Innovative Financing Mechanisms Research Articles

Surgical mentorship in low-resource environments: Opportunities and challenges, a perspective.

In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), a shortage of skilled surgical practitioners hampers healthcare delivery, impacting well-being and economic growth. Surgical mentorship programs offer a promising solution but face challenges in implementation. This review aims to comprehensively assess the impact of surgical mentorship programs in LMICs and identify challenges and opportunities for their development and implementation. A thorough literature search was conducted from 2000 to 2023 using multiple databases, focusing on surgical mentorship programs in LMICs. Inclusion criteria encompassed full-text articles in English that demonstrated characteristics of mentorship. Rigorous exclusion criteria were applied to ensure high-quality evidence inclusion. Surgical mentorship programs in LMICs strengthen local surgical capacity, improve surgical skills and patient outcomes, optimize resources and technology utilization, and positively impact medical students aspiring to be surgeons. However, challenges such as resistance to change, resource limitations, financial constraints, logistical and technological challenges, and time constraints hinder their implementation. Despite challenges, surgical mentorship programs hold promise for enhancing surgical capacity and healthcare quality in LMICs. Standardized metrics for accountability, innovative funding mechanisms, collaborative partnerships for scalability, interdisciplinary integration, and leveraging virtual mentorship programs are key strategies to overcome challenges and foster sustainable learning cultures, ultimately contributing to improved healthcare equity and quality in low-resource settings.

Strategic planning and investment analysis for affordable housing: Enhancing viability and growth

Strategic planning and investment analysis are critical to enhancing the viability and growth of affordable housing projects. As urban populations rise and housing affordability challenges persist, effective strategies are needed to ensure that affordable housing developments are both financially viable and scalable. This paper explores key aspects of strategic planning and investment analysis in the context of affordable housing, emphasizing their role in fostering sustainable growth and maximizing impact. Strategic planning involves setting clear objectives, identifying key success factors, and developing actionable plans to achieve desired outcomes. In affordable housing, this includes assessing local housing needs, understanding market dynamics, and aligning development goals with community priorities. Effective strategic planning ensures that housing projects are responsive to the needs of low- and moderate-income populations while addressing broader urban development goals. Investment analysis plays a crucial role in determining the financial feasibility and sustainability of affordable housing projects. This includes evaluating funding sources, estimating costs, and projecting financial returns. Key components of investment analysis include financial modeling, risk assessment, and scenario planning. By employing robust analytical tools, stakeholders can identify potential financial challenges and opportunities, optimize resource allocation, and ensure that projects are financially sound. Case studies from various regions highlight successful strategic planning and investment practices. For instance, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program in the United States has demonstrated how targeted investment incentives can stimulate the development of affordable housing while achieving financial and social returns. Similarly, initiatives in European countries have illustrated the importance of integrating strategic planning with innovative financing mechanisms to address housing shortages. Despite these successes, challenges remain, including securing adequate funding, navigating regulatory environments, and managing project risks. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative approach involving government agencies, private investors, and community organizations. By leveraging strategic planning and investment analysis, stakeholders can enhance the viability and growth of affordable housing projects, ultimately contributing to more sustainable and inclusive urban development. In conclusion, strategic planning and investment analysis are essential for advancing affordable housing initiatives. They enable stakeholders to navigate complex financial landscapes, mitigate risks, and achieve long-term goals, fostering the growth of affordable housing and improving housing stability for underserved populations.

Public-Private partnership frameworks for financing affordable housing: Lessons and models

