On October 14, Mr. Takashi Okimoto, Head of Public Relations, Japan’s Embassy in Dushanbe, visited Khatlon province region to attend two handover ceremonies of the projects implemented by the Government of Japan under the scheme of Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP).

The ceremonies were held in the presence of chairpersons of Baljuvon and Vose districts where the projects were implemented.  The total amount of the projects amounted to 208,921US$.

According to Japan’s Embassy, the ceremony for ‘The Project for Construction of School Building for School No.11 in Khirob Village of Baljuvon District’ was graced by the presence Ms. Marifat Zoirova, chairperson of Baljuvon district as well as parents, students, and community members.  The GGP grant was effectively used to improve the educational environment and boost students’ enrollment. On this occasion, the local government of Baljuvon district also installed the new building with new school equipment.

The handover ceremony for ‘The Project for Construction of New Building for Regional Hospital No.3 in Mehnatobod Village, Roudaki Jamoat, Vose District’ was marked the same day.  Through the project, a new building for the hospital has been successfully constructed and providing patients and workers of the hospital with a hygienic and conformable environment.  This occasion was accompanied by Ms. Lola Ghulomova, deputy chairperson of Vose district, and a number of hospital workers.

During his speech at the handover ceremonies, Mr. Okimoto spoke about the importance of GGP projects for the development of Tajikistan and the chairpersons of the districts expressed their sincere gratitude to the Government and people of Japan for their support.

“Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Project” (GGP) is a scheme within Japan’s Official Development Assistance.  GGP in particular implements grassroots-level projects in various sectors throughout the Republic of Tajikistan.  Recipients of GGP grants include local governments, educational and medical institutions, and NGOs.  As of today, GGP has supported 352 projects in Tajikistan, for which US$ 28.5 million has been allocated since 1996.