The world is in the middle of a unprecedent crisis and the propagation of the COVID-19 pandemic is considerably pressuring the already very weak Bissau-Guinean health system. UNDP office in Guinea-Bissau is actively mobilizing and working to support and strengthen the national response strategy.  

Through a new project with the National Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives, UNDP Guinea-Bissau is supporting a national accelerated response to fight the pandemic and prevent the virus spreading by increasing awareness raising and encouraging behavioral change.

This new initiative will have to address many challenges that are preventing an effective response to COVID-19, strengthening the epidemiological surveillance and supporting data registration, sharing and management between the different operational sectors that work on COVID-19 response. The initiative will also contribute to expand the activities in order to contribute to raise awareness on COVID-19 in order to adapt preventive measures and encourage behavioral change to limit the virus spreading.  

COVID-19 presents a huge, complex challenge that requires multi-layered solutions. Through a systems approach and engagement and support of the various actors on the frontlines the project ensures a holistic solution which factors in the role which individuals play in curbing the spread of the disease, and brings special attention to vulnerable groups that are at greater risk to the adverse effects of the virus.