The pressing need for affordable housing in both developed and developing countries has prompted governments to explore innovative financing mechanisms, with Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) emerging as a viable solution. This paper examines the frameworks, lessons, and models of PPPs for financing affordable housing, aiming to provide insights into their effectiveness and scalability. PPPs combine the resources, expertise, and efficiencies of both the public and private sectors to address the housing affordability crisis. By leveraging the strengths of each sector, PPPs aim to reduce financial burdens on governments while ensuring the delivery of quality housing solutions. This review outlines the various PPP models, including build-operate-transfer (BOT), design-build-finance-operate (DBFO), and lease-develop-operate (LDO), highlighting their structural differences and application contexts. Key components of successful PPP frameworks include clear regulatory environments, transparent procurement processes, risk-sharing mechanisms, and robust stakeholder engagement. Regulatory frameworks that support PPPs play a critical role in providing legal certainty and fostering investor confidence. Transparent procurement processes ensure fairness and competitiveness, while effective risk-sharing mechanisms distribute financial, construction, and operational risks appropriately between public and private partners. Engaging stakeholders, including communities and civil society, is essential for aligning project objectives with local needs and ensuring social acceptance. Case studies from various regions illustrate the practical application and outcomes of PPP frameworks. In the United Kingdom, the Affordable Homes Programme (AHP) has effectively utilized PPPs to deliver thousands of affordable housing units, demonstrating the benefits of strong regulatory support and private sector participation. Singapore's Housing and Development Board (HDB) employs PPP models to maintain high housing standards while ensuring affordability through extensive government subsidies and private sector involvement. In South Africa, the Social Housing Regulatory Authority (SHRA) leverages PPPs to develop rental housing for low- and moderate-income households, highlighting the importance of government incentives and capacity-building initiatives. The review concludes that PPP frameworks, when effectively designed and implemented, can significantly enhance the availability of affordable housing. Lessons learned from successful models emphasize the need for supportive policies, transparent processes, and inclusive stakeholder engagement. Policymakers and practitioners can draw on these insights to develop tailored PPP approaches that address specific housing challenges and contribute to sustainable urban development. Keywords: Public-Private Partnership: Frameworks, Financing, Affordable Housing, Models.

The utilization of renewable energy and the economic potential of offshore wind power supported by digital finance

Colombia is well-positioned for the development of sustainable energy due to its abundance of natural resources, which include water, wind, and sun. Regulating the safe and sustainable use of offshore wind energy, which is considered non-conventional, is lacking in the nation, nonetheless. The development of offshore wind technology in Colombia shows potential to meet energy needs during dry hydrological conditions and El Niño/Southern Oscillation events when the hydroelectric system power supply is low. This study examines global initiatives that have encouraged nations to develop plans for cutting their CO2 emissions, stressing both their successes and shortcomings in putting offshore wind technology into practice. An examination of Colombia's renewable energy administrative framework finds a lack of data required to carry out offshore wind projects. Furthermore, a review of previous research on marine energy emphasizes how important it is to expand our knowledge of offshore wind generation. Although the majority of local renewable energy projects concentrate on terrestrial sources, an analysis of wind speed and wind power density in Colombia at different altitudes shows promising magnitudes and good trends.Digital finance plays a crucial role in this context by providing innovative funding mechanisms, enhancing financial accessibility, and reducing investment risks through improved financial technologies. These advancements support the mobilization of capital necessary for the development and expansion of offshore wind energy projects.As a result, the technical, economic, administrative, and legal data pertinent to renewable energy in Colombia is compiled in this study. It proposes to provide information to stakeholders involved in decision-making processes and promotes the possible installation of offshore wind farms in regions close to Colombia's Caribbean coast. Because of its plentiful resources, Colombia offers a great chance to implement offshore wind energy technology, which will lessen dependency on fossil fuels and provide a backup energy source in case of supply shortages. The integration of digital finance is key to unlocking the economic potential of these projects, ensuring sustainable and scalable energy solutions for the future.

A Globalization Perspective on Innovative Financial Mechanisms in China's Regional Economies

This paper explores the interplay between globalization and innovative financial mechanisms in China's regional economies. As China continues to integrate into the global economy, it has embraced various financial innovations to fuel its economic growth and competitiveness. The study adopts a quantitative research approach, analyzing data from three major Chinese financial institutions to understand how globalization influences financial innovation, regional development, and the effectiveness of financial mechanisms. Findings from descriptive, correlation, and regression analyses reveal the significant impact of globalization on shaping financial dynamics in China's regional economies.

Agritourism Development through Leveraging Financial Support within the 4As Framework

Abstract Financing is a crucial issue in agritourism development. Financial considerations play a significant role in the successful implementation and long-term sustainability of agritourism ventures. This research focuses on understanding the financial challenges that arise within each component of the 4As framework. The research methodology used is a literature study. This study emphasizes the financial challenges that emerge within each component of the 4As framework. Key financial factors for sustainable agritourism includes infrastructure investment, eco-friendly planning, cost management, effective marketing, training, and environmental preservation. Developing and managing attractions requires financial investment in creating and promoting unique experiences while ensuring cultural sustainability and integrity. Access involves infrastructure development and maintenance, transportation costs, and the need to reach remote rural areas. Providing adequate amenities requires financial resources for facility development, maintenance, and visitor service management. Ancillary services pose financial barriers in terms of initial investment, operational costs, and balancing authenticity with visitor expectations. Innovative financial approaches and support mechanisms are needed to foster agritourim development. These include accessing funding opportunities, exploring public-private partnerships, leveraging community-based tourism models, and volunteer tourism. Furthermore, this study emphasizes the importance of financial support programs through government grants and subsidies, incubators and accelerators programs, and tourism development funds.

