[23/05/2025 04:42]

GENEVA - SABA
Minister of Public Health and Population Dr. Qasem Buhybeh, met Friday with the Director of the Middle East and North Africa Division at the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria Lynn Sossy and the Director of Financing, Emmanuel Olatunji.

The two parties discussed enhancing cooperation and partnership in addressing the escalating health challenges in Yemen, expanding basic health services, and improving coordination with relevant government entities.

During the meeting, held on the sidelines of the World Health Organization's General Assembly in Geneva, the minister reviewed the health situation in Yemen due to the war waged by Houthi militias.

He pointed out that the health system in Yemen is facing an unprecedented crisis characterized by the collapse of infrastructure, a severe shortage of medical personnel, and a lack of operational resources, in addition to repeated interruptions in funding for health programs from many international organizations.

The Minister emphasized the importance of continued and increased support from the Global Fund, particularly in the areas of malaria and tuberculosis control, enhancing the health system's capabilities in infrastructure, supply chains, and human resources.

He stressed the need to shift from emergency response to building a more sustainable and comprehensive health system.

Minister Buhybeh noted that the ministry places special importance on enhancing coordination with other government entities and improving working mechanisms with development partners, commending the vital role the Global Fund plays in financing life-saving health programs in Yemen.

Representatives from the Global Fund expressed their full understanding of the unique health situation in Yemen, affirming their commitment to working collaboratively with the ministry to ensure the continuity of basic health services and achieve the maximum possible health impact amid the current challenges.

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