Gates Foundation partners with KSRelief to eradicate polio, strengthen primary healthcare

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Updated 29 April 2024
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Gates Foundation partners with KSRelief to eradicate polio, strengthen primary healthcare

Gates Foundation partners with KSRelief to eradicate polio, strengthen primary healthcare
  • With $500 million pledged, this is the biggest contribution that a sovereign country has ever given to the polio eradication program

RIYADH: The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Saudi aid agency KSrelief have announced a joint push to eradicate polio, improve global health, and alleviate poverty.

At the World Economic Forum’s special meeting in Riyadh, Anita Zaidi, president of the foundation’s gender equality division, told Arab News: “This is a really momentous occasion for us to really expand our partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

“It’s the biggest contribution that a sovereign country has ever given to the polio eradication program, and it’s really a signal for how governments in the Middle East, like the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries, are really stepping up to play their part in global health and development.”

Saudi Arabia will contribute $100 million to support the Lives and Livelihoods Fund, the largest multilateral development initiative in the Middle East. The fund aims to lift the poorest people out of poverty in 33 Islamic Development Bank member countries through investments to strengthen primary healthcare, eliminate preventable infectious diseases, support smallholder farming and rural agriculture, and improve basic infrastructure.

Both parties are also allocating $4 million as a relief grant in response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which is profoundly affecting women and children. The grant, to be distributed through UNICEF, aims to provide health interventions and access to basic water and sanitation services.

Saudi Arabia has pledged $500 million over the next five years to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, which will help to deliver vital health services and polio vaccines to underserved populations through the World Health Organization and UNICEF.

The Kingdom and the Gates Foundation have pledged $3 million and $15 million respectively over three years to support the Polio Legacy Challenge administered by the IsDB, with contributions from Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar under the patronage of the WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean’s subcommittee for polio eradication and outbreaks.

To implement the programmes, the Gates Foundation will establish a regional office in Riyadh — in Mohammed bin Salman Nonprofit City — in partnership with the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation to support youth engagement and effectiveness of the third sector.

The partnership between Saudi Arabia and the Gates Foundation has been in the works for several months, and as the WEF meeting for the first time since the pandemic takes place outside Davos, the urgency of announcing the cooperation became evident, Zaidi said.   

The announcement also coincides with the IsDB’s 50th anniversary this week.

This new commitment from Saudi Arabia is the largest multi-year pledge by a sovereign donor to the current GPEI strategy, ensuring that essential health services are provided to hundreds of millions of children each year.

When Africa became free of wild polio in 2020, it left Pakistan and Afghanistan as the only countries where wild polio is endemic.

“There is a special relationship between these countries and Saudi Arabia, so that thought partnership and those relationships, (you ask:) how do you work with these countries? How do you partner more deeply? All of that is important for polio eradication,” Zaidi said.

The direct engagement of countries in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, has helped drive the number of polio cases in those countries down from more than 300 in 2014 to 12 in 2023. The GPEI will continue to need resources until polio case numbers reach zero and the world is certified polio-free.

Global health is hugely reliant on women, who comprise 70 percent of the sector’s workforce. But women in senior roles, those who have worked on the ground to understand the eradication process of such diseases, are still lacking.

“We are really trying to change, to hear more women’s voices,” Zaidi said. “And that was part of the program in Pakistan where, for the first time, we surveyed the frontline health workers and asked: what is it that you face in your daily work that is keeping you from doing your best work? What ideas do you have for convincing people whose families are refusing polio vaccination? How do you best communicate the message? All of that has really led to so many better changes in the program,” she added.

One of the foundation’s key focuses is the lack of progress in women’s health, including stagnant maternal mortality rates in the past 10 years — 200,000 women die every year as a result of childbirth. The foundation funded a McKinsey report published at January’s WEF session that highlighted the economic cost of women in poor health.

“We really need to invest in training and retention of the frontline health workers around the world. But the other part is all the new ideas and the new innovations that we can get out to women,” Zaidi said.

Now there are innovations that measure postpartum blood loss, an annual single-injection iron IV for anemia, and ultrasounds facilitated by artificial intelligence awaiting investment and implementation. “These (are) really exciting things that we can now do to really bring down deaths during pregnancy and delivery,” she said.

Zaidi noted that global health intersects with other sectors and industries as the WEF becomes the backdrop for these essential correlations.  

“Having a forum like WEF to really talk about these issues is key. And that’s why we launched the Global Health Alliance, a global alliance for women’s health as well, which is bringing in a lot of different types of thinkers who understand this issue to really solve it,” she said.


