Cameroon acquires ambulances in fight against COVID-19
Cameroon has received the first consignment of ambulances intended to strengthen the country’s health system as well as part of the response plan to the COVID-19.
The first consignment of ten ambulances out of 25 was received on Saturday, February 27 in Douala by the Minister of Public Health Dr Malachie Manaouda.
Receiving the items in Douala on Friday, the Minister of Public Health, Dr Malachie Manaouda lauded the collective efforts by partners to assist government tackle the COVID-19 as well strengthen Cameroon’s health system.
“Beyond the response to the Coronavirus which has put a lot of pressure on health professionals, this partnership is an opportunity to further strengthen Cameroon’s health system to better deal with possible outbreaks of epidemics and pandemics in Cameroon,” Dr Malachie Manaouda said.
This consignment of ambulances and other medical equipment are worth 13,8 US dollars and financed by the Islamic Development Bank and the United Nations Development Programme as executing partner.
The delivery of the equipment follows an agreement of a total of 27,440 US dollars signed between the government of Cameroon and the Islamic Development Bank, to provide immediate response to the covid-19 through the provision of vital medical and non medical equipment including scanners, respiratory equipment, ambulances, mobile radio for communications, and to further strengthen the health system of Cameroon.
“This support is part of the ‘no regret’ approach of the WHO (World Health Organisation), which aims to strengthen Cameroon’s health systems in a sustainable and comprehensive manner. In addition to what we have already received, I will like to express my gratitude to the Cameroonian government and the Islamic Development Bank which have placed their trust in the UNDP, as part of the operation,” the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme, Jean Luc Stalon said.
The arrival of the equipment coincides with the recent upsurge of cases in Cameroon, prompting public health officials to reinforce barrier measures.
