BY TONY IROGA
The successful handover of the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital on Tuesday marks a new chapter for healthcare in Malaita Province, with Japan calling on local leaders to ensure the hospital continues to serve communities for generations.
Speaking at the official handover ceremony, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Resident Representative Mitsuyoshi Kawasaki said the project is not the end of Japan’s support, but the beginning of a new responsibility for Solomon Islands authorities and hospital management.
He said the Government of Japan and JICA believe that local ownership is key to the hospital’s long-term success.
“Proper maintenance is essential to protect this valuable investment and to ensure the people of Malaita continue to benefit from quality healthcare services for many years to come,” Mr. Kawasaki said.
He urges the Solomon Islands Government and other stakeholders to provide the financial support, technical expertise and attention to maintain the hospital and its medical equipment.
“The completion of construction is not the final goal. Rather, it is the beginning of a new chapter,” he said.
He said the long-term success of the project will depend on how well the new facilities and equipment are managed, maintained and used.
Funded by the Government of Japan through (JICA), the upgraded hospital is expected to improve healthcare services for thousands of people across Malaita.
The new facilities will provide better diagnostic services, improved treatment, safer maternal healthcare and expanded medical services.
He said the project is the result of years of planning, coordination and cooperation between both governments and many partners.
“This accomplishment would not have been possible without the dedication and cooperation of many individuals and institutions,” he said.
He described the upgraded hospital as more than just a new building with equipment.
“It represents a shared commitment to improving healthcare services and providing better access to medical care for the people of Malaita,” he said.
He said the upgraded facilities will help improve childbirth services, diagnosis and treatment, leading to better health outcomes across the province.
He also encourages doctors, nurses and hospital staff to make full use of the new facilities and equipment to improve patient care.
He said the project reflects the strong and longstanding partnership between Japan and Solomon Islands, with healthcare remaining a key area of cooperation.
“Through this project, we are pleased to contribute to Solomon Islands’ efforts toward achieving better health and well-being for its people,” he said.
He reaffirmed JICA’s commitment to support Solomon Islands’ national development priorities and expressed confidence that the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital will continue to improve the lives of people across Malaita for many years.
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For more than 10 years, Irine Irisuamae has dedicated her career to caring for people living with mental health conditions at the National Psychiatric Unit at Kilu'ufi Hospital in Malaita Province.
She says psychiatric nursing is a challenging but rewarding profession that requires patience, understanding, and compassion, while ensuring every patient is treated with dignity, respect, and quality care.
Throughout her journey, Irine has witnessed the challenges faced by both pa...
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BY TONY IROGA
KILU’UFI Hospital is entering a new chapter in healthcare, with Malaita Provincial Health Director Dr David Danitofea envisioning the upgraded facility as a place where compassion meets excellence, where every patient is treated with dignity, and where hope is restored every day.
Danitofea made the remarks during the official handover of the Kilu’ufi Hospital Improvement Project this week in Auki, describing the occasion as a historic milestone for Malaita Province and the Solomon Islands health sector.
“Today, we stand together not just to celebrate the completion of Phase One of the Kilu’ufi Hospital Improvement Project, but to mark a new chapter in the journey of Kilu’ufi Hospital and healthcare for the people of Malaita and the Solomon Islands as a whole,” he said.
Funded by the Government and people of Japan through JICA, the SBD120 million project has transformed Kilu’ufi Hospital into a modern, functional and patient-friendly facility that will strengthen healthcare services across Malaita Province.
Danitofea said the project represents a major investment in the health and wellbeing of the people, while acknowledging the strong partnership between Solomon Islands and Japan.
“The Kilu’ufi Hospital Improvement Project, generously funded by the Government and the people of Japan through JICA, is a landmark investment in the health and well-being of our people.
“We are deeply grateful to the Government of Japan and JICA for their unwavering friendship and support. This partnership is a shining example of how international cooperation can bring tangible, life-changing benefits to our people,” he said.
He said the upgraded facilities will improve the hospital’s ability to respond to medical needs while providing a better working environment for doctors, nurses, paramedics and support staff.
Danitofea also stressed the importance of strengthening provincial hospitals, saying they play a critical role in building a stronger national healthcare system.
“Kilu’ufi Hospital serves as a critical bridge between community-based health services and the national referral system, making it essential to achieving universal health coverage and ensuring that no one is left behind,” he said.
Reflecting on the project’s journey, Danitofea recalled attending the groundbreaking ceremony in October 2024 and said it is rewarding to see the vision become a reality.
“This achievement reflects the power of partnership, shared commitment and a common determination to improve the lives of our people,” he said.
He reminded those present that the true value of a hospital goes beyond its buildings and infrastructure.
