Happy New Year 2024 to all our readers!

Author:

Isaac Awuondo

Article Type:

Article Number: 2

In this first issue of the Global Fund Observer 2024, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Aidspan wishes all GFO readers and supporters a very happy New Year.

Dear readers,

 

At the start of this new year, it is with great pleasure that we take up our pen to send you our warmest and most sincere wishes on behalf of the entire AIDSPAN team. May you enjoy flourishing health, both physical and mental. May this year be the scene of enriching discoveries, resolutions kept, and moments of joy shared with your loved ones. May each of your days be marked by well-being and fulfillment.

 

Aidspan’s mission is to improve the effectiveness, transparency, and accountability of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (the Global Fund) and other global health initiatives (GHIs). We do this by conducting independent observations, organizing meetings, and building the capacity of accountability mechanisms and in-country stakeholders. For over 20 years, Aidspan has proven itself to be a reliable and independent observer of the Global Fund. In the past year, Aidspan initiated the implementation of its 2023 – 2028 strategy, focusing on projects that align with four strategic pillars:

• Independent observer of The Global Fund and other global health initiatives;
• Increase transparency, accountability and effectiveness;
• Communication for change and influence;
• Build and strengthen strategic partnerships.

 

Beyond its historical mission focused primarily on the Global Fund, Aidspan has considerably broadened its scope to include other GHIs.

 

As we welcome 2024, our commitment to you remains stronger than ever. In our publications, we pledge to continue providing you with relevant information, rigorous analysis, and inspiring testimonials. We’ll be there to decipher the news, highlight key issues, and offer you an informed perspective on the challenges facing not only the Global Fund ecosystem, but also across the broader landscape of GHIs.

 

More specifically, our activities in 2024 revolve around the following four points:

• Thoroughly assess the impact of the Global Fund at country-level. This will include to enhance the depth, usefulness, and impact of published articles to align with audience needs;
• Enhance the efficiency, collaboration, and responsibility of GHIs, including the Global Fund, at the national level by advocating for data-driven decision-making regarding GHI’s strategies, policies, procedures and investments;
• Drive communication to inspire change and ensure continuous improvement in grant implementation and accountability within GHIs by facilitating feedback at the country level for both GHIs and their stakeholders;
• Broaden connections to create and reinforce valuable partnerships that ensure accountability and efficiency in GHIs by strengthening the organization’s capabilities.

 

That said, we remain open to your needs, your questions, and your successes. Your trust is our driving force, and we intend to earn that trust with every issue of the Global Fund Observer.

 

For several years now, we have formed a vibrant community to share information and practices. May we continue to achieve great things in 2024 for our individual and collective well-being. Let’s continue to grow, learn, and share our successes. Global health is our priority, and we are honored to be part of your journey as an activist, decision-maker, donor, survivor, and a community member.

 

Once again, we wish everyone a Happy New Year! We look forward to sharing the exciting pages of 2024 with you.

 

With gratitude,