Japan donates three ambulances to MoHSS
The Embassy of Japan in Namibia handed over three ambulances to the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) at a ceremony in Windhoek on Thursday.Speaking at the event, Noriaki Sadamoto, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Embassy of Japan, said the donation reflects the strong and enduring partnership between the two countries and underlined Japan’s commitment to addressing the health needs of vulnerable and marginalised communities.
The ambulances, valued at N$9 million, were provided through the Japanese Grant Aid for the Economic and Social Development Programme. This brings Japan’s total support under the initiative to around N$50 million, which also funded the distribution of medical equipment to 17 Namibian hospitals in 2022.
The vehicles will be allocated to Opuwo District Hospital in the Kunene Region, Katima Mulilo District Hospital in the Zambezi Region, and Keetmanshoop District Hospital in the ||Kharas Region.
Over the years, Japan has supported several health-related projects in Namibia in cooperation with UN agencies such as WHO, UNICEF and UNFPA, with a focus on universal health coverage, cold chain management and improved access to medicines and vaccines.
Earlier this year, UNICEF Namibia received N$8.63 million from Japan’s supplementary budget, which is being used to assist 48 000 people in Kunene, Omaheke, Omusati and Zambezi regions by equipping clinics, supplying nutrition packs, and strengthening health systems.
Health and social services minister, Esperance Luvindao, described the donation as a milestone in strengthening Namibia’s health services. “An ambulance is more than just a vehicle – it represents hope, urgency and the ability to save lives when every second matters,” she said.
Reflecting on rural challenges, she recalled the story of a young mother in the Zambezi Region who travelled over 50 km by donkey cart to reach a clinic, underscoring the urgent need for reliable emergency services.
While 36 ambulances were recently dispatched across Namibia, shortages persist due to the country’s vast size and low population density. “Every life saved is a testimony to teamwork, preparation and service. May these ambulances symbolise our ongoing mission to bring health and dignity to all,” Luvindao said. – [email protected]