Takeda Announces Five New Partnerships to Strengthen Global Health Systems with Over $30 Million

Takeda, a leading pharmaceutical company, has unveiled five new partnerships as part of its Global Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Program. These partnerships aim to bolster health systems in low- and middle-income countries, marking a significant step towards addressing global health challenges. Takeda’s commitment to these initiatives includes a total contribution of ¥24.2 billion (Approx. $167.5 million) across 29 long-term partnerships, involving the active participation of over 24,500 dedicated employees in the decision-making process. The company anticipates that these new collaborations will positively impact 25.2 million people across 92 countries by 2028.

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Commitment to Sustainable Impact

Takeda recognizes that tackling complex global health issues demands long-term commitment and an adaptable outlook. The company’s Chief Global Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer, Takako Ohyabu, emphasized the need for sustainable impact, stating, “There are no quick fixes to global health challenges, which are complex, multi-dimensional, and context-dependent. While each of these partnerships will support strengthening health systems in unique and innovative ways, there are two common threads: an equity lens focused on marginalized groups and a systems approach prioritizing lasting outcomes over quick wins.”

These partnerships explicitly target marginalized and vulnerable groups that lack access to quality healthcare services and essential medicines, whether due to conflict, climate change, natural disasters, or socio-economic reasons. Takeda’s approach involves working with local partners who possess local knowledge and ownership, fostering the development of resilient and equitable health systems that are also responsive to climate change.

Takeda’s Commitments in FY2023

1. Society for Family Health, Rwand

Society for Family Health (SFH) Rwanda, established in 2012 through a partnership with Population Services International (PSI), the Rwandan Government, and USAID, focuses on improving the health of Rwandan communities. They provide life-saving products, health information, and services to empower communities to make informed and healthy choices, with a focus on areas such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, family planning, WASH, nutrition, maternal and child health, and access to healthcare.

Takeda will allocate ¥834 million (Approx. $5.8 million) to expand access to quality healthcare in remote Rwandan communities. This initiative aims to establish 20 second-generation health posts through a public-private-community-partnership model. It will introduce new infrastructure, empower local leadership, strengthen comprehensive care, and leverage technology to improve healthcare outcomes.

2. Relief International

Relief International is a humanitarian organization that operates in fragile settings, providing life-saving aid to those in need today and working with communities for long-term recovery and stability tomorrow. They have a dedicated team of 5,100 staff and volunteers who adapt to the ever-changing needs of vulnerable populations and aim to create lasting pathways to stability.

Takeda will provide ¥1,146 million (Approx. $7.9 million) to enhance access to essential medicines and medical supplies in conflict and disaster-affected regions in Afghanistan, Yemen, Myanmar, and Syria. This program focuses on building reliable supply chains of quality essential medicines, benefiting local and humanitarian communities.

3. Mercy Corps

Mercy Corps is a humanitarian organization dedicated to building a more resilient and inclusive future for all. They address complex global challenges, such as conflict and climate change, by leveraging innovative ideas and local community knowledge to bring about lasting and transformative change, connecting people to essential resources and opportunities for a better future.

Mercy Corps will receive ¥1,048 million (Approx. $7.3 million) to support climate-fragile communities across the Caribbean. The project, part of the Caribbean Resilience Initiative, will establish Resilience Hubs in multiple countries, providing immediate access to life-saving resources during natural disasters and contributing to a scalable resilience model.

4. Partners In Health

Partners In Health is an organization guided by core beliefs in the equal value of all human lives and the inalienable right to health. They stand in solidarity with marginalized communities, work to address structural inequalities, and fight against social injustice to ensure everyone has the opportunity to fulfill their potential.

Takeda’s commitment of ¥671 million (Approx. $4.6 million) will elevate and equip 3,000 nurses and midwives in eight countries to become leaders in health system administration and health policy. This initiative aims to promote diverse and equitable leadership, leading to stronger health systems and improved health outcomes.

5. University of Nairobi

The University of Nairobi, established by an Act of Parliament in Kenya, is a pioneer institution in the region and offers a wide range of academic programs in various fields. It has played a vital role in expanding access to higher education, including through continuing education programs, and is known for its achievements in teaching, research, and consultancy.

Takeda will allocate ¥793 million (Approx. $5.5 million) to create a pioneering machine learning and data science training program, empowering 800 underprivileged girls and young women across six regions in Kenya. This program aims to reduce biases and gender gaps in public health data and artificial intelligence.

New Partners Show Enthusiasm for Collaborations

Manasseh Gihana Wandera, Executive Director of Society for Family Health, Rwanda, stated, “Together, we are making a profound impact, building a healthier and brighter future for vulnerable groups.”

Craig Redmond, CEO of Relief International, emphasized the program’s significance in saving lives in challenging regions globally.

Tjada D’Oyen McKenna, CEO of Mercy Corps, highlighted the importance of preparing communities for climate-related disasters.

Sheila Davis, CEO of Partners In Health, underlined the transformational potential of the partnership in promoting gender and professional equity.

Prof Stephen Kiama, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, emphasized the importance of empowering underprivileged women in the field of data science.

Takeda’s Global CSR Program, launched in 2016, has made substantial contributions to strengthen health systems, benefiting millions of people. These initiatives align with the World Health Organization’s Health System Strengthening Building Blocks, encompassing areas such as service delivery, health workforce development, health information systems, and leadership and governance.

Takeda’s commitment to improving global health remains unwavering, demonstrating the company’s dedication to making a meaningful and lasting impact on vulnerable communities worldwide.

Author

Sinead Huang