391 million USD for sustainable development projects

On March 15, Madagascar’s President met with a joint delegation from the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and the World Bank at the Iavoloha State Palace. Discussions focused mainly on the health sector.

During the meeting, the President reaffirmed his commitment to the country’s growth objectives and explored opportunities for cooperation. The World Bank announced a grant of 391 million USD for development projects on the island, with UNOPS proposed as a means of addressing difficulties associated with low fund disbursement.

Over the past two years, UNOPS has been collaborating with Madagascar through the World Bank on various projects, including the Mionjo Program. UNOPS provides technical assistance and project management services to facilitate equipment procurement and implementation, particularly in the health sector. This support aims to accelerate the achievement of the government’s three-pillar development goals, focusing on access to primary health care and the promotion of family planning.

To further these objectives, the President proposed initiatives such as the rehabilitation of the Soavinandriana University Hospital, specializing in cardiology. Additionally, he tasked the Ministry of Health with identifying equipment needs for university hospitals (CHUs), with UNOPS’ assistance expected to lead to shorter delivery times for essential equipment.