By Chucks Nzeh, Abuja
A group of health experts under the aegis of Afrihealth Optonet Association, a coalition of civil society network and think-tank for systems strengthening and the promotion of Health as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, have admonished President Muhammadu Buhari, on critical issues ahead of the forthcoming United Nation High-Level Meeting, UNHLM, later in the year in New York.
This is contained in a letter addressed to the President, dated 4th July, 2018, signed by the National Coordinator, Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje, and reads in part. “On behalf of the global TB stakeholders and communities, I would like to convey our appreciation for your continued leadership in the global fight to end tuberculosis (TB).
“We look up to your continuous support even more as we now move towards a successful UN High-Level Meeting (UNHLM) on TB on Wednesday, 26th September 2018, taking place during the UN General Assembly in New York.
“We understand that member states are initiating negotiations on a Zero Draft of the UNHLM Political Declaration.
Given this background, we are pleased to share with you the “Key Asks” that have been developed through our combined extensive engagement with the global TB stakeholders and communities, including UN agencies, high-burden TB countries, donors, civil society, people affected by TB, and the private sector.
Adirieje said” It is crucial that the aspiration of the TB Stakeholders and Communities as communicated in the Key Asks, are considered to inform the content of the Zero Draft and the subsequent final Political Declaration that will be endorsed at the UNHLM on September 26th.
According to the group that also has a Consultative Status at the United Nations ECOSOC; and has members in Nigeria, Kenya, Malawi, Haiti and Uganda, “The 5 Key Asks from the TB Stakeholders and Communities are;
Reach all people by closing the gaps on TB diagnosis, treatment and prevention. Transform the TB response to be equitable, rights-based, and people centred.
Accelerate development of essential new tools to end TB . Invest the funds necessary to end TB. Commit to decisive and accountable global leadership, including regular UN reporting and review. ”
“Our full list of Key Asks and associated targets can be found in the attached document. As an important champion in the global effort against TB, we would be grateful if you would consider these priorities as you formulate your positions in advance of the negotiations on the Zero Draft. ”
“We, the TB stakeholder and communities are looking forward to His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari’s attendance at the UNHLM on TB on 26th September to join other Heads of State in pledging their commitment to accelerate progress towards ending TB by 2030, and outline key actions being taken by Nigeria to follow through on the commitments in the Political Declaration expected to be endorsed by Heads of State at the UNHLM. ” He noted.
