The African Development Bank’s (AfDB) Board of Directors has approved an emergency project in support of three low-income ECOWAS nations – Gambia, Mali and Niger – to boost their health systems in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a statement yesterday, the financial institution is making $22.4 million available for the programme, sanctioned by the board on May 22.

According to the breakdown, $9.55 million would go to tests, laboratory equipment, ventilators and personal protective equipment for medical personnel in the three countries.

The remaining $12.83 million is for strengthening and integration of the health facilities of the beneficiaries to better address the scourge.

The West African Health Organisation (WAHO) is supervising the scheme.
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