Healthcare for post-conflict Colombia
UK companies demonstrate their capabilities to provide healthcare capacity in remote, conflict-affected areas.
Greg Hands and Luis Andrade with Deborah Kobewka and representatives of Griffon trying out a Griffon hovercraft
The Rt Hon Greg Hands MP, Minister of State for Trade and Investment, welcomed a Colombian delegation including the President of the Colombian National Infrastructure Agency, Luis Andrade, and 15 British organisations to HMS President.
Organised by Healthcare UK, the event took place during the recent state visit to the UK by the President of Colombia, Juan Manuel Santos.
British companies showcased the UK’s capability in providing mobile and permanent healthcare solutions to remote conflict-affected areas.
Mr Hands commented:
The UK has significant experience providing a high standard of healthcare across the world. we want to understand how the UK government and industry can best support the vital development of Colombia’s healthcare system post-conflict.
The range of exciting, innovative companies here today see great potential in Colombia and stand ready to contribute to Colombia’s healthcare requirements in the coming months and years.
Luis Andrade (far left), Greg Hands (centre) and Deborah Kobewka meet with Griffon Hoverwork
During the event, the UK companies demonstrated their:
- capacity to deliver rapid and effective medical capacity to communities
- ability to support the assessment, design and build of interim and permanent healthcare facilities
- capability of building, equipping and supporting secure clinical mobile hubs, while also providing outreach visits to more remote communities.
The event comes after UK companies undertook a trade mission to Colombia earlier in the year. They met with Colombian government representatives to discuss plans for remote healthcare and development of public services and infrastructure in areas previously affected by conflict.
Participating companies
Eight of the participants are members of the Bisen Group, a business consortium that is proactive in developing trade and building capacity with international partners. The network focuses on maritime security, energy and healthcare. In some countries, these areas are closely linked due to organisational structures and operational priorities.
Delegates gather on the Thames by HMS President
For more information about healthcare opportunities in Colombia, contact Healthcare UK