“A hospital is more than a building. It is a place of healing, hope and service. Its true value lies in how it improves health outcomes, supports our healthcare workers and saves the lives of our people for generations to come,” he said.
He thanked the Solomon Islands Government, Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Malaita Provincial Government, JICA, Kitano Construction Corporation, Fukunaga Architects Engineers Consultant, local workers and all stakeholders who contributed to the successful completion of the project.
He urged health workers and the people of Malaita to take ownership of the upgraded facilities and ensure Kilu’ufi Hospital continues to serve future generations.
“May Kilu’ufi Hospital be a place where compassion meets excellence, where every patient is treated with dignity and where hope is restored every day,” he said.
Photo credit: Tony Iroga
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BY TONY IROGA
Malaita Premier Elija Asilaua has raised concerns over the state of healthcare infrastructure in the province, revealing that more than half of Malaita’s health facilities have not undergone any renovation in the past five years.
Speaking during the handover ceremony of the newly upgraded Kilufi Hospital this week, Mr Asilaua said the figures reflect the urgent need for greater investment in health infrastructure and services across the province.
“The 55 percent of health facilities have received no renovation work over the past five years, while a further 41 per cent have only undergone minor maintenance,” he said.
He highlighted worrying health outcomes, saying only 39 percent of patients show improvement following clinical treatment, while 57 percent continue to experience deteriorating health conditions and four per cent record no improvement.
“These figures remind us that we still have significant work ahead in strengthening our health system and ensuring our people have access to quality healthcare,” he said.
Despite the challenges, he praised doctors, nurses and frontline health workers for their commitment to deliver essential medical services under difficult conditions.
“Despite the difficulties we face, our doctors, nurses and health teams continue to work with dedication. Through their technical knowledge, medical treatment and commitment, they continue to help our people survive during critical health situations,” he said.
He described their dedication as a blessing to the people of Malaita and acknowledged the sacrifices health workers continue to make in serving communities across the province.
“The completion of the Kilufi Hospital Improvement Project marks an important milestone in addressing Malaita’s healthcare challenges.
“We hope this project will improve the standard of healthcare services for our people in Malaita and reduce the pressure of patient referrals to the National Referral Hospital in Honiara,” Asilaua said.
He said the project demonstrates the enduring friendship and cooperation between Solomon Islands and Japan and reflects a shared commitment to improve the wellbeing of the people.
“Today is not just the opening of another infrastructure project. It is a celebration of friendship, partnership and our shared commitment to improving the lives of our people through quality health services,” he said.
Asilaua thanks the Government and people of Japan for their continued support to Malaita and Solomon Islands, describing the hospital upgrade as another important milestone in the longstanding relationship between the two countries since Solomon Islands gained independence in 1978.
The handover ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Matthew Wale, Japanese Ambassador Keiichi Higuchi, government ministers, senior officials, representatives of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, JICA, Kitano Construction Corporation and other development partners.
Photo credit: Tony Iroga
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Solomon Islands marks World No Tobacco Day with renewed efforts to protect youth from tobacco and nicotine addiction Solomon Islands joined the rest of the world to condemn the harmful tactics of the tobacco industry in luring the youth towards tobacco and nicotine addiction. Held to commemorate World No Tobacco Day, the event was graced [...]
The post Unmasking the appeal, revealing tobacco’s many health harms appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Solomons Health Minister: Thank You
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
Minister for Health and Medical Services Morris Toiraena has expressed his gratitude to the traditional landowners for allowing the Government to establish and expand Kilu'ufi Hospital, in Malaita province.
The Minister described their contribution as vital to improving healthcare services for the people of Malaita.
Speaking during the handing over of the new kilu’ufi hospital facility Tuesday this week, Mr Toiraena also acknowledged the continued support of successive Malaita provincial governments.
"I would also like to thank the Premiers of Malaita Province, past and present, for their unwavering support towards the development of the province," he said.
The minister paid special tribute to the past and present landowners of the land on which Kilu'ufi Hospital stands.
"I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the landowners, past and present, for allowing your land to be used for the establishment of Kilu'ufi Hospital and for supporting its continued development and improvement over the years," he said.
Mr Toiraena said the Government's commitment to strengthening healthcare services at Kilu'ufi Hospital extends beyond the new facility.
He said the GREAT coalition Government is committed to improving essential support services, including laboratory services, physiotherapy, biomedical support, and the construction of additional wards to ensure Kilu'ufi Hospital continues to deliver effective and high-quality healthcare to the people of Malaita.
The minister thanked the Government and people of Japan for their longstanding partnership and support for the Solomon Islands health sector.
"Your Excellency, on behalf of our Prime Minister and the Coalition Government, let me convey our deepest gratitude to your government and the people of Japan for your steadfast support for the people of Solomon Islands over the years," Mr Toiraena said.
