GFO Issue 462, Article Number: 8
ABSTRACT
On February 18, 2025, the Global Fund launched its eighth replenishment campaign, aiming to raise at least US$18 billion over the 2026–2028 cycle to combat TB, HIV, and malaria while strengthening health systems. The campaign, which is co-hosted by South Africa and the UK, emphasizes broad stakeholder participation and includes a US$2 billion private sector initiative. As it prepares for its 53rd Board Meeting, the Global Fund remains committed to consistent momentum, risk management, and coordinated action to meet its ambitious health goals. This article provides a summary of the primary subjects discussed during the board meeting.
During an online broadcast aired from Johannesburg on February 18, 2025, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria officially launched its eighth replenishment campaign and Investment case. With the globe dealing with growing geopolitical instability, increasing economic difficulties, and a changing donor environment, this launch comes at an essential moment for global health and development. In response, the Global Fund is looking to raise at least US$18 billion for its funding cycle in 2026–2028.
This ambitious effort is essential to:
- Save 23 million lives
- Reduce mortality from HIV, TB, and malaria by 64%
- Strengthen global health systems and enhance pandemic preparedness
Despite global challenges, the Global Fund remains resolute in its mission to sustain progress against the three diseases and to reinforce resilient, equitable health systems worldwide.
What outcomes were anticipated from the Global Fund’s 53rd Board meeting on resource mobilization and the launch of the eighth replenishment campaign?
At its 53rd Board meeting, the Global Fund Secretariat presented an update on resource mobilization efforts, including key activities underway as part of the eighth replenishment action plan. Discussions were focus on five main areas such as:
- Progress review on the seventh replenishment
- Execution of the eighth replenishment strategy
- Engagement with legislators, global platforms, and the private sector
- Risk management and progress advancement
- Preparations for a successful pledging conference
These discussions aimed to inform the Board and solicit strategic guidance to ensure the successful mobilization of resources for the 2026–2028 funding cycle.
From seventh replenishment to right: sustained momentum
As a priority, the Global Fund has made major progress in converting pledges from its seventh replenishment. By the end of 2024, a total of USD 8.8 billion and USD 1.15 billion had been signed by 25 out of 31 private sector contributors and 46 out of 51 governmental sector donors. Nearly 60% of these contributions would have already been paid in cash, so the Global Fund would be well on track to meet its conversion targets. During this time, new pledges of USD 113.9 million have been obtained, demonstrating the strength of donor relationships and faith in the Global Fund's objective.
However, there is a possibility of late payments in the current global environment. Proactively, the Global Fund says it has improved its internal controls and mitigation measures. In this report, the Global Fund gives special thanks to the donors who are advancing 2025 payments, and the participation of advocacy partners, such as lawmakers and civil society, remains a crucial factor in promoting quick commitment fulfilment.
Launching the eighth replenishment: a unified call to action
The formal launch of the eighth replenishment campaign took place on 18 February 2025 via a virtual event streamed from Johannesburg. Over 200 participants, including ministers, private sector actors, and community representatives, attended. South Africa and the United Kingdom were announced as co-hosts of the campaign a move that was warmly welcomed for its symbolic and strategic significance.
During the launch, the eighth replenishment investment case was unveiled. This case lays out an inspiring plan for a healthier, more equitable world while building on the Global Fund's demonstrated track record. With an investment of USD 18 billion, the partnership intends to improve health and pandemic preparedness systems in addition to combating the three most deadly infectious diseases. It was noted that the investment case was in line with the Global Fund's strategic priorities, which include community involvement, gender equality, and human rights.
Expanding advocacy and strategic engagement
As part of a comprehensive engagement strategy, the Global Fund Secretariat has reached out to advocates, champions, and donors worldwide. To increase awareness of the investment case and maintain momentum in the run-up to the pledging conference, a number of in-person and virtual visits to donor capitals have been conducted. Regular negotiation meetings are still in progress, and cooperation with South Africa and the UK is still crucial.
According to the Global Fund Secretariat, the communication campaign supporting the eighth replenishment has been designed to be both bold and adaptable. Recognizing the need for tailored messaging in an evolving environment, the campaign uses a "multi-moment" approach to reach a big number of stakeholders. Key themes include the Global Fund’s role in global health security and the return on investment that donors can expect from supporting its work.
