Suriname’s healthcare system has received a significant technological enhancement with the donation of ten desktop computers aimed at strengthening the prevention of mother-to-child disease transmission. The equipment was formally handed over through a collaborative initiative between the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) and the Government of India.
The official transfer ceremony witnessed the presence of Indian Ambassador Subhash P. Gupta, with Director Rakesh Gajadhar Sukul from Suriname’s Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Labour accepting the equipment on behalf of the nation. This contribution forms part of the regional project ‘Strengthening the EMTCT Strategy with Maternal and Child Health Services,’ which targets the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B across Caribbean nations.
The computer systems will be deployed across multiple healthcare facilities in Suriname, including the Regional Health Service (RGD), Medical Mission, Academic Hospital Paramaribo, ‘s Lands Hospital, St. Vincentius Hospital, Diakonessenhuis, Mungra Medical Center, and the Bureau of Public Health Care.
This digital infrastructure upgrade will enhance data management capabilities at both primary care and hospital levels, significantly improving continuity of care for pregnant women and newborns. The technology will facilitate better monitoring of health indicators and enable evidence-based policy development, ultimately contributing to reduced maternal and child mortality rates.
Ambassador Gupta emphasized the importance of international cooperation during the ceremony, stating India’s commitment to deepening relations with Suriname through joint health initiatives. He also acknowledged PAHO’s crucial role in supporting healthcare efforts throughout Suriname and the broader region.
PAHO/WHO reaffirmed its dedication to improving access to essential healthcare services and strengthening partnerships, with the ultimate goal of completely eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B throughout the Americas.