"Since the establishment of our diplomatic relations in 1978, your government has supported a wide range of health projects and programmes, beginning with the Solomon Islands Malaria Training and Research Institute and extending to other health infrastructure developments and public health programmes."
Mr Toiraena concluded by encouraging staff at Kilu'ufi Hospital to take good care of the new facility and continue providing quality healthcare services.
"To our dedicated hospital staff here at Kilu'ufi Hospital, please take good care of these valuable facilities and ensure our patients receive the best possible care they deserve," he said.
//End//
Photo caption: Minister responsible for the Minister Health and Medical Services Morris Toiraena pose with the Malaita Premier Elijah Asilaua inside the new Kiluufi hospital improvement facility.
BY TONY IROGA
Registered Nurse Brynish Talo has expressed his excitement over the newly upgraded facilities at Kilufi Hospital, describing them as a major boost to healthcare services for the people of Malaita.
Mr Talo shared his views in an interview with the Island Sun during the official handover of the upgraded Kilufi Hospital on Tuesday in Auki, Malaita Province.
Talo, who has worked in the hospital’s operating theatre for the past six years, said staff have been working hard to ensure the new facility is ready for use.
“We have already checked all the machines, equipment, instruments and departments. Everything has been prepared ahead of the handover, and the theatre instruments are all set,” he said.
He explained that while most of the medical equipment has already arrived, some installations are still pending and will be completed once authorised by the responsible health authorities.
“Most of the instruments are already here. Installation will be done after the handover, either this week or next week, depending on when the responsible officers give approval. Once that is done, everything will be ready for use,” he said.
He said the project represent one of the biggest improvements to healthcare infrastructure in Malaita.
He said major upgrades have been made to the Outpatient Department (OPD), Emergency Department, Labour Ward, Surgical Theatre, Central Sterilising Department, Pharmacy and Radiology Unit.
“These departments have improved significantly compared to the old facilities and will help us provide better healthcare services to our patients in the future,” he said.
He said he looks forward to working in the new environment and to using the modern equipment to care for patients.
“I am very excited to use these new instruments to help people who come to the hospital. We are happy to move from the old facilities into this new one, where we can provide better services in different departments,” he said.
He also calls on the people of Malaita to take ownership of the new hospital facilities and help protect them.
“This hospital belongs to all the people of Malaita. We all have a responsibility to look after it so it can continue serving our communities for many years,” he said.
He thanked the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), healthcare workers, the Solomon Islands Government and the Malaita Provincial Government for working together to complete the project.
Photo credit: Tony Iroga
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BY TONY IROGA
Malaita Province Premier Elijah Asilaua this week welcomed the handover of the Kilufi Hospital Improvement Project, describing it as a major milestone that will strengthen healthcare services across the province.
Speaking during the official handover ceremony on Tuesday this week, attended by Prime Minister Matthew Wale, Japanese Ambassador Keiichi Higuchi, government ministers, development partners and health officials, Mr Asilaua acknowledge the Governments of Japan and Solomon Islands for their strong partnership.
“This is not just the launch of another infrastructure project.
“It is a celebration of friendship, a strengthened partnership, and our shared commitment to improving the lives of our people through better health services,” Asilaua said.
He said the project reflects the long-standing friendship between Japan and Solomon Islands and demonstrates what can be achieved through cooperation between national and provincial governments and international partners.
He said the upgraded hospital comes at a critical time, with many health facilities in Malaita in need of improvements.
“About 55 percent of our health facilities have not undergone renovation in the past five years, while another 41 per cent have only received minor repairs.
“This project will help improve healthcare services for our people and reduce referrals to the National Referral Hospital in Honiara,” he said.
He said the upgraded facilities, including emergency and outpatient services, operating theatres, delivery rooms, medical imaging and special care units, will improve the quality of healthcare for communities across Malaita’s five regions.
“The Kilufi Hospital Improvement Project will modernise our healthcare facilities, strengthen clinical services, improve patient care and provide a safer working environment for our health workers,” he said.
He also paid tribute to doctors, nurses and other health workers for their dedication despite difficult working conditions.
“This project recognises your commitment and provides you with better facilities so you can continue delivering quality healthcare to our people,” he said.
He urges the people of Malaita to protect the new investment and continue supporting healthy communities.
“Healthcare is a shared responsibility. Governments can build hospitals, but healthy communities are created when everyone works together to protect and improve public health,” he said.
He expressed appreciation to the Government of Japan, the Solomon Islands Government, JICA, Kitano Construction Corporation and all partners involved in delivering the project.
“We look forward to continued cooperation and future investments that will further strengthen health services for the people of Malaita and Solomon Islands,” he said.
