Minister Bosawai and Australia’s Ambassador de Toca visit health facilities to enhance healthcare in the Solomon Islands.
The Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Paul Bosawai, and Australia’s Ambassador for Global Health, Dr. Lucas de Toca, visited health facilities in Honiara and Guadalcanal Province to assess the progress of Australia’s support for healthcare in the Solomon Islands.
During their visit, the Minister and Ambassador toured the National Referral Hospital, where they visited the High Dependency Unit (HDU). The visit included the handover of new medical equipment, aimed at improving care for critically ill patients. Minister Bosawai highlighted the importance of the equipment and the role of Australian advisors in supporting healthcare staff.
“The equipment for the High Dependency Unit will significantly improve the care nurses and doctors provide for critically ill patients,” Minister Bosawai said. “The training and ongoing support provided by Australian advisors enables our staff to deliver high-quality care, improving how services are delivered in Solomon Islands.”
Ambassador de Toca emphasized the strength of the partnership between Australia and the Solomon Islands, noting the involvement of Australian volunteers, students, and clinical teams in supporting local healthcare.
“This visit to the National Referral Hospital truly highlights the strong people to people links we have fostered under our longstanding partnership,” Ambassador de Toca said. “It is so heartwarming to meet and hear about the many Australian doctors and nurses who have longstanding connections to support improved healthcare delivery in Solomon Islands.”
At the Good Samaritan Hospital in Guadalcanal Province, Minister Bosawai and Ambassador de Toca were briefed by Sister Dali on the impact of a new solar power system funded by Australia. The system has allowed the hospital to redirect funds previously used for diesel to patient care. Minister Bosawai described the solar system as a step toward sustainability, ensuring essential services can be provided with minimal environmental impact.
“The solar panels are a positive step, promoting sustainability by minimizing environmental impact, and ensuring essential services can be delivered both day and night,” Minister Bosawai said.
Ambassador de Toca acknowledged the challenges of providing healthcare in rural areas and highlighted Australia’s investments in improving health services outside of Honiara, including solar electrification and medical supplies.
“Providing health services in rural areas is not an easy task, and I acknowledge the hard work that everyone has contributed to delivery of these essential services,” Ambassador de Toca said.
Minister Bosawai and Ambassador de Toca also visited the National Medical Store, where the Minister formally received a new forklift, donated by Australia, which will improve the efficiency of medical supply operations. This donation complements previous support, including an indoor forklift and flat-bed truck provided in 2022.
Source: AHC
