Japan has handed over equipment worth USD 4.3 million, equivalent to MVR 66 million, to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to strengthen disaster preparedness in the Maldives.

The equipment was donated under Japan’s Grant Aid for the Economic and Social Development Programme. The first phase of the project includes 40 fire pumps, 40 water pumps and related equipment.

The items were handed over by Japan’s Ambassador to the Maldives, Ishigami Rumiko, on behalf of the government of Japan. They were received by NDMA Chief Executive Hisan Hassan.

Speaking at the ceremony, Hisan said the equipment would help strengthen the Maldives’ long-term disaster response capacity. He said the support would also contribute to NDMA’s efforts to empower communities and improve disaster management through a decentralised system.

Hisan also thanked the government of Japan for its continued assistance in strengthening disaster preparedness in the Maldives.

Ambassador Ishigami said the project would help ensure that essential disaster response resources reach the islands and communities that need them most. She said the equipment would support island communities, improve emergency response capacity and help protect lives during disasters.

The Ambassador also highlighted the importance of preparedness, planning, investment and strong institutions before disasters occur, drawing on Japan’s own experience with natural disasters.

Japan has maintained close cooperation with the Maldives in disaster risk reduction. In 2015 and 2017, Japan provided major assistance to support the development of the current NDMA. In 2025, Japan also decided to provide USD 89,900 under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects to supply two emergency support vehicles for use in Malé.