Norway contributes NOK 600 million, improving the health of women, children, and adolescents

News story | Date: 15/04/2026 | Ministry of Foreign Affairs

At a time of historic decline in global aid, Norway is contributing NOK 600 million to strengthen health care for women, children and adolescence. This contribution will save lives and provide political support to rights under pressure.

The Norwegian funds will go to the Global Financing Facility for Women's, Children's, and Adolescents' Health (GFF). The contribution will help prevent deaths among mothers, children, and adolescents in countries where many die from easily preventable or treatable diseases. To succeed, investments must be made in robust health systems. This includes knowledge, training, good data systems, and medical equipment.

'We are amidst an aid crisis. Last year, nearly one out of four dollars for aid was cut. That has dramatic consequences for millions of people. Therefore, it is crucial to do more of what is proven to work. The money will be spent on building stronger health systems, including health programmes for mothers and newborns,' said Minister of International Development, Åsmund Aukrust.

The contribution announcement was made in connection with the World Bank and IMF spring meetings in Washington, D.C. With this contribution, Norway is strengthening its leadership in global health.

Global health, like other aid sectors, has felt the impact of massive aid cut, especially in the past year. The setbacks in sexual and reproductive health and rights exacerbate these challenges. That is why targeted, cost-effective health initiatives led by the countries themselves are crucial.

'The right to life and health are fundamental human rights, and we depend on one another to ensure that everyone's rights are fulfilled. That is the hard lesson from the pandemic. We can only achieve health security for all when we have robust health systems worldwide. To make this happen, we must work together, and Norway contributes to this including through the GFF. These are investments in health for today and for the next generation,' said Aukrust.

The GFF was established in 2015 following an initiative by Norway and others, with the World Bank serving as host.