In a powerful symbol of Japan-Pakistan solidarity, H.E. Mr. Akamatsu Shuichi, Japan’s newly appointed Ambassador to Pakistan, inaugurated a cutting-edge eye care facility in Tehsil Havelian, Abbottabad District, on December 23, 2025. This grassroots project highlights Japan’s dedicated focus on human security and affordable healthcare, areas that Ambassador Akamatsu has passionately championed since arriving in Islamabad in late 2024.
Transforming Lives: First-Time Access to Cataract Surgery in Rural Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Funded through Japan’s renowned Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) program with a grant of USD 51,407 allocated in 2024, the facility was expertly implemented by the Lok Sudhar Association—an established NGO with over 25 years of experience in community development and social initiatives across Pakistan.
The new center equips local healthcare providers with advanced ophthalmology tools for diagnosing eye conditions and performing cataract surgeries—a groundbreaking development for the region. For the first time, residents of Havelian Tehsil and nearby areas, serving a population exceeding 350,000, can receive specialized cataract treatment without traveling long distances.
Cataract remains a leading cause of preventable blindness in Pakistan, historically accounting for over 50% of blindness cases nationwide. This facility directly tackles that challenge: In its first year of operation, it has already provided treatment to nearly 30,000 patients and conducted 1,260 successful cataract surgeries. These interventions have dramatically eased the burden on elderly and low-income families, who previously faced prohibitive costs and travel hardships for essential care.
Ambassador Akamatsu’s Address: Prioritizing Health for Shared Prosperity
The inauguration drew Japanese Embassy officials, Lok Sudhar Association leaders, and enthusiastic local community members. In his keynote speech, Ambassador Akamatsu Shuichi praised the NGO’s efforts and reaffirmed Japan’s policy priorities.
“Affordable and accessible health facilities are central to Japan’s development assistance in Pakistan,” he stated. He further noted that quality healthcare is fundamental to national progress and social prosperity. Ambassador Akamatsu pledged Japan’s continued commitment to supporting Pakistani communities in raising living standards, expressing optimism that projects like this will deepen the historic bonds of friendship between the two nations.
Since taking office, Ambassador Akamatsu—a seasoned diplomat with extensive experience in Asia and beyond—has actively promoted people-centered initiatives, including human resource development, cultural exchanges, and grassroots aid. His leadership aligns with Japan’s over 70 years of Official Development Assistance (ODA) to Pakistan, which has funded transformative projects in health, education, infrastructure, and disaster relief.
A Milestone in Enduring Japan-Pakistan Partnership
This Havelian eye care center exemplifies the GGP program’s strength: delivering timely, impactful support to underserved areas through trusted local partners. As Japan continues to expand its healthcare contributions— from polio eradication efforts to maternal and child health programs—this initiative stands as a beacon of hope, restoring vision and vitality to thousands while fostering mutual trust and cooperation.