Saudi Arabia leads Arab world in congratulating Trump

Saudi Arabia's King Salman sent a cable of congratulations to Donald Trump on his election victory. (AFP)
Saudi Arabia's King Salman sent a cable of congratulations to Donald Trump on his election victory. (AFP)
Updated 23 min 8 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia leads Arab world in congratulating Trump

Saudi Arabia's King Salman sent a cable of congratulations to Donald Trump on his election victory. (AFP)
  • King Salman wishes Trump and Americans ‘progress and prosperity’
  • Leaders of Jordan and Egypt urge Trump to help bring peace

RIYADH: Arab leaders congratulated Donald Trump on Wednesday after his comprehensive victory in the US presidential election.

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman sent a cable of congratulations to Trump, wishing him success and the “American people further progress and prosperity.”

The king praised the strong historical ties between the two nations, “emphasizing the shared desire to further strengthen these bonds in all areas.”

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also sent a cable to congratulate Trump. In a phone call later on Wednesday, the crown prince expressed the Kingdom’s aspiration to strengthen Saudi-US relations.

The Republican made Saudi Arabia his first foreign visit after he took office for his first term as president in 2017. The visit underlined the importance of the historic US-Saudi partnership and cemented relations with Gulf allies.

Those countries congratulated Trump after he declared victory in a sweeping election win over Democrat Kamala Harris.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan offered “sincere congratulations to Trump and his running mate JD Vance.”

Skeikh Mohamed added: “The UAE and US are united by our enduring partnership based on shared ambitions for progress.

“The UAE looks forward to continuing to work with our partners in the US towards a future of opportunity, prosperity and stability for all.”

During Trump’s first term, his administration brokered the 2020 Abraham Accords deal under which Israel opened full relations with the UAE and a number of other Arab countries.

However, the devastating war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza and its expansion into Lebanon has drawn widespread condemnation of Israel from regional leaders and dominated foreign policy discussion throughout the election campaign, with Trump promising to bring fighting to an end.

Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi said he hoped Trump’s return to the White House would help bring peace to the Middle East.

“I wish him all the success and I look forward to reaching peace together, upholding regional stability and strengthening the strategic partnership between Egypt and the United States,” El-Sisi said.

Jordan’s King Abdullah II also invoked the need for the next US president to work toward peace.

“Warmest congratulations to President Donald Trump on winning the US presidential election,” he said. “Looking forward to working with you again to bolster Jordan’s longstanding partnership with the United States, in service of regional and global peace and stability for all.”

Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, the emir of Qatar, which is a key mediator in the Gaza conflict and hosts the largest US military base in the Middle East, said he looked forward to “working together again in promoting security and stability both in the region and globally.”


Saudi crown prince meets with Pakistani army chief in Riyadh

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman meets with  Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman meets with Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
Updated 06 November 2024
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Saudi crown prince meets with Pakistani army chief in Riyadh

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman meets with  Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
  • During the reception, Saudi-Pakistani relations and opportunities to develop them were reviewed
  • A number of issues of common interest were also discussed

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir in Riyadh on Wednesday, Saudi Press Agency reported. 

During the reception, Saudi-Pakistani relations and opportunities to develop them were reviewed. A number of issues of common interest were also discussed.

The meeting was attended by Saudi Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman and other officials. 


Saudi Arabia showcases tourism potential at London travel market

Saudi Arabia showcases tourism potential at London travel market
Updated 06 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia showcases tourism potential at London travel market

Saudi Arabia showcases tourism potential at London travel market
  • ‘Saudi Land’ pavilion promotes major investments, featuring luxury resorts and historic tourism developments
  • Jeddah Historic District Program is participating in the market from Nov. 5 to 7 to promote Jeddah as an international tourism destination

RIYADH: Saudi Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Saudi Tourism Authority Ahmed Al-Khateeb inaugurated the Kingdom’s participation in the World Travel Market in London with the “Saudi Land” pavilion.

The pavilion includes the Visit Saudi exhibition, organized by the Saudi Tourism Authority for the fourth consecutive year, supported by more than 70 partners in tourism, including destinations, hotels, airlines and travel companies.

Saudi Arabia’s presence at this global event highlights efforts to establish its status on the tourism map, showcasing rapid growth and record-breaking achievements in the sector.

The event promotes Saudi destinations, attracts diverse tourists, empowers the private sector and fosters strategic partnerships.

The Visit Saudi exhibition unveiled the Saudi Red Sea Destination, featuring Red Sea Global’s latest projects, aiming for 16 resorts this year and 50 by 2030.

The pavilion also offers interactive experiences showcasing Saudi hospitality, natural diversity, climate, culture, traditional attire, music and cuisine.

“Saudi Arabia, the fastest-growing tourist destination globally, seeks to solidify its leadership in world tourism, aligning with the Saudi Vision 2030 goals by highlighting unique destinations, new projects, and significant investment opportunities,“ Al-Khateeb said.

