A SBD6.4 million four-bed Isolation Unit at the Nila Area Health Center in the Shortland Islands in the Western Province nears completion.
Speaking to Solomon Star in an interview in Nila, JED Enterprise Supervisor Mathew Hagi said, work on the project recommenced in June this year after a hiatus.
Hagi said at the moment, the walling, roofing, ceilings and plumbing are what is left to be completed.
He said the work should be completed this month although they face many challenges with the implementation of the project.
“Lack of tools and machines and poor shipping services due to the remoteness of this island are the challenges we are faced with.
“But we have to be patient while waiting for tools and machines to arrive,” Hagi added.
Hagi said bad weather condition is another challenge they are faced with.
However, he expressed optimism that they will still be able to complete the work on time.
Hagi recruited 28 workers from Honiara for the implementation of the project. Other 20 workers are hired from Nila as casual workers.
The Isolation Unit at Nila Area Health Center is one of three Isolation Units constructed by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services with funding from World Bank.
While the immediate threat of COVID-19 has passed, the establishment of these Isolation Units will provide critical infrastructure for managing future outbreaks and further strengthen the healthcare system.
By ULUTAH GINA
Gizo News Bureau
