Guyana receives equipment to enhance maternal, new born care in hinterland

Minister Anthony and High Commissioner Sigouin with one piece of the equipment donated

The Ministry of Health received a donation of medical equipment valued at G$27.5 million on Friday to support maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) services in remote regions.

The equipment includes HbA1c analysers, hepatitis B test kits, haemoglobin analysers, portable steam sterilisers, and urine test strips.

The donation, part of the MNCH Project funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented in partnership with McMaster University and the Canadian charity Giving Help to Kids, will strengthen health services in Regions One (Barima-Waini), Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony officially accepted the equipment at the Ministry’s Kingston Bond, Georgetown. He praised the longstanding collaboration with Canadian partners, noting the progress made in maternal and child health, including recent achievements in mental health initiatives.

“Over the next few years, we intend to have at least 35 Guyanese doctors trained at McMaster University,” Dr. Anthony said, highlighting ongoing capacity-building programs with Canadian institutions in Calgary and York.

He said the new equipment will improve early detection of complications such as diabetes in pregnancy, enhance antenatal screening, and strengthen care for high-risk mothers, particularly in hinterland regions.

Director of Primary Health Care Dr. Ertenisa Hamilton said the donation comes at a crucial time as the Ministry expands access and improves MNCH services in remote areas, where geographic and cultural barriers pose unique challenges.

“This donation is a major boost for our hinterland regions, where early testing and timely interventions can save lives,” Dr. Hamilton said.

Speaking on behalf of Giving Help to Kids, Senior Manager of Administration and Projects Aruna Faria said the contribution is part of the organization’s long-term commitment to reducing preventable maternal and neonatal deaths in Guyana.

Canadian High Commissioner Sébastien Sigouin reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to global maternal and child health, saying the initiative represents an investment in the future of Guyana.

The MNCH Project (2023–2028) aims to reduce preventable maternal and newborn deaths through strengthened clinical readiness and referral systems, capacity building for health workers, gender-responsive and adolescent-friendly services, community engagement, expanded outreach, and improved neonatal emergency care.