Bill Gates Explains Why Nigeria Receives the Largest Share of Foundation Funds

Bill Gates, Co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, has shed light on why Nigeria receives the largest portion of the foundation’s intervention funds in Africa.

In an interview with selected journalists during the 2024 NutriVision Dialogue on Tuesday in Abuja, Gates explained, “We invest significantly in Asia, but our largest allocation in Africa is directed towards Nigeria. This prioritization is due to the country’s large population and its substantial needs.”

He continued, “This focus means we have invested billions in Nigeria. While we are seeing improvements, such as reductions in child mortality rates, there is still much more work to be done.”

Gates highlighted that the foundation’s key objectives include addressing global health disparities and combating diseases like measles, malaria, and polio. He also indicated that future investments will target primary healthcare, where the impact per dollar spent is most significant.

The foundation’s efforts extend beyond health, with substantial investments in agriculture aimed at enhancing productivity. Gates emphasized the importance of providing farmers with high-yield, climate-resistant seeds, fertilizers, and improved information and weather forecasts to boost output and lower food costs.

Additionally, Gates noted the foundation’s support for food fortification programs that improve the nutritional quality of staple foods, which is essential for public health. He stressed that increasing access to a variety of affordable foods, particularly milk and eggs, is vital for tackling malnutrition.

With a history of supporting partnerships across 49 African countries since its establishment in 2000, the foundation continues to focus on innovative solutions in health and agriculture to significantly improve conditions in Nigeria and beyond.