He added: Saudi Arabia is the largest global investor in the tourism sector.”

Saudi Tourism Authority CEO Fahd Hamidaddin said that Saudi Arabia was celebrating its tourism achievements and record-breaking growth at this leading international event.

The Kingdom aims to build on the success of the second phase of its global campaign, “This Land Is Calling,” targeting key markets, supporting partners and forging strategic partnerships with top global companies.

The Jeddah Historic District Program is participating in the market from Nov. 5 to 7 to promote Jeddah as an international tourism destination.

The program spotlights the heritage of the Jeddah Historic District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring historic architecture, mosques, markets, public spaces, museums, heritage restaurants and cultural landmarks.

The program offers authentic tourism experiences, including stays in restored heritage hotels, immersive historical tours and hands-on participation in local crafts.

The Hail Region Development Authority is participating to elevate Hail’s global tourism profile, promote its destinations, and empower partners to build strategic partnerships.

The Soudah Development Co. is showcasing its flagship project, “Soudah Peaks,” a luxury mountain destination on the Kingdom’s highest peak at 3,015 meters above sea level.

The Saudi delegation also includes representatives from key entities such as Tourism Development Fund, ASFAR, Cruise Saudi, Saudia airline, Riyadh Air, Red Sea Global, Diriyah Co., the Royal Commission for AlUla and NEOM.

At the market, Diriyah Co. signed strategic agreements with luxury operator Abercrombie & Kent and leading Saudi travel platform Almosafer. These collaborations aim to create high-end travel experiences that position Diriyah as a premier destination and a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing tourism landscape.


Saudi Arabia highlights urban sustainability vision at Cairo forum

Saudi Arabia highlights urban sustainability vision at Cairo forum
Updated 06 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia highlights urban sustainability vision at Cairo forum

Saudi Arabia highlights urban sustainability vision at Cairo forum
  • Authorities emphasize development goals, from green spaces to innovative infrastructure

Riyadh: Saudi authorities are showcasing the Kingdom’s role in sustainable urban development at the 12th World Urban Forum in Cairo, organized by the UN Human Settlements Programme, from Nov. 4-8.

The municipality of Baha region highlighted Vision 2030 objectives and the Kingdom’s urban development initiatives, along with the standards followed by the municipality.

Ali Al-Sawat, mayor of Baha, emphasized the Kingdom’s pioneering efforts to achieve sustainable development goals across various urban sectors.

The municipality’s participation also focused on urban planning, sustainable transportation, community engagement, waste management, recycling, green spaces and strategies to address environmental challenges.

It highlighted Saudi Arabia’s efforts to transform cities into adaptable, sustainable environments and showcased innovations improving residents’ quality of life and preserving the environment.

The municipality is committed to innovative solutions in infrastructure, project management and data analysis to build a sustainable urban model that meets community needs.

Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, head of the Saudi delegation at the forum, highlighted Saudi Arabia’s extensive experience in urban development and improving residents’ quality of life.

Since 2016, Saudi Arabia had pursued an ambitious national vision for 2030, Prince Faisal said at the forum’s ministerial roundtable. This comprehensive vision includes 27 sub-objectives, addressing various aspects of human life.

The Quality of Life Program, part of Saudi Vision 2030, hosted a panel titled 'Towards Future Cities: Putting Quality of Life and People’s Well-Being at the Core of Urban Planning.' (SPA)

He emphasized that the vision also focused on enhancing livability in Saudi cities, alongside economic, environmental and social improvements.

Prince Faisal praised Saudi Arabia’s experience in urban development, with 17 municipalities working to turn the Vision into practical initiatives benefiting both residents and visitors.

“The Kingdom is home to excellent and historically impactful projects,” he said, highlighting the King Salman Park, Sports Boulevard, Diriyah project and environmental programs such as the Saudi Green Initiative.

The Quality of Life Program, part of Saudi Vision 2030, hosted a panel titled “Towards Future Cities: Putting Quality of Life and People’s Well-Being at the Core of Urban Planning.”

The session explored strategies to improve living conditions in urban areas, focusing on cross-sector collaboration.

CEO of the program, Khalid Albaker, emphasized the forum’s role in raising awareness of quality of life in urban planning, showcasing Saudi efforts to enhance living standards.

Albaker stressed the need for collaboration across government, industry and entrepreneurship to find innovative solutions that met community needs and promoted sustainable development.

The program contributes to sustainable development through 170 initiatives in sports, culture, tourism, entertainment, urban design and safety, supporting job creation, economic growth, innovation and city humanization to improve quality of life across Saudi Arabia.

The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites is also participating in the forum, showcasing its efforts to develop Makkah into a sustainable city. The commission is highlighting its work in enhancing transportation networks, infrastructure and services.

