BY NED GAGAHE
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says the government has delivered the largest-ever increase to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) annual recurrent budget, signalling a renewed national commitment to strengthening the country’s health system.
Speaking at the official opening of the new Konide Area Health Centre (AHC) in Isabel Province, the Prime Minister announced that the health ministry’s recurrent budget had risen sharply from around SBD$400 million in 2024 to approximately SBD$700 million in 2025.
“This is the biggest increase ever for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
“My government values the health and well-being of all Solomon Islanders and it will always remain a top priority,” Manele said.
He added that the significant funding boost reflects the government’s determination to improve health infrastructure, upgrade service delivery standards, and bring essential services closer to rural and remote communities.
The Prime Minister also noted that the development budget for the ministry is expected to grow as government responds to ageing health facilities across the country.
Manele emphasised that the newly opened Konide AHC is part of this broader national effort to expand access to quality health care. He said the facility aligns with the Role Delineation Policy, which aims to decentralise key medical services currently available only in major hospitals.
“The government is committed to improving health infrastructures throughout the country to improve the standard of care and practices,” he said.
The PM acknowledged the Ministry of Health and Isabel Provincial Government for prioritising the Konide AHC in their development plans, saying such investments are vital for addressing longstanding challenges, including delays in patient referrals to Buala and Honiara.
He also praised the community, landowners, and contractor Solomon Sheet Steel Ltd for their cooperation and workmanship, which ensured smooth completion of the project.
Manele urges the people of Konide to look after the new facility and support its staff so it can continue serving the community for many years.
Photo: Press Secretariat, OPMC
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