Japan To Provide Assistive Vehicle To Maldives Association Of Persons With Disability

On Tuesday, the Grant Contract for the provision of assistive vehicles by Japan to the Maldives Association of Persons with Disabilities (MAPD) under the Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGP) scheme has been signed. It was signed by the Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives, Her Excellency Keiko Yanai whereas the Chairperson of MAPD, Mr. Ahmed Mohamed signed on behalf of them. The ceremony which was held at SHE Building was attended by the Minister of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment His Excellency Ahmed Mahloof as a special guest.

As per the terms of the Grant Contract, the Government of Japan will extend USD 209,667 that is approximately MVR 3,233,065 that will be utilized to acquire 3 assistive vehicles for establishing an inclusive and accessible transport system for people with disabilities. These vehicles comprise of an electric wheelchair lift in its rear side for the safe and smooth entraining that has the capacity to carry up to 2 wheelchairs and 6 ambulatory passengers at a time.

To provide equal opportunity for all people to become a part of the community – it is essential to have a disability-inclusive transport service. The vehicles committed under this grant will assist both children and adults with disabilities to go to school, work and access healthcare facilities safely at an affordable price.

MAPD will be implementing the project with support from the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment and the Ministry of Gender, Family and Social Services.
The GGP is part of the Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) that is implemented by the Embassy of Japan in the Maldives with a mission to empower people at the grassroots levels. Since 1996, the GGP has reached broad areas such as education, environment, health, transportation and energy in order to contribute to the sustainable development of the Maldives. 

(Photo: Minister Mahloof)