Improving access to healthcare in Scotland and Africa – a bold new chapter

On 30th July, I had the great privilege of attending the launch of the Scottish Government’s new Health Partnership Programme in Edinburgh – a £3 million initiative that signals an exciting new chapter in global health collaboration. 

Delivered in partnership with Global Health Partnerships (formerly THET), this fund will strengthen health systems in Malawi, Rwanda, Zambia, and Scotland, by supporting networks of frontline health workers who share skills, experience, and knowledge across borders. 

Here are five reasons why I think this moment deserves celebrating: 

1.A renewed commitment to global solidarity
In an era marked by deep cuts to the UK’s Official Development Assistance, it is nothing short of inspiring to witness Scotland stepping forward with principled, ethical leadership. The 60 or so frontline clinicians, policy makers, civil servants and politicians who attended the event, demonstrated wide support for this approach. “We will not turn our backs on those overseas who need assistance,” said Cabinet Secretary Angus Robertson MSP at the launch. It was a statement as powerful as it was necessary. 

2. A deeply progressive vision
Scotland’s international health engagement is rooted in a profound sense of justice. It’s not just policy – it feels personal. The Government’s feminist and participatory approach to health equity recognises that access to care is not a privilege but a right. This is a Health Partnerships programme that is grounded in values, not charity, and rooted in deep national experience.  

3. A joined-up approach to health at home and abroad
The coherence between Scotland’s domestic and global health priorities is striking. Through the NHS Global Citizenship Programme and the leadership of individuals like the Chief Medical Officer Sir Gregor Smith, Scotland is championing a vision of the NHS as a global partner. There is growing recognition that Scotland learns just as much as it gives, especially from countries that are innovating under pressure, stretching every resource to serve patients. 

 4. A proven track record
This year marks 20 years since Lord (Jack) McConnell, then First Minister, laid the foundations for Scotland’s international development programme. Since then, projects like the Scottish Malawi Mental Health Education Project and the MalDent Project have delivered remarkable impact. These aren’t one-offs, they represent a pattern of enduring partnership and shared purpose. 

5. A moment of opportunity for Global Health Partnerships
As a charity registered in Scotland, England and Wales, Global Health Partnerships is honoured to play a role in delivering this new programme. For us, this is more than a fund, it is a chance to deepen our long-standing engagement with Scotland’s health system and support a new generation of health workers forging connections across continents. 

 As one of our trustees, Dr Isioma Okolo, a Consultant Obstetrician-Gynaecologist working with NHS Scotland, told me at the launch event: “Partnerships like these don’t just change services, they change people. They transform how we see the world and how we practise medicine.” 

We couldn’t agree more. 

This programme reflects the very best of what global health collaboration can be: ethical, reciprocal, and profoundly human. We’re excited for what comes next.