Japan extends MVR 8.4 million grant to Maldives through UNICEF, Red Crescent

The Japanese government has extended an emergency grant of USD 541,400 (MVR 8.4 million) for UNICEF and Maldivian Red Crescent to assist the Maldivian government in its combat against the spread of COVID-19 in Maldives.

According to the Maldivian Foreign Ministry, UNICEF has been extended USD 356,400 (MVR 5,634,468) while Maldives Red Crescent has been extended a USD 185,000 (MVR 2,852,700).

The grant is to be utilized for procurement of medical equipment and consumables, and for providing technical assistance for the installation of new communications systems in various schools for online teaching programs and tele-classes.

The Maldivian government has expressed appreciation over the assistance, and has stated that the grant would go a long way in complementing Maldives’ efforts to combat COVID-19.

Japan has been one of Maldives’ most important bilateral partners for several decades. It has invested in infrastructure development and climate adaption projects –  the most iconic of which is the sea wall around the Maldivian capital, Male’ City.

Japan was also among the first countries to provide financial assistance to Maldives in the immediate aftermath of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.