The financial institution donated $10,000.

CIBC’s Country Manager, Amory Jervis said the bank had sought out the Health Ministry for information on the areas that would benefit most from the funds.

He said they then met with Dr Ronald Georges — a medical officer in the ministry — who provided a list of equipment that would help assist the Public Health Unit in the administration of the tasks related to the COVID-19 response.

“Understanding the importance of the role of the Public Health Unit in executing the COVID-19 protocols as decree by the Ministry of Health and Social Development,” Jervis said.

“It gives great satisfaction to facilitate the acquisition of advanced and mobile computer equipment for the use of the surveillance unit in its health education and contact tracing activity in the BVI,” he added.

Dr Georges, who part of the team that received the donation, expressed gratitude to the CIBC. And in accepting the donation alongside National Epidemiologist Harmonie Massiah and Chief Nursing Officer, Jacinth Hannibal, Dr Georges said the computer equipment will greatly enhance the functioning and efficiency of the unit.

In addition to accepting the donation, health officials held a panel discussion with bank staff to answer queries on COVID-19 and the vaccination programme.

Persons or organisations interested in learning more about the COVID-19 response or aiding in the COVID-19 response can email ministryofhealth@gov.vg