The Government of Japan has handed over the renovated medical ward and medical equipment to the Home for People with Special Needs (HPSN) in Guraidhoo, Kaafu Atoll.
The project was conducted under the Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGP) scheme. Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives Takeuchi Midori handed over the renovated medical ward and medical equipment in value of over USD1.3 million to Minister of Gender, Family and Social Services Aishath Mohamed Didi.
Speaking at the ceremony, Gender Minister Aishath said elderly people are frequently in need of medical assistance and care, noting emergency situations are faced almost every day. However, the minister said the patients need to be transported to Male' City due to the lack of services and equipment. She added efforts are underway to develop human resources in the centre as well.
The grant contract was signed between the Embassy of Japan in the Maldives and the HPSN on March 16, 2020. The grant funded the renovation of the medical ward and procurement of medical equipment for the emergency room to ensure quality medical treatment and nursing care for the people with special needs and the elderly in the facility.
The GGP is part of the Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) implemented by the Embassy of Japan in the Maldives to empower people at the grassroots level. Since 1996, the GGP has been implemented in broad areas such as education, environment, health, transportation, and energy in order to contribute to the sustainable development of the Maldives.