SOLOMON Islands on Friday 24th January proudly marked the completion and handover of its first-ever world-class, four-storey Comprehensive Medical Centre – a generous gift from the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
The completion of the project is a milestone that represents a significant advancement in the country’s healthcare infrastructure.
It also marks a new chapter in bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
The SBD $90 million facility is set to greatly enhance healthcare services in the country, reducing the need for overseas medical referrals and offering specialised care in cardiology, nephrology and urology.
The four storey complex will provide essential treatments in heart, kidney and urinary tract health.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, who attended the ceremony as one of the two guests of honour, emphasised the importance of the project in strengthening the long-standing relationship between Solomon Islands and China.
The other Guest of Honour was the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, Cai Weiming.
The PM highlighted that the new medical centre would provide specialised services and treatments and also offer Chinese traditional medicine and acupuncture—alternatives that are safe, effective and culturally appropriate for Solomon Islanders.
Below is a brief video clip to give you a glimpse of what its like inside.
To further support the facility’s operations, PM Manele announced that a highly skilled Chinese Medical Team will be arriving soon for a three-year deployment to ensure continuity in capacity development and skills enhancement at the new centre.
Additionally, to ensure the facility operates at full capacity, the government has significantly increased its health budget for 2025.
“To guarantee uninterrupted operations, my government has allocated an additional SBD 70,375,000 for the procurement of drugs and medical supplies, raising the total 2025 health budget to SBD 127,346,573. This funding will ensure that Solomon Islands will no longer face shortages of essential medicines,” PM Manele said.
The PM also expressed deep gratitude to the People’s Republic of China Ambassador Cai Weiming and the people and government of China for their generous donation.
The opening of the Comprehensive Medical Centre coincided with the Chinese Spring Festival and stands as a symbol of the strong and growing friendship between the Solomon Islands and China.
- OPMC
