BY TONY IROGA
Malaita Province Premier Elijah Asilaua this week welcomed the handover of the Kilufi Hospital Improvement Project, describing it as a major milestone that will strengthen healthcare services across the province.
Speaking during the official handover ceremony on Tuesday this week, attended by Prime Minister Matthew Wale, Japanese Ambassador Keiichi Higuchi, government ministers, development partners and health officials, Mr Asilaua acknowledge the Governments of Japan and Solomon Islands for their strong partnership.
“This is not just the launch of another infrastructure project.
“It is a celebration of friendship, a strengthened partnership, and our shared commitment to improving the lives of our people through better health services,” Asilaua said.
He said the project reflects the long-standing friendship between Japan and Solomon Islands and demonstrates what can be achieved through cooperation between national and provincial governments and international partners.
He said the upgraded hospital comes at a critical time, with many health facilities in Malaita in need of improvements.
“About 55 percent of our health facilities have not undergone renovation in the past five years, while another 41 per cent have only received minor repairs.
“This project will help improve healthcare services for our people and reduce referrals to the National Referral Hospital in Honiara,” he said.
He said the upgraded facilities, including emergency and outpatient services, operating theatres, delivery rooms, medical imaging and special care units, will improve the quality of healthcare for communities across Malaita’s five regions.
“The Kilufi Hospital Improvement Project will modernise our healthcare facilities, strengthen clinical services, improve patient care and provide a safer working environment for our health workers,” he said.
He also paid tribute to doctors, nurses and other health workers for their dedication despite difficult working conditions.
“This project recognises your commitment and provides you with better facilities so you can continue delivering quality healthcare to our people,” he said.
He urges the people of Malaita to protect the new investment and continue supporting healthy communities.
“Healthcare is a shared responsibility. Governments can build hospitals, but healthy communities are created when everyone works together to protect and improve public health,” he said.
He expressed appreciation to the Government of Japan, the Solomon Islands Government, JICA, Kitano Construction Corporation and all partners involved in delivering the project.
“We look forward to continued cooperation and future investments that will further strengthen health services for the people of Malaita and Solomon Islands,” he said.
Photo credit: Tony Iroga
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