Baghdad: The Japanese Embassy in Iraq announced a $97,750 financial grant aimed at procuring 17 neonatal incubators for two hospitals in Baghdad and Kirkuk, marking a significant development in the healthcare services of these regions.

According to Iraqi News Agency, the incubators are set to be installed at Imam Al-Kadhimain Medical City Teaching Hospital in Baghdad and Azadi Teaching Hospital in Kirkuk. The Unified Iraqi Medical Association noted that these incubators will become operational next week, enhancing the hospitals’ capacity to care for newborns.

Japanese Ambassador to Iraq, Akira Endo, highlighted the agreement signed between the Embassy of Japan and the Unified Iraqi Medical Association under the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects initiative. Endo emphasized Japan’s ongoing commitment to human security and sustainable development in Iraq, noting that Japan has implemented more than 100 projects across various fields since 2003.

Both hospitals, originally constructed by Japan in the 1980s, are currently facing significant challenges in providing essential care due to a shortage of neonatal incubators. This project aims to renew the longstanding partnership between Japan and Iraq.

Baghdad Karkh Health Director Wael Al-Kubaisi expressed that the grant would have an immediate impact on improving newborn survival rates. He praised the initiative’s role in enhancing the hospitals’ ability to care for premature infants and its contribution to aligning with high health standards.

Al-Kubaisi also acknowledged the deep-rooted commitment between Iraqi health authorities and the Japanese Embassy, expressing optimism for future collaborations and sustained support.

Ahmed Al-Hiti, head of the Iraqi Medical Association for Relief and Development, described the support as a testament to the enduring humanitarian and development partnership between Iraq and Japan. He highlighted the broader scope of the support, which includes strengthening the capabilities of healthcare institutions across Iraq.

The initiative aligns with the national campaign ‘Their Heartbeat, Our Hope,’ which aims to provide 1,000 incubators in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and health directorates across Iraq. Al-Hiti emphasized that Japanese support extends beyond equipment, fostering trust and friendship between the two nations and setting an example of successful international partnerships centered around health and dignity.