The European Union is serious about helping West Africa — not only to fight Ebola but also bolster regional economies to overcome the long-term consequences of the epidemic that threatens to cripple the economies of Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone for years to come.
During an official visit to Guinea in early December attended by Devex, European Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development Neven Mimica announced a new 61 million-euro ($74.8 million) financial assistance package to link health, sanitation and environmental development programs.
Half of that money will go to Guinea, where the commissioner also launched the overall EU funding package — the so-called National Indicative Program — for the country in 2014-2020 worth a total of 244 million euros. This will see about 70 million euros pumped into the national health system over the next seven years — double the country’s health budget before the Ebola outbreak.
About the author
Richard Jones@richard_devex
In his role as Editorial Director Richard oversees content for digital series, reports and events, leading a talented team of writers and editors, conducting high-level video interviews and moderating panels at events. Previously partnerships editor and an associate editor at Devex, Richard brings to bear 15 years of experience as an editor in institutional communications, public affairs and international development. Based in Barcelona, his development experience includes stints in the Dominican Republic, Argentina and Ecuador, as well as extensive work travel in Africa and Asia.