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Harare, Zimbabwe – November 22, 2024 – The Government of Japan has decided to fund a new project supporting Gender-Based Violence (GBV) survivors through the donation of two (2) Japanese secondhand ambulances worth US$50,670. In a formal signing ceremony on November 22, 2024, the contract was formalized between H.E. Mr. Shinichi Yamanaka, Ambassador of Japan to Zimbabwe and Ms. Maceline M. Mukwamba, the Director of the Adult Rape Clinic.
With these two ambulances, the Adult Rape Clinic, a Zimbabwean organization dedicated to supporting GBV survivors, will implement the project to provide crucial outreach services to survivors across seven (7) areas: Chitungwiza, Mazowe, Domboshava, Gokwe, Kadoma, Mutare, and Masvingo.
In Zimbabwe, more than 10,000 GBV cases were reported to the police last year, with a high prevalence of HIV and STIs also affecting the country. These ambulances will be essential for providing mobile medical and mental health support to GBV survivors with limited access to care due to financial barriers.
Through this outreach, approximately 5,000 women annually will receive vital HIV and STI screenings, as well as psychological support within underserved areas. These Japanese 4x4 ambulances are particularly suitable for the outreach service in regions where unpaved roads make travel challenging and a safe, private space for treatment is desired.
Ambassador Yamanaka highlighted the importance of this project in his remarks, expressing hope that it would significantly impact the GBV survivors reached. He further emphasized on the importance of responsible vehicle use to benefit communities, fostering a more inclusive, gender- equal society in Zimbabwe.
Since its launch in Zimbabwe in 1989, Japan's Grant Assistance for Grassroots and Human Security Projects scheme has funded 156 projects, with over USD $16 million dedicated to addressing essential human needs in areas such as education, healthcare, gender equality, food security, and water sanitation.
Embassy of Japan in Zimbabwe Tel. (04) 250025/6/7, Fax. (04) 250111 Email: info.emb-japan@hz.mofa.go.jp