Questions and Answers

Why have IFC/the World Bank embarked on the Health in Africa Initiative? Explain the significance?

Isn't providing health care for the poor the role of government? Won’t the IFC-WB initiative distract governments from their responsibilities to provide universal free health care?

Why can't donors and foundations fill the financing needs that governments can't meet?

Is the IFC initiative only going to help middle class and wealthy Africans? Isn't private health care too expensive for poor Africans?

What is your response to those who are opposed to private sector involvement in health?

According to some NGOs, IFC and WB have “romantic” and misguided views of the private sector’s role. What is your response?

The same NGOs say that the so-called private sector in Africa – that the poor rely upon – consists of small shops selling “outdated malaria drugs, Coca Cola, and cigarettes.” What is your response?

Some civil society organizations have said that IFC is advocating privatization. What is your response?

How will the poor – who cannot afford to pay – be served? Do private sector clinics and hospitals provide free or subsidized services for Africa’s poor?

Doesn't commercializing health care and making a profit off the poor run counter to IFC/WB's development mission?

What will prevent medical professionals in public sector hospitals from leaving for better-paying jobs in the private sector?

Please describe the equity vehicle, the Africa Health Fund – what are the objectives?

Will the equity vehicle only support businesses that are locally-owned?

How do you define small-and medium-size businesses?

Provide examples of existing IFC investment and advisory projects.