A project funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and implemented by the World Health Organization (WHO) has pinpointed 20 healthcare facilities in Fiji that require immediate enhancements.
During his address at the WHO’s Western Pacific Regional Meeting held in Manila, Philippines, on Monday, Health Minister Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu highlighted the findings of the Strengthening Health Adaptation Project: Responding to Climate Change in Fiji (SHAPE project). This initiative has recognized the facilities that are particularly vulnerable and in need of upgrades.
Dr. Lalabalavu emphasized the necessity for infrastructural improvements to ensure these facilities can withstand flooding and extreme weather. He stressed the importance of enhancing backup water supply systems to guarantee a reliable source of clean water during disasters.
Moreover, the Health Minister acknowledged the role of WHO in crafting Fiji’s Primary Health Care Roadmap, which is expected to be finalized by the year’s end, as well as the ministry’s long-term Health Workforce Development Plan spanning ten years.
He extended an invitation to health partners and donor organizations to assist Fiji in its efforts to enhance health services and infrastructure.
Additionally, Dr. Lalabalavu met with New Zealand’s Health Minister Shane Reti, where they discussed Fiji’s strategies in tackling the non-communicable diseases (NCD) crisis, the increasing illicit drug use, the recent surge in HIV cases, and the national response concerning the HIV outbreak.