The Guardian has a very thoughtful piece about the unfortunate disconnect that exists in developing nations where it’s easier to get a bottle of Coca-Cola than it is to get life-saving medicines for very treatable diseases like malaria and tuberculosis. While many of the problems associated with dispensing adequate treatment can be attributed to corruption, affordability and training, a huge issue is still one of access. These essential drugs simply aren’t getting to where they need to be.

After laying out the problems, the article essentially says the problem will require money and active engagement by governments both in the areas being affected and those abroad that are in a position to help, noting “It’s too important to leave to the market.” And while I understand that wrapped up in that final sentiment, is the idea that private enterprise, particularly in the case of these small businesses that are themselves trying to make ends meet, are essentially only interested in preserving their own bottom lines, I respectively disagree. I feel they can play a vital role in confronting these problems.

In fact a model for how, already exists and I wrote about it over at my Tumblr blog recently. Called ColaLife, the non-profit organization is campaigning for Coca-Cola to open up their worldwide distribution channels and use the empty space in their transportation methods to help deliver essential medicines to areas that need it. It represents a huge opportunity and would require very little effort on soda giant’s part, except they haven’t said yes yet. Although Coke is uniquely positioned, given their iconic brand and global reach, with a bit of innovative thinking, many large corporations could revise their existing operations slightly and find a way to make a difference, no matter what the scale.

So yes, governments will need to be on the same page, but they can’t neglect the potential of private business, instead they need to find ways to utilize it.

[image via André-Pierre]