Japan has provided $1.2 million for emergency obstetric care support for women in the conflict-affected states.

Today, Japanese government handed over two ambulances to the national Ministry of Health for use in the states.

Provision of the ambulances is one component of the project known as strengthening emergency obstetric care in humanitarian hotspots in South Sudan.

The project is being implemented by the United Nations Population Fund, UNFPA, and it aims to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity through strengthening existing health facilities as well as preventing and responding to sexual violence.

Ambassador of Japan to South Sudan, Mr. Takeshi Akamatsu, said UNFPA plays the vital role of increasing access to sexual and reproductive health services and information in the conflict affected areas of South Sudan.

“The ambulances will provide transport for women to reach lifesaving maternal health services under the management of Interchurch Medical Assistance – IMA, an international NGO,” read a joint-statement.

UNFPA estimates that 30,000 South Sudanese women are at risk of dying in childbirth due to complications and 200,000 pregnant women will be in need of urgent care before the end of the year.

It currently seeks at least $17 million for its humanitarian response in South Sudan.