THE Japanese Government through JICA (Japan International Corporation Agency) will upgrade Kilu’ufi Hospital to the tune of SBD130million.
This was announced by Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele when he unveiled the plan for the Japan-funded multi-million-dollar upgrade project in Auki last week.
The project, which will see the expansion of the existing hospital and improvement, is set to kick off in October this year and is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2026.
At the celebration of the 41st Second Appointed Day of Malaita Province in Auki on Thursday, PM Manele highlighted that the completion of the Kilu’ufi Hospital Project would not only enhance healthcare services in Malaita, but also introduce new tertiary health services that will significantly alleviate pressure on services provided at the National Referral Hospital (NRH) in Honiara. Malaita Province accounts for the majority of case referrals from the provinces to the NRH.
“The Kilu’ufi Hospital Project, including construction and equipment procurements, will receive financing from Japan through JICA (Japan International Corporation Agency) to the tune of SBD130 million.
“Construction is slated to commence in October 2024, with completion scheduled for the first quarter of 2026,” PM Manele said.
In addition to Japan’s assistance towards the improvement of Kilu’ufi Hospital, PM Manele also announced a World Bank support for the financing of a new incinerator for the hospital at an estimated cost of SBD1.4 million.
He emphasized the significance of the incinerator in enhancing waste management practices to prevent health hazards within the hospital premises.
The advancement of the Kilu’ufi Hospital project and the provision of modern medical equipment underscore the Government for National Unity and Transformation’s (GNUT’s) commitment to bolster healthcare service infrastructures in Malaita and ensure the delivery of quality healthcare services to its residents.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
