A $500-million fund dedicated to improving maternal and neonatal health in sub-Saharan Africa launched Tuesday in Abu Dhabi.
The fund, named the Beginnings Fund, arrives at a critical time as Western countries sharply cut aid to Africa.
Notably, philanthropists like the Gates Foundation and the Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity back the initiative.
The UAE’s president oversees the Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation, adding strong leadership to this major effort.
Organizers announced that the fund has already secured $450 million in pledges toward the 2030 deadline.
They aim to prevent over 300,000 deaths and improve access to quality care for 34 million mothers and babies.
This move comes as the United States, under President Donald Trump, slashes budgets for humanitarian programs.
“It’s a very critical time,” said Tala Al Ramahi, spokesperson for the Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity.
She emphasized that philanthropy alone cannot replace the wide gaps left by declining government aid.
However, the Beginnings Fund will focus on improving maternal and neonatal health through products, people, and health systems.
Despite the UAE’s denial, international agencies have accused it of complicity in conflicts across Sudan and Libya.
The UAE continues to reject allegations of supplying arms to Khalifa Haftar or supporting paramilitary groups.
Still, the country moves forward with humanitarian initiatives, including improving maternal and neonatal health through this new fund.
Over the next five years, the fund plans partnerships with ten countries, including Ethiopia, Ghana, and Nigeria.
Additionally, Malawi, Lesotho, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe will benefit from targeted support efforts.
According to the fund’s statement, most deaths occur within the first month of life in sub-Saharan Africa.
Moreover, the region accounts for 70 percent of global maternal deaths, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.
With a strong international coalition, the Beginnings Fund sets a bold goal of improving maternal and neonatal health by 2030.
This initiative reflects growing efforts to tackle health disparities in one of the world’s most vulnerable regions.
In conclusion, despite global aid cuts, the launch of the Beginnings Fund offers renewed hope for improving maternal and neonatal health.
