GENEVA (AFP) – The foundation run by American computer software multi-billionaire Bill Gates (news – web sites) is to donate 750 million dollars (575 million euros) over 10 years for worldwide infant vaccination.
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (news – web sites) said the money would go to the Geneva-based Global Alliance for Vaccination and Immunisation (GAVI), a partner of the World Health Organisation.
“In just five years, GAVIs efforts have saved hundreds of thousands of childrens lives, and its work in the coming years will save millions more,” said Bill Gates, founder and president of the software giant Microsoft.
“GAVI will use the funds announced today to support national immunization programs in 72 of the worlds poorest countries,” he said in a statement. “Supporting childrens immunization is undoubtedly the best investment weve ever made.”
“These large contributions will help save the lives of hundreds of thousands of people and prevent immense suffering and disability over the coming years,” said Dr Jong-wook Lee, WHO Director-General and GAVI chairman.
In its less than five years of existence GAVI has been responsible for the vaccination of some 54 million children against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, hepatitis B, influenza type B, and yellow fever.
People may have things to say about his business policies and products, but this is undoubtedly a good thing for everyone.
Aaron Fulkerson 