Health Minister Michael Joseph has welcomed a representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) as Antigua and Barbuda prepares to strengthen its ability to maintain critical sexual and reproductive health services during emergencies.

Joseph, the Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, met with De-Jane Gibbons, UNFPA Liaison Specialist for Barbados and the OECS, during a courtesy call ahead of a two-day workshop focused on the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP) for Sexual and Reproductive Health in Crisis Situations.

The workshop is being conducted by UNFPA in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and will examine the country’s readiness to implement the MISP during humanitarian emergencies.

Participants are also expected to develop a country-specific action plan aimed at strengthening preparedness, coordination and the delivery of essential services when disasters or other crises disrupt normal healthcare systems.

The initiative is part of wider efforts to ensure that essential sexual and reproductive health services remain accessible during emergencies, when healthcare systems and vulnerable populations can face increased pressure.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kamaria DeCastro and Senior Medical Officer Dr. Lori-ann Johnson were also present for the courtesy call.

The two-day session is expected to help identify existing gaps and areas where additional planning and coordination may be required to improve Antigua and Barbuda’s response during future humanitarian emergencies.