Japan has provided $3.5 million in assistance to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for a comprehensive plan aimed at improving the living conditions of Rohingya refugees and host communities in Cox's Bazar and Bhasan Char.
An "Exchange of Notes" was signed on Sunday by Saida Shinichi, Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh, and Lance Bonneau, Chief of Mission, IOM Bangladesh, according to the Embassy of Japan in Dhaka.
The project will benefit approximately 500,000 Rohingya refugees and individuals from the host community in Cox's Bazar district and Bhasan Char.
It will focus on interventions in site management and development, protection, shelter and non-food items, LPG distribution, water, sanitation, and hygiene. Additionally, it will provide livelihoods support for refugees in Bhasan Char and disaster risk reduction and protection services for host communities in Cox's Bazar.
Ambassador Saida expressed his hope that Japan's support would significantly improve the living conditions of both Rohingya refugees and host communities.
"I'm delighted to sign an Exchange of Notes today, just after my first visit to the Cox's Bazar camp. I'm hopeful this comprehensive plan will enhance the living conditions for Rohingya refugees and host communities in both Cox's Bazar and Bhasan Char," he said.
Highlighting the importance of the project, he added that these five sectors are fundamental to improving protection, quality of life, and resilience for both Rohingya refugees and host communities.
Japan will continue working towards sustainable solutions and will collaborate with international organisations such as the IOM, the ambassador stated.
IOM Bangladesh Chief of Mission Lance Bonneau acknowledged Japan's role in supporting the humanitarian response.
"In its eighth year, the spotlight on the ongoing Rohingya humanitarian crisis in Bangladesh has faded, though the needs remain immense. We are extremely grateful to the government of Japan for its continued support to refugees and the host community," he said.
Bonneau explained that Japan's contribution would enable IOM and its partners to continue responding to critical, life-saving needs by providing water and shelter.
Additionally, it would improve the lives of refugees and host communities by providing protection services, livelihood support, and strengthening their resilience to climate-related disasters and other challenges.
"In close coordination with the government of Bangladesh and partners, we remain steadfast in our support for Rohingya refugees and host communities in Bangladesh," he stated.
Since August 2017, Japan has contributed over $250 million to IOM and other UN agencies, as well as NGOs in Bangladesh, including through this latest funding, to support the Rohingya refugee crisis response.
