US support for health sector increases to $48m over 5yrs

Relations between Cameroon and the United States in the health sector came under review at a reception hosted by US Ambassador to Cameroon Michael Hoza.

During the recent event, the US diplomat welcomed over 80 guests at his residence in honor of Cameroon’s medical community.

Among the distinguished guests included Public Health Minister Andre Mama Fouda, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Public Health Hayatou Alim, Cameroonian medical professionals, members from the national and international nongovernmental organization community, and officials from the United States’ Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

In his remarks, Ambassador Hoza underscored the United States’ commitment to improving the health of the Cameroonian people, highlighting that support for this key sector has increased tenfold over the last five years to $48 million presently, adding that “this demonstrates the clear commitment of the United States to the health of the Cameroonian people.”

He disclosed that Americans and Cameroonians are working together to save lives, but regretted that” many challenges await us and we have much more to do. Ebola has not yet arrived, but we need to prepare in case it does. Maternal mortality is still a problem and it must be addressed.”

Hoza said the United States is supporting Cameroon in different areas including blood safety, refugee health, neglected tropical diseases, developing Cameroon’s epidemiological capacity to be able to respond to outbreaks and contain them. “I want to reassure you: Cameroon can continue to rely on our support,” he assured.