Beirut: The Lebanese Association for Family Health (SALAMA), a member of the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) in Lebanon, hosted a closing ceremony for its Japan-funded project aimed at enhancing maternal and reproductive health among Lebanon's crisis-affected communities. The event took place in Beirut and included representatives from the Lebanese Ministries of Health and Social Affairs, the Government of Japan, and the IPPF.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the project was funded through the Japan Supplementary Budget (JSB) 2024 and has made substantial progress in improving access to crucial maternal and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley. These services have been vital for internally displaced persons (IDPs), Syrian refugees, and host communities, delivering 85,684 SRH services to 28,562 beneficiaries. Additionally, 5,836 women received comprehensive health care for maternal, newborn, and child health, while 134 safe deliveries were supported through partner hospitals.
The initiative ensured the continued operation of two SALAMA clinics in the Bekaa Valley, reaching out to 5,960 individuals through community outreach programs. The distribution of 200 mama-baby kits and 3,000 dignity kits further supported these efforts. Capacity-building training sessions were also conducted to enhance healthcare providers' skills, with collaborations with municipalities and humanitarian actors ensuring broader outreach and sustainability.
Since 2017, Lebanon has been grappling with multiple crises, including economic collapse, the Beirut Port explosion, and regional conflicts, which have severely impacted its healthcare system. Vulnerable populations, particularly women, girls, IDPs, and refugees, have been significantly affected. The backing from the Government of Japan has allowed SALAMA to implement three humanitarian projects funded through the Japan Trust Fund (JTF) and JSB, delivering over 196,441 SRH services in the Bekaa Valley.
Japan's Ambassador to Lebanon, Kenji Yokota, emphasized the importance of the project, stating, "The completion of this vital project in the Bekaa Valley exemplifies Japan's steadfast commitment to protecting Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights." He highlighted that the initiative not only provided essential medical services but also supported the fundamental right of individuals to live with dignity, embodying Japan's Human Security approach.
Lina Sabra, Executive Director of SALAMA, expressed gratitude for Japan's support, noting, "From our very first steps, the Government and people of Japan have stood beside SALAMA, enabling us to serve and empower communities through years of crisis." She acknowledged the recent project's impact as a lifeline for families rebuilding after conflict.
Through these initiatives, SALAMA has worked to protect vulnerable individuals from disease, violence, and psychological distress, empowering them to make informed health decisions and fostering solidarity within families, communities, and health systems.