Barbados Expands Global Health Partnerships at World Health Assembly

GENEVA, SWITZERLAND— Barbados is strengthening its international healthcare partnerships and expanding its focus on pharmaceutical manufacturing and medical access following high-level discussions at the 79th World Health Assembly (WHA79).

World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus confirmed that he met with Barbados’ newly appointed Health Minister Lisa Cummins during the global health summit.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley also joined the discussions virtually.

According to Tedros, the meeting focused on Barbados’ investments in local pharmaceutical manufacturing, plans to establish a national regulatory authority, and regional collaboration aimed at improving access to affordable medicines.

“We discussed Barbados’ investments in local manufacturing, plans to establish a national regulatory authority, and collaboration with African countries to expand access to affordable medicines,” Tedros stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Expanding Healthcare Capacity in the Caribbean

The discussions also addressed the ongoing shortage of healthcare workers across the Caribbean region and potential strategies to strengthen healthcare systems.

Tedros thanked Barbados for its continued partnership with the World Health Organization, highlighting the island’s growing role in regional and international health discussions.

The emphasis on local manufacturing reflects a broader Caribbean push toward greater healthcare self-sufficiency and reduced dependence on imported pharmaceutical products.

Great pleasure to meet Barbados’ new Minister of Health, @mohbarbados Minister Lisa R. Cummins, at #WHA79. My sister, Prime Minister @miaamormottley joined us virtually.

We discussed #Barbados’ investments in local manufacturing, plans to establish a national regulatory… pic.twitter.com/lfbXavwjjK

— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) May 26, 2026

Barbados Strengthening Regional Health Leadership

Barbados has increasingly positioned itself as a leader in regional policy discussions on healthcare, climate resilience, and sustainable development under the leadership of Prime Minister Mia Mottley.

The latest discussions at WHA79 suggest Barbados is continuing efforts to expand healthcare infrastructure while exploring partnerships with African nations and international organizations.

The establishment of a national regulatory authority could also strengthen oversight and support future pharmaceutical production initiatives within Barbados.

WHO Partnership Continues

Tedros described the meeting as productive and thanked Barbados for its ongoing collaboration with the WHO.

The World Health Assembly, held annually in Geneva, brings together health leaders from around the world to discuss international public health priorities and global healthcare challenges.

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