Antigua and Barbuda has formally endorsed the PAHO/WHO Multi‑Country Cooperation Strategy (MCCS) 2026–2031 for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, signaling a strengthened commitment to improving health outcomes and advancing regional development goals. The signing ceremony in St. John’s was presided over by Hon. Sir Molwyn Joseph, Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, with Dr. Amalia Del Riego, PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, witnessing the event.
This national endorsement follows the regional launch and multi‑country signing in Washington, D.C., in September 2025, where health ministers from Barbados and Eastern Caribbean nations collectively approved the Strategy. The MCCS 2026–2031 provides a collaborative roadmap to tackle priority health challenges across the region, developed through extensive consultations between government stakeholders and PAHO technical teams.
The Strategy focuses on strengthening health governance and leadership, combating communicable diseases, reducing non-communicable disease and mental health burdens, transforming health systems, and building climate-resilient health infrastructure. The signing ceremony included senior health officials such as Sen. Michael Joseph, Dr. Kamaria De Castro, and Dr. Teri-Ann Joseph, along with staff from PAHO’s local office.
Dr. Del Riego praised Antigua and Barbuda’s leadership, emphasizing that the endorsement reinforces a shared commitment to building stronger, equitable, and resilient health systems. She affirmed PAHO’s support for the Strategy’s implementation, aiming for measurable, long-term benefits for the population.
