Basseterre, St. Kitts, October 14, 2021 (SKNIS): The timely contribution of two forty-bed field hospitals, two vans and IT equipment to the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis by the United States (US) signals another step of the US’ continued commitment to further strengthening the health sector in the Federation.
This was according to the United States Ambassador to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Her Excellency Linda Taglialatela, at the October 13 handing over ceremony of the two field hospitals and other equipment at the Welcome Centre at Warner Park Cricket Stadium.
“The field hospitals are a cornerstone of our commitment to the health of our neighbours in this Hemisphere. Our donation of this critically needed medical infrastructure will increase the ability of St. Kitts and Nevis to address the ongoing global pandemic and meet future challenges including natural disasters. Today is another step in our journey as we work together in the Pandemic,” said Her Excellency Taglialatela, during a virtual presentation. “In addition to the hospitals, the United States Southern Command has also donated two vans and 14 workstations plus other IT equipment to the National Emergency Management Agency and this investment will increase communication in disaster response to improve connectivity at the Operations Emergency Centre in Basseterre,” Ambassador Taglialatela added.
Her Excellency Taglialatela said that the United States continues to partner with St. Kitts and Nevis in its emergency response. Just recently, a van and forklift were donated to the Nevis Disaster Management Department by the United States Southern Command and “have been in active service in Nevis supporting response efforts throughout the Pandemic and other events.”
“I am proud that our partnership is as strong as ever. I also recognize the St. Kitts and Nevis Government emergency responder’s leadership in keeping the people of St. Kitts and Nevis safe during this Pandemic,” said the ambassador, while commending the country for its high vaccination rate.
In response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the United States also donated ventilators, personal protective equipment (PPEs), testing kits and emergency response vehicles to St. Kitts and Nevis. Ambassador Taglialatela said that while the health sector continues to be strengthened, the United States continues to support the Federation in other areas including education, entrepreneurship, law enforcement and security.
