UK promises $1b to fight Aids, TB and malaria

The British government said on Monday it would contribute 1 billion pounds ($1.18 billion) to the Global Fund to fight Aids, tuberculosis and malaria, more than six weeks after other countries made their commitments. The total, which covers 2023-25, is 30 per cent less than Britain pledged during the previous funding round in 2019, and below the 1.8 billion pounds requested this time. Other G7 countries increased their donations given the unprecedented need after the pandemic disrupted efforts to tackle other urgent health needs. “This fund gives hope and opportunity to millions who would otherwise suffer,” Andrew Mitchell, Britain's minister for development, said.