Photo credit: Tony Iroga
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Discussions Underway for Permanent Morgue Facility at Kilu'ufi Hospital
Discussions are underway for the establishment of a permanent morgue facility at Kilu’ufi Hospital, with the Provincial Health Director saying the facility would help better support families and strengthen health services in Malaita Province.
In an interview with Tavuli News during the official handover of the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital, Provincial Health Director Dr David Danitofea said discussions have begun with the Provincial Secretary to develop plans on how the idea of building a morgue for the hospital can be progressed.
“I just had a discussion with the provincial secretary recently to work together and develop plans on how to manage this discussion to push for the idea to build a morgue for Kilu’ufi Hospital.”
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https://www.tavulinews.com.sb/kiluufi-hospital-permanent.../
关于在基卢乌菲医院建立永久性停尸房的讨论正在进行中
讨论正在进行,以在基卢乌菲医院建立一个永久性停尸房,省卫生局局长表示,该设施将更好地支持家庭并加强马莱塔省的卫生服务。
在基卢乌菲医院升级的正式交接仪式上,省卫生局局长大卫·达尼托费博士(Dr David Danitofea)在接受Tavuli News采访时表示,讨论已与省秘书开始,以制定关于如何推进在医院建设停尸房的计划。
“我最近与省秘书进行了讨论,以便共同合作,制定计划,推动在基卢乌菲医院建设停尸房的想法。”
在此阅读更多
https://www.tavulinews.com.sb/kiluufi-hospital-permanent.../
PEOPLE’S VOICE: AUKI RESIDENTS PRAISE MODERN KILUFI HOSPITAL | Community members from villages around Kilufi in Auki, Malaita province have welcomed the handover of the newly built Kilufi Hospital, calling it an important step forward for healthcare in Malaita Province. Speaking to Sunday Isles during the handover ceremony yesterday, residents thanked everyone involved in completing the modern hospital. They said the new facility will improve access to quality healthcare services for people across the province. Many community members also said the upgraded hospital will provide better medical care for families and help meet the health needs of future generations. They described the project as a major achievement that will bring lasting benefits to the people of Malaita.
Visual credit @ Joy Ofasia – Isles Media Desk Team
民声:奥基居民赞扬现代基鲁菲医院 | 来自马莱塔省奥基基鲁菲周边村庄的社区成员欢迎新建的基鲁菲医院的移交,称这是马莱塔省医疗保健向前迈出的重要一步。在昨天的移交仪式上,居民们感谢所有参与完成这座现代医院的人。他们表示,新设施将改善全省人民获得优质医疗服务的机会。许多社区成员还表示,升级后的医院将为家庭提供更好的医疗护理,帮助满足未来世代的健康需求。他们将该项目描述为一项重大成就,将为马莱塔人民带来持久的利益。
视觉来源 @ Joy Ofasia – Isles Media Desk Team
New Tawaro Clinic Staff House to Improve Nurse Accommodation in Small Malaita
The Member of Parliament for Small Malaita Constituency, Hon. Rick Hou, has officially handed over a newly completed clinic staff house to the people of Tawaro Community to address accommodation challenges faced by nurses at the Tawaro Clinic.
The handover took place on July 1, 2026, just four days after the Small Malaita Constituency Office handed over the Tarapaina Clinic Staff House on June 26, 2026. The projects reflect the constituency’s continued commitment to strengthening healthcare services by providing improved accommodation for frontline health workers.
The Tawaro staff house was funded through the Solomon Islands Government’s 2025 Constituency Development Fund (CDF) budget. The Small Malaita Constituency Office contributed SBD $63,000 worth of building materials, while the Tawaro community supported the project through the provision of timber and voluntary labour.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Hon. Rick Hou said the new facility demonstrates his commitment to improving healthcare services across Small Malaita by ensuring nurses and medical staff have decent living conditions.
He said the staff house will help reduce accommodation difficulties, support staff retention, and contribute to more reliable and accessible healthcare services for people in Tawaro and surrounding communities.
Hon. Hou thanked the Tawaro Clinic Chairman, project contractor, community leaders, church leaders, landowners, and residents for their cooperation and support in delivering the project. He also encouraged the community and clinic management to take ownership of the facility and ensure it is properly maintained for future use.
Representing the Tawaro Clinic Chairman and community, Mr. Fred Daoburi thanked Hon. Hou and the Small Malaita Constituency Office for responding to one of the community’s priority needs. He said the new staff house would improve the welfare of nurses and strengthen health service delivery in the area.
Small Malaita Constituency Development Officer Brown Honimae said Tawaro Clinic serves a catchment population of more than 4,000 people, making it a key health facility for the surrounding communities.
