The U.S. Embassy Presents Critical Equipment to the Ministry of Health to Assist in the Fight Against HIV/AIDS

October 11, 2012

U.S. and Bahamian officials participate in official handover ceremony. (Photo State Dept.)

On Thursday October 11, the U.S. Embassy and representatives from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) participated in the official handover of a donation of multi-media equipment and vehicles made possible through funding by PEPFAR under the Center for Disease Control (CDC).  The Minister of Health, The Hon. Dr. Perry Gomez, received the donation on behalf of The Bahamas government and the people of The Bahamas.

The PEPFAR/CDC donation includes vital diagnostic Mini X-ray equipment for use in x-raying clients and patients in community areas and on the Family islands who cannot access the tertiary health facilities.  This will enhance the early diagnosis and prevention of tuberculosis, other chest and other accidental injuries in a timely fashion. 

The handover highlights PEPFAR’s support to the Ministry of Health (MOH), which includes vehicles that are currently being used for outreach activities on New Providence and a Media Unit that is equipped with the latest technology for audio and video production and editing. The Media Unit will be used to produce Public Service Announcements (PSA) and documentaries to promote HIV/AIDS awareness throughout The Bahamas.