Elementor #15640

The CHReaD Journey

CHReaD has its roots in organizations that have a long history of championing better health technologies, programs, and services. These organizations have worked tirelessly on critical health issues like HIV, tuberculosis, non-communicable diseases, and maternal, newborn, and child health. But they realized that they could achieve even more by coming together.

The Birth of CHReaD

The Coalition for Health Research and Development was created to unite these organizations. It was envisioned as a powerful way to emphasize the importance of Health Research and Development (R&D) in making life-saving technologies available to everyone.

From PATH to AMREF

At first, PATH hosted the coalition. But in 2020, CHReaD went through a significant transition. Talks began in 2018 about moving the coalition to a local partner organization in Kenya. While everyone saw this as a great opportunity, there was also a recognition that CHReaD needed a stronger structure.

In 2019, a transition committee was formed to guide the process. They developed plans and criteria, evaluated options, and ultimately chose Amref Health Africa as the new host.

Local and Regional Impact

CHReaD is a dynamic coalition committed to advancing global health research and development. By actively recruiting members and strengthening strategic networks—including joining AHRIDA—CHReaD has significantly influenced both national and regional health policies. It has played a pivotal role in shaping initiatives such as Kenya’s Research for Health Strategy and Policy Framework, enhancing funding through the Kenya National Research Fund, and advocating for a streamlined regulatory system in collaboration with the Kenya Food and Drug Authority.

Regionally, CHReaD champions regulatory harmonization within the East African Community by uniting civil society, private sector partners, and influential advocates. In response to the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, the coalition is focused on building efficient access platforms and strengthening regulatory systems to maximize the impact of local and international funding.

At its core, CHReaD is dedicated to creating a healthier future by building coalitions of local partners who effectively address community misconceptions about health science, all while prioritizing human rights, gender equity, and local context.