An estimated 14.6 million Syrians are currently in need of humanitarian assistance – the highest number since the start of the conflict in 2011 – while more than 12 million people are in need of health assistance.

To help hospitals respond to ongoing conflict and the COVID-19 pandemic, UNOPS urgently procured, distributed and installed 633 pieces of medical equipment. The equipment reached 25 public hospitals across 4 Syrian governorates, allowing hospitals to increase their operational capacity and provide much-needed health services to its patients.

“This project will enable the targeted health facilities to deal with the daily increased demand for services, benefiting around 9.8 million people seeking medical treatment annually in the Damascus, Rural Damascus, Aleppo and Sweida governorates,” said Muhammad Usman Akram, Director of UNOPS Multi-Country Office in Amman.

To further strengthen national capacity, healthcare providers and relevant hospital staff were trained on the correct use and maintenance of the new medical equipment.

“Japan remains committed to providing humanitarian assistance to support populations in Syria affected by the crisis and COVID-19,” said Mr. Hirofumi Miyake, Special Coordinator for Syria and Charge d‘Affaires of the Embassy of Japan in Syria.

“We sincerely hope that our support will help alleviate suffering for as many Syrians as possible, and help them to weather the multiple and deepening challenges they now face,” he added.