The Lady of Peace Community Foundation (LOPECO, as part of its Advocacy Pillar today announced its Epidemic Preparedness funding petition aimed at bolstering health security systems across South Africa.

The Epidemic Preparedness petition advocates for a dedicated budget line to enhance the infrastructure and resources essential for responding to public health emergencies to ensure communities are well-equipped to manage future health crises.

The 2024 Department of Health annual performance plan introduced Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response as the 10th pillar of the Compact, with a goal to set up Public Health Emergency Operating Centres across all provinces. However, no budget has been allocated for this pillar in the 2024/2025 fiscal year, exposing a critical funding gap. The national health budget for 2024/2025 is R840 billion, with R 1 billion allocated for National Health Insurance implementation. This suggests that there is potential to add a budget line for pandemic preparedness.

Gauteng Province, which is the smallest by area but has the largest population of about 16 million, epidemic preparedness is crucial. As the economic hub of South Africa, Gauteng is the source of many outbreaks. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize the epidemic preparedness budget in Gauteng. The province’s 2024/2025 health budget of R64,837,043,000 includes funds for strengthening public health literacy and promotion.

“We are seeking dynamic civil society organisations (CSOs), health professionals, community leaders, and advocates to collaborate on this impactful campaign that advocates for the inclusion of epidemic preparedness in Gauteng’s provincial budget,” says Dieketseng Diale, Executive Director at LOPECO.

The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a shift in strengthening health security systems. During this health awareness month and having trailblazed innovative peace-building initiatives during COVID-19, the Epidemic Preparedness budget line will ensure that Gauteng province is ready to respond to future epidemics and safeguard public health.

“LOPECO strives to create sustainable solutions that address the pressing challenges faced by communities. We remain committed to fostering peace, social justice, and empowerment with an intensified focus on integrating health security into sustainable development initiatives” adds Diale.

The Epidemic Preparedness petition is on change.org .

About LOPECO:  

The Lady of Peace Community Foundation (LOPECO) is a leading community-based organization dedicated to promoting peace, social cohesion, and empowerment across South Africa. Our advocacy work spans a range of issues, including gender-based violence, social justice, and, now, health security.

For more information visit: www.lopecofoundation.org