Tue. Sep 2nd, 2025

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have joined forces to strengthen health cooperation in the region. The 2025-2029 Sub-Regional Health Cooperation Strategy aims to improve the health and well-being of the Caribbean population. This strategic partnership will focus on key areas such as health systems strengthening, disease prevention and control, and health promotion. The agreement was signed on August 26, 2025, and marks a significant milestone in the region’s efforts to address pressing health challenges. The strategy will be implemented over the next five years, with a focus on building resilient health systems, improving access to quality healthcare, and reducing health inequities. PAHO and CARICOM will work closely together to support member states in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Triple Billion targets. The partnership will also prioritize the development of robust health infrastructure, including hospitals, clinics, and laboratories. Furthermore, the strategy will emphasize the importance of health workforce development, with a focus on training and capacity-building for healthcare professionals. The region will also benefit from enhanced surveillance and outbreak response capabilities, enabling rapid detection and response to public health threats. In addition, the partnership will promote the use of digital health technologies to improve healthcare delivery and access to health information. The 2025-2029 Sub-Regional Health Cooperation Strategy will also address the social determinants of health, including poverty, education, and environmental factors. PAHO and CARICOM will work with other regional and international partners to leverage resources, expertise, and funding to support the implementation of the strategy. The partnership will also engage with civil society organizations, the private sector, and other stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach to health cooperation. The signing of the agreement marks a new era of cooperation between PAHO and CARICOM, and demonstrates the commitment of both organizations to improving the health and well-being of the Caribbean population. The strategy will be regularly monitored and evaluated to ensure that it is achieving its intended goals and objectives. PAHO and CARICOM will also establish a joint coordination mechanism to oversee the implementation of the strategy and ensure that it is aligned with the needs and priorities of member states. The 2025-2029 Sub-Regional Health Cooperation Strategy is a significant step forward for health cooperation in the Caribbean, and has the potential to make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of the region’s population. With its focus on health systems strengthening, disease prevention and control, and health promotion, the strategy is well-placed to address the region’s most pressing health challenges. The partnership between PAHO and CARICOM is a powerful example of what can be achieved through collaboration and cooperation, and demonstrates the importance of working together to achieve common goals. The implementation of the strategy will require the active engagement and participation of all stakeholders, including governments, civil society organizations, the private sector, and individuals. By working together, the region can achieve significant improvements in health outcomes, and create a healthier, more prosperous future for all. The 2025-2029 Sub-Regional Health Cooperation Strategy is an important milestone in the region’s journey towards achieving universal health coverage and improving the health and well-being of all people in the Caribbean.

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