KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – The World Health Organization (WHO) says the government of Japan has donated $240,000 to support the delivery of essential healthcare services in Afghanistan.
In a statement released on Monday, the WHO welcomed the contribution, saying the funding will strengthen critical health services and help meet urgent medical needs across the country.
The organization said the funds will be used to provide life-saving continuous care for the most vulnerable people, including women, children, and displaced families. It added that the support will also help maintain drug-treatment centers and ensure the availability of essential emergency medical equipment in areas where needs are greatest.
“We are thankful to the People and Government of Japan for standing with the people of Afghanistan at this challenging time. Their support helps keep essential health services running, including care for people with substance use problems and emergency medical services. This partnership allows WHO to respond quickly and deliver care to the communities that are most vulnerable,” said Dr Edwin Ceniza Salvador, WHO Representative to Afghanistan.
The Japanese Ambassador to Afghanistan, His Excellency Mr Kenichi Masamoto, commenting on Japan’s new humanitarian contribution to Afghanistan, said:
“Japan is deeply concerned about the ongoing challenges faced by the people of Afghanistan and is pleased to support WHO in strengthening essential health services. By prioritizing areas like substance use treatment and emergency care, Japan reaffirms its commitment to the health, resilience and future well-being of the Afghan people.”
Since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan, Japan has remained one of the country’s largest international donors. Its assistance has mainly focused on health, education and agriculture, and is delivered through United Nations agencies.