Ministry of Health: 31 New Vehicles and a Promise to Improve Infrastructure

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – A major boost for the healthcare system throughout the country was officially solidified Friday afternoon, as the Minister of Health and Wellness signed a significant contract with the Inter-American Development Bank. The mandate is to improve not only services provided by the Ministry but also facilities outside of the capital.

Dr. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness

“I am delighted to welcome you to the Ministry of Health and Wellness for the official contract signing ceremony for the procurement of thirty-one vehicles today. We are signing two contracts to purchase twenty-one trucks and ten SUVs.”

Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Michael Darville, announced the procurement of much-needed vehicles, which are anticipated to enhance the healthcare system, particularly in the surveillance unit and contact tracing. The vehicles, totaling over one million dollars, will also strengthen the defense against public health threats.

Dr. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness

“We are allocating these vehicles to assist with the process of identifying, assessing, and responding to infectious disease and surveillance, particularly in our family. This is improving our mobility in the Ministry of Health and our response capability. We find ourselves now with these vehicles in a better position to do so, so we signed this contract today with Bahamas Bus and Truck as a result of a competitive bidding protocol and collaborative efforts with the healthcare sector. There is the need for the vehicles, and the contract amount is $1,470,823.80.”

The vehicles will be funded by the Inter-American Development Bank, in combination with a grant financed by the European Union. Country Representative for the IDB, Shirley Gayle, notes that all financing is managed by the IDB and encompasses more than just the fleet of vehicles.

Shirley Gayle, Country Representative, Inter-American Development Bank

“The financing we’re providing supports and strengthens infrastructure and renovation of clinics on New Providence and other Family Islands.”

Gayle adds that the vehicles will be deployed throughout various Family Islands as her team at the IDB recognizes the challenges faced by an island nation.

Shirley Gayle, Country Representative, Inter-American Development Bank

“Our team recognizes the importance of supporting the country.”