Valuing urban green spaces for enhanced public health and sustainability: A study on public willingness-to-pay in an emerging economy

Statement of problemRapid urbanization threatens urban green spaces (UGS), impacting ecological sustainability and public health. Research gapThere is a notable research gap in understanding public willingness to pay (WTP) for UGS in developing countries, including Brazil, which this study addresses. PurposeThis study aims to explore the association between public WTP for UGS and the recognition of their health benefits in Brazil, contributing to urban sustainability and public health. MethodEmploying a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates statistical quantitative analysis of WTP through surveys with qualitative insights into public perceptions of UGS benefits. Results and conclusionsThe findings reveal a significant willingness among the public to pay for UGS, driven by the recognition of their health benefits. The study underscores the importance of UGS for urban well-being and sustainability, highlighting a strong correlation between health benefits recognition and WTP. Practical implicationsThe results inform urban planners and policymakers of the critical value placed on UGS by the public, suggesting the need for inclusive urban development policies that prioritize green space accessibility and maintenance. Future directionsFurther research is recommended to explore innovative funding mechanisms for UGS to ensure equitable access and sustainability, alongside the impact of educational programs on public support for UGS.

The Effect of Using Waqf for Infrastructure and Education on Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in West Java

This qualitative study investigates the utilization of Waqf for infrastructure and education in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in West Java, Indonesia. Through in-depth interviews with ten stakeholders, including government officials, Waqf administrators, community leaders, educators, and representatives from non-profit organizations, the study explores perceptions, challenges, opportunities, and impacts associated with Waqf-based initiatives. The findings reveal positive perceptions of Waqf as a resource for development, alongside challenges such as regulatory barriers, governance issues, and coordination gaps. Opportunities for leveraging Waqf include public-private partnerships, technology-enabled solutions, innovative financing mechanisms, community engagement, and policy reforms. Despite challenges, Waqf initiatives have contributed to infrastructure development, education provision, poverty alleviation, community empowerment, and environmental sustainability in West Java. The study underscores the need for regulatory reforms, enhanced governance structures, collaboration among stakeholders, technological innovations, and alignment with local development priorities to maximize the impact of Waqf on sustainable development goals.

Impact of natural resources, financial innovation, and policy robustness on economic growth: A study of China and India

The rapid economic growth of China and India has been accompanied by increasing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, raising concerns about the sustainability of their development. To address these challenges, it is crucial to understand the complex interplay between natural resources, financial innovation, policy robustness, and carbon emissions in driving economic growth. This study aims to analyze the influence of these factors on GDP growth in China and India over a 20-year period from 2002 to 2022. Employing diagnostic tests to ensure model reliability, the research methodology involves a comprehensive analysis of long-term relationships between the variables. The main findings reveal that natural resources, financial innovation, and policy robustness have significant positive impacts on GDP growth, highlighting the importance of sustainable resource use, innovative financial mechanisms, and robust environmental policies. However, the study also uncovers a significant positive impact of greenhouse gas emissions on GDP growth, indicating that economic growth can lead to increased emissions in the absence of sustainable practices. These results have broader implications for policymakers and stakeholders in developing economies, emphasizing the need to strike a balance between economic development and environmental sustainability. The study contributes to the ongoing discourse on the role of natural resources, financial innovation, and policy frameworks in achieving sustainable and resilient economic growth, ultimately promoting a greener and more prosperous future.

The evolution of smart cities: Integrating technology, governance, and sustainable development

This review paper explores the evolution of smart cities, focusing on the integration of technology, governance, and sustainable development. It examines the historical origins of smart cities, the role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), and the importance of effective governance structures in urban planning. Case studies illustrate successful initiatives while highlighting challenges like rapid urbanization and technological innovation. The review emphasizes the need for holistic approaches that integrate environmental, social, and economic sustainability principles. Implications for future research and practice include innovative financing mechanisms and strengthened stakeholder collaboration. Recommendations for policymakers, urban planners, and other stakeholders stress prioritizing sustainability, inclusive decision-making processes, and investment in resilient infrastructure. By embracing these principles, cities can advance towards a more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable future. Keywords: Smart Cities, Technology, Governance, Sustainable Development, Urbanization, Innovation.

