BY TONY IROGA
The successful handover of the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital on Tuesday marks a new chapter for healthcare in Malaita Province, with Japan calling on local leaders to ensure the hospital continues to serve communities for generations.
Speaking at the official handover ceremony, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Resident Representative Mitsuyoshi Kawasaki said the project is not the end of Japan’s support, but the beginning of a new responsibility for Solomon Islands authorities and hospital management.
He said the Government of Japan and JICA believe that local ownership is key to the hospital’s long-term success.
“Proper maintenance is essential to protect this valuable investment and to ensure the people of Malaita continue to benefit from quality healthcare services for many years to come,” Mr. Kawasaki said.
He urges the Solomon Islands Government and other stakeholders to provide the financial support, technical expertise and attention to maintain the hospital and its medical equipment.
“The completion of construction is not the final goal. Rather, it is the beginning of a new chapter,” he said.
He said the long-term success of the project will depend on how well the new facilities and equipment are managed, maintained and used.
Funded by the Government of Japan through (JICA), the upgraded hospital is expected to improve healthcare services for thousands of people across Malaita.
The new facilities will provide better diagnostic services, improved treatment, safer maternal healthcare and expanded medical services.
He said the project is the result of years of planning, coordination and cooperation between both governments and many partners.
“This accomplishment would not have been possible without the dedication and cooperation of many individuals and institutions,” he said.
He described the upgraded hospital as more than just a new building with equipment.
“It represents a shared commitment to improving healthcare services and providing better access to medical care for the people of Malaita,” he said.
He said the upgraded facilities will help improve childbirth services, diagnosis and treatment, leading to better health outcomes across the province.
He also encourages doctors, nurses and hospital staff to make full use of the new facilities and equipment to improve patient care.
He said the project reflects the strong and longstanding partnership between Japan and Solomon Islands, with healthcare remaining a key area of cooperation.
“Through this project, we are pleased to contribute to Solomon Islands’ efforts toward achieving better health and well-being for its people,” he said.
He reaffirmed JICA’s commitment to support Solomon Islands’ national development priorities and expressed confidence that the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital will continue to improve the lives of people across Malaita for many years.
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