THE Kilu’ufi Hospital Improvement and Expansion Project is the second largest initiative funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in Malaita Province.
The SBD120 million project officially commenced with a groundbreaking ceremony on Monday.
Prior to funding of the Kilu’ufi Hospital Project, Japan financed the construction of the Auki Market and Jetty, which were completed in 2012.
JICA representative Takeshi Watenabe explained that the proposal for the improvement and expansion of Kilu’ufi Hospital was submitted in 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when both Tokyo and Honiara faced significant challenges.
However, collaboration among all project stakeholders enabled them to overcome the obstacles posed by the pandemic.
Mr Watenabe expressed confidence that the project will not only enhance the health system and services in Malaita, but will also serve as a vital alternative to the National Referral Hospital in Honiaraby providing additional tertiary services.
He said the project aims to strengthen Kilu’ufi Hospital’s capabilities through the establishment of a new Central Clinical Building and Delivery Unit, along with upgraded medical equipment.
Furthermore, Mr Watenabe said the project will ensure a stable supply of clean water and electricity to the hospital, significantly improving health services in Malaita.
He emphasized that JICA’s support extends beyond mere infrastructure improvement to encompass the development of human resources necessary for the future operation of the upgraded and expanded health facility.
The Japanese Government-funded Kilu’ufi Hospital improvement project aligns with the Government of National Unity and Transformation’s (GNUT’s) Policy Statement, which emphasizes investing in health infrastructure nationwide to enhance access to quality care for all citizens.
Mr Watenabe affirmed that JICA believes the Kilu’ufi Hospital improvement and expansion project is fully aligned with the government’s priorities in the health sector.
“We believe that it will contribute significantly to achieving the universal goal of the [United Nations] Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good health and well-being for all in the Solomon Islands,” he added.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
