Government of Japan Donates USD 4.3 Million Worth of Equipment to Strengthen Disaster Response Capacity in the Maldives

 

Malé, April 26, 2026 – The Government of Japan has donated equipment worth approximately USD 4.3 million (equivalent to MVR 66 million), procured under Japan’s Grant Aid for the Economic and Social Development Programme (ESDP) for the Republic of Maldives, signed on 24 March 2024. The project will benefit outer islands as well as Greater Malé and enhance resilience in island communities and strengthen the operational capacity of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) for effective flood management and firefighting.
 
At the ceremony, the equipment was handed over by Her Excellency Mrs. ISHIGAMI Rumiko, Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives, and received by Mr. Hisan Hassan, Chief Executive of the NDMA. The items handed over are listed below.
 
For Fire pump:

• Fire pump - 40
• Nozzle - 80
• Fire hose - 80
• Dividing breaching with stop valves - 40
• Suction hose set - 40
• Search light with tripod set - 40
• Cart - 40
• Battery charger - 40
• Root joint - 40
• Other manufacturers standard set - 40
• Operation and maintenance manual set - 40
• Catalog – 40

 
For dewatering pump:

• Drain pump - 40
• Discharge hose ( 100m) - 80
• Hose joint - 40
• Suction hose - 40
• Hose Clip - 160
• Standard manufacturers spare parts set - 80

 

This project will ensure that critical response tools are available closer to the communities that need them most. “We are not just handing over equipment—we are strengthening resilience, saving lives, and bringing protection closer to islands. By empowering island communities, we are turning vulnerability into strength and distance into readiness. Japan understands the importance of preparedness and resilience. Through our own experiences with natural disasters, we have learned that effective response begins long before a disaster occurs—with planning, investment, and strong institutions,” said Ambassador Ishigami during her speech at the handover.
 
In addition, the equipment provided under this project has been procured by Taichi Holdings Limited and includes products from leading Japanese manufacturers such as Yanmar Energy System Co., Ltd and Shibaura Fire Pump Co., Ltd. Renowned for their quality and reliability, these products are expected to play a significant role in strengthening the long-term disaster resilience of the Maldives.
 
Japan has been a longstanding partner in disaster risk management in the Maldives. Japan provided significant grant assistance in 2015 and 2017 to support the development of what is now the NDMA. Moreover, Japan pledged a grant in value of USD 89,900 to NDMA under the Grant Assistance for Grass Roots Human Security Projects (GGP) scheme for “The Project for the Provision of Emergency Support Vehicles in Male” in 2025, providing two emergency support vehicles.
 
The Government of Japan expresses its hope that this assistance will further complement the ongoing efforts of the Government of the Maldives to address the impacts of climate change, natural disasters, and fire-related risks, and to build a more resilient nation.