In a significant boost to Suriname’s healthcare infrastructure, the Fernandes Social Foundation has contributed a generous €250,000 donation for the complete renovation of the neonatal intensive care unit at Diakonessen Hospital. The ceremonial handover took place at the Presidential Cabinet on December 10th, with Health Minister André Misiekaba formally accepting the contribution in the presence of President Jennifer Simons.
This philanthropic initiative originated from Fernandes’ request during Suriname’s 50th anniversary of independence (Srefidensi), where the company sought Ministry-identified community projects requiring support. Among six healthcare projects proposed by the Health Ministry, the neonatal unit’s renovation was prioritized as most critical. The department has been temporarily closed despite growing demands for specialized post-natal care for vulnerable newborns.
Minister Misiekaba characterized the donation as “a crucial contribution to healthcare,” emphasizing its direct impact on medical services for critically ill infants. “We are profoundly grateful to Fernandes Social Foundation. This project will substantially strengthen our neonatal care capabilities,” the Minister stated during the reception.
Following the formal presentation, government representatives engaged in expanded discussions with Fernandes Group executives about broader socio-economic initiatives, including future sustainable waste management programs. President Simons reiterated her call for private sector involvement in national development projects.
The Health Ministry maintains additional unfunded projects seeking corporate partnerships, including replacement of outdated cooling systems at Academic Hospital’s morgue (currently only 20-30% operational), renovation of the Public Health Bureau’s tuberculosis unit, upgrades to decentralized emergency posts, and enhancements to primary care facilities. While these projects weren’t selected in this funding round, the Ministry remains open to partnerships aimed at structurally strengthening Suriname’s healthcare system.
Minister Misiekaba underscored that sustainable healthcare improvements require collaborative efforts between government and private entities, highlighting the Fernandes donation as a model for public-private cooperation in addressing critical medical infrastructure needs.