Japan donates cold chain supplies of N.dollars 29 million to health ministry
The Government of Japan, through the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) on Monday donated cold chain supplies valued at N.dollars 29 million to the Ministry of Health and Social Services.
The donation comprised of nine walk-in cold rooms, one incinerator, three ultra-cold chain equipment, 350 vaccine carriers, 295 fridge tags, 11 refrigerators, 10 deep freezers, 24 compressors, 30 voltage stabilisers, 37 laptops, one printer, 36 spare parts and toolkits and 61 tablets.
Speaking at the hand-over ceremony in the capital, UNICEF Country Representative Jecob Nyamadzawo, noted that Namibia is on track to equipping all health facilities with the required cold-chain equipment and supplies, with the support of stakeholders. This, he stressed, is a critical milestone towards strengthening the health system in achieving the universal health coverage agenda.
Japan’s Ambassador to Namibia, Nishimaki Hisao, at the same event said that well trained employees; dependable storage and temperature monitoring equipment; as well as medication inventory management are the three essential aspects of a successful cold chain.
Receiving the donation of behalf of the health ministry, Executive Director Ben Nangombe outlined its significance.
“This equipment will strengthen our ability to safely store and distribute vaccines, medicines, and essential medical supplies. This well-established cold chain infrastructure, coupled with the other resources acquired through this support, will enable us to reach every corner of our nation, ensuring that no one is left behind in our quest for a healthier society,” he said.
Source: The Namibia Press Agency