He encouraged communities to continue working with the constituency office to identify and implement priority development projects, noting that sustainable development depends on strong partnerships.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), John Misite’e, congratulated the Small Malaita Constituency Office and the Tawaro community on the achievement, saying the project reflects the intended purpose of CDF in improving rural livelihoods.
“This is a worthy investment. The support by the constituency office in strengthening healthcare services across Small Malaita is important,” PS Misite’e said.
He thanked constituency officers for their efforts in implementing CDF projects and ensuring they reach intended beneficiaries, while also acknowledging the support of landowners and families in Tawaro.
The Constituency Development Fund is part of the Solomon Islands Government’s Constituency Development Program, administered by the Ministry of Rural Development and implemented across the country’s 50 constituencies to support social and economic development.
ENDS/////////////////
VETERAN NURSE PRAISES JAPAN | A long-serving registered nurse has thanked the Government of Japan for funding the construction of the new upgraded Kilufi Hospital in Malaita Province. Susan Ramofolo White said the new hospital will improve healthcare services and provide better facilities for both patients and medical staff. "The new hospital will greatly improve healthcare services for the people of Malaita," White said.
Visual credit @ Joy Ofasia – Isles Media Desk Team
资深护士赞扬日本 | 一位长期服务的注册护士感谢日本政府资助新升级的基鲁菲医院在马莱塔省的建设。苏珊·拉莫福洛·怀特(Susan Ramofolo White)表示,新医院将改善医疗服务,并为患者和医务人员提供更好的设施。"新医院将大大改善马莱塔人民的医疗服务,"怀特说。
视觉来源 @ Joy Ofasia – Isles Media Desk Team
BY NED GAGAHE
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), in partnership with the Solomon Islands–Australia Health Partnership, has concluded the first Guadalcanal Provincial Health Summit, bringing together health leaders and stakeholders to chart practical solutions to improve healthcare services across the province.
Held at CAM conference room at Mataniko Plaza from June 29 to July 3, 2026, the five-day summit attracted around 30 participants from the health sector, Guadalcanal Provincial Government, development partners and community representatives.
The summit, themed “A Healthy Future for All: Tok Stori, Local Voices, Local Solutions,” forms part of the Ministry’s national health sector reform agenda, which will see similar summits conducted across all nine provinces and Honiara City Council.
Opening the summit, Director of Planning and Policy at MHMS, Brian Idufanoa, said the National Health Strategic Plan 2022–2031 remains the ministry’s roadmap to improve health services, with primary healthcare at the centre of its priorities.
He said strengthening primary healthcare is essential to achieve Universal Health Coverage, ensuring all Solomon Islanders have access to quality health services without financial hardship.
Mr Idufanoa said the introduction of Provincial Health Performance Scorecards will improve monitoring, accountability and evidence-based decision-making, while supporting ongoing reforms such as decentralisation and the devolution of authority to provincial governments.
“It is important that participants are fully engaged, reflecting on your experiences and technical capacity to provide the best inputs into the summit. More so, having our rural people, who are the most disadvantaged, at the centre of the discussions is paramount for addressing many of the health challenges,” he said.
Also addressing the opening ceremony, Guadalcanal Provincial Secretary Maesac Suia acknowledged the long-standing challenges facing healthcare delivery in the province.
He said rundown clinics and staff houses, shortages of medicines, inadequate water and sanitation, limited emergency patient transfers, staff shortages, high malaria cases, and high maternal and infant mortality continue to affect communities.
Mr Suia said the summit provides an important opportunity to strengthen partnerships, promote informed decision-making and develop community-led solutions.
“The Guadalcanal Provincial Government recognises that investing in health is investing in the future of our province,” he said.
He reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to strengthen primary healthcare, improve rural health infrastructure, develop the health workforce and ensure quality health services are accessible to all communities.
Mr Suia welcomed the planned development of a Provincial Health Performance Scorecard and practical improvement plans, saying these will strengthen planning, resource allocation and progress monitoring in line with both the National Health Strategic Plan and Guadalcanal Provincial Government policies.
He also acknowledged MHMS for leading the initiative and thanked the Solomon Islands–Australia Health Partnership, supported by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), for its continued technical and financial assistance.
The summit also featured remarks from Dr Tristan Armstrong, Counsellor for Human Development at the Australian High Commission in Honiara, representing the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), and an overview of provincial health services from Guadalcanal Provincial Health Director Dr Ray Seleso.
During the five-day programme, participants reviewed provincial health indicators, assessed the province’s 2025 health financial performance, discussed primary healthcare system assessments, and received training on Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI), climate change, Root Cause Analysis and the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) planning model.
The Provincial Health Summit aims to produce Provincial Health Performance Scorecards and prioritise improvement plans to strengthen primary healthcare and support implementation of the National Health Strategic Plan 2022–2031.
