In a significant development, the Government of Japan has allocated a substantial $2.7 million to bolster Unicef’s efforts in providing life-saving interventions for Rohingya refugee children, women, and vulnerable host populations in Cox’s Bazar district and Bhasan Char Island.
Under the initiative titled “The Project for Multiple Humanitarian Assistance for Displaced Persons from Myanmar in Cox’s Bazar District and Bhasan Char,” over 176,000 Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char camps, along with individuals in host communities, will benefit from the generous funding.
The comprehensive project aims to deliver an integrated and multisectoral humanitarian response, ensuring access to education, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), health, and nutrition services for children and their families. Additionally, the initiative prioritizes fostering social and behavioral changes within the recipient communities.
Sheldon Yett, Unicef representative to Bangladesh, highlighted the critical importance of ensuring Rohingya children exercise their rights, emphasizing the pivotal role of education in shaping their future. He expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Japan for their generous contribution, enabling Unicef to scale up interventions and provide a lifeline to Rohingya children and their families.
Ambassador IWAMA Kiminori conveyed his hope that Japan’s support would significantly improve living conditions for both Rohingya and host communities. Recognizing the prolonged Rohingya crisis and the escalating challenges faced by children, he reiterated Japan’s commitment to working with international organizations, including Unicef, toward durable solutions and better living conditions.
“I hope the funding from Japan will contribute to easing the challenges faced by the Rohingya refugees and host communities, especially children,” Ambassador Kiminori added.
Japan has been a steadfast supporter of the Rohingya refugee response in Bangladesh since the onset of the crisis in August 2017, contributing over $43.65 million, including the latest funding for Unicef programs. This ongoing support reflects Japan’s commitment to improving the lives of those affected and working towards sustainable solutions.
