November 12, 2024 (Djibouti, Republic of Djibouti): The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the World Bank Group met to review IGAD’s notable achievements in the initial implementation of the Health Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Resilience (HEPRR) Project. This initiative aims to enhance access to quality healthcare products in the region, with a specific emphasis on developing local vaccine and medicine production, as part of the Eastern and Southern Africa Health Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Resilience Project (AFE) – Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA).
Representing IGAD Executive Secretary H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, Madam Fathia Alwan, Director of the Health and Social Development Division, highlighted the project’s strong performance in 2024, noting that over 75% of the budget has already been utilised in this first year. Madam Fathia also referenced discussions between IGAD and the World Bank in Washington regarding the need for additional funding, as participating countries have grown from three initially to eight, with potential expansion to 14 countries.
“I extend my sincere thanks to the World Bank for its ongoing support of the IGAD Health Program and the implementation of this MPA project. We will continue to provide the necessary leadership and support to ensure the successful achievement of this program’s development objectives,” she said.
Dr. Ramesh Govindaraj, Task Team Leader at the World Bank Group, expressed his satisfaction with IGAD’s progress in the HEPRR Project and acknowledged the impact of IGAD’s broader programs. “Through implementing a One Health multi-sectoral approach, IGAD will significantly contribute to addressing emerging health threats and health emergencies,” he noted.
According to an official report from Dr. Mohamed Elduma, Head of the Health Unit at IGAD, the project has already achieved impressive results. In the past six months alone, IGAD recorded a 97% disbursement rate and a 76% budget utilisation rate for planned interventions in 2024. “IGAD is transforming these achievements into practical activities to support participating countries in addressing health emergency challenges,” Dr. Elduma added.
Dr. Peter Okwero emphasised that this progress marks a strong start for the HEPRR-MPA program. “We need to engage countries more and hear their needs and experiences as we work to develop implementation frameworks for multi-sectoral approaches like One Health,” he stated.
According to reports, by the end of September, the HEPRR-MPA Project had implemented 74% of planned activities, with a financial absorption rate of 76%. These results reflect the project team’s commitment to meeting key objectives within the designated timeline, demonstrating effective program management and resource utilisation.
The meeting brought together experts, IGAD member state representatives, and World Bank officials to discuss advancements in implementing Sub-component 1.3 of the project, which focuses on ensuring access to quality health products.
IGAD has accelerated its implementation efforts since the MPA program was launched in May 2024 in Nairobi, showcasing its dedication to health emergency preparedness across the region.
