BY JOY OFASIA
A grant contract signing ceremony was held at the Japanese Embassy in the Solomon Islands to enhance emergency services in Guadalcanal, Malaita, and Western provinces.
The ceremony, attended by Japanese Ambassador His Excellency Yoshiaki Miwa, saw the official announcement of two crucial projects aimed at enhancing the fire and rescue capabilities of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and healthcare in the country.
The first project, valued at approximately USD 89,705, involves the procurement of second-hand fire trucks from Japan for the Honiara City Council and three provinces in the Solomon Islands. The second project, worth USD 31,346, will provide a second-hand ambulance to the Fauabu Rural Health Clinic in Malaita province.
Ambassador Miwa expressed his satisfaction with these initiatives, which fall under Japan’s Grassroots and Human Security Projects. “These vehicles will play a key role in protecting lives and property in the Guadalcanal, Malaita, and Western provinces,” he said. “I hope these vehicles are used effectively to benefit the people of the Solomon Islands.”
He also acknowledged the Japan Firefighters Association for donating the fire trucks and ambulance, highlighting the continued partnership between Japan and the Solomon Islands. “This is a great example of how the people of Japan are cooperating with the Solomon Islands for its development. We believe these gifts will have a positive impact,” he added.
RSIPF’s Fire and Rescue Service Acting Director James Ketaru also spoke at the event, emphasizing the importance of this donation for the Solomon Islands’ emergency response capabilities. “This is another milestone for the Fire Service, and we are grateful to the Government and people of Japan for their ongoing support,” Mr. Ketaru stated.
The two projects will see the delivery of three fire trucks and one ambulance to the Solomon Islands, helping to strengthen the country’s disaster response and healthcare services. These new additions are expected to improve emergency preparedness, making a significant difference in the safety and well-being of local communities.
