AFRICA – Gavi, the Vaccines Alliance has appointed Amref Health Africa as the new host of its Civil Society Organization (CSO) platform effective from 1 January 2022 for a period of 3 years ending 2024.
Amref has been selected to host the CSO platform to support implementation of immunization policies and programs through engaging the civil society to amplify the community voices and work with all partners at global, regional, national and subnational levels.
The organization will mobilize and support civil society organizations working to strengthen health systems and deliver immunization services to underserved communities.
It will also oversee that all countries supported by Gavi allocate at least ten percent of their combined Health System Strengthening, Equity Accelerator Funding and Targeted Country Assistance ceilings for activities undertaken by CSO partners.
Consequently, Amref will collaborate with civil society partners to help Gavi to strengthen its political commitment and accountability, build trust in vaccines and support delivery of immunization services for all.
Civil society organizations will ensure immunization programs reach the most marginalized groups since they understand the specific needs and context of the populations and have the trust and confidence of the communities.
The announcement follows Amref Health Africa, Gavi and the Gavi Civil Society Organization Steering Committee partnership aimed at engaging the civil society to deliver on Gavi’s ambitious mission to leave no one behind with immunization.
Amref Health Africa Group Chief Executive Officer Dr Githinji Gitahi acknowledged that civil society organizations play a significant role in supporting communities and health systems, noting that Amref has collaborated with different governments to increase sustainable health access to communities.
“Amref will support the overall global immunization agenda by expanding and deepening civil society engagement with key stakeholders including government leaders, multilateral partners, private sector organizations and grassroots communities,” Dr Githinji said.
He added that Amref will offer strategic advisory services to the Gavi CSO Steering Committee and support capacity building efforts for county-led engagement and implementation.
Moreover, Amref will ensure proper coordination between the Gavi Secretariat, the Gavi CSO Steering Committee and the Constituency while managing communications on key and relevant issues for the civil society immunization community.
Amref succeeds the International Federation of the Red Cross which completed its hosting term on 31st December 2021 after ten years.
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