U.S. businessman-philanthropist Bill Gates has called upon African leaders to unite with him in promoting health and development across the continent. He also emphasized that his foundation will collaborate with nations prioritizing the health of their citizens. On Tuesday, the U.S. billionaire announced that the majority of his philanthropic Gates Foundation‘s $200 billion endowment will be allocated to Africa over the next two decades. Gates, who stated on May 8 that he plans to wind down the foundation by 2045, made this commitment while speaking to African leaders in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
“I recently made a commitment that my wealth will be given away over the next 20 years. The majority of that funding will be spent on helping you address challenges here in Africa,” Gates remarked, urging leaders to enhance health and development through collaboration and innovation.
“By unleashing human potential through health and education, every country in Africa should be on a path to prosperity… and that path is an exciting thing to be part of,” he further conveyed to government officials, diplomats, and health workers.
Focus on maternal and child nutrition
“Investing in primary healthcare has the greatest impact on health and wellbeing,” Gates also affirmed. “With primary healthcare, what we’ve learned is that helping the mother be healthy and have great nutrition before she gets pregnant, while she is pregnant, delivers the strongest results. Ensuring the child receives good nutrition in their first four years as well makes all the difference.
Moreover, Gates highlighted Ethiopia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe as examples of countries demonstrating strong leadership in fostering innovation. He refrained from addressing allegations of authoritarianism and rights abuses against the governments of nations like Ethiopia and Rwanda.
“Our foundation has an increasing commitment to Africa,” Gates stated. “Our first African office was here in Ethiopia about 13 years ago. Now we have offices in South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, and Senegal. That’s a great way for us to strengthen partnerships.”
