A businessman has caught the attention of 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 Vuo Supermarket Pte Limited managing director Jitendra Chand to review the proposed site beside the supermarket at Vunika, Labasa.
Originally from Labasa, Mr. Chand began the multimillion-dollar Vuo Supermarket project in 2018. “Since taking office, we have been considering partnerships between the private sector and the ministry,” Dr. Lalabalavu stated.
The proposed arrangement entails the company constructing the center while the ministry provides the necessary staffing. Dr. Lalabalavu highlighted that this collaboration is beneficial for the Government, the ministry, the company, and the Labasa communities. “This approach reduces infrastructure concerns for the ministry, as the company will handle the construction and maintenance,” he said. “We look forward to finalizing the agreement details to commence this much-needed project.”
Mr. Chand mentioned that he had previously discussed the project with Commissioner Northern Uraia Rainima and Assistant Minister for Rural and Maritime Development Jovesa Vocea. “Being from Vunika, I want to give back to my community and those I serve,” Mr. Chand said. “The community needs medical and policing services, and we have taken the initiative to start this project.”
He plans to submit all necessary documents to the ministry soon to expedite the legal process.