Japan donates three ambulances

The Embassy of Japan in Namibia handed over three ambulances, valued at a total of N$9 million, to the health ministry on Thursday.The ambulances are being distributed to district hospitals in Opuwo, Katima Mulilo and Keetmanshoop.Noriaki Sadamoto, chargé d’affaires ad interim at the embassy, said the donation reflects the strong and enduring partnership between Japan and Namibia, which predates the country’s independence.The ambulances are part of the Japanese Grant Aid for the Economic and Social Development Programme.To date, Japan’s support through this programme has amounted to approximately N$50 million and has also facilitated the distribution of medical equipment to 17 Namibian hospitals in 2022.Health minister Esperance Luvindao on Thursday said the donation marks a milestone in Namibia’s efforts to strengthen its healthcare system. “It is with immense gratitude and profound optimism that I stand before you today,” she said. “An ambulance is more than just a vehicle; it represents hope, urgency and the ability to save lives when every second matters."The minister added that "this act of solidarity is not only a gift of ambulances but a gift of health, dignity and renewed strength for our emergency medical system.”Health matters Luvindao reflected on the challenges faced by rural communities, recounting the story of a young mother in the Zambezi Region who had to travel more than 50 kilometres by donkey cart to reach a clinic when she went into labour.Stories like these, the minister said, highlight the critical need to strengthen emergency medical response in remote areas.She noted that while 36 ambulances were recently commissioned and deployed across all 14 regions of Namibia, many districts still face shortages.Namibia’s vast size and low population density mean that ambulances often have to cover long distances, she added.“Every life saved is a testimony to teamwork, preparation, and service. May these ambulances serve our communities well, and may they symbolise our continued mission to bring health and dignity to all,” Luvindao said.aurelia@nmh-hub.com.na

Japan donates three ambulances

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Namibian Sun 2025-12-08

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Japan donates three ambulances

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Namibian Sun 2025-12-08

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