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Apr 05, 2023

Lebanon Health Minister And Ambassador Of Japan Inaugurates Solar Power Project At Menyeh Governmental Hospital

In a significant milestone for healthcare in Lebanon, the Minister of Health in

In a significant milestone for healthcare in Lebanon, the Minister of Health in the caretaker government, Dr Firas Al-Abyad, presided over the inauguration ceremony of a groundbreaking project at Al-Menyeh Governmental Hospital. The initiative, aimed at providing alternative energy sources, was made possible through a generous donation from Japan and the implementation efforts of the United Nations Office for Service Projects (UNOPS). The event witnessed the presence of distinguished guests, including Ambassador Masayuki Magushi of Japan, MP Ahmed Al-Khair, Chairman of the Supreme Commission Relief Major General Muhammad al-Khair, District Commissioner of Minieh-Danniyeh Jan al-Khouli, mayors of Miniyeh and neighboring municipalities, dedicated hospital staff, as well as enthusiastic activists and local residents.

Addressing the gathering, Muhammad Othman Akram, the representative and director of the United Nations Office for Project Services in Lebanon, highlighted the pressing issue of electricity shortages in the country. Akram emphasized that the initiative, funded by the Japanese government and its people, plays a pivotal role in enhancing the operational capabilities of the Ministry of Public Health, particularly in combating the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The installation of solar energy systems, with a capacity exceeding 266 kilowatts, will cover 20% to 30% of the targeted hospitals’ energy consumption in the governorates of the North, Bekaa, and Nabatiyeh.

Speaking on behalf of Japan, Ambassador Masayuki Magushi underscored the critical importance of government hospitals in Lebanon's healthcare sector. Recognizing their indispensable role, Japan extended its support to the Minieh Governmental Hospital by providing a state-of-the-art solar energy system, along with essential medical equipment. Magushi expressed hopes that this assistance would contribute to ensuring sustainable access to health services for vulnerable communities, especially during these challenging times.

Dr Firas Al-Abyad, in his address, expressed his profound pleasure at inaugurating the new renewable solar energy project at the primary healthcare center. He highlighted that UNICEF has successfully implemented similar projects in over 150 primary care centers, emphasizing their multifaceted significance. Al-Abyad stressed that this groundbreaking endeavor would not only reduce energy costs for the centers but also enable the reallocation of resources to facilitate patient access to primary care. Furthermore, it would enhance the quality of services provided and offer support to healthcare providers and workers in care centers, ultimately strengthening the overall healthcare infrastructure.

The joint efforts of the Ministry of Health, the Japanese government, and UNOPS have brought about a transformative project that promises to revolutionize healthcare facilities in Lebanon. The innovative renewable energy solutions will not only alleviate the strain on the healthcare system but also contribute to a sustainable future for healthcare services in the country. With such remarkable progress, Lebanon takes a significant step forward in its mission to provide high-quality healthcare to all citizens, irrespective of their circumstances.