07/08/2025
Health Minister welcomes 36th group of Peace Corps Volunteers to Guyana
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, on Wednesday welcomed a new cohort of Peace Corps Volunteers to Guyana during a ceremony attended by Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira; U.S. Ambassador Nicole Theriot; Peace Corps Country Director, Dr. Nadine Rogers and members of the diplomatic community.
This batch marks the 36th group of Peace Corps Volunteers and the 4th group of Peace Corps Response Volunteers serving in Guyana
Reflecting on his own experience working alongside a Peace Corps Volunteer in Cane Grove as a young physician, Dr. Anthony shared a personal anecdote about how small, community-based interventions can have long-term impacts.
"A simple initiative like playing educational medical documentaries in the waiting area helped bring awareness and empowered patients while they waited to see a doctor,” he said. “Those moments remind us that even small efforts can be transformative.”
The Minister praised the longstanding partnership between the Government of Guyana and the U.S. government, particularly through Peace Corps, USAID, and PEPFAR. He cited multiple successes, including:
The establishment of the National Public Health Reference Lab through PEPFAR.
Support during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the donation of ultra-cold storage equipment for vaccines and the installation of oxygen plants in interior regions.
Ongoing collaboration in HIV/AIDS strategy and paediatric Antiretroviral (ARV) treatment.
Looking ahead, Dr. Anthony outlined several exciting health initiatives where volunteers will play a key role. These include:
The nationwide rollout of the comprehensive school health screening programme, ensuring children are assessed at key educational milestones for vision, hearing, dental, and overall health.
Contributions to the elimination of neglected tropical diseases such as lymphatic filariasis, leprosy, Chagas disease, and leishmaniasis.
Strengthening health systems in interior and remote communities through grassroots engagement.
Dr. Anthony also emphasised the cultural richness volunteers will encounter, especially in Guyana's hinterland regions. “With nine Amerindian languages spoken across indigenous communities, many of which are endangered, volunteers have a unique opportunity to experience and learn from these vibrant cultures,” he noted.
He encouraged volunteers to embrace their experience and the lessons they will take back home. “There’s a saying here: if you drink creek water and eat labba, you’ll definitely return to Guyana.”
The Ministry of Health extends its gratitude to all volunteers for their service and looks forward to a productive and impactful collaboration throughout their time in Guyana.