The World Bank announced moments ago that it has approved US$7.5 million for Guyana’s COVID-19 emergency response project.
The financial institution explained that the project is expected to strengthen laboratory capacity, support screening and surveillance, improve contact tracing, and equip healthcare facilities for more effective treatment and care of COVID-19 patients. The project will also include activities specifically targeted to reach local communities across the country and in the hinterland regions through expansion of contact tracing and psychosocial support to vulnerable households.
The World Bank said that risk communication materials will be translated into local languages to ensure that vulnerable groups have access to reliable information about the virus and its spread. Finally, the project will also contribute to preparing the health system for the effective deployment of a safe and approved COVID-19 vaccine.
The World Bank Group is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, and it has led numerous efforts in taking broad, fast action to help developing countries strengthen their pandemic response. The institution is also supporting public health interventions, working to ensure the flow of critical supplies and equipment, and helping the private sector continue to operate and sustain jobs.
