By Abdullahi Lukman
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its $500 million pledge to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI).
KSA made the reaffirmation at the fourth Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum on Monday, February 24, 2025.
This substantial financial commitment aims to support the GPEI and its partners in reaching 370 million children annually with polio vaccines, ultimately halting the virus’s transmission.
The agreement was signed by Dr. Abdullah al Rabeeah, Supervisor General of King Salman Relief and Humanitarian Centre, alongside key global health leaders, including the Director-General of the World Health Organisation, the Executive Director of UNICEF, and representatives from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the Gates Foundation, and Rotary International.
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The reaffirmed pledge, initially made in April 2024 at the World Economic Forum Special
Meeting in Riyadh, comes at a critical juncture.
While global polio cases have decreased by over 99 percent since 1988, recent outbreaks in vulnerable regions, such as Gaza, underscore the persistent threat.
Leaders emphasized that continued financial support and collaborative efforts are essential to overcome challenges posed by humanitarian crises and fragile health systems.
The $500 million contribution will enable the GPEI to intensify vaccination efforts, particularly in conflict-affected areas, and strengthen health systems to ensure sustainable eradication.
Speakers highlighted the importance of reaching every child with life-saving vaccines to prevent future outbreaks and secure a polio-free world.
Following the signing, Dr. Abdullah al Rabeeah and other global health leaders participated in a panel discussion focusing on the significance of universal polio vaccination and the enhancement of global health security.
