_{by Georgina Maka’a}

China today handed Solomon Islands a state-of-the-art medical facility that’s poised to boost the delivery of specialised medical services to Solomon Islanders.

Built at the cost of SBD$90 million and over a 13-month period, the Comprehensive Medical Centre was the second of China’s biggest offerings to Solomon Islands after the two countries entered into diplomatic relations in 2019. The first was the National Sports Stadium, which allowed Solomon Islands to host the Pacific Games in November 2023.

“Today, we make history as we witness the official handing over of this new four-storey comprehensive medical centre, the first of its kind in our country and perhaps the region,” Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele stated at today’s handing over event.  

_{^{Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and Chinese ambassador to Solomon Islands Cai Weiming (center) with government officials during the handing over ceremony today. Photo Credits: Gina Maka’a.}}

“This new facility represents a strategic platform for delivering high-quality healthcare, particularly for patients suffering from non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which are a growing concern in Solomon Islands,” Manele added.

He said the facility will offer specialized services in cardiology, nephrology, and urology, alongside traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture.

Today’s event coincided with the celebration of the Chinese New Year, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing partnership between Solomon Islands and China.

Health’s Permanent Secretary Pauline McNeil said the completion of the four-storey building within a 13-month period is a testament to the commitment of all parties involved.

 Chinese ambassador to Solomon Islands Cai Weiming said the facility was his country’s “magnificent gift” to the people of the Solomon Islands.

“The comprehensive medical centre will greatly enhance the range and quality of medical services available locally, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad,” Weiming said.

Health minister Dr Paul Bosawai said the handing over of the facility to Solomon Islands is a proud and significant milestone for the country.

 “This facility is designed to be disability-friendly and equipped with advanced infection control measures,” Bosawai said.

He added the new facility will enable residents to access specialized medical services promptly within the country, eliminating the need for costly overseas travel and ultimately saving the government millions of dollars in healthcare expenditures.

The Comprehensive Medical Centre was built at the eastern side of the existing National Referral Hospital (NRH).

The NRH was a gift from Taiwan, which Solomon Islands used to enjoy diplomatic relations with until 2019 when the “switch” occurred.