Japan and UNOPS handed over solar photovoltaic systems and medical equipment to public hospitals in Lebanon

Amidst the acute electricity shortages in the country, the initiative, funded by the Government and the people of Japan, has strengthened the operational capacity of the Ministry of Public Health and helped curb the  spread of COVID-19. The newly installed solar photovoltaic hybrid systems with the capacity to generate more than 266 KWp (kilo-watt peak) will cover 20-30% of the energy consumption of the targeted public hospitals in the North, Bekaa, and Nabatieh governorates. Additionally, 544 medical items and more than 13,000 light bulbs, fixtures and accessories were delivered to enhance energy efficiency and improve healthcare services provision.

The project will ensure that power cuts do not interrupt life-saving and essential public health services while reducing the operational cost and burden on the hospitals. As a result of this project, more than 436,500 vulnerable girls and boys, men and women will have access to improved healthcare services.

Speaking at the ceremony, H.E. Mr. Masayuki Magoshi, Ambassador of Japan to Lebanon said: “Governmental hospitals in Lebanon are the backbone and pillar of the country’s healthcare sector, and given the growing significance of their role Japan decided to support the governmental hospitals through the provision of a solar power system and essential medical equipment. Japan hopes that this assistance will help secure the sustainable access to health services to the most vulnerable communities during these difficult times.”

Dr. Firas Abiad, the Minister of Public Health in Lebanon, said: “Using solar panels in the governmental hospitals will not only reduce the cost of energy but it will enhance the hospitals’ sustainable development, reduce their expenses and use the resources to improve the quality of services, support the hospitals’ personnel and retain them. We are grateful to this support from Japan and to UNOPS’s efforts in making this project a reality.”

“Electricity and quality healthcare services have been critical for the people of Lebanon who are experiencing multiple challenges. I appreciate the continued partnership with the Government of Japan in support of vulnerable populations and in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health to enhance access to public health services in Lebanon.” said Muhammad Usman Akram, Representative and Director of UNOPS Operational Hub in Amman.

About UNOPS:

UNOPS helps the UN and its partners provide peace and security, humanitarian and development solutions. The organization’s mission is to help people build better lives and countries achieve peace and sustainable development. UNOPS services cover infrastructure, project management, procurement, financial management and human resources. Partners call on UNOPS to supplement their own capacities, improve speed, reduce risks, boost cost-effectiveness and increase quality.

UNOPS Operational Hub in Amman covers projects in Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen and implements work in partnership with bilateral and multilateral donors, national governments and other UN agencies.