Switzerland and UNDP support urgent measures to prevent and control the spread of COVID-19 in 35 local communities. These communities have diaspora hometown associations created under the “Migration and Local Development” project of the Swiss Cooperation Office in partnership with UNDP, IPN reports, quoting a press release of UNDP.
26,800 respiratory masks, 37,500 pairs of gloves, 1,785 liters of sanitizer, as well as 81 non-contact infrared thermometers, purchased from Swiss funds, are being provided to communities to protect medical staff, local public authorities, as well as local volunteers and vulnerable groups. Basic personal protective equipment is being distributed to local employment offices, community centers, care houses, orphanages, social services centers, post offices, to ensure safer interaction with people.
“From the very beginning of the crisis, Switzerland looked into ways to protect people who are on duty during these difficult times and providing crucial services to their communities. This is yet another example of Swiss support offered to Moldova in fighting the spread of the new coronavirus,” said Caroline Tissot, Director of the Swiss Cooperation Office in the Republic of Moldova.
The equipment, in total amount of US $37,000, was purchased by UNDP from the funds provided by Switzerland based on the assessment made by the Hometown Associations in close coordination with central authorities and the World Health Organization.
“These efforts will contribute to the prompt provision of much-needed essential services to the local communities targeting more than 244,000 women and men and ensuring that no one is left behind during these critical times,” said UNDP Resident Representative for the Republic of Moldova, Dima Al-Khatib.
UNDP team together with the Congress of Local Authorities will guide local public authorities and Hometown Associations trough webinars and coaching. Young people will also be involved in information campaigns.