Simultaneously, the Global Fund has intensified its collaboration with advocacy networks. Regular briefings with groups such as the Global Fund Advocacy Network (GFAN) have prepared the ground for strong civil society and community participation. GFAN Africa, for example, called for a regional meeting in early 2025 to align strategies and reinforce advocacy efforts ahead of the campaign. Faith-based organizations, youth advocates, and representatives from humanitarian contexts have also been mobilized to amplify the call for renewed commitment.
Engaging legislators, global platforms and the private sector
An essential part of the Global Fund's political outreach continues to be parliamentary engagement. MPs from donor nations like Australia, Canada, France, Japan, South Africa, the UK, and the US have been instrumental, with the help of networks like the Global TB Caucus and the Inter-Parliamentary Union. In particular, UK lawmakers played a significant role in securing their nation's co-hosting position for the Replenishment.
Additionally, attempts are being made to interact with the G20 and G7 platforms. Being the G20 chair and co-host of replenishment presents a special chance for South Africa to gain high-level political backing and position the Global Fund as an essential partner in universal health coverage and sustainable health financing.
The renewed emphasis on engaging the private sector is one of this campaign cycle's most encouraging developments. The Global Fund introduced its Private Sector Investment Opportunity at the World Economic Forum in Davos, with the audacious goal of raising USD 2 billion. This stream seeks to open up new opportunities for funding global health by utilizing innovation, funding, and partnerships with companies and philanthropists.
Managing risks, advancing progress
The Global Fund claims to be acutely aware of the risks to its reputation and resource mobilization in an increasingly uncertain world. From grassroots advocacy to high-level diplomacy, many of its current initiatives act as both opportunities and mitigating factors. The Global Fund's approach remains visibly focused on open and honest communication with stakeholders and a strong presence in international policy debates.
Both internal planning and external assurance are informed by the organization's organizational risk register, which provides specifics on its risk outlook and mitigation strategies. To maximize effectiveness and impact, the Secretariat says it keeps a close eye on the changing funding environment, and makes any necessary adjustments to campaign tactics and resources.
Looking ahead: toward a successful pledging Conference?
The Global Fund Secretariat affirms its full commitment to implementing its comprehensive resource mobilization plan, in step with the progress of the eighth replenishment campaign. Deploying campaign assets, increasing stakeholder engagement, and making sure that inclusive and comprehensive preparations are made for the pledging conference, which is the cornerstone of the eighth replenishment, are among the top priorities.
It was recommended that board members and partners keep providing strategic direction, mobilizing support, and promoting the Investment Case on every relevant channels. Is the Global Fund well positioned to achieve its ambitious goals ,accelerating the eradication of HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria, while strengthening global health systems through cooperation and collective commitment?
While significant challenges remain, the Global Fund maintains that success is well within reach. Furthermore, it asserts that it is well placed to ensure the success of the donor conference, thanks to the strong leadership of its Board, effective collaboration with co-hosts - South Africa and the United Kingdom - and the ongoing engagement of a broad partnership of stakeholders.
Stakeholder feedback from the Global Fund Board Meeting
Stakeholders have commended the Global Fund's leadership and Secretariat for providing a comprehensive report on fund mobilization. They fully support the ambitious USD 18 billion target for the 8th replenishment, recognizing its critical role in sustaining the fight against HIV, TB, and malaria, as well as strengthening resilient and sustainable health systems.
Looking ahead to the success of the eighth replenishment, they reaffirmed their support for the Global Fund’s mission and offered recommendations to help achieve this goal.
Moreover, Stakeholders and implementing countries emphasized the need for ongoing ambition and optimism while expressing strong support for the Global Fund's leadership and flexibility. They urged the Global Fund to explain the possible risks and losses should the funding target not be met, and to focus on what can be accomplished with full funding. Finally, they emphasized their dual roles as contributors and beneficiaries, highlighting the significance of cross-border health initiatives and domestic resource mobilization.
Regarding the private sector, their commitment, but they also recognized the difficulties that lie ahead, especially in securing domestic private contributions. In addition, they urge the Global Fund to keep presenting an engaging investment case to business audiences and to investigate fresh, creative financing models.
Finally, leaders of civil society emphasized the significance of community involvement, tailored advocacy, and maintaining progress in the battle against HIV, TB, and malaria. Emphasis was placed on the function of community health workers and the significance of attending to the medical requirements of marginalized and mobile populations.
Key takeaways and next steps from the Board meeting
The meeting ended with a strong call for all stakeholders to strengthen their collaboration and advocacy, reaffirming the Global Fund's core partnership model.
As the campaign approaches significant points at future international summits, stakeholders continue to be unified in their dedication to openness, cooperation, and cooperative problem-solving.
