The Ministry of Health in Fiji has acknowledged significant shortcomings after the Assistant Minister for Finance, Esrom Emmanuel, identified it as one of eight ministries flagged as high-risk due to various internal issues. Emmanuel’s revelation includes concerns such as unfulfilled audit standards and non-compliance with auditor-general recommendations.
In response, Assistant Minister for Health, Penioni Ravunawa, conceded that the Ministry’s performance is not at the desired level but emphasized ongoing efforts to rectify these issues. He stated, “No one can deny this. Maintenance remains constrained due to neglect over decades by the previous government, and the Ministry of Health has now recruited technical personnel at some locations. Nevertheless, in the past two years, the Ministry has been vigilant in conducting routine inspections and timely repairs.”
Moreover, Ravunawa expressed agreement with recommendations from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) aimed at enhancing internal controls, accountability, and transparency within the Ministry. He characterized the Ministry’s classification as a high-risk agency as a catalyst for driving necessary reforms. Currently, the Ministry is working on drafting standard operating procedures to establish uniformity in submissions and reporting processes.
The situation reflects ongoing challenges faced by various government departments in Fiji as they grapple with the need for tighter financial controls and improved operational efficiency. A recent report from the PAC highlighted the urgent necessity for ministries to implement audit recommendations fully. This call for accountability opens avenues for improvements that can bolster public trust in governmental operations.
There is a hopeful outlook; the recognition of these issues, along with active reform initiatives, presents an opportunity for the Fijian government to enhance healthcare services significantly. By fostering a more rigorous approach to governance and operational oversight, the health sector may experience measurable advancements that will ultimately benefit the broader community.
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