The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has launched the CARPHA Mobile Insectary Facility, a first-of-its-kind regional resource funded by the European Union (EU) to strengthen the Caribbean’s capacity for vector surveillance, control, and prevention of mosquito-borne diseases.
The launch took place at the CARPHA Headquarters in Port of Spain, Trinidad, during the 11th EDF Programme of Support for Zika and Other Mosquito-Borne Diseases Project Closeout Meeting. The event also marked the conclusion of a five-year, €4.19 million project that significantly advanced vector control efforts across the region.
The Mobile Insectary Facility will enable Caribbean member states to enhance their ability to prevent and control mosquito-borne illnesses such as Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika. The facility will support the study of vectors to determine insecticide effectiveness and monitor mosquito behaviour, helping countries to improve mosquito control methods and outbreak prevention strategies.
During his welcome remarks, Dr. Mark Sami, CARPHA’s Director of Corporate Services, underscored the importance of regional collaboration in health security:
“The past Zika outbreak was a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities of our Region. But it also catalysed unprecedented regional collaboration. Through the support of the European Union and the EDF Programme, with the blessing of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), this project has contributed significantly to building laboratory capacity, strengthening surveillance systems, enhancing vector control, and advancing communication and community engagement strategies across our member states.”
CARPHA’s Executive Director, Dr. Lisa Indar, highlighted the measurable impact of the EU-funded initiative, noting the agency’s achievements in disease surveillance and training:
“Through this Project, valued at Euro 4,195,701.00, CARPHA has strengthened the health systems of CARPHA Member States to prevent, control, and respond to outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases. More specifically, CARPHA has supported the surveillance of mosquito-borne diseases by conducting 15,879 arboviral tests for countries over the six-year life of the Project. CARPHA has trained countries in a wide range of areas which include diagnostic testing for mosquito-borne diseases, integrated vector management, insecticide resistance testing, use of geographic information systems (GIS), machine calibration and maintenance for vector control.”
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Lackram Bodoe, Minister of Health, Trinidad and Tobago, emphasized the importance of unity and innovation in public health efforts:
“Despite representing diverse nations and partners, we are united by a common purpose: to safeguard and enhance the health and well-being of our people by reducing the burden of these diseases. Looking ahead, the Ministry of Health remains steadfast in its commitment to building a resilient and responsive health system capable of preventing and controlling mosquito-borne disease outbreaks. Our vision is to foster a system that is not only reactive in times of crisis but proactive, anchored in innovation, research and community empowerment.”
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to investing in innovative vector control technologies, regional collaboration, and public education to promote preventive health behaviours.
Representing the European Union, Her Excellency Cecile Tassin, EU Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, praised the enduring partnership between the EU and CARPHA:
“I am happy to report that the collaboration between the European Union and CARPHA has been both longstanding and fruitful – strengthening the capabilities of this organisation from even before 2016 to the present. A particularly notable achievement during this programme has been the re-launch of the Caribbean Vector Borne Disease Network (CariVecNet). This initiative goes beyond mere technical aspects, establishing solid and potentially sustainable mechanisms for inter-country collaboration among the CARPHA Member States. The value of these networks cannot be overstated. With changes in climate and the increasing incidence of mosquito-borne diseases, Europe will undoubtedly look to the Caribbean’s experience for guidance.”
Delivering remarks on behalf of His Excellency Moussa Saleh Batraki, Secretary-General of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), Mrs. Doreen Walsweer-Sore commended the partnership’s achievements and urged continued collaboration:
“As we celebrate the success of this initiative, our collective task is to ensure that the achievements of this programme go beyond its closure. At the heart of this partnership was our shared commitment to building resilient health systems and protecting communities from the threat of mosquito-borne diseases. This programme stands as a testament to the power of cooperation and the tangible results that emerge when we act together.”
She added that the OACPS Secretariat remains ready to continue working with CARPHA, the EU, and member states to integrate lessons learned into future health, climate, and development programmes, particularly as the region faces the growing intersection between climate change and public health.
The launch of the CARPHA Mobile Insectary Facility marks a major milestone in regional health preparedness, underscoring the Caribbean’s commitment to innovation, partnership, and resilience in the face of emerging vector-borne disease threats.
