The Vunitogoloa Nursing Station, funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade with a budget of $196,000, was officially inaugurated in Ra on Friday.
Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu expressed Fiji’s gratitude for the continuous support and partnership from the New Zealand government, particularly through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, aimed at enhancing infrastructure and healthcare programs.
“We are extremely thankful. Please share our appreciation; the vanua and the Western Division acknowledge that your tax dollars are being utilized effectively,” he stated.
Dr. Lalabalavu emphasized that the citizens of Fiji, especially in the Western Division, have recognized and valued the positive impact of these efforts.
According to a statement from the Fiji Government, the Vunitogoloa Nursing Station caters to six villages and 11 settlements, delivering healthcare services to around 3,000 individuals.
The statement noted that since the project began, a total of seven health facilities have been upgraded under the Primary Healthcare Facility Refurbishment Projects, reaffirming the commitment to enhance the healthcare system.
To date, the New Zealand government has invested a total of $3,867,281.81 in the refurbishment of primary healthcare facilities. These upgraded facilities include Galoa Nursing Station, which is now a Health Centre, Makoi Health Centre, Wainibokasi Pharmacy, Nausori Health Centre, Korovou Health Centre, Dogo Health Centre, and the newly opened Vunitogoloa Nursing Station.