Analysis of the Relationship between the Implementation of Circular Economy Principles and Financial Inclusion to Poverty Alleviation in Indonesia

This qualitative study explores the relationship between circular economy principles, financial inclusion, and poverty alleviation in Indonesia. Through semi-structured interviews with key informants representing various stakeholders, the research investigates the integration of circular economy initiatives into financial inclusion strategies, the impact of circular economy practices on poverty alleviation, and the challenges and opportunities for sustainable development. The findings reveal potential synergies between circular economy and financial inclusion, highlighting the role of innovative financing mechanisms, capacity building, and policy reforms in promoting inclusive growth and environmental sustainability. However, significant barriers, including risk perception, collateral requirements, and regulatory constraints, pose challenges to accessing finance for circular businesses and entrepreneurs. Addressing these barriers requires collaborative efforts from policymakers, financial institutions, and other stakeholders to create an enabling environment for circular economy investments and foster inclusive development. The study underscores the importance of holistic and integrated approaches to sustainable development, where circular economy principles and financial inclusion strategies are mutually reinforcing, contributing to shared prosperity and well-being for all Indonesians.

The Effectiveness of Climate Adaptation Finance and Readiness on Vulnerability in African Economies

Addressing climate vulnerability remains a priority for economies globally. This study used the panel-corrected standard error (PCSE) methodology to investigate the impact of adaptation financing on climate vulnerability. This analysis examined 52 African countries from 2012 to 2021 while considering their climate adaptation readiness. The impact was also assessed based on the Human Development Index (HDI) categories to reflect different levels of development. The findings showed that adaptation finance considerably influenced climate vulnerability reduction in Africa, particularly in nations with a moderate HDI. However, most countries still need higher levels of adaptation financing, resulting in a small impact on vulnerability reduction. Furthermore, the impact of readiness measures differed by HDI category. Economic and social climate readiness strongly impacted climate vulnerability in high-HDI nations, but governance preparedness was more critical in low-HDI countries. Based on the empirical facts, two policy proposals emerge. First, it is critical to reconsider the distribution of adaptation financing to reduce disparities and effectively alleviate climate vulnerability. Moreover, African economies should consider implementing innovative localized financing mechanisms to mobilize extra adaptation finance. Second, African governments should customize climate readiness interventions based on their HDI levels to improve the achievement of a positive impact on climate vulnerability.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF FUNDING OF UNIVERSITY EDUCATION IN EU COUNTRIES

This paper conducts a comparative analysis of the funding models for university education in the European Union (EU), focusing on government, private, and alternative funding sources. Purpose of the study is to analyze and compare the different funding models for university education in the EU and evaluate their efficacy. The basis of the study was the scientific works of researchers from different countries of the world and the OECD report, which presents the features of public, private and alternative financing of higher education. The main methods used in the article are methods of analysis and synthesis, comparative analysis and generalization. The analysis examines how these funding models impact accessibility, quality, and sustainability of higher education across different EU member states, including Germany, Sweden, the United Kingdom (pre-Brexit), and Italy. Through a review of existing literature and an evaluation of different funding mechanisms, the study identifies key trends and outcomes associated with each funding type. The paper also explores how European integration and policies influence these funding mechanisms. By comparing models across various countries, this analysis aims to highlight best practices and recommend policy enhancements to harmonize educational opportunities and meet future economic and social demands. The study recommends that EU countries consider a balanced approach to funding that combines the strengths of government support, private investment, and innovative funding mechanisms. This approach should aim to ensure equitable access to high-quality education while fostering financial sustainability and adaptability to changing economic conditions. Further, the paper suggests that ongoing evaluation and adaptation of funding models are essential to address the evolving needs of students and the broader socio-economic landscape. These findings and recommendations contribute to a deeper understanding of the complexities and dynamics of funding university education in the EU, providing a foundation for policymakers to enhance the effectiveness and fairness of higher education systems across Europe.

