The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has donated over 500 units of medical equipment to Tajikistan’s Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Population (MoHSPP) for newborns and patients in need of oxygen therapy.
The MoHSPP press center says the donation includes 227 CPAP devices (continuous positive airway pressure machines) and 300 oxygen concentrators with accessories.
During the handover ceremony, Deputy Minister of Health and Social Protection of the Population, Shodikhon Jamshed, thanked the organization and highlighted the importance of the equipment, especially for infants with respiratory problems and those requiring oxygen support.
The donated equipment will be distributed to 73 healthcare facilities across the country.
UNICEF Representative in Tajikistan, Ozonnia Ojielo, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting Tajikistan’s healthcare system, particularly in reducing child mortality and improving the quality of medical services.
In March 2024, the MoHSPP formed a working group focused on preventing maternal and infant mortality. The group, composed of specialists, was dispatched to medical institutions to train and consult staff in efforts to improve care and reduce mortality rates.
Minister of Health and Social Protection of the Population, Jamoliddin Abdullozoda, had previously stated that maternal and child healthcare remains a top priority for the government.
According to the MoHSPP, infant mortality in 2024 stood at 12.3 per 1,000 live births, down 0.2 points from the previous year. However, maternal mortality increased by 3.7 points, reaching 24.4 per 100,000 live births.
Since 1993, UNICEF does whatever it takes in Tajikistan to help children survive, thrive and fulfill their potential, from early childhood through adolescence.
UNICEF works across sectors of child protection, health, social policy, early childhood development and education, WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene), response in emergencies, climate change and disaster risk preparedness, children with disabilities and youth.
UNICEF's country program for 2023-2026 aims to accelerate progress towards the realization of the rights of all children, with special attention given to closing equity gaps through four components at different stages of their life cycle.
