Japan, UNHCR sign $1.6m deal to boost Rohingya support in BD

The government of Japan and UNHCR, the UN refugee agency, have recently signed a partnership agreement to improve living conditions, strengthen primary healthcare and empower Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, reports UNB.

The contribution of US$ 1.6 million [JPY 250 million] will support the construction of safer shelters in the Cox's Bazar camps, the provision of essential medicines and medical supplies, and the engagement of refugees as community health workers.

It will also support the self-reliance of refugees in Cox's Bazar and on Bhasan Char through opportunities for self-reliance.

"This agreement and contribution from Japan to UNHCR comes at a critical time, when fundraising for the Rohingya refugee response is essential. This project will help empowering and improving refugees' well-being on Bhasan Char and in Cox's Bazar, while alleviating the pressure on the Bangladeshi host community," said Saida Shinichi, Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh.

"UNHCR is most grateful to the Government and people of Japan for their consistent solidarity and active support to UNHCR and for our work for the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh," said Sumbul Rizvi, UNHCR Representative in Bangladesh.

As per the agreement, UNHCR will be able to build, maintain and repair safer shelters that can better withstand extreme weather. In Cox's Bazar camps and on Bhasan Char, access to primary healthcare will be strengthened, focusing on both communicable and non communicable diseases, as well as mental health and psychosocial support.

Skills development and self-reliance will be enhanced to provide refugees, particularly women, with the capacity to support their communities and to help them prepare for a safe and sustainable return to Myanmar, once conditions are conducive.