AKDN pulls together in response to the COVID-19 pandemic

Working together, several AKDN agencies such as the Aga Khan Health Services (AKHS), the Aga Khan University (AKU) and the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) are already treating patients, testing suspected cases, and advising national authorities on their responses and preparedness, according to press release issued by AKDN.

A cross-AKDN task force is reportedly planning how best to harness its institutions and activities to amplify its responses in order to address the various effects of this pandemic on public health, economic well-being, and social cohesion.

AKDN's operations are also being adapted to complement those of governments.  Action areas span serving community needs, including support for public policies on self-isolation and quarantine; developing and introducing a spectrum of protocols for prevention, containment and care; as well as surveillance and case reporting.

AKDN is also engaging with national Ministries of Health to help raise funds for country-specific COVID-19 preparedness plans.  The priority is to bolster government diagnostic and care capacities and secure much needed supplies and test kits.

Finally, in anticipation of the need for surge capacity to contain this and future epidemics, long-term system strengthening and local production of Personal Protective Equipment and diagnostic kits are also being considered for investment. Country frameworks are being shared with interested donors.

The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) works towards the vision of an economically dynamic, politically stable, intellectually vibrant and culturally tolerant Tajikistan.  Operating in Tajikistan since 1992, the Network draws on a strong base of experience in working with mountain societies.  It works in all regions of the country and employs over 3,500 people through its operations and investments.  The AKDN supports the establishment of programs and institutions that allow the Government, private sector and civil society to play complementary roles in increasing prosperity and creativity within a pluralistic society.