The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has given $1 million to the World Health Organization (WHO) to help Pakistan deal with the damage caused by this year’s heavy monsoon floods.
The floods have affected millions of people across the country, especially in areas where health facilities are already limited. This donation will allow WHO to provide urgent medical help and strengthen health services in the affected regions.
During a visit to Swabi District in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, WHO’s Representative in Pakistan, Dr. Dapeng Luo, thanked the Gates Foundation for their timely support.
He explained that this funding will help deliver life-saving medicines and supplies, improve disease tracking, and strengthen outbreak response. These steps are critical because floods often increase the risk of waterborne diseases, malaria, and other health threats.
The support will focus on 33 high-risk districts, where many people are vulnerable and need special attention. This includes pregnant women, newborn babies, young children, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) and host communities will also receive support, ensuring that no group is left behind.
By improving disease surveillance and emergency response, WHO aims to reduce the spread of illnesses that can quickly escalate after floods. The funding will also help mobile health teams reach remote areas where people are cut off from regular services.
This partnership between the Gates Foundation and WHO shows the importance of global cooperation in times of crisis. It will bring hope and relief to thousands of families struggling to recover from the devastating floods in Pakistan.
