Ministry of Health and Social Protection of Population, European Union, UNICEF, inaugurate rehabilitated healthcare facilities in Ayni District
Ayni District, 12 November 2025. Two key healthcare facilities in Tajikistan’s Ayni district, the Infectious Disease Department of the Ayni Central District Hospital and the Zarafshon City Hospital, have been officially inaugurated following comprehensive rehabilitation works aimed at strengthening infection prevention and control, improving hygiene standards, and ensuring safer healthcare services for all.
The joint inauguration ceremony brought together representatives of the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Tajikistan, the European Union, and UNICEF, as well as regional and local authorities, healthcare professionals, and community members.
The rehabilitation was carried out under the Infection Prevention and Control component of the European Union–funded Health Development Programme (HDP), implemented by UNICEF in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Population.
Before the rehabilitation, both hospitals faced challenges in maintaining proper water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) conditions and managing medical waste. The hospitals have now been transformed into safer, cleaner, and better-equipped facilities that can deliver high-quality care to patients.
“The European Union commitment is that no one is left behind and that the facilities we provided will remain available for future generations. Jointly with our Partner UNICEF, the EU helps the Tajik government to promote sustainable and efficient water supply and sanitation services. We are glad to see that, now, those in need, attending the Ayni CDH and the Zorafshon Hospital, will enjoy medical care in a safer and more proper environment.” said Denise Molica, Programme Manager – Health Sector, Delegation of the European Union to Tajikistan.
The works included the renovation of hospital wards, service and utility areas, improved water and sanitation systems, and the establishment of safe medical waste management practices. Both hospitals were equipped with essential medical devices and furniture to strengthen maternal, newborn, and emergency care.
In addition to infrastructure upgrades, medical staff participated in hands-on training sessions on infection prevention and control, including hand hygiene, waste management, and environmental cleaning. Updated national guidelines on infection prevention and control were also distributed to ensure consistent and safe clinical practices.
“In partnership with the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of Population and the European Union, these rehabilitation works in 2 critical facilities - Infectious Disease Department (IDD) of Ayni Central District Hospital and the Zarafshon City Hospital are a significant achievement in our collective efforts to strengthen health systems, improve infection prevention and control, and ensure dignified care for all patients – especially women, children, and vulnerable groups.”Arthur van Diesen, UNICEF Representative in Tajikistan
The newly rehabilitated facilities will play a vital role in improving the resilience of Tajikistan’s healthcare system, ensuring that communities in Ayni district continue to receive safe, reliable, and high-quality healthcare services.
About the Health Development Programme
The Health Development Programme (HDP) is funded by the European Union and implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Tajikistan. Through its Infection Prevention and Control component, implemented by UNICEF, the programme aims to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, improve hygiene and waste management systems, and enhance healthcare workers' capacity to prevent and control infections effectively.
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About UNICEF
UNICEF promotes the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere. UNICEF operates in Tajikistan since 1993.
To receive more information about UNICEF and our work in Tajikistan, please visit https://www.unicef.org/tajikistan/
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About European Union
The European Union is a unique economic and political union between 27 EU countries that together cover much of the continent. The goals of the European Union are to promote peace, its values and the well-being of its citizens as well as offer freedom, security and justice without internal borders. Sustainable development based on balanced economic growth and price stability, a highly competitive market economy with full employment and social progress, and environmental protection.
