WHO and Saudi Arabia signed health agreements at the Riyadh Humanitarian Forum 2025 to boost responses to malaria, cholera, and polio in crisis zones now.

According to the WHO and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia joint announcement at the Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum 2025, the two organizations signed a series of agreements aimed at strengthening health responses in crisis zones. The forum, held in Riyadh, served as a platform for WHO, KSrelief and other partners to coordinate efforts against emerging health threats.

Why the agreements matter

The signed accords target three priority diseases: malaria, cholera and polio. Each agreement outlines specific funding, vaccine distribution and surveillance activities that will be implemented in countries where these diseases are endemic. The plan also includes rapid response teams to contain outbreaks before they spread to neighboring regions.

Key disease targets

Malaria control will receive insecticide-treated nets and diagnostic kits. Cholera response will be supported by water purification units and oral rehydration supplies. Polio eradication efforts will be reinforced with additional vaccine doses and cold‑chain improvements. The measures are designed to reduce morbidity and mortality rates among vulnerable populations.

Support for displaced populations

Displaced communities will benefit from mobile clinics, nutrition programs and mental health services. The agreements allocate resources to set up temporary health posts in refugee camps and to train local health workers. By integrating care into existing humanitarian operations, the initiative seeks to close gaps in service delivery.

Saudi Arabia’s continued leadership

Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to global humanitarian health. The kingdom pledged further contributions to the WHO’s emergency fund and announced a new scholarship program for health professionals from low‑income countries. These steps underscore Saudi Arabia’s role as a leading partner in addressing the world’s most pressing health crises.