The Colonial War Memorial (CWM) Hospital in Suva is set to enhance its medical services significantly, aided by a $14.7 million investment from Australia for a redevelopment master plan. The announcement was made by Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong, during her visit to Fiji for the Pacific Islands Forum Foreign Affairs Meeting.
Wong highlighted the necessity for the renovation of CWM Hospital and noted that the funding would establish a comprehensive plan aimed at transforming the facility into a modern medical center while maintaining uninterrupted services.
JohnStaff International Development, an Australian firm, will lead the consultation for the master plan, which is anticipated to take approximately 12 to 14 months to complete. Wong emphasized that the developed master plan will cater to Fiji’s future health needs and enhance the infrastructure required for a high-quality national referral hospital.
Australia is also committed to conducting a detailed engineering assessment of the current hospital structure to ensure it can continue to operate during the planning and implementation phases. Wong expressed Australia’s dedication to improving healthcare services and fostering inclusive opportunities in Fiji.
Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka expressed gratitude for Australia’s timely investment, underscoring the strong partnership between the two nations. He acknowledged the financial support for the hospital’s redevelopment.
Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, Fiji’s Minister for Health and Medical Services, confirmed the agreement with the Australian government and stated that the focus will now shift to assessing the infrastructure of the hospital. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the current state of the hospital and emphasized the ministry’s strategic approach to continue providing services while upgrading certain areas.
Alison McKechnie, CEO of the winning tender, described the redevelopment master plan as a priority to ensure high-quality healthcare for Fijians. She recognized the collaborative effort between the Fijian Government and Australia, asserting that the master plan would facilitate a transformative change in Fiji’s healthcare sector.