Sustainable Development and Renewable Energy Policy: A Review of Global Trends and Success Stories

As the world grapples with the pressing challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, the imperative for sustainable development and the adoption of renewable energy policies has become increasingly apparent. This comprehensive review explores the global landscape of sustainable development and renewable energy policies, shedding light on emerging trends and success stories that offer valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners. The paper begins by examining the evolving international discourse surrounding sustainable development, emphasizing the crucial role of renewable energy in mitigating the adverse effects of climate change. It delves into the key principles and frameworks that guide global efforts towards sustainable development, highlighting the interconnectedness of economic, social, and environmental dimensions. The review identifies and analyzes the diverse approaches and strategies employed by countries worldwide to integrate renewable energy into their policy frameworks. Case studies from various regions showcase successful initiatives, emphasizing the impact of well-designed policies on fostering a transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy systems. Examples of effective policy instruments, such as feed-in tariffs, renewable energy targets, and innovative financing mechanisms, are explored to provide a nuanced understanding of the factors contributing to success. Furthermore, the review critically assesses the challenges and barriers hindering the widespread adoption of renewable energy policies, including policy inconsistencies, technological constraints, and socio-economic factors. Insights gained from the analysis offer valuable lessons for refining existing policies and developing new strategies to accelerate the global shift towards sustainable and renewable energy solutions. This review serves as a comprehensive resource for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders, offering a nuanced understanding of the current global trends in sustainable development and renewable energy policies. By drawing upon success stories and identifying key challenges, it provides a roadmap for fostering effective and scalable solutions to address the urgent need for a sustainable energy future.

ASSESSING THE ROLE OF CLIMATE FINANCE IN SUPPORTING DEVELOPING NATIONS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Climate finance plays a critical role in supporting developing nations to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change. This comprehensive review examines the multifaceted role of climate finance in assisting developing countries in their efforts to address climate change challenges. The review begins by providing an overview of the global climate finance landscape, highlighting key sources of climate finance, including public funds, private investments, and innovative financing mechanisms. It then explores the allocation and distribution of climate finance, analyzing trends, disparities, and challenges in accessing and utilizing funds among developing nations. Furthermore, the review assesses the effectiveness of climate finance in supporting mitigation and adaptation activities in developing countries. It examines case studies and best practices to illustrate how climate finance has been utilized to finance renewable energy projects, enhance resilience in vulnerable communities, and promote sustainable development. Additionally, the review evaluates the governance and institutional frameworks governing climate finance, including the role of international financial institutions, national governments, and civil society organizations in mobilizing and disbursing funds. Moreover, the review examines the challenges and opportunities associated with scaling up climate finance to meet the growing needs of developing nations. It discusses issues such as financial transparency, accountability, and the alignment of climate finance with national development priorities. Additionally, the review explores innovative financing mechanisms, such as green bonds, climate insurance, and carbon pricing, as potential avenues for mobilizing additional resources for climate action in developing countries. In conclusion, this comprehensive review underscores the importance of climate finance in supporting developing nations to address climate change challenges and achieve sustainable development goals. It highlights the need for enhanced international cooperation, policy coherence, and investment mobilization to accelerate climate action and build resilience in the most vulnerable regions. By leveraging climate finance effectively and efficiently, developing countries can transition to low-carbon, climate-resilient economies while advancing their development objectives.
 Keywords: Assess, Climate, Finance, Developing Nations, Support.

Breaking barriers to agroforestry: FAO’s global capacity needs assessment

The FAO's Global Agroforestry Capacity Needs Assessment (CNA) revealed persistent challenges which are hindering widespread adoption of agroforestry despite its recognised benefits. Three primary action areas were identified: transforming agroforestry into an economically viable production system; strengthening enabling environments through agroforestry policies and strategies; and improving agroforestry extension for more biodiverse and agroecological systems. Stakeholders - governmental entities, NGOs, land users and community groups, researchers, private-sector entities and investors and donors - demonstrated expertise in agroforestry planning but identified gaps in socioeconomic aspects, and policy analysis and implementation. Challenges included insecure land tenure, limited market access and insufficient financial incentives for farmers. The assessment emphasised the need for collaborative efforts to address these challenges, recommending tailored approaches for the different stakeholder groups. Recommendations included improving data collection on socioeconomic aspects, developing innovative financing mechanisms and promoting peer-to-peer knowledge exchange. Efforts to strengthen policy frameworks, enhance extension services, and integrate local and Indigenous knowledge were also proposed. Concerted action is, therefore, necessary to unlock agroforestry's full potential in addressing global sustainability challenges to promote sustainable land management and food security worldwide.

