An initiative aimed at saving the lives of an estimated 12,000 patients in Pakistan”s capital region has been launched following a significant grant from the Government of Japan to the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) to bolster its blood collection capabilities.
According to Embassy of Japan In Pakistan’s report today, the Government of Japan has formalised a grant of USD 65,470, equivalent to approximately PKR 18 million, under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) Program. The grant contract was signed on Friday at the Japanese Embassy by His Excellency Mr. AKAMATSU Shuichi, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, and officials from the PRCS.
The project, titled ‘The Project for the Refurbishment of Second-hand Blood Donation Vehicle for the Pakistan Red Crescent Society Regional Blood Donation Centre,’ directly addresses the growing demand for safe blood for vulnerable patients and emergency situations in the capital.
Established in 1947, the PRCS is a premier humanitarian organisation in the country. Its Regional Blood Donation Centre in Islamabad, which depends entirely on voluntary, non-remunerated donors, has faced operational challenges and limited outreach capacity, which has hampered its efforts to meet the region”s escalating needs.
Funding from this grant will be used to procure a refurbished, second-hand blood donation vehicle from Japan. This mobile unit will allow the PRCS to conduct blood donation drives more effectively at universities, corporate offices, public areas, and mosques throughout Islamabad and its surrounding areas.
The initiative is projected to enhance the PRCS”s blood collection capacity by around 30 percent. This increase is expected to directly benefit approximately 12,000 individuals suffering from conditions such as thalassemia, hemophilia, and cancer, as well as victims of road traffic accidents. The project will also improve the region”s preparedness for natural disasters and other emergencies.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ambassador Akamatsu highlighted that securing blood stocks is directly linked to saving lives and improving access to medical treatment, which aligns with Japan”s assistance policy of protecting each individual life as the foundation of human security.
The Ambassador expressed his hope that the project would reflect the strong and enduring friendship between Japan and Pakistan, reaffirming his government”s commitment to supporting capable local non-governmental organisations to achieve human security in the nation.