Peru. As COVID-19 vaccines begin to be rolled out, Peru is preparing to deliver doses to millions of people from the Amazon to the Andes. In a country where one in five rural households does not have access to electricity, storing vaccines at the right temperature can be challenging.
Solar-powered cooling
Part of the solution to the problem recently arrived at a government warehouse in Lima: 1,100 solar freezers, purchased through UNICEF's Supply Division. The freezers connect directly to the solar panels without the use of batteries or regulators, making them ideal for remote communities with limited power supplies. The units will store COVID-19 and other routine vaccines.
"They came all the way by sea from Luxembourg. From here in Lima, they will travel by plane and in some cases by boat to reach people in the jungle and high in the mountains," says Manuel Martinez, UNICEF's supply consultant, who has worked closely with Peru's Ministry of Health to oversee the delivery and inspect the freezers upon arrival.
In less time, at a better price
For more than a decade, UNICEF has helped the Government of Peru procure life-saving supplies on a large scale. In the coming months, more than 10,000 additional cold chain units will arrive at the port of Lima.
"UNICEF plays an enabling role, as we have signed long-term agreements with suppliers that allow the rapid purchase of thousands of products, such as solar freezers, at a lower cost," says Ana de Mendoza, UNICEF Representative in Peru. "This has allowed the Government of Peru to obtain supplies in less time and at a better price."
Making sure no one is left behind
As in many countries, the arrival of COVID-19 vaccines – and the cold chain equipment to store them safely – marks a turning point for Peru, where the virus has infected more than 1.3 million people, claimed around 50,000 lives and pushed 3.3 million people, including 1.2 million children, in poverty.
"Seventy-five years ago, UNICEF supported the reconstruction process after World War II, and now we are supporting the reconstruction process in the pandemic," says Ana de Mendoza. "It is important that vaccines reach all corners of Peru and all corners of the planet, that no one is left behind. It's the only way to save lives and start building a better future for all."
Source: UNICEF.
