GEORGETOWN, GUYANA- 12 FEBRUARY 2025- In keeping with Guyana’s commitment to implement the International Health Regulations, the Ministry of Health, Guyana, launched the annual assessment of the country’s IHR capacities using the State Party Self-Assessment Report (SPAR) tool on 10 February 2025. The SPAR, supported by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Country Office, is a crucial step in strengthening Guyana’s capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats, enhancing both national and regional health security.
A resilient healthcare system is fundamental to mitigating future health crises. Strengthening pandemic preparedness and advancing disease elimination strategies remain top priorities for achieving sustainable good health outcomes. Additionally, key initiatives—such as the development of the Essential Health Package and the One Health approach—play a pivotal role in addressing emerging and persistent health challenges. By integrating human, animal, and environmental health perspectives, these strategies create a holistic framework for disease prevention, risk reduction, and overall health system resilience.
Dr. Frank Anthony, Minister of Health, in his opening remarks, stated that with the award of the Pandemic Fund to Guyana, the Ministry of Health aims to have a unified and efficient public health laboratory network across all health facilities in the country. He also disclosed that this expansion will incorporate telemedicine and environmental health into surveillance efforts.
“We have been conducting surveillance, and we are now able to detect cases early, which is critical. In some instances, early detection allows us to take swift action to contain potential outbreaks within communities,” said Dr. Frank Anthony.
Dr. Kim Eva Dickson, PAHO/WHO Representative, in her remarks, noted that it is her hope that this assessment would highlight and reflect the progress made since the Voluntary External Evaluation (VEE) of IHR capacities in 2023. However, it is of utmost importance that the process is conducted objectively, so that it may contribute meaningfully towards improving the country’s ability to prepare for and respond to public health emergencies.
The assessment will enable the Ministry to recognize achievements since the last evaluation while identifying critical areas for further development. By fostering continuous improvement, these efforts not only strengthen national health preparedness but also serve as a model for other countries, contributing to broader regional and global health resilience.
The multi-sectoral forum brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Agriculture, other government agencies, agencies and organizations of the private sector, and United Nations agencies such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Their participation underscores a collective commitment to health security and highlights the importance of cross-sector collaboration in achieving comprehensive health system improvements.