Photo credit: GP
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BY TONY IROGA
A major milestone for healthcare in Malaita Province was marked yesterday with the official handover of the newly upgraded Kilufi Hospital, a flagship health infrastructure project funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The handover ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Matthew Wale, members of Government, the Malaita Provincial Government, officials from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, World Health Organization (WHO) Representative Dr Howard L. Sobel, Japanese Embassy officials, church leaders and members of the public.
Kilufi nurses welcome PM Matthew Wale during the handover ceremony. Photo Tony by Iroga
The project, which began in 2019 and was completed in 2026, is regarded as one of the largest healthcare infrastructure investments in Solomon Islands.
It includes new clinical and maternity buildings, modern operating theatres, advanced medical imaging equipment and improved emergency facilities that aim to strengthen healthcare services for the people of Malaita.
New beds set up in surgical room. Photo by Tony Iroga
Suction Unit Machine installed in the Nursery Unit room. Photo by Tony Iroga
Japanese Ambassador to Solomon Islands, His Excellency, Keiichi Higuchi said the project reflects Japan’s long-standing friendship and partnership with Solomon Islands.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Japan, I officially hand over these buildings and medical equipment to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and the people of Solomon Islands,” Mr Keiichi said.
He said Kilufi Hospital has long served as one of the country’s key regional hospitals, particularly for the nation’s most populous province.
Public take a visit look in the newly built handover project facility yesterday. Photo by Tony Iroga
“Listening to the voices of the people in Malaita, Japan decided to invest about 2.3 billion Japanese yen, approximately SBD120 million, as grant aid to construct these new facilities so the hospital can provide safe, reliable and adequate health services for the people of Malaita Province,” he said.
He noted that the project took nearly seven years from its inception in 2019 to completion in 2026 and acknowledged everyone who contributed to its successful delivery.
The new facilities cover around 2,000 square metres and include a new clinical services building and a maternity ward designed to improve patient care, surgical services, emergency treatment and maternal healthcare.
Malaita Premier Elijah Asilaua expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Japan for their generous support.
“On behalf of the Solomon Islands Government and the Malaita Provincial Government, I sincerely thank the Government of Japan for its generous support in delivering this important project. We also appreciate Japan’s continued partnership in strengthening our health infrastructure,” Premier Asilaua said.
The upgraded hospital is expected to significantly improve healthcare delivery and meet the growing medical needs of Malaita Province for many years to come.
Photo credit: Tony Iroga
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BY JOY OFASIA
Minister of Health and Medical Services Morris Toiraena described the development of the Kilufi hospital as a significant milestone in strengthening healthcare services in Malaita Province.
Speaking during the official handover ceremony yesterday at the Kilufi hospital in Auki Malaita,
Mr. Toiraena said the project represents more than an infrastructure upgrade, highlighting it as a commitment to improving access to quality healthcare for the people of Malaita and the wider Solomon Islands.
“This project is more than a new facility, an improvement to the current Kilu’ufi hospital, it is an investment in the health and future of Malaita Province and the country – our women and children who need help when they are sick,” he said.
The minister noted that Kilu’ufi Hospital was originally built by the British Government in 1965 when Malaita’s population was estimated at fewer than 50,000 people.
“Today, the province’s population has grown to nearly 170,000, placing increasing pressure on healthcare services and creating greater demand for hospital beds, skilled health workers and specialised medical care,” he said.
The minister said the Ministry of Health and Medical Services is implementing its Role Delineation Policy to make specialist healthcare more accessible in provincial hospitals, reducing the need for patients to travel to the National Referral Hospital in Honiara for treatment.
He said the policy also aims to strengthen lower-level health facilities by expanding the range of services they provide, supporting the government’s goal of achieving universal health coverage.
During the ceremony, the minister expressed the government’s appreciation to the Government and people of Japan for their continued support of Solomon Islands’ health sector.
He also recognised Japan’s support for public health initiatives, including malaria control, vaccine and cold chain programmes, the Healthy Settings Policy, health workforce training and the Japanese Overseas Volunteer Programme.
Mr. Toiraena said Japan’s contributions demonstrate its enduring friendship and commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of the people of Solomon Islands.
By Andrianah Kole
Japan has officially handed over the newly upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital in Solomon Islands’ Malaita Province, marking a major investment in the country’s healthcare system.
The SBD$130 million redevelopment project was formally handed over on 14 July 2026 during a ceremony attended by government leaders, Japanese officials, provincial representatives and community members.
The upgraded hospital features a new outpatient and emergency department, operating theatre, Central Sterile Services Department, birthing suite, medical imaging unit and pharmacy dispensary.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister for Health and Medical Services Morris Toiraena said the project would play a vital role in improving healthcare services across Malaita Province.
