Jerusalem / PNN /

Collaborative Effort by UNOPS and the Government of Japan Enhances Healthcare Services for Palestinian Patients in East Jerusalem

The newly renovated pharmacy at Augusta Victoria Hospital (AVH) in East Jerusalem, pivotal for cancer treatment, has officially reopened following extensive upgrades funded by the Government of Japan. The inauguration ceremony, attended by Mr. Yoichi Nakashima, the Ambassador for Palestinian Affairs and Representative of Japan to Palestine, and Ms. Olivia Tecosky, Director of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in Jerusalem, Ms. Sieglinde Weinbrenner, Representative of the Lutheran World Federation in Jerusalem, and Dr. Fadi Atrach, Chief Executive Officer at AVH, marked a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts to improve healthcare services for Palestinians.

This renovation was facilitated by a generous contribution from the Government of Japan and executed by UNOPS. The upgrade includes a facility for preparing chemotherapy and biological treatments, ensuring these processes adhere to stringent international sterile standards. This critical initiative addresses the urgent need for proper facilities to manage sensitive chemotherapy preparations.

This project underscores the commitment of the Government of Japan and UNOPS to supporting quality health services, affirming their dedication to the well-being and development of the Palestinian people.

The renovation of the AVH pharmacy comes within a broader collaboration between UNOPS and the Government of Japan towards supporting the provision of essential health and water/sanitation services.

On this occasion, H.E. NAKASHIMA Yoichi, Ambassador for the Palestinian Affairs and Representative of Japan to Palestine, expressed his deep gratitude to UNOPS for their efforts in completing this vital intervention. He added: ”In the face of intensified hostilities and political situation, the health sector in Palestine is facing significant challenges, affecting the daily lives of Palestinians. With shortages in critical medical supplies and constraints in adequate space for vital healthcare services, the renovation of the AVH pharmacy is a crucial step. This project aims to enhance access to essential healthcare services in East Jerusalem Hospitals, striving to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people”.

Likewise, UNOPS Director, Ms. Olivia Tecosky stated “We are enormously grateful to the Government of Japan for this partnership to support the renovation of the Augusta Victoria Hospital pharmacy. As a key institution providing vital cancer treatment, Augusta Victoria Hospital serves thousands of Palestinian patients each year. These improvements will enhance the quality of care for those undergoing chemotherapy and other treatments. Together, we are ensuring that the hospital can continue to offer top-tier medical services and meet the urgent health needs of the Palestinian community."

UNOPS mission is to help people build better lives and countries achieve peace and sustainable development. We help the United Nations, governments and other partners to manage projects, and deliver sustainable infrastructure and procurement in an efficient way.