The government is allocating more than SRD 635 million for a major modernization of the Paramaribo Academic Hospital (AZP). With the launch of the Healthcare Facilities Readiness Initiative, the focus is on renovating and strengthening key departments within the hospital.
Theofficial launch took place on Thursday, June 25, 2026, in the AZP auditorium, in the presence of President Jennifer Simons. The initiative consists of four major projects: the renovation of the Thoracic and Cardio-Coronary Care Unit, the second phase of the renovation of the west wing, the renovation of the clinical chemistry and microbiology laboratory and the morgue, and the second phase of the renovation of the Emergency Department.
Some of the work is already underway, while other parts are, according to the government, at an advanced stage of preparation.
Part of a broader healthcare reform
President Simons framed the investment as part of a broader healthcare reform. According to her, Suriname is in a period of recovery, during which efforts must also be made to implement structural changes within the healthcare system.
The head of state described the renovation projects as important for improving primary, secondary, and tertiary care. She also expressed her ambition to make 2027 “the year of change.”
“We are on a path to ensure that Surinamese people always have guaranteed access to healthcare. People need to be able to see a doctor, but we also need to focus on prevention starting in school,” said Simons.
Misiekaba emphasizes prevention
Minister André Misiekaba of Public Health, Welfare, and Labor emphasized the importance of a well-functioning AZP, especially in addressing the most pressing health issues in Suriname. He also briefly addressed the announced new pay scale for healthcare workers and stated that its implementation is “a matter of time.”
According to the minister, noncommunicable diseases pose the greatest threat to public health. “The statistics show that more than 70 percent of diseases are cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, and lung diseases. The risk factors can be modified,” said Misiekaba.
He called on the public to live healthier lives, eat healthy, drink enough water, exercise more, quit smoking, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. According to him, the ministry will also launch awareness campaigns to raise greater awareness of prevention.
AZP Calls the Project a Turning Point
AZP Director Claudia Marica-Redan described the initiative as a turning point for healthcare. According to her, the hospital is responsible for approximately 65 percent of secondary care and 100 percent of acute and tertiary care in Suriname.
She pointed out that more than 100 people visit the emergency room every day, over 2,000 people visit the outpatient clinics, and more than 500 patients are hospitalized.
Marica-Redan said that the staff is doing its utmost, but that dedication alone is not enough. According to her, the hospital has been struggling for some time with suboptimal care due to shortages of staff, resources, treatment beds, and medical equipment.
The AZP director expressed her appreciation for the government’s support. According to her, the funds allocated should help ensure accessible, safe, and affordable care. In addition to renovations, investments are also being made in medications and supplies.
