As the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to spread around the world and disrupt the operations of many organizations, the International Potato Center (CIP) says in a recent press release it is now actively taking measures to ensure its staff, beneficiaries and partners remain healthy.
CIP notes that teams are starting to work remotely, in line with best international practice and responses of host governments in the countries in which we work.
CIP has national offices in 19 countries where the spread of coronavirus poses a substantial threat. It wants to make sure its work does not exacerbate the problem. As such, CIP has updated its operations policies and made certain recommendations to staff members:
- All international travel is currently banned.
- National travel is heavily restricted.
- All staff are encouraged to work from home, unless their job entails essential services that must be performed on site.
- Taking a country-by-country approach, follow all instructions from donors and national and international health agencies.
- Staff should observe all government guidelines and measures to ensure the health and safety of the public, family and partners.
CIP teams continue to perform internal risk assessments and business continuity planning to ensure the safety of staff while continuing its mission
