Japan has handed over state-of-the-art medical equipment to the Trust Fund for Specialised Medical Care Cardiac Centre in Pamplemousses, Mauritius, as part of its ongoing support under the Economic and Social Development Programme (ESDP).
The handover ceremony, held yesterday, was attended by Mauritius’ Minister of Health and Wellness, Anil Kumar Bachoo, Japanese Ambassador to Mauritius, Mashiro Kan, and Dr Pravish Rai Sookha, Chairperson of the Cardiac Centre, along with other senior officials.
The donation, delivered under the second phase of the ESDP grant, includes ultrasound scanners, anaesthesia machines, bedside monitors, and ventilators aimed at improving the Cardiac Centre’s operation theatre and intensive care unit. This follows an earlier grant in 2020 that provided Rs 100 million worth of essential diagnostic tools such as X-ray and angiography machines, which are now operational in public hospitals.
The latest support package, valued at JPY 550 million (approximately Rs 170 million), is set to further improve diagnostic precision and emergency response for cardiac patients.
Health Minister Bachoo acknowledged the impact of Japan’s contributions in strengthening the country’s healthcare infrastructure, noting that the newly acquired tools will improve patient outcomes by enabling faster and more accurate diagnoses. He also recognised the efforts of the Cardiac Centre’s technical teams, who are prepared to integrate the equipment into daily operations.
The Japanese ambassador said health remains a key pillar of development and applauded Mauritius for prioritising healthcare reforms in its 2025–2029 Government Programme. He confirmed that Japan will maintain its role as a development partner in the sector.
Dr Sookha, reflecting on the long-standing cooperation between the two countries, said Japan’s past donations had already enhanced the centre’s capabilities. He indicated that future collaboration could expand into areas such as research, training, and healthcare innovation.
