WB fast-tracks $128 m COVID-19 support for Sri Lanka

Friday, 3 April 2020 11:42 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors today approved a $128.6 million project to help Sri Lanka prevent, detect, and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthen its public health preparedness. The Sri Lanka COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health Systems Preparedness Project has been fast-tracked to prioritize stopping and slowing the spread of the virus, reducing case numbers, and preventing outbreaks in communities.

Issuing a press release, the World Bank said that the project will upscale the emergency response mechanisms, strengthen the capacity of laboratories and hospitals, treatment of patients, training of medical staff, and help raise public awareness about washing of hands, hygiene, and social distancing.

“The World Bank is working closely with the Government of Sri Lanka to contain the spread of COVID-19 and preparing the country for potential future disease emergencies,” said World Bank Country Director for Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka Idah Z. Pswarayi-Riddihough. “Sri Lanka has already taken preventive measures to contain this rapidly evolving pandemic to protect its people. Our support will complement these efforts and help reduce future risks.” he added.

According to the press release, the project includes a $35 million loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) through the World Bank Group’s COVID-19 Fast-Track Facility and $93.6 million of credit from the International Development Association (IDA)- the World Bank’s concessional credit window for developing countries. The Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services will implement the project with support from United Nations agencies and other stakeholders engaged in emergency response, prevention, and readiness.