The World Health Organization (WHO) warmly welcomes the continued commitment of the G8 countries to increase funding and action for better health for people in Africa.

"Every day, the lives of tens of thousands of people benefit from G8 commitments," said Dr Margaret Chan, WHO Director-General. "I welcome the G8 pledges of funds and specific actions, which will help to change people's lives and promote a more prosperous future for all."

The G8 Summit Declaration, "Growth and Responsibility in Africa," builds on declarations from previous Summits, and reaffirms the urgent need to invest in health programmes which will help countries save and improve lives, and reach the health-related Millennium Development Goals.

WHO will continue to work with African countries, the G8 and other partners to help implement health programmes which will prevent and treat disease in the short term, and build health systems which serve people living in even the most remote communities. WHO, 08/06/07.