Covid-19 Response

In the face of the global COVID-19 pandemic, WHA rose to the challenge, extending our reach far and wide to combat this unprecedented health crisis. The breadth of our response spans the continents, but our focus has been especially keen in Africa and parts of the Middle East, where healthcare systems face significant strain.

In Africa, our efforts have centered around strengthening local healthcare systems and aiding in the delivery and distribution of vaccines. “Working closely with ministries of health across numerous countries, we’ve been able to facilitate the delivery of over 15 million COVID-19 vaccine doses,” says Jake Stephenson, CEO of WHA. “In Ethiopia alone, we helped distribute over 1 million vaccines in just two weeks.“

The fight against COVID-19 is not just about vaccine distribution, but also about equipping healthcare facilities with the necessary medical supplies. In nations such as South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, WHA has supplied over 300 hospitals and clinics with PPE, testing kits, and ventilators, directly benefiting more than 2 million individuals.

Risk communication and community engagement have been pivotal in our strategy. We launched awareness campaigns in over 20 languages, reaching more than 40 million people across Africa. “We knew the importance of combating misinformation,” says Rachel, our Chief of Humanitarian Operations, “We had to make sure communities understand the severity of the disease, the safety of the vaccines, and the importance of following public health guidelines.“

In the Middle East, our initiatives have emphasized pharmacovigilance. In partnership with local health ministries, WHA has supported the establishment of systems to monitor and manage the potential side effects of COVID-19 vaccines. In countries like Yemen and Iraq, these systems have enhanced the safety of the vaccination campaign and built public trust in the process.

Indeed, the fight against COVID-19 is a collaborative effort. “Governments, NGOs, and communities must work together to overcome this global health crisis,” asserts our CEO, Jake Stephenson. “And WHA is proud to play a significant part in this monumental effort.” As we continue our mission, we remain committed to promoting health, alleviating suffering, and upholding human dignity during this challenging time and beyond.

The WHA’s comprehensive response to the global COVID-19 pandemic goes beyond immediate medical assistance. Alongside vaccine distribution efforts across Africa, WHA has worked diligently to strengthen local healthcare systems, offering crucial training to over 10,000 healthcare professionals. These professionals are now equipped with the knowledge and skills to manage the pandemic at a grassroots level.

Understanding that the pandemic has profound mental health implications, WHA integrated psychological support into its response. In partnership with local health agencies, WHA provided mental health resources to over a million individuals across Nigeria, Kenya, and Tanzania, offering a lifeline in these challenging times.

In the Middle East, WHA’s efforts have been concentrated in areas most vulnerable, including refugee camps. Rigorous sanitation protocols have been introduced, isolation units set up, and extensive education about the virus has been provided to over 500,000 refugees in Jordan and Lebanon. 

The WHA’s fight against COVID-19 is an ongoing process, continually adapting to meet the evolving challenges of the pandemic. WHA remains steadfast in its mission, tirelessly working to ensure no one is left behind. The comprehensive response of the WHA serves as a testament to its unflinching commitment to humanity, standing in solidarity with communities across Africa and the Middle East, empowering them to face and overcome this crisis. As the world continues its fight against the pandemic, the WHA continues to put humanity first, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most.