Remarks as prepared
Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch
Oxygen Generator Handover Ceremony
December 6, 2022
Honorable Dr. Frank Anthony, Minister of Health of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana,
Members of the media,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good morning.
It is a privilege to join you today in the spirit of partnership and goodwill as we face a pandemic that has changed the world. COVID-19 touched and still impacts many families in the United States, Guyana, and across the globe. Many of us know of someone who has been severely ill or passed away from COVID-19.
Since the first case in March 2020, the United States has unequivocally supported the COVID-19 response of the Government of Guyana. To date the U.S. government has donated $355,000 vaccine doses to the Government of Guyana. We have provided $475,000 USD to strengthen port health surveillance and to support communications to hinterland regions. We provided ten tents valued $65,000 USD to aid in the community vaccination initiative of the Ministry of Health. We contributed over $250,000 USD in disinfectant, medical supplies, and equipment, including five ultra-low refrigeration units. And now this donation of generators valued at nearly $500,000 USD.
The COVID-19 pandemic showed us how vulnerable the standard supply of oxygen in a medical system could be, even in the most advanced countries. Therefore, it is vital to plan and this time, have in place an efficient, sustainable, and low-cost solution that will protect and help fellow Guyanese in case of emergencies. I’m honored to be in this handover ceremony and present the on-site oxygen generators to you.
This secure and safe medical oxygen source allows hospitals to generate their own O2 on-site for day-to-day operations, emergencies, and other instances where O2 is needed. Having this resource available at a moment’s notice is essential to the healthcare industry in Guyana. The US Southern Command Humanitarian Assistance Program initiative includes not only the initial donation, but also subsequent operation and maintenance training. It will undoubtedly ensure the safeguarding of lives and enhance the ability to respond to health-related emergencies in regions 1, 8, and 9.
As Guyana and the rest of the world transition from emergency to sustained COVID-19 response, the United States Government will continue to support the people of Guyana in recovering from COVID-19.
Thank you.
