Phnom Penh, Cambodia – The Government of Japan has pledged a grant of US$462,003 under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (“KUSANONE”) to support firefighting and medical services in Phnom Penh.
The grant contracts were signed at the Japanese Embassy by H.E. UENO Atsushi, Japanese Ambassador to Cambodia, and representatives from the recipient organizations.
Enhancing Firefighting Capabilities
Out of the total funding, US$83,672 will be allocated to the Phnom Penh Capital Administration for the procurement of a Japanese Smoke Ventilation Truck—the first of its kind in Cambodia. This specialized fire engine will enhance firefighting efficiency by clearing smoke from buildings during fire incidents, enabling quicker and safer rescue operations. The vehicle is provided by the Fire and Disaster Management Agency (FDMA), Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan.
Additionally, an extra US$154,376 will fund The Project for the Procurement of Secondhand Fire Truck and Rescue Truck in Phnom Penh. This includes a rescue truck designed for complex emergency situations and a 40-metre ladder truck to improve responses to fires in high-rise buildings. These efforts will strengthen fire safety for over 2.8 million residents, as well as tourists and business travelers.
Strengthening Medical Services
The remaining US$223,955 will support Preah Ang Duong Hospital through The Project for the Installation of Medical Equipment. The grant will be used to procure advanced ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgical equipment, including forceps, a drill and shaver set, and an endoscope camera and monitor. These upgrades will improve medical efficiency and benefit approximately 32,000 patients annually, including 1,400 low-income individuals.
Japan’s Continued Support for Cambodia
Japan’s KUSANONE initiative has been supporting Cambodia’s development since 1991, focusing on grassroots-level assistance for vulnerable communities. To date, the Government of Japan has contributed over US$71 million, funding 700 projects aimed at improving local infrastructure, healthcare, and disaster response capabilities.
This latest grant reaffirms Japan’s commitment to Cambodia’s development, enhancing public safety and healthcare services for the benefit of all.
Source: Ministry of Information
