Maldivian Red Crescent Signs Grant Agreement with Embassy of Japan for the Provision of an Elderly Support Transportation Vehicle in Malé City

The USD 65,784 project will support the procurement of an elderly support transportation vehicle in Malé City, strengthening MRC’s capacity to provide safe, dignified, and timely patient transport services in the Greater Malé Area, particularly for older adults.

The signing ceremony was attended by H.E. Ishigami Rumiko, Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives, MRC Vice Presidents Rasheeda Ali and Mohamed Hoodh Ibrahim, Ahmed Shabin, Secretary General of the Maldivian Red Crescent, Mohamed Farhad, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, representatives from the Embassy of Japan, government authorities, and staff of the Maldivian Red Crescent.  

"As the elderly population in the Maldives continues to increase, ensuring access to medical services has become an urgent priority. Many senior citizens, particularly those with mobility difficulties, face significant challenges in traveling to hospitals and clinics. The vehicle procured through the project will help improve access to healthcare for vulnerable senior citizens and reduce the burden on emergency response systems" - H.E. Ishigami Rumiko, Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives, 

“This initiative represents a shared commitment to dignity, inclusion, and the protection of vulnerable persons. It reflects the strong and respectful partnership between MRC and Embassy of Japan, grounded in mutual trust and a common vision for resilient and compassionate communities.” -  Ahmed Shabin, MRC Secretary General

As the Maldives continues to develop, demographic shifts require increased attention to the wellbeing of the ageing population. Many elderly persons in Malé City encounter challenges related to mobility and access to essential services. The provision of an elderly support transportation vehicle directly responds to these needs, strengthening MRC’s ability to support older adults, particularly those most at risk of isolation or vulnerability.  

This initiative represents more than the provision of a vehicle. It reflects a shared commitment to dignity, inclusion, and the protection of vulnerable persons, grounded in a strong and respectful partnership between the Maldivian Red Crescent and the Government of Japan.  The project also builds upon previous successful collaboration between MRC and the Government of Japan. In 2023–2024, with support from the people of Japan under the GGP scheme, MRC procured an emergency response vehicle together with dewatering equipment to strengthen disaster management and emergency response capacity in Kulhudhuffushi City.  More details - here

Through partnerships such as this, the Maldivian Red Crescent continues to strengthen its humanitarian services, working alongside partners to build resilient and compassionate communities across the Maldives.