Despite the challenging circumstances, optimism prevailed. This confidence was based from the Global Fund’s proven impact, the strength of its partnerships, and the unwavering dedication of its advocates. As one participant said “every contribution matters and brings us closer to ending the epidemics”.
During an online broadcast aired from Johannesburg on February 18, 2025, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria officially launched its eighth replenishment campaign and Investment case. With the globe dealing with growing geopolitical instability, increasing economic difficulties, and a changing donor environment, this launch comes at an essential moment for global health and development. In response, the Global Fund is looking to raise at least US$18 billion for its funding cycle in 2026–2028.
This ambitious effort is essential to:
- Save 23 million lives
- Reduce mortality from HIV, TB, and malaria by 64%
- Strengthen global health systems and enhance pandemic preparedness
Despite global challenges, the Global Fund remains resolute in its mission to sustain progress against the three diseases and to reinforce resilient, equitable health systems worldwide.
What outcomes were anticipated from the Global Fund’s 53rd Board meeting on resource mobilization and the launch of the eighth replenishment campaign?
At its 53rd Board meeting, the Global Fund Secretariat presented an update on resource mobilization efforts, including key activities underway as part of the eighth replenishment action plan. Discussions were focus on five main areas such as:
- Progress review on the seventh replenishment
- Execution of the eighth replenishment strategy
- Engagement with legislators, global platforms, and the private sector
- Risk management and progress advancement
- Preparations for a successful pledging conference
These discussions aimed to inform the Board and solicit strategic guidance to ensure the successful mobilization of resources for the 2026–2028 funding cycle.
From seventh replenishment to right: sustained momentum
As a priority, the Global Fund has made major progress in converting pledges from its seventh replenishment. By the end of 2024, a total of USD 8.8 billion and USD 1.15 billion had been signed by 25 out of 31 private sector contributors and 46 out of 51 governmental sector donors. Nearly 60% of these contributions would have already been paid in cash, so the Global Fund would be well on track to meet its conversion targets. During this time, new pledges of USD 113.9 million have been obtained, demonstrating the strength of donor relationships and faith in the Global Fund's objective.
However, there is a possibility of late payments in the current global environment. Proactively, the Global Fund says it has improved its internal controls and mitigation measures. In this report, the Global Fund gives special thanks to the donors who are advancing 2025 payments, and the participation of advocacy partners, such as lawmakers and civil society, remains a crucial factor in promoting quick commitment fulfilment.
Launching the eighth replenishment: a unified call to action
The formal launch of the eighth replenishment campaign took place on 18 February 2025 via a virtual event streamed from Johannesburg. Over 200 participants, including ministers, private sector actors, and community representatives, attended. South Africa and the United Kingdom were announced as co-hosts of the campaign a move that was warmly welcomed for its symbolic and strategic significance.
During the launch, the eighth replenishment investment case was unveiled. This case lays out an inspiring plan for a healthier, more equitable world while building on the Global Fund's demonstrated track record. With an investment of USD 18 billion, the partnership intends to improve health and pandemic preparedness systems in addition to combating the three most deadly infectious diseases. It was noted that the investment case was in line with the Global Fund's strategic priorities, which include community involvement, gender equality, and human rights.
Expanding advocacy and strategic engagement
As part of a comprehensive engagement strategy, the Global Fund Secretariat has reached out to advocates, champions, and donors worldwide. To increase awareness of the investment case and maintain momentum in the run-up to the pledging conference, a number of in-person and virtual visits to donor capitals have been conducted. Regular negotiation meetings are still in progress, and cooperation with South Africa and the UK is still crucial.
According to the Global Fund Secretariat, the communication campaign supporting the eighth replenishment has been designed to be both bold and adaptable. Recognizing the need for tailored messaging in an evolving environment, the campaign uses a "multi-moment" approach to reach a big number of stakeholders. Key themes include the Global Fund’s role in global health security and the return on investment that donors can expect from supporting its work.
Simultaneously, the Global Fund has intensified its collaboration with advocacy networks. Regular briefings with groups such as the Global Fund Advocacy Network (GFAN) have prepared the ground for strong civil society and community participation. GFAN Africa, for example, called for a regional meeting in early 2025 to align strategies and reinforce advocacy efforts ahead of the campaign. Faith-based organizations, youth advocates, and representatives from humanitarian contexts have also been mobilized to amplify the call for renewed commitment.
