The Government of Grenada has received a shipment of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to support its national response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The consignment of supplies was procured through funding from the European Union (EU) through the 11th European Development Fund (EDF) Programme of Support for Health Security Strengthening for Prevention and Control of Outbreaks of Communicable Diseases in the Caribbean, which is being implemented by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).
CARPHA procured the supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Grenada, which includes 2,500 isolation gowns, 2,500 surgical masks and 2,500 N95 respirators.
The EU grant seeks to improve health security in the Region and strengthen capacity of CARPHA Member States for the detection, surveillance, prevention, control and response to epidemics of Communicable diseases, such as COVID-19. The EU grant supports CARPHA Member States’ national COVID-19 preparedness and response and has financed the procurement of much needed medical supplies.
Executive Director of CARPHA Dr. Joy St John emphasized the importance of this donation, stating that “This critical and timely support will strengthen the capacity of Grenada in times of greatest need. No effort is being spared to offer assistance to the citizens of our Member States and those who take care of them. CARPHA works closely with Member States to identify their needs and provides guidance and support in the continued fight against COVID-19. The provision of PPE to Grenada would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the European Union and its commitment to the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic in the Caribbean region.”
The supplies were received by Dr. Francis Martin, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health. He said “These donations were made possible due to the succinct and seamless collaborations between our Ministry of Health and the Caribbean Public Health Agency over the course of our COVID-19 response. Our national COVID-19 response has had significant support from CARPHA in the form of technical and laboratory services, and now with the provision of essential supplies.” Dr. Martin further stated “The leadership shown by CARPHA has served to bolster the Region’s resolute response to this pandemic, and the careful navigation with our regional and international partners. These supplies will certainly enhance our program, giving confidence to our frontline staff with the knowledge that every effort will be made to ensure that they have adequate supplies for their protection and that of the citizens they serve. The Government of Grenada would also like to express deep gratitude to the European Union for its support.”