Japan pledges its commitment to UNICEF support of Health, Nutrition, and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) services to vulnerable communities in Rwanda

The Government of Japan has announced an approximately USD 1.3 million financial contribution to the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in Rwanda to support efforts ensuring health, nutrition and water supply services to the vulnerable communities affected by floods and landslides, and mpox. This new contribution builds on Japan’s continued partnership with the Government of Rwanda and UNICEF to protect children and families affected by recurrent humanitarian emergencies.

The financial support from the people and Government of Japan to Rwanda was endorsed by the Japanese Diet, demonstrating Japan’s strong commitment to rapid, people-centred responses that protect the most vulnerable, especially children. The fact that the Government of Japan provides funding for two consecutive years, and has repeatedly done so in the past, is a testimony to the positive results from 2025, which are expected to indirectly reach 300,000 people.

This year, the funding will address time-sensitive health, nutrition, and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) needs arising from diverse emergencies such as recurrent floods, landslides, outbreaks particularly in districts hosting vulnerable populations. While preparing and responding to sudden humanitarian needs, the programme will improve access to primary health care, essential nutrition services and safe, climate-resilient water supply systems, helping to prevent disease outbreaks, save lives, and strengthen community resilience.

The Government of Japan is glad to contribute to addressing the needs of vulnerable people by providing Health, Nutrition, and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) services through UNICEF. Japan’s assistance is guided by the principle of “Human Security”, “Human-centred cooperation” and “Solidarity” with various actors. In this regard, the collaboration with the Government of Rwanda and UNICEF embodies the principle.

“UNICEF sincerely appreciates Japan’s timely and generous support,” said Ms. Lieke van de Wiel, UNICEF Representative in Rwanda. “This contribution will go a long way in supporting children and families affected by emergencies such as floods and landslides in Rwanda. The contribution will strengthen essential health, nutrition and WASH services, helping to save lives today, prevent disease, while building resilience for the future,” she added.

Japan highly acknowledges the leadership, sustained efforts, and commitment of the Government of Rwanda, as well as UNICEF’s support, in responding to emergencies and protecting vulnerable communities and remains committed to protecting children, strengthening systems, and ensuring that children and families affected by crises have access to essential services.

This project has been approved under the “Japan’s Supplementary Budget in fiscal year 2025”, which focuses on tackling urgent humanitarian issues, among others.