A businessman who offered a parcel of land to the Government for the establishment of a health centre and police post has garnered praise from the Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu.
Last Friday, Dr. Lalabalavu met with Jitendra Chand, the managing director of Vuo Supermarket Pte Limited, to inspect the proposed site located next to the supermarket in Vunika, Labasa.
Chand, originally from Labasa, initiated the multimillion-dollar Vuo Supermarket project in 2018.
“Since taking office, we have considered the idea of partnerships between the private sector and the ministry,” said Dr. Lalabalavu.
In this particular case, the company proposed to construct the centre while the ministry would provide staff to operate it.
He stated that the partnership would be beneficial for the Government, the ministry, the company, and the communities in Labasa.
“In this way, it will reduce the burden on the ministry regarding infrastructure, as the company will be responsible for its construction and maintenance,” Dr. Lalabalavu added.
“We anticipate receiving the details of the agreement to finalize the partnership and commence this much-needed project.”
Chand mentioned that he had previously informed Commissioner Northern Uraia Rainima and Assistant Minister for Rural and Maritime Development Jovesa Vocea about the project earlier this year.
“I am originally from Vunika and want to give back to the community and people I serve,” Chand said.
“The people in this community need medical and policing services, and we have taken the initiative to start this project.”
Chand plans to send all necessary documents to the ministry soon to expedite the legal process.