A businessman has impressed the Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, by offering land to the government for a health center and police post. Last Friday, Dr. Lalabalavu met with Jitendra Chand, the managing director of Vuo Supermarket Pte Limited, to inspect the proposed site beside the supermarket in Vunika, Labasa.
Mr. Chand, originally from Labasa, began the multimillion-dollar Vuo Supermarket project in 2018. “Since taking office, we have considered partnerships between the private sector and the ministry,” said Dr. Lalabalavu. In this case, the company proposed building the facility while the ministry would provide staff to operate it.
Dr. Lalabalavu noted that this partnership is beneficial for the government, the ministry, the company, and the Labasa community. “This approach reduces infrastructure concerns for the ministry, as the company will handle the construction and maintenance,” he added. “We look forward to finalizing the agreement details to commence this much-needed project.”
Mr. Chand had previously briefed Commissioner Northern Uraia Rainima and Assistant Minister for Rural and Maritime Development Jovesa Vocea about the project earlier this year. “Being originally from Vunika, I feel compelled to give back to the community,” said Mr. Chand. “The community needs medical and policing services, and we are taking the lead in this initiative.”
He plans to send all necessary documents to the ministry soon to expedite the legal process.