UNOPS To Provide Solar Equipment To Rural Health Centers In Côte d’Ivoire

In a significant step towards improving healthcare access in Côte d’Ivoire, the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is set to provide solar equipment to more than 160 health centers in rural areas. These regions currently lack reliable electricity from the local grid, making it challenging for medical professionals to deliver essential services.

The initiative, funded by a $16 million grant from the World Bank, aligns with the Ministry of Health’s goal of ensuring equitable healthcare access across the country. UNOPS will procure over 300 solar kits, more than 300 hybrid inverters, and 3,300 solar streetlights to enhance the functionality of these health centers. This equipment will power necessary medical devices and lighting, significantly boosting the capacity of healthcare providers to serve their communities effectively.

Jakob Tuborgh, Acting Director of the UNOPS Multi-Country Office in Senegal, emphasized the importance of this project, noting that it will improve healthcare delivery for people in remote areas of Côte d’Ivoire. The next phase will involve the installation of solar equipment and training for local staff on maintaining these systems, ensuring long-term sustainability.

This project is part of the World Bank’s ‘Côte d’Ivoire Health, Nutrition, and Early Childhood Development Programme’ and reflects a broader commitment to enhancing health infrastructure and services in underserved regions. By harnessing renewable energy, Côte d’Ivoire is taking a crucial step towards a more resilient and inclusive healthcare system.