The municipality of Riyadh is showcasing exemplary urban and environmental initiatives, using modern technologies for planning, development and construction of future cities. The pavilion highlights the Kingdom’s achievements in sustainable urban development and innovation.

The Diriyah Gate Development Authority is also showcasing its role in preserving historical, cultural and urban heritage, while overseeing vital initiatives and projects. Through these efforts, the authority aims to achieve a vision that goes beyond traditional urban development.

Real Estate General Authority CEO Abdullah Al-Hammad emphasized Saudi Arabia’s steady progress toward its ambitious vision under the Kingdom’s leadership. He highlighted the commitment to a forward-looking urban future aligned with sustainability and global environmental challenges.

Al-Hammad said that the authority’s participation in the forum reflected its belief in the importance of local and international partnerships to address urban challenges and build modern, sustainable communities that were resilient and adaptable.

The authority aims to adopt global best practices to build cities of the future that meet the needs of residents, visitors and investors, while enhancing quality of life and creating vibrant, innovative communities.

The authority’s pokesperson ,Tayseer Al-Mufarrej, highlighted Saudi Arabia’s approach to urban development, including transforming informal settlements into sustainable communities, improving residents’ quality of life and providing adequate housing.

Al-Mufarrej said that addressing global urban challenges required international collaboration to develop innovative solutions based on a comprehensive, forward-thinking urban planning vision, incorporating environmental, economic and social dimensions for the future of cities.

He also emphasized the importance of balancing urban development with environmental diversity to improve residents’ well-being.


British envoy lauds ‘growth’ in bilateral ties since Vision 2030

British envoy lauds ‘growth’ in bilateral ties since Vision 2030
Updated 06 November 2024
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British envoy lauds ‘growth’ in bilateral ties since Vision 2030

British envoy lauds ‘growth’ in bilateral ties since Vision 2030
  • Comments made during KSA launch of ‘Anecdotes of an Arab Anglophile’ book

RIYADH: British Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Neil Crompton highlighted the growth he has witnessed in Saudi-UK ties, which has expanded from traditional defense partnerships to encompass numerous sectors such as tourism, people-to-people relations, and sport, in a speech he gave during a cultural soiree marking the launch of “Anecdotes of an Arab Anglophile” in Riyadh on Monday.

“In the modern era, since Vision 2030, our relationship has gone from a quite traditional defense, security, contracting relationship, to take-off,” Crompton said.

The ambassador cited the growth of people-to-people relations between the two countries, mentioning British rowers and cricket players, such as Kevin Pietersen, visiting the Kingdom, and many Saudis traveling to London for holidays.

“I think the affection between the two countries is amazing,” Crompton said. “With the visa system ... since we introduced the visa waiver system in June 2022, over 500,000 Saudis have used it to go to London, in addition to the 100,000 who already had a 10-year visa or another passport.”

The cultural soiree hosted by the UK Embassy celebrated the launch of “Anecdotes of an Arab Anglophile” in Saudi Arabia by Saudi author and Editor-in-Chief of Arab News Faisal J. Abbas.

In a panel discussion between the ambassador and the author, the two highlighted the similarities that bridge the two kingdoms in an event titled “The Tale of Two Kingdoms.”

During his remarks, Abbas said: “There is much more that unites us than what divides us.”

Abbas said that the event might appear to be merely a discussion about a book, but that it is much more than that. “It’s a tale of two kingdoms,” two kingdoms that, he said, have much in common.

“Yes, we are two kingdoms separated by thousands and thousands of miles, we have a different history, but at the same time we are united by trivial things, from a sense of humor to very deeply rooted multifaceted bilateral relations that range from culture to business to defense and many more,” Abbas said.

The cultural soiree was attended by influential figures from the UK and Saudi Arabia, including the chairman of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation, Prince Saud bin Mishal, as well as prominent diplomats, journalists, academics and British citizens living in the Kingdom.

Speaking to Arab News, the publisher of the book and managing director of Nomad Publishing, Max Scott, noted the growing interest in Arab perspectives in the West, which are presented in “Anecdotes of an Arab Anglophile.”

Scott said that the panel discussion between Crompton and Abbas was engaging because of the pivotal questions Abbas presented.

“It was very interesting because Faisal asks some difficult questions about where Britain is at the moment. And he’s not shy of saying, you know, it’s a difficult time, and that’s good to see,” Scott said.

“At the end of the day, I think everyone came away with something positive,” he added.

Abbas’s book was originally released in London last June,, The cultural soiree hosted by the UK ambassador celebrated its recent release in Saudi Arabia, with its debut at the Riyadh International Book Fair.

The book is available throughout the Kingdom, exclusively at Jarir Bookstore outlets.