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Statement to the Press
by Mr. James Wolfensohn, President of The World Bank
"Immunization is one of the most cost-effective health interventions,"
said James D. Wolfensohn, President of the World Bank Group. "With
the first vaccines delivered through the Global Fund, we are seeing
the very real change GAVI is beginning to make for people and communities.
Vaccines are an important way to protect people against disease, and
we know that preventing disease helps prevent people from sliding into
poverty. The link between health and wealth is a strong one.
Together with global partners like UNICEF and the World Health Organization,
we are pleased to see Mozambique taking significant steps to strengthen
its national immunization program. The contribution that the Global
Fund has made to Mozambique and the other countries in this first round
of vaccines delivery has helped catalyze attention to vaccines. Still
more will be required--financially and otherwise--to build up and maintain
strong immunization programs in all of these countries. But we know
immunization to be a sound investment. Over the long haul, financial
sustainability of well-functioning immunization and health systems is
key. It's also the best way to reach the poor and those most in need.
As one of the initial 25 countries that GAVI and the Global Fund have
assisted in receiving funds for vaccines and immunization systems, Mozambique
is today making an important step forward in support of its health system,
and paving the way for a healthier future for its citizens."
"For more information on the World Bank's involvement with GAVI,
please contact:
Mr. Stevan Jackson, World Bank
External Relations, Washington, D.C., (202-458-5054)
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