By Dare Akogun
The Afrihealth Optonet Association (AHOA), a global think-tank and network of civil society organizations (CSOs) and non-state actors (NSAs), has launched its ‘Destination 2030 Sustainable Development Goals Programme’ to bolster efforts towards achieving the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Incorporated in Nigeria in 2003, AHOA is a key global player in health, biodiversity, climate action, and sustainable development.
The organization has a vast network of 2,700 member organizations from 119 countries and a Google Group with over 42,000 members.
Speaking during the launch, AHOA emphasized the importance of inclusive participation in achieving the SDGs, noting that the programme is designed to engage individuals, communities, marginalized populations, hard-to-reach groups, and informal networks.
According to the association, the initiative reflects the SDG principle of “leaving no one behind.”
The Destination 2030 SDGs Programme focuses on promoting universal health coverage (UHC), combating diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, and COVID-19, and addressing nutrition, food security, and hidden hunger.
It also explores environmental sustainability, renewable energy, conservation, and climate change, while advocating for gender equality, democracy, good governance, and human rights.
AHOA has consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), observer status with the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA), and is accredited by the African Development Bank (AfDB).
Its pending application to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) highlights its expanding role in global climate discussions.
As the lead organization of the African Network of Civil Society Organizations (ANCSO) and the Global Consortium of Civil Society and Non-State Actors on Climate Change and Conference of Parties (GCSCCC), AHOA is committed to driving the Destination 2030 initiative through strategic partnerships and robust advocacy.
AHOA is calling on stakeholders, including governments, development partners, and community organizations, to support and participate in the project.
With a decade left to achieve the SDGs, the association believes collective action is crucial for tackling pressing global challenges and ensuring sustainable development for all.
