The Ministry of Health is pleased to announce a significant contribution from the OECS Direct Relief Grant, aimed at enhancing the country’s capacity for vector control and epidemiological surveillance. This donation represents a major step in strengthening the nation’s public health infrastructure and its ability to respond swiftly and effectively to health challenges.
As part of the grant, OECS Direct Relief donated two vehicles, 30 laptops, and 10 tablets to the Ministry. The vehicles will provide much-needed mobility for health teams engaged in field operations, while the laptops and tablets will enable efficient data collection, analysis, and reporting for surveillance programs. These resources are expected to improve the Ministry’s ability to monitor disease trends, coordinate rapid response efforts, and implement targeted interventions to reduce the spread of vector-borne and communicable diseases.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Minister of Health Sir Molwyn Joseph emphasized that protecting the health of the people is a responsibility the Government takes with “vigilance, foresight, and resolve.”
He noted that climate change is creating ideal conditions for mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, and while Antigua and Barbuda has a strong surveillance system, “we cannot afford complacency”. He stressed the importance of strengthening systems, skills, and community engagement to stay ahead of evolving threats.
Highlighting the impact of the donation, the Minister explained that the new vehicles, computers, and tablets “will transform how we conduct surveillance—helping us detect outbreaks early, respond decisively, and save lives.”
He expressed sincere gratitude on behalf of the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda to the OECS, Direct Relief, and PAHO for their continued support, noting that “together, with solidarity and shared vision, we can confront any public health challenge.”
Also addressing the ceremony, Dr.. Roxanne St. Martin, representing the OECS Commission, noted that the handover formed part of the Enhancing Health Infrastructure and Resilience in OECS Member States Project, a USD $3 million initiative funded by Direct Relief. She explained that the project has been designed to strengthen health infrastructure and resilience across the region, combining training in epidemiological and entomological surveillance with the provision of vital equipment and vehicles.
“What we are celebrating today,” she said, “is not simply the delivery of resources, but the co-creation of solutions through meaningful partnership. A victory for one is indeed a victory for all.”
The ceremony, held at the Ministry of Health Headquarters, was attended by senior Ministry officials, including Permanent Secretary Stacey Gregg-Paige, Chief Medical Officer (Ag) Dr. Teriann Joseph, EPI Manager Soria Dupie, Deputy Chief Health Inspector Daryl Spencer, and members of the OECS Commission. The event provided an opportunity for the media to witness the presentation, engage with officials, and highlight the importance of this partnership in promoting public health.
This collaboration underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to building a robust public health system capable of addressing emerging health threats. By combining technical resources with field mobility, the Ministry is now better equipped to prevent disease outbreaks, respond to emergencies, and safeguard the well-being of communities across the nation.
