Japan provides further support to UNICEF strengthening emergency response to children in Ukraine

Kyiv – 15 February 2024 - The Government of Japan has provided substantial additional funding to UNICEF to improve the well-being of children in Ukraine. This contribution will support emergency response activities in education, health, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sectors, ensuring that the most vulnerable children, primarily in the war-affected south and east of Ukraine have access to essential services, benefiting up to 400,000 people. 

"Japan has been a long-standing partner for UNICEF, and we are very grateful for the Government of Japan’s unwavering commitment and timely support to children in Ukraine. Japan has played a vital role supporting children since the onset of the full-scale war, and at times of crisis such as following the Kakhovka dam attack. This new contribution will significantly benefit children and families affected by the war. We also look forward to exploring all avenues for continued partnership in supporting affected children in recovery and sustainable solutions," said the UNICEF Representative to Ukraine, Munir Mammadzade. 

Japan’s project adopts an integrated approach, focusing on the expansion of quality mother and child health and nutrition services, particularly enhancing home-based and facility-based care at the primary level and the provision of crucial immunization services. Simultaneously, the programme will facilitate equitable access to both formal and non-formal education, reinforcing the importance of continuous learning for children affected by conflict.

The intervention will also address immediate lifesaving water and sanitation needs, including through the rehabilitation of infrastructure, including those servicing people displaced by the war. By seamlessly integrating health, education, and WASH interventions, Japan's comprehensive support underscores the approach required to support and empower war-affected communities in Ukraine.

“In the face of challenging circumstances, the support provided by UNICEF in Ukraine, which remains an important partner for Japan, is vital for the well-being of Ukrainians. Japan is determined to continue its support to Ukraine for health, education initiatives and WASH programmes that contribute to the humanitarian needs of the most vulnerable children and their families”, says the Ambassador of Japan to Ukraine, Matsuda Kuninori.

Last year, Japan's crucial support contributed to UNICEF’s work across various sectors. The support included but was not limited to the procurement of devices for schools, the establishment of digital learning centers in the areas close to the frontline, mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) interventions, vaccine procurement, and UNICEF’s rapid emergency response to the Kakhovka dam attack.