Kay van der Horst, CEO of Global Health Security Solutions (GHSS), played a pivotal role as a delegate in COP 28’s Blue Zone. Serving as a Senior Advisor to the United Nations Health Innovation Exchange (HIEx), he actively contributed to the announcement and mobilization of support for the Climate Health Innovation Equity Fund (CHIEF).

CHIEF’s overarching mission is to foster resilient and equitable health systems in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). Through strategic investments, breaking down silos, and strengthening capacities for vulnerable populations, CHIEF aims to accelerate innovations at the intersect of climate change, health and equity. In collaboration with international partners, CHIEF is ambitiously striving to amass a substantial $500 million pool of innovative blended catalytic finance instruments. This financial reservoir is uniquely tailored to drive progress in climate change health resiliency, providing strategic investments and technical assistance.

During COP 28, intensive dialogues unfolded with Senior Leadership from influential organizations such as the Asian Development Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank, philanthropic institutions like WINGS and the Clinton Health Access Initiative, technical innovation accelerators including Grand Challenges Canada, global science and health networks exemplified by the Pasteur Network, and renowned financial advisory institutions like Dalberg. Engagements also extended to prominent health consultancy organizations like McKinsey.