Grants and Contributions:
Title:
Building Back Smarter - Jamaica
Agreement Number:
7474692 P017113001
Agreement Value:
$3,000,000.00
Agreement Date:
Mar 9, 2026 - Mar 31, 2029
Description:
This project aims to strengthen the climate resilience of Jamaica’s health system by retrofitting two health facilities severely damaged by Hurricane Melissa in October 2025. These upgrades will transform the facilities into “Smart Hospitals” that meet internationally recognized standards for disaster resilience and environmental sustainability.
Project activities include: (1) reinforcing structural elements to withstand hurricanes and other hazards; (2) integrating renewable energy solutions such as solar power and battery storage; (3) improving water conservation and waste management systems; (4) training health professionals in preventive maintenance and emergency preparedness; and (5) promoting the adoption of smart hospital standards in national health planning.
The project directly benefits approximately 250,000 people living in Jamaica’s western and southwestern regions, ensuring uninterrupted access to essential health services during future disasters. Vulnerable groups—including women, children, older persons, and persons with disabilities—are prioritized, and the project safeguards a predominantly female health workforce by improving safety and working conditions.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) implements this project in collaboration with Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness.
Organization:
Global Affairs Canada
Expected Results:
The expected outcomes of this project include: (1) improved structural climate-resilience for safe, accessible, environmentally sustainable and gender-responsive health service delivery; (2) increased adoption by health authorities of inclusive smart hospital practices and climate-resilient planning approaches; and (3) improved knowledge and capacity of national professionals to apply smart hospital assessment tools and preventive maintenance protocols.
Location:
WASHINGTON, US
Reference Number:
064-2025-2026-Q4-0195
Agreement Type:
Grant
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Recipient Type:
Not-for-profit organization or charity
Recipient's Legal Name:
Pan American Health Organization
Program:
International Development Assistance program
Program Purpose:
The main purpose on the International Development Assistance Program is to reduce poverty for those living in countries where Global Affairs Canada engages in international development.