WASHINGTON, May 19, 2020—The World Bank today approved $9 million in financing from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) to bolster efforts to combat the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic in Gabon. The COVID-19 Strategic Preparedness and Response Project aims to strengthen the health system, specifically activities focused on prevention, detection, and case management in accordance with Gabon’s COVID-19 Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan. This support includes the provision of equipment and supplies, such as medicalized ambulances, personal protective equipment, and diagnostic kits for laboratory screening. It will also finance training for health personnel and the establishment of two new COVID-19 diagnostic centers.
“This project is part of the World Bank’s ongoing long-term commitment to strengthening health systems in Gabon, including the project currently being developed on basic health care. It complements the efforts of other development partners as part of a coordinated response,” explains Alice Ouedraogo, World Bank Country Manager for Gabon.
COVID-19: World Bank Group Response
The World Bank Group, one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, is taking broad, fast action to help developing countries strengthen their pandemic response. We are providing support for public health interventions and ensuring the distribution of essential medical supplies, while helping the private sector continue to operate and sustain jobs. Over the next 15 months, the World Bank will be deploying up to $160 billion in financial support to help more than 100 countries protect the poor and vulnerable, support businesses, and bolster economic recovery, including $50 billion of new IDA resources in grants or on highly concessional terms.
