While speaking on the agreement signing ceremony, Water Resources Minister, Asfaw Dingamo, said that the financial assistance will be used to support efforts of expanding potable water supplies and preventing natural disasters in the country.           

The minister also recalled that Japan has been continuously supporting efforts of expanding potable water supply in Ethiopia.     

After signing the agreement, Dr. Ugi Maro, Ethiopia Country Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), said that the money will be used for ground water exploration in various parts of the country.   

Moreover, he said, the financial assistance is meant to buy vehicles that are useful to prevent natural disasters related to water and to rehabilitate people affected by natural disasters. 

The country representative also pledged additional assistance in the future.