SAINT Lucia has become the first affiliate member of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to implement the Enhancing Health Infrastructure and Resilience Project.
This regional initiative has equipped the country with essential medical supplies to address critical healthcare needs.
Funded by Direct Relief, a California-based nonprofit organization, and executed in collaboration with the OECS Commission, this initiative focuses on bolstering the country’s health infrastructure as Saint Lucia and the wider region recover from significant challenges, including Hurricane Beryl in 2024 and the enduring effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the handing over ceremony, Dr. Roxanne Brizan St. Martin, Program Director for Health, Social Inclusion, and Social Protection at the OECS Commission, underscored the vital importance of this initiative.
“By fortifying the resilience of our health systems, our member states are empowered to navigate emergencies and crises effectively, ensuring continuity of care for our populations even amidst adversity,” she asserted.
“This commitment directly supports the establishment of sustainable healthcare systems across our member states,” Dr. St. Martin added.
The newly donated equipment, including oxygen machines, arrives at a crucial moment when our public healthcare systems must demonstrate agility and responsiveness.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs, Jenny Daniel, articulated the ministry’s long-term strategy.
“This initiative exemplifies our dedication to ensuring we possess the equipment and facilities necessary for continuous treatment during disruptions caused by pandemics or natural disasters,” she stated. “We are committed to preserving life and minimizing the likelihood of mortality in such scenarios.”
Health Minister Moses Jn. Baptiste highlighted the national significance of this donation.
“Through strategic collaboration with the OECS Commission and Direct Relief, we have procured oxygen containers that will enhance healthcare delivery and improve health outcomes for the people of Saint Lucia,” the Minister declared.
He emphasized that, “This alliance aligns with key development priorities in health for the OECS Commission and fulfills the mandate of Direct Relief.”
Minister Jn. Baptiste expressed gratitude to Direct Relief and the OECS Commission for “this invaluable contribution.”
The OECS Commission and the Ministry of Health are confident that this new equipment will significantly enhance the country’s emergency response capacity, improve healthcare delivery, and ultimately safeguard the lives and well-being of all Saint Lucians.