PM launches Initiative to Save a Million Lives

Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced today that Canada, in partnership with UNICEF, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the World Health Organization, the World Bank, and other donor countries, is leading an ambitious initiative to improve healthcare for impoverished mothers and children in Africa and Asia.

The Initiative to Save a Million Lives will strengthen health systems by training frontline health workers and delivering affordable healthcare services directly to local communities.

“The Canadian-led Initiative to Save a Million Lives will deliver basic, cost-effective and life-saving health services to mothers and children in countries where the needs are greatest,” said Prime Minister Harper. “Once fully implemented, the Initiative will save over 500 children’s lives every day.”

“Canada is on track to double its aid to Africa by 2008-09, “said Prime Minister Harper.

“These actions are getting real results, including lower rates of HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and malaria, increased peace and security, stronger economic growth, and better governance.” 

Canada’s contribution of $105 million over five years to the Initiative will train over 40,000 health workers and provide much-needed treatment for diseases such as malaria, measles and malnutrition. These efforts alone are expected to save 200,000 lives in Africa.