The Government of Japan has officially handed over a new set of waste management equipment to the Maldives, as part of a USD 5.4 million aid package aimed at strengthening the country’s waste management capacity.

At a ceremony held on Sunday, the Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives, Ishigami Rumiko, presented the equipment to the Minister of Tourism and Environment, Thoriq Ibrahim.

The donation includes three glass crushers, one wheel loader, and three compactor trucks.

This assistance follows an agreement signed between Japan and the Maldives in December 2022 under the Economic and Social Development Programme, funded through 700 million Japanese Yen , equivalent to approximately USD 5.4 million.

The donated equipment is intended to improve operations at regional waste management facilities and facilitate the transportation of waste for final treatment.

Authorities hope that these enhancements will support the development of an integrated and climate-responsive waste management system nationwide.

Japan reiterated its commitment to supporting the Maldives in environmental protection and sustainable development.

The Japanese government also expressed hope that such initiatives will continue to strengthen the long-standing friendship between the two nations.