Pandemic Preparedness/Disease Response Fellowship

Dear Friends and Supporters,

I am writing to share an important update about our Pandemic Preparedness Fellowship program. Despite our preparations, we have not yet received the funding needed to begin training the first cohort of African disease response fellows.

This delay comes at a critical time for our continent. New disease outbreaks continue to emerge across Africa, yet we lack sufficient trained responders who can act quickly during health emergencies. Every day without this training means communities remain vulnerable when outbreaks occur.

Our fellowship program is designed to address this gap directly. We have selected training locations, developed practical curriculum, and identified qualified instructors. The program will provide hands-on training in pandemic response, along with housing and stipends for participants from across Africa. However, without funding, we cannot welcome our first group of fellows.

The need for this training grows more urgent with each passing month. When diseases like cholera, meningitis, or new viruses emerge, the first response often determines how many lives are lost. Without properly trained personnel, outbreaks spread faster and claim more lives.

We are asking for your support to launch this vital program. Your contribution will help train the first cohort of African disease response specialists - professionals who will return to their communities better equipped to save lives during health emergencies.

This this project we can build Africa's capacity to respond to disease outbreaks and protect vulnerable communities.

With gratitude,
Ugbede-Ojo Dominic Kadiri