Under the programme of providing essential medicines towards Sri Lanka’s health system, Rotary International has handed over a stock of medicine worth Rs.60 million.
President Jennifer Jones officially handed over the consignment to Minister of Health Keheliya Rambukwella today (15).
Among the medicines donated by the International Rotary International in coordination with UNICEF, were drugs for high blood pressure for expectant women, medicine required at childbirth and medicines for illnesses in children.
The Health Ministry said this is the first step in the programme of providing medicines to Sri Lanka by Rotary International, while further stocks are expected in future.
Minister Rambukwella speaking at the occasion said Sri Lanka has a long standing relationship with Rotary International and UNICEF, adding that the medical assistance is greatly appreciated amidst the prevalent crisis.
The Minister commended the support extended by Rotary International towards the health sector and recalled their intervention in eradicating polio as well.
Meanwhile, President Jennifer Jones said Rotary members are pleased to have identified and meet the need for medicines in Sri Lanka at a crucial time.
She noted that in order to work in a transparent manner, Rotary International has arranged to provide the aid through UNICEF.
Resident Representative of UNICEF in Sri Lanka Christian Skoog said, UNICEF regularly provides aid to Sri Lanka especially in the face of the economic crisis, adding that many programmes are being implemented in many countries for the nutrition of young children and expectant women to raise their health status.
He said the aid is provided through the Life Line Sri Lanka online platform operated by UNICEF to ensure transparency.