Engaging legislators, global platforms and the private sector
An essential part of the Global Fund's political outreach continues to be parliamentary engagement. MPs from donor nations like Australia, Canada, France, Japan, South Africa, the UK, and the US have been instrumental, with the help of networks like the Global TB Caucus and the Inter-Parliamentary Union. In particular, UK lawmakers played a significant role in securing their nation's co-hosting position for the Replenishment.
Additionally, attempts are being made to interact with the G20 and G7 platforms. Being the G20 chair and co-host of replenishment presents a special chance for South Africa to gain high-level political backing and position the Global Fund as an essential partner in universal health coverage and sustainable health financing.
The renewed emphasis on engaging the private sector is one of this campaign cycle's most encouraging developments. The Global Fund introduced its Private Sector Investment Opportunity at the World Economic Forum in Davos, with the audacious goal of raising USD 2 billion. This stream seeks to open up new opportunities for funding global health by utilizing innovation, funding, and partnerships with companies and philanthropists.
Managing risks, advancing progress
The Global Fund claims to be acutely aware of the risks to its reputation and resource mobilization in an increasingly uncertain world. From grassroots advocacy to high-level diplomacy, many of its current initiatives act as both opportunities and mitigating factors. The Global Fund's approach remains visibly focused on open and honest communication with stakeholders and a strong presence in international policy debates.
Both internal planning and external assurance are informed by the organization's organizational risk register, which provides specifics on its risk outlook and mitigation strategies. To maximize effectiveness and impact, the Secretariat says it keeps a close eye on the changing funding environment, and makes any necessary adjustments to campaign tactics and resources.
Looking ahead: toward a successful pledging Conference?
The Global Fund Secretariat affirms its full commitment to implementing its comprehensive resource mobilization plan, in step with the progress of the eighth replenishment campaign. Deploying campaign assets, increasing stakeholder engagement, and making sure that inclusive and comprehensive preparations are made for the pledging conference, which is the cornerstone of the eighth replenishment, are among the top priorities.
It was recommended that board members and partners keep providing strategic direction, mobilizing support, and promoting the Investment Case on every relevant channels. Is the Global Fund well positioned to achieve its ambitious goals ,accelerating the eradication of HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria, while strengthening global health systems through cooperation and collective commitment?
While significant challenges remain, the Global Fund maintains that success is well within reach. Furthermore, it asserts that it is well placed to ensure the success of the donor conference, thanks to the strong leadership of its Board, effective collaboration with co-hosts - South Africa and the United Kingdom - and the ongoing engagement of a broad partnership of stakeholders.
Stakeholder feedback from the Global Fund Board Meeting
Stakeholders have commended the Global Fund's leadership and Secretariat for providing a comprehensive report on fund mobilization. They fully support the ambitious USD 18 billion target for the 8th replenishment, recognizing its critical role in sustaining the fight against HIV, TB, and malaria, as well as strengthening resilient and sustainable health systems.
Looking ahead to the success of the eighth replenishment, they reaffirmed their support for the Global Fund’s mission and offered recommendations to help achieve this goal.
Moreover, Stakeholders and implementing countries emphasized the need for ongoing ambition and optimism while expressing strong support for the Global Fund's leadership and flexibility. They urged the Global Fund to explain the possible risks and losses should the funding target not be met, and to focus on what can be accomplished with full funding. Finally, they emphasized their dual roles as contributors and beneficiaries, highlighting the significance of cross-border health initiatives and domestic resource mobilization.
Regarding the private sector, their commitment, but they also recognized the difficulties that lie ahead, especially in securing domestic private contributions. In addition, they urge the Global Fund to keep presenting an engaging investment case to business audiences and to investigate fresh, creative financing models.
Finally, leaders of civil society emphasized the significance of community involvement, tailored advocacy, and maintaining progress in the battle against HIV, TB, and malaria. Emphasis was placed on the function of community health workers and the significance of attending to the medical requirements of marginalized and mobile populations.
Key takeaways and next steps from the Board meeting
The meeting ended with a strong call for all stakeholders to strengthen their collaboration and advocacy, reaffirming the Global Fund's core partnership model.
As the campaign approaches significant points at future international summits, stakeholders continue to be unified in their dedication to openness, cooperation, and cooperative problem-solving.
Despite the challenging circumstances, optimism prevailed. This confidence was based from the Global Fund’s proven impact, the strength of its partnerships, and the unwavering dedication of its advocates. As one participant said “every contribution matters and brings us closer to ending the epidemics”.