“The Kilu’ufi Hospital Improvement Project is critical for strengthening general hospital services while laying the foundation for future expansion into specialist care,” Toiraena said.
He said the Government planned to continue investing in essential support services, including laboratory facilities, physiotherapy, biomedical services and additional hospital wards.
“This project is more than a new facility—it is an investment in the health and future of Malaita Province and the country. By supporting our women, children, and all those who need medical care, and by working together with our partners and communities, we are building a stronger, more resilient health system that will serve generations to come,” he said.
The Health Minister also thanked the Government of Japan for funding the project and acknowledged former health ministers, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for helping initiate and deliver the redevelopment.
Japan’s Ambassador to Solomon Islands, Keiichi Higuchi, described the handover as another milestone in the long-standing friendship between Japan and Solomon Islands.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Japan, I officially hand over these buildings and medical equipment to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and the people of Solomon Islands,” Higuchi said.
The Ambassador said the project covers more than 2,000 square meters and includes a new clinical services building and a maternity delivery building equipped with modern operating theatres, advanced medical imaging technology and enhanced emergency care facilities.
“This hospital represents Japan’s strong desire to achieve shared success with Solomon Islands. In practical terms, this means Japan hopes this hospital will continue to serve the needs of patients for many years to come,” he said.
He also called on the Solomon Islands Government to ensure the hospital is properly maintained so it can continue serving communities well into the future.
Malaita Province Premier Hon. Elijah Asilaua welcomed the completion of the project, describing the occasion as a historic milestone for the province and a celebration of the enduring friendship between Japan and Solomon Islands.
Speaking on behalf of the people and the Malaita Provincial Government, Premier Asilaua said the handover was more than the completion of an infrastructure project.
“Today is not merely the launching of another infrastructure project. Rather, it is the celebration of friendship, the strengthening of an enduring partnership, and the reaffirmation of our collective commitment to improving the lives of our people through quality health services,” he said.
The Premier said the project marked another important chapter in the warm bilateral relationship between the two countries, demonstrating how genuine friendship built on mutual respect, trust and shared aspirations could deliver meaningful and lasting development outcomes.
He acknowledged Prime Minister Matthew Wale, Health Minister Morris Toiraena, JICA, Kitano Construction Corporation and Solomon Islands Government officials for their commitment and cooperation in successfully delivering the project.
Premier Asilaua also paid tribute to successive national governments for maintaining strong relations with Japan, saying the partnership had continued to create development opportunities that benefit provinces throughout Solomon Islands.
He said the successful completion of the Kilu’ufi Hospital Improvement Project reflected what could be achieved through close collaboration between the National Government, the Malaita Provincial Government and international partners.
“The successful realization of this Kilu’ufi Hospital Improvement Project is evidence of what can be achieved through effective collaboration between the National Government, Provincial Government and our international partners. It reflects our common determination to address the health needs of our citizens while investing in the future,” he said.
The Premier said the people of Malaita looked forward to improved medical and healthcare services that would better meet the growing needs of communities across the province.
Originally built in 1965 by the British Colonial Government, Kilu’ufi Hospital has served as Malaita Province’s main referral hospital for more than six decades.
With the province’s population approaching 170,000, officials say the expanded facilities are expected to improve access to healthcare within Malaita while reducing the number of patients requiring referral to the National Referral Hospital in Honiara.
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The post Japan hands over upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital to boost healthcare in Solomon Islands first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
BY JOY OFASIA
The Government of Japan has officially handed over newly constructed hospital facilities and medical equipment to the Solomon Islands Government, marking a major milestone in the long-standing partnership between the two countries in the health sector.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Japanese Ambassador to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Keichi Higuchi, described the occasion as a significant achievement in the cooperation between Japan and Solomon Islands, reaffirming Japan’s commitment to improving healthcare services in the country.
“It is a great honour to stand here today. This handover ceremony marks another significant milestone in the history of our cooperation between Solomon Island and Japan in the health sector,” he said.
“On behalf of the Government of Japan and the people of Japan, I officially hand over these buildings and medical equipment to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and the people of Solomon Islands,” Ambassador Higuchi said.
Japanese Ambassador to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Keichi Higuchi.
The project, which began in 2019, was funded through a Japanese grant of approximately 2.3 billion Japanese yen (around SBD120 million) to expand and modernise Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita Province.
Ambassador Higuchi said the investment was made in response to the growing healthcare needs of Malaita, the country’s most populous province, where Kilu’ufi Hospital has long served as a key regional referral hospital.
