DUSHANBE, February 13, 2015, Asia-Plus -- A signing ceremony for “The Project for the Refurbishment of Support Centers for Children with Disabilities in Rasht District” was held at the Embassy of Japan in Dushanbe on February 12.

Japan’s Embassy says the contract was signed between Mr. Takashi Kamada, Ambassador of Japan to Tajikistan, and Mr. Qanoatsho Loiqov, the Chairperson of Rasht District.  Under the framework of “Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP)”, the total amount of US$ 102,371 was granted for the project from the Government of Japan.

To commemorate the occasion, the representatives from the entities that will also partake in the realization and operation of the project, United Nations Children''s Fund (UNICEF), Zarshedabonu, a domestic NGO that specializes in providing care to children and youths with disabilities, and Anisa Daycare Center, one of the two facilities where the project will take place, also attended the ceremony.

Under the scope of this project, Anisa Daycare Center will go through a full renovation, and the Psychological, Medical and Pedagogical Consultation (PMPC) Center will be newly established within the property of Rasht Central Hospital.  In addition, the project will provide the both facilities with necessary equipment. Upon completion, these facilities will be able to provide comprehensive care and support for the children with disabilities in and around Rasht District.

Upon signing the grant contract, Mr. Kamada made a remark that Japan’s GGP projects have been able to contribute to the sustainable development of Tajikistan through various projects implemented all across the country; and this project in particular will contribute to creating a better environment for the children who are in need of special care in the remote areas.

Mr. Loiqov extended his words of gratitude to the Government and people of Japan, and promised successful completion of the project.

The Government of Japan is dedicated to continuing its support for creating a better society for all people and committed to working together with the people of Tajikistan.

Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Project (GGP) is a scheme within Japan’s Official Development Assistance. GGP in particular implements grassroots-level projects in various sectors throughout the Republic of Tajikistan. Recipients of GGP grants include local governments, educational and medical institutions, and NGOs.  As of today, GGP has supported 341 projects in the Republic of Tajikistan, for which more than US$ 27.6 million has been allocated since 1996.