Phnom Penh — The Government of Japan has announced two new grassroots projects under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (“KUSANONE”) framework, totaling $183,588, aimed at improving emergency response and healthcare services in Cambodia.
Grant contracts were signed on Friday between Ueno Atsushi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Cambodia, and representatives of the two recipient organizations.
Strengthening Emergency Response with New Ambulances
The first initiative, titled “The Project for the Procurement of Secondhand Ambulance in Phnom Penh City, Kandal, and Preah Sihanouk Provinces”, will receive $120,308 in funding.
The Police Department of Fire Prevention and Rescue under the Ministry of Interior will use the grant to procure four Japanese ambulances — two for Phnom Penh, one for Kandal, and one for Preah Sihanouk province.
This project aims to enhance Cambodia’s emergency response capabilities, especially in urban areas where rapid urbanization has led to increased fire risks and delayed rescue operations. Despite having trained medical staff, fire stations often lack ambulances, leading to avoidable fatalities. The new vehicles will significantly improve response time and life-saving efforts, benefiting an estimated 4.14 million residents.
Upgrading Healthcare in Ratanakiri Province
The second project, titled “The Project for the Installation of Medical Equipment at Borkeo Referral Hospital in Ratanakiri Province”, has been allocated $63,280.
The grant will support the Borkeo Referral Hospital in acquiring essential medical equipment — including an X-ray machine, an electrocardiograph (ECG), and a generator.
Since the hospital’s X-ray machine broke down in 2021, patients have had to travel more than 30 km to the provincial hospital for imaging services. The new equipment will enable faster and more accurate diagnoses while reducing patient costs and travel time. The installation of a generator will also ensure uninterrupted power supply during frequent outages, allowing healthcare professionals to provide critical care even during emergencies. This project is expected to benefit about 9,500 patients annually, enhancing healthcare access in rural Ratanakiri.
Japan’s Continued Commitment to Cambodia
Japan’s “KUSANONE” program, launched in Cambodia in 1991, aims to support reconstruction and human security by addressing the basic needs of communities and promoting local self-reliance.
Since its inception, Japan has funded 706 grassroots projects across Cambodia, amounting to more than $72 million.
Through these latest grants, Japan reaffirms its long-standing partnership with Cambodia in fostering safety, health, and community resilience at the grassroots level.
Also read, Japan Extends Over USD 296 Million Yen Loan to Support Cambodia’s Water and Power Infrastructure
