UNFPA, Japan donate equipment to boost reproductive health services

KIGOMA: THE UNFPA Tanzania in partnership with the government of Japan has handed over essential medical equipment to Kigoma’s Regional Administration to enhance life-saving Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services.

The initiative is part of the Japan Supplementary Budget Project, allocating 359, 964 US dollars to UNFPA for a year-long project titled ‘Delivering Life-saving SRH to communities in Kigoma.

The UNFPA Representative in Tanzania, Mr Mark Schreiner, said the donation reflects the shared vision of ensuring women and girls are not left behind.

“The generous support from the Japan enables us to sustain and expand critical health services that save lives and empower communities,” said Mr Schreiner on Wednesday.

The donated items include medical equipment, dignity kits, reproductive health supplies and a vehicle.

The project aims to address critical gaps in reproductive health services in Kigoma where limited access to quality care has resulted in significant health risks including pregnancy complications.

Kigoma reports 2,004 pregnancies with over 200 complications or miscarriages monthly- a sobber reminder of the urgent challenge in maternal deaths.

Thus, the UNFPA mission which is grounded in three transformative results including zero preventable maternal deaths, zero unmet need for family planning, and zero gender-based violence and harmful practices is ensured.

Ambassador of Japan in Tanzania, Mr Yasushi Misawa, said the partnership aims to ensure that women, adolescent girls, and first-time young mothers have access to essential health services, fostering hope and resilience among those most affected.

“The Japan government remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting vulnerable communities,” he said.

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Through its Embassy in the country, Japan has implemented seven education, health and sanitation projects in various districts in Kigoma Region over the past 20 years.

In July this year, the government pledged a grant aid of more than 20 million US dollars for the rehabilitation of Kigoma Port through Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

In additional, JICA is planning to implement capacity development workshop targeting staff of local government in Kasulu and Kibondo districts which host communities of refugee camps.

The Kigoma Regional Administrative Secretary Mr Hassan Rugwa underscored both the UNFPA and Japan government initiatives, saying the partnership is a significant step foward in addressing critical health needs.

“Your support will not only strengthen our health systems but also save lives by ensuring that women and young girls have access to the care tbey urgently need,” he said.