Minister Bosawai signs contract for Kilu’ufi Hospital Improvement Project

By Sharon Nanau in Tokyo, Japan

The Minister of Health and Medical Services Dr Paul Bosawai, the Japanese International Corporation Agency (JICA) and the Kitano Construction Corporation on Thursday in Tokyo signed the contract for the improvement of the Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita province.

The project which is set to commence in September will include the establishment of a new central clinical building, delivery building and updating of medical equipment. 

The total cost is around SBD 120 million.

Speaking to SIBC News after the signing, Minister Bosawai said decentralizing of the country’s health services is important for Solomon Islands.

He said the Kilu’ufi Hospital Improvement Project will allow the rural population in Malaita province to access quality health services. 

“The need for improved and upgraded health facilities including our Provincial Hospitals is known and has been on our radar for a long time. Our current healthcare infrastructure is not fully equipped to withstand the challenges posed by the increasing demand for free health care services and the rising health needs of the country. With the contract now signed, we are turning a new page in our health care service delivery.” 

Minister Bosawai said the project could not have been possible if it weren’t for Japan’s commitment towards Solomon Islands’ health sector. 

Meanwhile JICA’s Director for Grant Aid Project Management Division 2 Yumi Tokuda said Japan’s funding comes following a request for assistance from the Solomon Islands government.

The Kilu’ufi Hospital Improvement Project will be Japan’s second health grant assistance after the Gizo hospital. 

The signing was witnessed by Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and Foreign Minister Peter Shanel Angovaka. 

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