The Representative of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Libya, Elizabeth Hoff confirmed the continuation of cooperation between the organization and the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC), to implement the new regional action plan to eliminate AIDS by 2030.
This came on the occasion of World AIDS Day. Hoff noted that this is one of the main goals of the action plan, in order to establish a healthcare system in Libya.
Last month, WHO announced its office in Libya had received 40 tonnes of medical supplies. It added that the shipment was airlifted, through a generous contribution from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) from its logistic hub in Dubai.
The shipment consists of 180 Interagency Emergency Health Kits. This follows last week’s shipment of 30 tonnes of trauma, burn, and emergency medical kits. These supplies will be distributed to hospitals and clinics across the country.
WHO noted that the shipment includes the first batch of oncology medicines delivered to Libya. It is a part of a WHO project to strengthen treatment services for children with cancer in the country. The project is funded by the National Oil Corporation (NOC), and its international partners Eni, Repsol, and TotalEnergies.
During his visit to the WHO warehouse in Benghazi, the Director of WHO’s regional health emergencies programme, Dr. Richard Brennan said: “Today’s airlifted supplies will meet urgent health needs, especially in some of the most remote and vulnerable areas across the country.”
“WHO will continue its efforts to strengthen the emergency health response in Libya. Special attention will be given to improving trauma care, which will undoubtedly save more lives,” he added.
WHO has delivered medicines, medical supplies, and equipment to 140 public health facilities across the country as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare provision for the people of Libya.
In September, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) announced that it has delivered medical equipment to Attia Al Kaseh Hospital, in Al-Kufra, south-east Libya.
In a tweet, UNHCR added that the facility was the largest and oldest in the region. It serves a population of around 80,000 and provides free services to all, including both Libyans and non-Libyan nationals.