Dominica is set to strengthen its ability to prevent and respond to future health emergencies, thanks to a new regional project launched in Saint Lucia this week.
The initiative — “Strengthening Prevention, Preparedness and Response to Emerging Health Threats in the Eastern Caribbean” — is supported by a 24.4 million US dollar grant from the Pandemic Fund. Dominica is one of six participating countries, along with Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Saint Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Health and veterinary officials from Dominica were present at the official launch, which brought together leaders from across the region, as well as international agencies like PAHO, the FAO, the World Bank, and CARPHA.
The project focuses on improving disease surveillance, laboratory testing, and workforce training — all through a One Health approach, which recognizes the link between human, animal, and environmental health.
Officials say the project will help build a more resilient health system for Dominica, with better tools to detect and respond to future outbreaks.