The newly completed facilities include a clinical services building and a maternity building covering approximately 2,000 square metres. They are equipped with modern operating theatres, advanced medical imaging equipment and improved emergency care services aimed at enhancing the quality of healthcare available to the people of Malaita.
Ambassador Higuchi said while construction officially commenced following the project’s approval in 2019, the development took nearly seven years from its inception to completion.
He acknowledged the contributions of current and former leaders, officials and partners who played key roles in bringing the project to fruition.
Among those recognised were former Ministers for Health and Medical Services Dickson Mua, Dr Culwick Togamana and Dr Paul Popora Bosawai; former JICA Chief Representatives Motoyuki Uegaki and Takeshi Watanabe; and former Japanese ambassadors Shigeru Tohyama, Yasuhiro Morimoto and Yoshiaki Miwa.
Ambassador Higuchi also paid special tribute to the late Ambassador Yasuhiro Morimoto, who passed away while serving in Solomon Islands, and the late former Malaita Premier Daniel Suidani, acknowledging their contributions during the project’s early stages.
He also commended Kitano Construction Corporation for delivering the project to a high standard, thanking company president Mr Kitano, who attended the ceremony. The ambassador noted that many construction materials were imported from Japan and highlighted Mr Kitano’s role as Honorary Consul of Solomon Islands in Japan.
Describing the new facilities as a symbol of the enduring friendship between Japan and Solomon Islands, Ambassador Higuchi said the project reflected both countries’ commitment to the Healthy Islands Vision and the goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage.
“This hospital represents the enduring friendship between Japan and Solomon Islands. It reflects our shared commitment to the “Healthy Islands Vision” and Universal Health Coverage,” he said.
He urged the Solomon Islands Government to ensure the hospital is adequately maintained and staffed so the investment continues to benefit future generations.
“Shared success requires ownership,” Ambassador Higuchi said.
He stressed the importance of maintaining the hospital’s facilities and ensuring sufficient numbers of doctors, nurses, midwives and support staff are available to provide quality healthcare services.
He concluded by thanking Solomon Islands workers, Japanese partners, Fukunaga Architects-Engineers, Kitano Construction Corporation and the JICA Solomon Islands Office for their dedication in completing the project on schedule.
Kilu'ufi Hospital Upgrade Handed Over
The Solomon Islands Government and the Government of Japan today officially marked the handover of the newly completed SBD120 million Kilu'ufi Hospital Improvement Project in Auki, Malaita Province.
The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Matthew Wale, Minister for Health Morris Toiraena, Japanese Ambassador H.E. Keiichi Higuchi, Malaita Premier Elijah Asilaua, JICA Resident Representative Mitsuyoshi Kawasaki, health officials, Kilu'ufi Hospital staff, community leaders and invited guests.
Funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the project is a major milestone in strengthening healthcare infrastructure and improving medical services for the people of Malaita.
The expansion has elevated Kilu'ufi Hospital to become the country's second-largest hospital, significantly boosting healthcare capacity in both Malaita Province and the Solomon Islands.
The upgraded facilities include a new emergency department, general outpatient clinic, medical imaging unit, maternity and delivery ward, operating theatre suites, and a central sterilization department.
Construction began in 2024 and was completed this year by Kitano Construction Corporation.
More in our paper tomorrow.
Highlights from the Official Handover Ceremony of the New Kilu'ufi Hospital Improvement Project
A major upgrade to healthcare services in Malaita Province was officially marked with the handover of the Kilu'ufi Hospital Improvement Project.
Valued at SBD$130 million, the project includes new outpatient and emergency facilities, operating theatres, a birthing suite, medical imaging services, a pharmacy dispensary, and expanded support services.
Five-Day Training Underway in Honiara to Strengthen Provincial Healthy Settings Advocacy
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services, through its Health Promotion Department, has commenced a five-day training workshop in Honiara to strengthen the Provincial Healthy Settings Advocacy and Mobilization initiative.
The workshop, which began on Tuesday, aims to enhance leadership, partnerships, and community action to address key health challenges across the provinces.
by Georgina Maka’a The handover of the Kilu’ufi Hospital Improvement Project on 14 July 2026 has been hailed as a...
The post Japan Hands Over $130M Landmark Kilu’ufi Hospital Upgrade to Malaita appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
Kilufi Hospital Improvement Project Officially Handed Over
The newly upgraded Kilufi Hospital was officially handed over today during a ceremony attended by Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale, representatives of the Embassy of Japan, government officials from Honiara, hospital staff, and members of the Malaita community.
Funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the project underscores the longstanding partnership between Japan and the Solomon Islands in improving national health systems. Representatives from the Embassy of Japan joined the ceremony to commemorate the successful completion and official handover.
Check link: https://sundayisles.islesmedia.net/kilufi-hospital.../
