Barbados Laboratory Earns PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre Designation

Barbados Public Health Laboratory designated a PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance.

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – Barbados has achieved a significant milestone in public health after the Best Dos Santos Public Health Laboratory was designated a Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) / World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance.

The international recognition places Barbados among a select network of institutions supporting global and regional efforts to monitor and combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR), one of the most pressing public health challenges facing the world today.

Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley hailed the achievement as a proud moment for Barbados and a testament to the dedication of the country’s public health professionals.

“Yesterday was a proud day for Barbados,” Mottley said.

International Recognition for Public Health Excellence

PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centres are institutions recognized for their expertise and contributions to public health research, surveillance, training, and technical cooperation.

The designation of the Best Dos Santos Public Health Laboratory acknowledges its capacity to support antimicrobial resistance surveillance and contribute to regional and international health initiatives.

Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve and become resistant to medicines that were once effective in treating infections. Health experts have warned that AMR poses a growing threat to global health, making disease prevention, surveillance, and research increasingly important.

Yesterday was a proud day for Barbados.

The designation of the Best Dos Santos Public Health Laboratory as a PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance belongs to the scientists, technicians, researchers and public health professionals who have… pic.twitter.com/kGyYrKctnA

— Mia Amor Mottley (@miaamormottley) June 18, 2026

Supporting Barbados and the Caribbean

The new designation is expected to strengthen Barbados’ role in regional public health leadership while supporting broader Caribbean efforts to improve disease monitoring and laboratory capacity.

As a collaborating centre, the laboratory will have opportunities to contribute to scientific research, training, data collection, and technical support initiatives that help strengthen public health systems across the region.

The recognition also reinforces Barbados’ commitment to investing in science, healthcare, and evidence-based policymaking.

Honouring Health Professionals

Mottley used the occasion to recognize the scientists, technicians, researchers, and public health professionals whose work contributed to the achievement.

“The designation of the Best Dos Santos Public Health Laboratory as a PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance belongs to the scientists, technicians, researchers and public health professionals who have worked quietly and faithfully to protect our people.”

She added that while much of their work takes place behind the scenes, its impact is felt throughout the country’s healthcare system.

“Their work is not always seen, but it is deeply felt in the strength of our health system and in the lives it helps to safeguard.”

A Growing Role in Regional Health Leadership

The designation highlights Barbados’ growing reputation as a leader in public health innovation and preparedness within the Caribbean.

As countries continue to confront emerging health threats and the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance, institutions such as the Best Dos Santos Public Health Laboratory play a critical role in protecting communities and supporting evidence-based responses to disease.

For Barbados, the achievement represents not only international recognition but also an opportunity to contribute more significantly to the health and well-being of people across the Caribbean and beyond.

“To the team at Best Dos Santos, thank you. Barbados is proud of you,” Mottley said.

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