Under the patronage of H.E. the Minister of Public Health Dr Rakan Nassereddine, the handover ceremony brought together Japan’s Ambassador to Lebanon Yokota Kenji, WHO Representative in Lebanon Dr Abdinasir Abubakar and representatives from key health partners.

The upgrade, which strengthens Lebanon’s capacity to store, manage and rapidly distribute lifesaving medicines and medical supplies during emergencies and routine health operations, forms part of a broader health initiative, launched in 2025, to strengthen emergency preparedness, improve operational efficiency and support public health infrastructure across Lebanon.

Dr Nassereddine emphasized how completion of the warehouse reflects the Ministry’s commitment to modernizing Lebanon’s health care infrastructure and strengthening national resilience. “The new warehouse significantly enhances the Ministry’s ability to securely store and efficiently distribute medicines and medical supplies across the country. This achievement directly supports our national health strategy by reinforcing emergency preparedness, improving logistics systems and ensuring continuity of health care services during crises. We highly value the continued partnership with WHO and the Government of Japan whose support remains instrumental to Lebanon’s health sector.”

“This handover marks an important milestone in our collective efforts to strengthen Lebanon’s health system and ensure timely access to essential medical supplies during emergencies,” said Dr Abubakar. “Through the steadfast support of the Government of Japan and strong collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health, this warehouse now stands as a strategic national asset that will enhance preparedness, improve supply chain management and ultimately help save lives.”

The warehouse serves as a central hub for emergency medical stockpiles and routine health supply distribution, supporting hospitals and health care facilities across Lebanon. The upgrade included expanded and rehabilitated storage areas, improved infrastructure and logistics systems and strengthened operational capacities to support the effective management of essential health commodities.