The World Bank (WB) will release USD 7.9 mn in emergency funds to Egypt to help it fight the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Invest-Gate reports.

This comes as part of a USD 14 bn in immediate funds the bank is disbursing to strengthen the COVID-19 response in developing countries, according to an April 2 statement released by WB.

“The World Bank is mobilizing quickly to support Egypt’s emergency response activities and the implementation of a preventive plan to confront the COVID-19 outbreak,” according to Marina Wes, World Bank Country Director for Egypt, Yemen, and Djibouti.

The fund aims to support the ‘Transforming Egypt’s Healthcare System Project’ through improving the quality of primary and secondary healthcare services, enhancing demand for health and family planning services, and supporting the prevention of Hepatitis C.

As countries need further support, the World Bank Group said it will issue up to USD 160 bn over 15 months to “protect the poor and vulnerable, support businesses, and bolster economic recovery.”