Dang, Feb 11: Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Kikuta Yutaka and Lumbini province minister Chet Narayan Acharya jointly inaugurated a well-equipped maternity building amidst a programme here on Friday.
Family Planning Association of Nepal, Dang chapter had constructed the building with funding support from the Government of Japan.
According to the Memorandum of Understanding signed with the embassy on 27 September 2019, the building construction had to be completed by August 2022. But, its construction was completed later in March 2022. The contract period for the same was extended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
On the occasion, Minister Acharya said the history of Nepal-Japan diplomatic relations was very cordial. He also pledged all possible support from the province government for the improved health services.
At the programme, Japanese Ambassador Yukata urged for the optimum use of the building. He said the maternity home was being operated in the district to ensure safe delivery and upbringing of children.
Ambassador Yukata further said the aid was extended to construct the maternity building in Dang to channelize support so as to promote safe maternity service and improve health of the new-born.
It may be noted that the Japanese government had provided financial assistance of Rs 10 million for building construction and service expansion and quality delivery.
The aid money was spent to purchase health equipment and appliances, including machine for screening uterus cancer, ultrasound machine, maternity bed, semi auto-analyzer for laboratory service expansion, microscope and centrifuge to expand health services.
