JICA Grant Aid Enhances Medical Infrastructure in Moldova: Handover Ceremonies of medical equipment for two hospitals in Chisinau

The handover ceremonies of a batch of medical equipment took place on March 4th at two prominent hospitals in Chisinau. The provision of various equipment was made possible through the grant aid program provided by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to the Government of Moldova. The ceremonies, attended by key officials, marked the delivery of essential equipment that will elevate the quality of healthcare services, benefiting not only the local population but also displaced Ukrainian people.

This time, a total of 13 stretchers and 8 operating tables, valued at 60 million Japanese yen (approximately 370 thousand euros), were allocated to the Republican Clinical Hospital. Simultaneously, the Institute of Emergency Medicine received 16 stretchers and 5 defibrillators, with a total value of 30 million Japanese yen (equivalent to about 185 thousand euros). This strategic allocation of medical equipment is set to fortify the hospitals' capabilities, ensuring better healthcare provision and addressing the urgent needs of patients.

The procurement of this state-of-the-art medical equipment was made possible through the financial support of the Government of Japan, facilitated by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). A Grant Agreement, signed in November 2022 between the Ministry of Health and JICA, amounted to one billion Japanese yen (more than 6 million euros). This agreement set the stage for the Health System Strengthening Program, which aims to equip fine major public medical institutions in Moldova.

At the two ceremonies, Dr. Ala Nemerenco, Minister of Health, Mr. Yoichiro Yamada, Japanese Ambassador to Moldova, Satoshi Sugimoto, Senior Representative of JICA Ukraine Office, as well as Dr. Andrei Uncuta and Dr. Diana Manea, Directors of the two hospitals made remarks.

Minister Nemerenco expressed her gratitude for the continuous and unwavering support extended to Moldova's health system by the Government of Japan. The past assistance and this grant aid align with the broader global agenda of achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), by strengthening the healthcare system in Moldova. Furthermore, the provision of medical support to displaced people from Ukraine reflects the project's commitment to leaving no one behind, addressing the urgent needs of vulnerable populations.

With this JICA’s grant aid program, further medical equipment will be delivered to five hospitals in Chisinau until early 2025.