PAHO/WHO
Credit
Paramaribo, Suriname - October 20, 2026 - A joint delegation from Suriname’s Ministry of Health, Welfare and Labour and the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) visited Barbados to exchange experiences in emergency coordination, primary health care and laboratory services. Led by Minister André Misiekaba, the visit supported priorities under Suriname’s Pandemic Fund SPHERE project, particularly emergency preparedness, laboratory strengthening and workforce development.
At the Carissa Etienne Emergency Operations Centre, the delegation learned about its structure, functions and arrangements for coordinating information, personnel and resources during public health emergencies. The experience will inform the Ministry’s next steps toward operationalizing Suriname’s Health Emergency Operations Centre, with PAHO/WHO technical support and complementary investment through the SPHERE project.
At a health centre, the delegation observed HIV and syphilis testing and treatment. The exchange highlighted how integrating timely diagnosis, treatment and follow-up into routine services can support efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission while maintaining essential care.
The delegation also visited the Best-dos Santos Public Health Laboratory, where it learned about the laboratory’s biosafety level 3 facilities and operational practices. Discussions explored the infrastructure, workforce competencies and procedures needed to provide safe and reliable laboratory services.
The visit combined strategic discussions with practical learning and helped identify lessons relevant to Suriname’s ongoing investments. It underscored the importance of coordinated emergency management, capable laboratories and a skilled workforce in strengthening national public health preparedness.
