Kingston, Jamaica, 01 November 2024 (PAHO) - On Wednesday, October 31, the Jamaica Country Office had the pleasure of welcoming Mr. Errol Greene, the new Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW), for his first meeting with Country Representative Mr. Ian Stein. The meeting also marked Mr. Greene's initial engagement with the International Partners Health Sector Coordination Group (IPHSCG), which unites multiple United Nations agencies and other multilateral, and bilateral partners based in Jamaica, each actively advancing health initiatives in the country.
The group's primary mission is to support the Government of Jamaica in strengthening its health system by providing technical and programmatic expertise that aligns with the Ministry’s strategic priorities. Mr. Greene emphasized the value of the group’s partnership, stating, “This forum presents a great opportunity to exchange information and ensure we are all aligned. I will make sure that the MOHW is actively engaged and listening to our partners.”
The high-level meeting also welcomed U.S. Ambassador to Jamaica, Nick Perry, and U.S. Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, Ms. Candace Bond, who introduced the Caribbean Stands Up initiative. This initiative is designed to improve health outcomes related to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by educating both the public and healthcare professionals. By increasing awareness and screenings, Caribbean Stands Up aims to promote healthier lifestyles through the identification of common risk factors associated with conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic diseases like diabetes.
During the meeting, partner organizations also had the opportunity to share how their initiatives align with Jamaica’s Vision for Health 2030, which aims to enhance healthcare standards and improve the overall well-being of all residents by 2030.
Olga Isaza, UNICEF Jamaica Country Representative, was among several organization representatives who shared insights on how her initiatives support the country’s health agenda. She highlighted three primary goals aimed at making the health system more resilient and effective in handling crises. Key areas of focus included bolstering the vaccination program, securing oxygen supplies, and upgrading water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities within healthcare settings. Isaza also emphasized the importance of addressing rising childhood and adolescent obesity rates as a priority within this shared agenda.
The IPHSCG meetings are held monthly, with PAHO serving as its chair.
