Sudan: UNDP delivers essential medicines for HIV, TB treatment
July 29, 2024 (KHARTOUM) – More than 20 metric tons of essential medicines, diagnostics, and supplies have arrived, delivered by UNDP Sudan, to ensure the continuation of HIV and TB treatment for patients throughout the country.
The delivery of 20.3 tons of medical supplies, as well as information and communication technology (ICT), is reportedly valued at just under US$ 900,000, courtesy of grant funds from The Global Fund.
UNDP Sudan, a statement extended to Sudan Tribune noted, has overseen five delivery flights carrying medicines, diagnostics, and equipment since the beginning of hostilities on April 15, 2023.
“Medicines, diagnostics, and supplies from this shipment will be distributed to beneficiaries across the country. They will be used to replenish the stock of Multi-Drug Resistant (MDR) Tuberculosis Medicines and pediatric Anti-Retroviral (ARV) medicines lost during the escalation of the Sudan conflict in November 2023, resulting in the restoration of treatment for over 120 MDR TB patients and 368 children living with HIV/AIDs,” the statement said.
It added, “Adult Anti-Retroviral (ARV) medicines were also delivered in this consignment, which will be utilized by 11,429 adults living with HIV/AIDS.”
The shipment included Adult and pediatric anti-retroviral treatments for people living with HIV (PLHIV), Anti-tuberculosis for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis patients, Laboratory consumables & diagnostics, and ICT equipment in support of the FMOH & the national programs.
“UNDP commends the Federal Ministry of Health for remaining resilient and committed to delivering health services during this time. Strengthening systems to support national capacity is the core of our mission in Sudan,” said UNDP Sudan Resident Representative Luca Renda.
“We will continue to enhance our partnership with the Federal Ministry of Health, the Global Fund, and other partners to strengthen medicines/health products supply and distribution systems, which will ensure continuity of HIV and TB treatments while supporting the foundation for a sustainable healthcare system in the future for the country.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Sara Abdulla Azhari, the Director of Communicable Diseases Control Directorate at the Federal Ministry of Health, said the Federal Ministry of Health is delighted to receive this shipment of essential medicines from UNDP.
“It will allow us to continue and maintain to provide health services to the Sudanese people through their treatment of TB and HIV,” she explained, adding “UNDP Sudan and The Global Fund have been excellent partners in maintaining and supporting the public health system of the country.”
Working in partnership with The Global Fund, UNDP Sudan is reportedly collaborating with, and uniting efforts among, the Federal and state Ministries of Health, the National Medical Supplies Fund, UN agencies, and other health partners to ensure the continuity of primary healthcare service delivery during emergencies, notably through supporting the national response to HIV and TB, ensuring real-time procurement and distribution of medicine, among others.
(ST)