Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu has announced a new initiative to prioritize the construction of morgues in areas of the Northern Division that have access to electricity. This strategic decision is based on the necessity of reliable electrical capacity to power crucial equipment used in morgues, ensuring they function effectively.
Minister Lalabalavu stressed the importance of electricity for sustainable morgue operations, stating, “Morgues need reliable electricity to function properly. This is why areas with electricity supply will be prioritized for the new morgues.” Potential construction sites include Naweni in Cakaudrove and Nakorowaga in Bua, although these projects remain in the planning phases and have yet to be finalized.
This announcement is part of a broader healthcare improvement initiative linked to the 2025-2026 budget, where funds have been allocated for constructing new morgue facilities not just in the Northern Division, but throughout Fiji. The intention behind these morgues is to enhance local healthcare infrastructure, addressing the growing demand for such services across the nation.
The creation of additional morgues aims to alleviate the ongoing issue of morgue overcrowding, as highlighted in previous articles. Officials have pointed to problems in various regions where corpses are temporarily relocated to other health facilities due to capacity constraints, which often leads to emotional and logistical stress for families during their time of loss. By improving morgue facilities, the government intends to foster a more compassionate and supportive environment for grieving families.
The commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure, including funeral services, reflects a hopeful step towards better end-of-life care in Fiji. Through these efforts, the Ministry of Health aims to address and overcome challenges associated with the existing healthcare system, paving the way for a more resilient and compassionate response to the needs of families during difficult times.
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