The World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, announced that the WHO will cut 600 jobs at its Geneva headquarters by 2025 as a cost-saving measure.
According to Anadolu Ajansi, Tedros said the move was taken following changes in global donor contributions, including a restructuring of directorships and a reduction in travel that is expected to save $190 million this year.
Tedros also explained that early and voluntary retirement schemes were introduced to ensure the organization remains relevant and focused on its core mandate of providing global health security.
He also added that the 2026-2027 biennial budget has been reduced by 21% from $5.3 billion to $4.2 billion.
The statement was made as he opened the 75th WHO Regional Committee Conference in Lusaka, Zambia, which was also attended by health ministers and delegations from 47 African countries.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema also called for strengthening health diplomacy to help the continent respond more effectively to geopolitical risks, conflict and climate change.
