PRESS RELEASE 

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — 16 October 2025 — The people and Government of Japan, through the Japanese Supplementary Budget (JSB) and in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) in Ethiopia, are handing over three renovated hospitals and three brand-new ambulances to the Tigray Regional Health Bureau.  

The handover is part of a wider WHO–Japan $1.8 million initiative aimed at restoring essential health services, supporting emergency outbreak response, and rehabilitating health infrastructure in northern Ethiopia. In Tigray, this investment has been instrumental in rebuilding facilities, improving water and sanitation systems, and strengthening emergency referral networks, particularly for women, children, and vulnerable groups. The project has also supported training for health workers, mental health and gender-based violence services, and rapid response to disease outbreaks such as cholera, measles, and malaria. These combined efforts are helping to re-establish a resilient health system in the region. 

Japan has been a steadfast partner in strengthening health systems across Ethiopia supporting lifesaving interventions in conflict-affected areas. This handover focuses on Adi Daero, Freweyni, and Edaga Arbi hospitals, facilities in Tigray that were severely damaged during the conflict and required urgent rehabilitation to resume lifesaving services. 

According to Professor Francis Chisaka Kasolo, WHO Representative (a.i.) to Ethiopia, the African Union, and UNECA, the renovation included structural rehabilitation, restoration of power, water and sanitation systems, as well as upgrades to maternity and emergency units. Essential medical equipment was also provided to help the hospitals deliver uninterrupted services.  

Mr NETSU Shuntaro, Deputy of Chief of Mission in the Embassy of Japan, noted this support aims to provide essential healthcare services to over 150,000 people in Tigray, Amhara and Afar regions through nutrition and infection prevention support, facility renovation and reconstruction, and training for healthcare personnel. The Government of Japan has focused on realizing peace and stability in Ethiopia in its support across various fields, stated Mr NESTU adding that the project also contributes recovery and reconstruction from the northern conflict in the health sector. 

WHO, as the implementing agency, worked closely with national and regional authorities to ensure the support reaches those most in need. Professor Kasolo expressed deep appreciation to the people and government of Japan for their solidarity and to health workers in Tigray for their unwavering dedication.