UNICEF handover Solar Vaccine Refrigerators to Strengthen Cold Chain in Remote Regions of Guyana

In a significant step toward improving healthcare access in remote communities, UNICEF today officially handed over 10 solar-powered vaccine refrigerators to the Ministry of Health at the Kingston Bond, Georgetown.

This donation marks a key milestone in advancing climate-resilient health systems and reaffirms UNICEF’s commitment to ensuring health for every child in Guyana.

The donation was received by Hon. Dr. Frank Anthony, Minister of Health, who emphasized the importance of strong partnerships in improving the country’s immunization programme. 

The solar refrigerators will be distributed across regions 1, 2, 8, and 9, ensuring that critical vaccines are safely stored and delivered even in areas with limited or intermittent electricity.

“We have been working with UNICEF over the past few years to strengthen our cold chain system. This latest support will boost our efforts as we expand access to over 18 different antigens, including the recently introduced Gardasil 9 to enhance HPV vaccine uptake,” said Minister Anthony

Each unit, funded through UNICEF’s Climate, Environment, and Energy Programme, provides 120 litres of environmentally friendly, solar-powered storage, a sustainable solution that ensures life-saving vaccines reach the most vulnerable populations.

Mr. Gabriel Vockel, UNICEF Representative a.i for Guyana and Suriname, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to equity in healthcare access.

“The handing over of these refrigerators is another step in using sustainable energy for health. They embody our shared mission to ensure that every child, no matter where they live, has access to essential vaccines and medicines,” Mr. Vockel said.

UNICEF commends the Ministry of Health for its steadfast dedication to public health and to all partners and personnel who contributed to making this initiative a reality.