Epidemics response and preparedness for sustainable development in African countries

In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Ibrahimana Cheikh Diong emphasized the urgent need for African countries to increase their focus on innovative financing through blended finance to tackle the risks posed by climate change and health emergencies. Diong highlighted the devastating impact of recent natural disasters in Mozambique, Malawi, and Madagascar, which claimed the lives of over 300 people. These events underscored the human impact of climate change on African countries and the need for a loss and damage fund to support affected nations. Diong emphasized the importance of strengthening contingency plans and providing early alerts to reduce human casualties during disasters. Organizations like the African Risk Capacity (ARC) have been crucial in mobilizing resources and transferring risks to the insurance market to fund immediate responses to emergencies. Key Points: 1. Strengthening Early Interventions: Diong stressed the importance of developing contingency plans and providing timely alerts to governments to mitigate the impact of natural disasters. By transferring risks to the insurance market, countries like Madagascar were able to access funds for immediate response efforts. 2. Climate Change and Health Concerns: The nexus between climate change and health emergencies is a growing threat in Africa. Diong highlighted the need for preparedness, surveillance, and contingency planning to address outbreaks and epidemics. Innovative solutions, such as parametric insurance for disease outbreaks, are essential to support countries overwhelmed by health crises. 3. Financing for Mitigation and Adaptation: The Africa Development Bank has set a target of over $1.3 trillion for investments in mitigation and adaptation by 2030. Diong emphasized the need for fulfilling financial commitments made during international climate conferences and streamlining funding processes to ensure that resources reach developing countries. Blended finance, combining public, private, and concession funding, is essential to meet the substantial funding requirements for renewable energy and infrastructure projects. Quote: Ibrahimana Cheikh Diong stated, 'The only way we can address the climate crisis and the health crisis is through global solidarity and partnerships.' The interview also discussed the role of inter-agency alliances like the African Risk Capacity (ARC), the International Partnership for Disaster and Extremism Preparedness (IPD), and the West African Health Organization (WAHO) in building the capacity of ECOWAS member states to address climate change and health challenges collectively. Diong emphasized the importance of global solidarity and partnerships to effectively tackle the dual challenges of climate change and health emergencies, drawing lessons from past crises like COVID-19.