contributions from both governments and philanthropic partners,? it said.

WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus expressed gratitude to all member states and partners who contributed to the IR.

?In a challenging climate for global health, these funds will help us preserve and expand our life-saving work.

?They show that multilateralism is alive and well,? he said.

Ghebreyesus noted that long-standing allies and new contributors alike stepped up at the event, expanding WHO?s donor base with new voluntary funding.

?The Children?s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF) announced an additional 13 million dollars and pledged further support.

?Among the pledges, at least 170 million dollars is dedicated to WHO?s base budget for 2025?2028.

?Eight donors made flexible contributions, considered the most valuable type of funding, and four were first-time donors,? he said.

Ghebreyesus also highlighted the impact of individual giving through the One World Movement, where nearly 8,000 people had signed on as ?Member Citizens,? contributing close to 600,000 dollars in donations.

Speakers at the event underscored the importance of continued investment in WHO, particularly emphasising the strategic value of flexible and diversified financing to keep the organisation responsive, country-focused, and aligned with national health priorities.

?This event marks a pivotal moment in WHO?s journey toward more sustainable funding.

?Each contribution brings us closer to achieving better health for all, united under the mission of ?One World for Health,? Ghebreyesus said.

Key contributions announced: are Angola: 8 million dollars, Cambodia: 400,000 dollars, Gabon: 150,000 dollars, and Mongolia: 100,000 dollars.

Others are Qatar: 6 million dollars, Sweden: 12 million euros (13.5 million dollars), Switzerland: CHF 33 million (40 million dollars), and Tanzania: 500,000 dollars (in addition to 500,000 dollars previously pledged).

Also included are CIFF: 13 million dollars (plus commitment for more), ELMA Philanthropies: 2 million dollars.

Others are Foundation Botnar: CHF 8 million (9.6 million dollars), Laerdal Global Health: 12.5 million dollars, Nippon Foundation (Mr Sasakawa): 9.2 million dollars, Novo Nordisk Foundation: DKK 380 million (57 million dollars). (NAN)

Update news