TULAGI Hospital in Central Islands Province on Friday celebrated the handover of the Tulagi Hospital renovated buildings and the new Incinerator Facility. Both activities are funded by the World Bank Covid-19 Emergency Response Project and implemented by the Project Management Unit within the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
The occasion marked a major milestone in enhancing healthcare infrastructure and waste management capacity in the Central Province.
The Tulagi Incinerator Facility, constructed by R.S.F construction, is 1 of 4 incinerator facilities funded by the World Bank; the other three are at the Good Samaritan Hospital, Noro Area Health Centre and Kilufii Hospital, are part of the activities funded under the project which aims to prevent, detect and respond to the threat posed by Covid-19, and to improve and to strengthen national systems for public health preparedness in Solomon Islands. The Tulagi Hospital incinerator plays a crucial role in strengthening the Health system in the country by providing an improved and efficient waste management solution.
The renovations of the Tulagi Hospital implemented by Super construction limited includes improvement works to the administration building, the theatre, dental, isolation unit, labour ward including others. Two of the buildings are now completed and the Hospital Department will move to commence services at the newly improved buildings. The rest of the buildings should be complete and ready for occupation by mid-December this year. The community will now be able to access high quality and specialised health care at Tulagi, instead of being referred to Honiara which usually involves travel by outboard motor, even during bad weather, posing risks for sick patients.
Speaking at the handover, on behalf of the Minister for Health and Medical Services, Deputy Secretary Health Care, Dr Gregory Jilini said without proper infrastructure healthcare workers would not be able to deliver quality health care.
“Healthcare is the backbone of a healthy society and without the necessary infrastructure and tools, even the most skilled health care workers cannot deliver the quality of care that our people deserve.
“This newly renovated hospital is a significant step forward in ensuring that the people of Ngella communities can receive better, more efficient, and safer health care services. The hospital’s upgraded facilities will support our nurses, doctors, and health workers to do their jobs more effectively and provide a space where patients can be better treated with dignity and care.
“The new incinerator constructed by the RSF construction is equally crucial. Proper clinical waste management is essential for maintaining the cleanliness and safety of our hospital environment. This incinerator will ensure that medical and clinical waste is disposed of in a manner that protects not only patients and health care staff, but also the surrounding environment. It represents a significant step towards the improving public health and safety here in Tulagi,” said Dr Jilini.
Speaking at the event, World Bank Health Specialist Mr Wayne Irava described the occasion as a milestone for all involved.
“The launch of the Hospital Improvement and Incinerator Facility Projects marks a significant milestone for the future of healthcare in Tulagi and indeed in Solomon Islands. We are here today to celebrate the opening of the Tulagi Incinerator and the new hospital buildings, both of which stand as testaments to our commitment to health, safety, and progress. The opening of these facilities is more than just a moment of celebration; it’s a reminder of what can be achieved when people and organizations work together toward a shared vision of a healthier, more resilient future for all,” said Mr Irava.
In his speech, the Premier of Central Province the Hon Michael Salini expressed sincere gratitude for the improved health facilities.
“The Central Provincial Government is very thankful for both projects. The Hospital Improvement project will make it easier for the people of my province, as now they will be able to access vital medical services that were never offered at the hospital before. In the past, they had to travel to Honiara and many times through bad weather and for that we are very grateful and thankful for the completed facilities that we receive today,” said Premier Salini.
Meanwhile speaking before handing over the keys to the Incinerator Facility Project, RSF Director Mrs Noda said RSF is proud and excited to be working alongside the World Bank and the Ministry of Health to deliver the Incinerator Facility.
“We are very proud and humbled to be part of national efforts to strengthen the health system of our country, working alongside the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and the World Bank. We stand ready to assist and work with donor and development partners and the Solomon Islands Government to improve health care facilities across the country, said Mrs Noda.
Currently, hospital operations are set to resume in two of the newly completed buildings at Tulagi Hospital, with the remaining 2 other buildings expected to be ready by mid-December.
