Japan, UNFPA boost healthcare and GBV support

The Japanese embassy in Namibia, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), on Monday handed over a mobile clinic van, medical equipment and sanitary pads - with a combined value of over N$3.7 million - to the health ministry.The donation marks a pivotal moment in Japan’s 'Leaving No One Behind' initiative. The project, active in the Khomas, Kunene, Ohangwena, Zambezi and Erongo regions, aims to restore dignity and reshape futures for all genders while tackling gender-based violence (GBV) and improving sexual and reproductive health outcomes.Japan’s support for the project, which began in 2022, has continued with allocated funding of about N$12.8 million. The mobile clinic van, valued at N$2.1 million, will be stationed at the One Economy Foundation’s #BeFree Centre of Excellence in Katutura. The medical equipment worth N$1.4 million, including bed screens, gynaecological couches, physician scales, cardiotocography machines and foetal heart rate detectors, will benefit hospitals in Katima Mulilo, Opuwo, Eenhana, Okongo and Engela. Meanwhile, 24 000 packs of sanitary pads, valued at N$220 000, will support marginalised girls in schools.On Monday, One Economy Foundation founder Monica Geingos accepted the mobile clinic van, deputy health minister Esther Muinjangue the medical equipment and education minister Anna Nghipondoka the sanitary pads.A symbol of hopeAmbassador Hisao Nishimaki emphasised Japan's commitment to healthcare in Namibia, saying: "We believe that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental human right, and we are dedicated to working with Namibia to ensure that every Namibian has the opportunity to live a healthy and productive life. This donation is a manifestation of our commitment to that goal”.Muinjangue highlighted the symbolic significance of the donations. "The medical equipment and mobile van we receive today are not mere objects; they symbolise hope. They represent an opportunity to bring health services closer to those who need them most - particularly women and girls who have endured the trauma and the indignity of violence.”

Japan, UNFPA boost healthcare and GBV support

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-06-24

Please login to leave a comment

Japan, UNFPA boost healthcare and GBV support

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-06-24

Please login to leave a comment

Login