As global discussions on a new WHO Pandemic Agreement approach, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has urged African leaders to push for a fair and equitable global health framework that prioritizes the needs of the Global South. Highlighting the disparities revealed during the COVID-19 pandemic, AHF’s “Save Our Society” (SOS) campaign calls for an agreement that ensures fair access to health resources, especially vaccines and treatments, across all nations.

AHF Nigeria Country Program Director, Dr. Echey Ijezie, emphasized that for Africa to meet future health challenges, the continent must demand equitable access to essential medical resources and establish regional production capabilities. “Africans cannot afford to rely on handouts during crises. We must demand tools, knowledge, and capacity to protect ourselves and avoid the shortages seen with COVID-19 and ongoing Mpox vaccine access,” Ijezie stated.

The foundation also calls for sustainable financing and a commitment to technology transfer, ensuring that African nations can produce vital health commodities locally. This, it argues, will empower Africa to respond independently to future pandemics and foster resilience across the continent. The upcoming negotiations present a key moment for African leaders to advocate for binding terms on regional production, technology transfer, and financial commitments from wealthier nations.

According to AHF, an inclusive governance model, involving civil society in global health decisions, will further strengthen accountability and legitimacy, creating a more balanced global health system.