The U.S. Embassy to Mauritius announced the successful completion of the « Public Health Emergencies: Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response » workshop, held from September 9-13, in Mauritius.
This collaborative effort was organized by the U.S. Embassy Office of Security Cooperation (OSC) in coordination with the U.S. Defense Institute of Medical Operations (DIMO), the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Centre (NDRRMC), the Ministry of Local Government and Disaster Risk Management, and the Ministry of Health and Quality of Life.
The five-day workshop brought together 45 emergency managers from Mauritius and four distinguished facilitators from the United States, including experts from the U.S. Air Force and other critical sectors. The primary goal of the workshop was to equip health sector administrators and managers with the skills and knowledge necessary to respond effectively to public health emergencies and disasters, particularly in the critical first two weeks following a disaster.
Participants focused on:
• Applying internationally validated guidelines and resources for managing health issues during disasters.
• Identifying and mitigating common health conditions post-disaster.
•• Evaluating strategies to preserve public health during disaster situations.
•• Gaining practical experience through case studies and simulated exercises using the EMERGO simulation system, widely used for training in emergency and disaster management.
During his remarks at the opening ceremony on Monday, September 9, 2024, U.S. Ambassador Henry Jardine said,
“Building resilience is important for all governments and communities. This workshop is a reminder of the pressing need for coordinated and timely disaster response and medical support in times of crisis. Recent global events have underscored the importance of preparedness, collaboration, and innovation in ensuring the well-being and safety of those affected by disasters and emergencies. The U.S. aim is to help build those capacities, enhance regional security, and promote collaboration and interoperability to ensure resilience and success in facing such challenges effectively. Together we can make a meaningful impact and ensure that no one is left behind in the face of adversity.”.
Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Local Government and Disaster Risk Management Anwar Husnoo, and Minister of Health Kailesh Jagutpal, as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Local Government and the Ministry of Health were also present at the opening ceremony.
The week concluded with a session on September 12, 2024, where Ambassador Jardine met with the U.S. facilitators to review the workshop’s outcomes and discuss the sustainability of its initiatives.
This workshop marked the continuation of a strong partnership between the United States and Mauritius in disaster preparedness and response, building on previous successful workshops held in 2016, 2018, 2022, and 2023.
