$150 million aid to
improve health sector

World Bank and IDB funding the project

The World Bank and the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) will provide the Ministry of Public Health with $150 million aid. This is in support of the healthcare system that is being burdened by the influx of Syrian refugees.

The World Bank has contributed $120 million and the IDB $30 million.

Around 30 percent of the amount will take the form of a grant. The remainder will be provided as a low-interest loan paid within 30 years after a seven-year grace period.

Minister of Public Health Ghassan Hasbani said: “The funds will be dedicated to enhance the infrastructure of hospitals and the primary care centers in all regions.”

He said that poor families specifically benefit from the health services provided by primary care centers.

The funds will also reduce the hospitalization bill, and support those public hospitals facing financial difficulties.

The plan to enhance the healthcare system and hospitals will be implemented within three years.