Japan has designated one billion shillings to aid vulnerable communities across Uganda. The agreement formalizing this assistance was sealed at the Japanese Embassy in Nakasero, Kampala, on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, between Fukuzawa Hidemoto, the Ambassador of Japan to Uganda, and representatives from four selected organizations.
Out of 400 organizations that sought grant assistance for grassroots human security projects last year, only four were chosen, highlighting the rigorous selection process undertaken by Japan’s aid program.
Ambassador Hidemoto emphasized the pivotal role of health and education in Japan’s financing initiatives in Uganda, indicating a strategic focus on bolstering these key sectors.
The allocated grant will fund various projects, including the construction of a classroom block at Obalanga Primary School in Kapelebyong and Apuuton Primary School in Katakwi districts. Additionally, it will support the establishment of an outpatient ward at Busiriba Health Centre II in Kamwenge district and enhance hygiene and sanitation facilities at Kigaragara Vocational Secondary School in Kashumba sub-county, Isingiro district.
Expressing gratitude, Ellen Kajura Bajenja, the country director of ACORD Uganda, one of the grant beneficiaries, acknowledged the Japanese Embassy’s enduring trust and confidence in their organization. ACORD Uganda had previously received support from the Japanese embassy in 2017 to improve sanitation conditions in seven primary schools in Isingiro.
Bajenja underscored the significance of the grant, particularly its impact on enhancing hygiene standards in the supported schools. The current grant of 295 million shillings will specifically facilitate the construction of rainwater harvesting tanks with a powered pump and two latrine blocks in Kigaragara, Isingiro district, further advancing sanitation infrastructure in the region.