Navigating The Escalating Climate Crisis: Comprehensive Policy Responses And Collaborative Global Action For A Sustainable Future

The escalating climate crisis has become one of the greatest challenges of this century, having far-reaching negative impacts on the environment, human health, food security, and the global economy. The response to this crisis requires a deep understanding of the dynamics of climate change, as well as comprehensive and collaborative policies and actions at the global level. Therefore, it is important to evaluate and identify effective strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change and move towards a sustainable future. This research aims to explore comprehensive policy responses and collaborative global action to navigate the climate crisis toward a sustainable future. The research method used is qualitative, by collecting and analyzing data from relevant research results and previous studies. The results of this research found that efforts to overcome the climate crisis require a comprehensive approach, involving strong international cooperation and synergy between development policies. Transitioning to clean energy, sustainable management of natural resources, and increasing community resilience to the impacts of climate change were identified as key strategies. Education and increasing public awareness are also important elements in supporting behavior change and community participation. Technology and innovation play a vital role in creating efficient and sustainable solutions. Finally, adequate funding and innovative funding mechanisms are needed to support the effective implementation of climate policies and initiatives.

Exploring carbon taxes as catalysts for financing nuclear power projects in Turkey

Purpose- Climate change and the urgent need to transition to low-carbon energy systems have led nations worldwide to seek innovative financing mechanisms for sustainable energy sources. This article delves into the feasibility of leveraging carbon taxes as a potent financial instrument to promote nuclear power projects, with a particular focus on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), in Turkey. Methodology- This study outlines a methodology for designing a tailored carbon tax framework, addresses challenges, and highlights the strategic importance of this approach. Concurrently, an empirical case study has been conducted to introduce a carbon tax in Turkey to show the fundamentals of calculating carbon tax in Turkey. Findings- By aligning carbon taxes with nuclear power initiatives, Turkey can reduce emissions, secure funding, enhance competitiveness, and contribute to global climate goals, paving the way for a sustainable energy future. Conclusion- Implementing carbon pricing mechanisms could improve Turkey's investments in SMR power plants and reinforce its stance towards a more environmentally sustainable energy future. Keywords: Green financing, nuclear power, sustainable investment, carbon taxes, financial JEL Codes: Q30, Q40, H20

Health system strengthening in fragile and conflict-affected states: A review of systematic reviews.

Globally, there is growing attention towards health system strengthening, and the importance of quality in health systems. However, fragile and conflict-affected states present particular challenges. The aim of this study was to explore health system strengthening in fragile and conflict-affected states by synthesising the evidence from published literature. We conducted a review of systematic reviews (Prospero Registration Number: CRD42022371955) by searching Ovid (Medline, Embase, and Global Health), Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library databases. Only English-language publications were considered. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Tool was employed to assess methodological quality of the included studies. The findings were narratively synthesised and presented in line with the Lancet's 'high-quality health system framework'. Twenty-seven systematic reviews, out of 2,704 identified records, considered key dimensions of health systems in fragile and conflict-affected states, with the 'foundations' domain having most evidence. Significant challenges to health system strengthening, including the flight of human capital due to safety concerns and difficult working conditions, as well as limited training capacities and resources, were identified. Facilitators included community involvement, support systems and innovative financing mechanisms. The importance of coordinated and integrated responses tailored to the context and stage of the crisis situation was emphasised in order to strengthen fragile health systems. Overall, health system strengthening initiatives included policies encouraging the return and integration of displaced healthcare workers, building local healthcare workers capacity, strengthening education and training, integrating healthcare services, trust-building, supportive supervision, and e-Health utilisation. The emerging body of evidence on health system strengthening in fragile and conflict-affected states highlights its complexity. The findings underscore the significance of adopting a comprehensive approach and engaging various stakeholders in a coordinated manner considering the stage and context of the situation.

Availability of essential medicines during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study examining experiences and level of preparedness in Kenya.

This study examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the availability of essential medicines in Kenya and suggests actionable measures to enhance the country's preparedness for future pandemics. Utilising a cross-sectional qualitative design, the research combines a systematic review of the literature and 20 key informant interviews to provide a comprehensive analysis. The initial response to the pandemic involved resource reallocation, disrupting the procurement of essential medicines at national and county levels. Inefficiencies in these systems resulted in shortages and wastages of crucial medicines, exposing vulnerabilities in the health system. Furthermore, the study reveals regulatory policy weaknesses in Kenya, such as an inadequate legal framework for domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing and conflicting policies hindering medicine availability. The study recommends a multifaceted policy approach to ensure essential medicine availability during crises. Key recommendations include strengthening financial systems through increased government investments and innovative funding mechanisms, implementing price regulation policies, and enhancing the resilience of supply chain and procurement systems. Collaboration among various supply systems is essential to prevent stock-outs. Strengthening legislation and regulatory policies, increasing domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity, and investing in health information systems are vital for sustained self-sufficiency and efficient service delivery. These comprehensive measures are essential to promote essential medicine availability, safeguard public health, and enhance resilience during crises.