Advancing healthcare services: Progress and additional financing

On February 27, 2024, the Ministry of Health is convening the 2nd steering committee meeting of the Offer of Care Project (ODS). This initiative, backed by the French Development Agency (AFD), aims to bolster healthcare services in this island state.

The session will involve presenting and validating the execution report for the 2nd semester of 2023, annual budgeted work plans, and procurement for 2024. The recent assessment of the ODS project indicates significant progress in priority infrastructure works. In December 2023, the committee initiated the acquisition of biomedical equipment and provided a fixed radiology unit to the regional hospital center on Hombo Island.

Efforts are ongoing to recruit a program management office for target hospitals’ rehabilitation and equipment programs. French ambassador Sylvain Riquier highlighted that the targeted facilities include the Insular Regional Hospital Centers (CHRI) of Hombo and Fomboni and the Local Hospitals (HP) of Domoni, Foumbouni, and Mitsamiouli.

Moreover, the AFD is allocating an additional 7 million EUR to address cost overruns on construction materials. This funding will support projects initially excluded due to budget constraints, notably the construction of a mother and child center. This facility aims to ensure optimal childbirth conditions, prioritizing comfort, hygiene, and safety. The steering committee also plans to provide continuous training to enhance access to affordable, quality healthcare services.