The donation includes 10 ambulances, 290 midwifery kits, 150 delivery beds, 400 sets of non-pneumatic anti-shock garments, 50 sets of vacuum extractors, and 50 sets of sterilisers to the health ministry. UNFPA
The Japanese government, through the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) Cambodia, has presented the Ministry of health with life-saving equipment, including 10 ambulances, which is earmarked for enhancing healthcare for women and newborns.
The UNFPA detailed the contents of the donation in a May 12 press release.
“The Japanese have gifted 10 ambulances, 290 midwifery kits, 150 delivery beds, 400 sets of non-pneumatic anti-shock garments, 50 sets of vacuum extractors, and 50 sets of sterilisers to the health ministry,” it said.
“This equipment will help ensure safe deliveries and contribute to the ministry’s efforts to build a resilient and responsive healthcare system. In particular, it will improve access to quality reproductive health services to vulnerable patients, especially women and newborns,” it added.
Ministry secretary of state York Sambath thanked donors and the Japanese government, noting that the equipment would save Cambodian lives.
“The ambulances and other life-saving medical equipment will strengthen the healthcare system by allowing people to access high-quality healthcare services, especially in remote provinces,” she said.
The ambulances in particular will increase access to timely interventions in case of emergency situations or birth complications, she added.
Japanese ambassador to Cambodia Atsushi Ueno noted that this year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
“The Japanese government has long supported efforts to improve healthcare in Cambodia, particularly for mothers and babies,” he said.
“Although the healthcare system has improved, there are still difficulties in accessing some services, especially in the more remote provinces. We want to continue to enhance the quality of life of the Cambodian people. I hope that this equipment will contribute to the improvement of the health of women and newborns,” he added.
Sandra Bernklau, UNFPA in Cambodia representative, said that when combined with additional training, the ambulances and additional equipment will contribute to building a resilient healthcare system that ensures no one is left behind, especially during deliveries.
The UNFPA works closely with the government in achieving its sustainable development goals and providing universal access to reproductive health. The UN body is focused on achieving three transformative outcomes: No women dying during childbirth, all households having access to family planning support and materials, and women and girls being free from violence or abuse.
