CDC engages NGOs, international agencies on COVID-19 response

DPI, Guyana, Wednesday, April 15, 2020

The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) on Wednesday engaged representatives from several non-governmental organisations and international agencies to strengthen coordination, networking and partnerships in the fight against COVID-19.

Among the agencies present were National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO), the Rotary, Food for The Poor Guyana Incorporated, Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), International Development Bank (IDB), United Nations (UN) and United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) among others.

Chairing the session was CDC Director-General, Lt. Col. Kester Craig.

The meeting saw UNHCR, UNICEF, IDB and the European Union committing to assisting Guyana. It was noted that while mobilisation of resources is currently progressing, it may take some time since it is a global appeal.

Additionally, possible avenues to assist Venezuelan migrants residing in the country was also explored.

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) is collaborating with the Ministry of Public Health to investigate the needs at formal and informal borders and what can be supported.

The Civil Defence Commission through the National Emergency Operations Centre has been coordinating efforts to mitigate the effects of the virus’ presence in Guyana.

The NEOC was activated on Monday, March 31, 2020, and aims to ensure the highest level of collaboration among all stakeholders to further prevent the spread of the disease; enhance preparation and strengthen the local response to this global pandemic.