Asian Development Bank (ADB) extends USD10 million to Maldives government.
Ministry of Finance confirms the aid will be concentrated on Covid-19 vaccine procurement, logistical aspects of the vaccine and administrative expenses tied to it. ADB while extending its grant, acknowledged strides made by Maldives government in combatting the viral pandemic.
The global financial institute ensures its support towards establishing cold storage for Covid-19 vaccine. ADB will further assist in delivery and monitoring of the vaccine.
The aid will benefit state efforts in enhancing healthcare and medical sector in the country.
Additional components under the aid include establishment of a central storage facility run on renewable energy. The facility will store vaccine vials, medical and laboratory equipment.
To ensure seamless logistics of vaccine delivery, government will acquire 7 speedboats, 2 refrigerated lorries and 2 vans.
Statistics indicate Maldives government spent MVR4.1 billion on Covid-19 combat efforts in cumulative terms. Out of the total, state spent MVR943.8 million on Ministry of Health.