By Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa
The Bayelsa State Government has announced its readiness to deepen ties with Zipline International to enhance service delivery in health and other key sectors.
At a meeting with Zipline’s Regional Director and officials at Government House, Yenagoa, Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo praised the company’s drone-based vaccine distribution for significantly improving the state’s healthcare indices.
He expressed the government’s commitment to expanding collaborations, including establishing a blood processing facility, securing donor funding for health programs, and increasing vaccine delivery locations across the state’s eight local government areas.
On agriculture, Ewhrudjakpo encouraged Zipline to collaborate with the state’s Ministry of Agriculture to develop a world-class piggery, aligning with the government’s prosperity vision.
He acknowledged Zipline’s contributions but noted room for further improvement in vaccine distribution and health outcomes.
“As a government, we are forward-thinking to address donor fatigue and expand vaccine access.
“We commend Zipline’s innovations and are ready to explore new areas like blood processing, agriculture, and HIV/AIDS support.”
Zipline’s Regional Director, Mr. Chinedu Amah, reaffirmed the company’s role as a strategic partner committed to Bayelsa’s health and well-being.
He highlighted plans to secure donor funding, acquire blood processing equipment for a regional blood services center, and establish a livestock farm to boost the state’s revenue with government support.