The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria has approved the first grants under its new approach to funding, according to a Global Fund statement. The grants total $622 million. The new model was designed for greater predictability, better interaction among partners and faster execution. A transition to the new model began in February with full implementation expected in 2014. Early grants were given to Burma, El Salvador and Zimbabwe. Six additional countries are working on submitting applications.

To read the statement, click here.