US Govt strengthens vaccine storage in Guyana, donates solar refrigerators

The United States government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), demonstrated its steadfast commitment to Guyana’s health sector as Ambassador Nicole D. Theriot presented 13 solar-powered vaccine refrigerators to the Guyana Ministry of Health. The state-of-the-art equipment valued at US$160,000 will be used in health care centers in remote areas of Guyana.

A recent assessment revealed several challenges in maintaining a stable cold chain within health facilities in Guyana’s hinterlands. Responding to this need, USAID, through its collaboration with UNICEF, procured solar refrigerators to maintain the cold chain, thus ensuring the vaccines’ potency and reliability.
A release from the US embassy in Georgetown on Tuesday evening stated that the refrigerators will provide consistent access to vital immunizations, improving equitable healthcare access, and significantly reducing the risk of preventable disease outbreaks. This donation underscores the importance of reliable vaccine storage and will provide a significant cost savings by maintaining the viability of vaccines.
During the presentation Ambassador Theriot said, “These solar-powered refrigerators symbolize our shared vision of reaching every corner of Guyana with essential healthcare services. Together, we continue to work towards a brighter, healthier future for the people of Guyana.”