by Georgina Maka’a
The handover of the Kilu’ufi Hospital Improvement Project on 14 July 2026 has been hailed as a historic milestone for healthcare in Malaita Province.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Health and Medical Services Morris Toiraena said the project demonstrates collective commitment to improving access to quality healthcare for the people of Malaita.
“The Kilu’ufi Hospital Improvement Project is critical for strengthening general hospital care, while laying the foundation for future expansion into specialist services,” Toiraena said.
The project, which costs SBD$130 million, includes a new outpatient and emergency department, operating theatre, central sterile services department, birthing suite, medical imaging, and pharmacy dispensary.
Toiraena also stressed the GREAT Coalition’s commitment to improving support services such as laboratory, physiotherapy, biomedical support, and new wards to ensure effective, high-quality care.
The minister acknowledged the Government and people of Japan for their support, as well as previous health ministers and the permanent secretary for initiating and prioritising the project with Japan through JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency)..
“This project is more than a new facility, 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, together with our partners and communities, we are building a stronger, more resilient health system that will serve generations to come.”
Japanese Ambassador to Solomon Islands Keiichi Higuchi described the handover as another significant milestone in bilateral cooperation.
“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.
He added the multi-million dollar project spans 2,000 square metres and includes a new clinical services building and a new maternity delivery building, featuring modern operating theatres, advanced medical imaging, and improved emergency services.
The hospital, Higuchi said, represents Japan’s strong desire to achieve shared wins with Solomon Islands.
“In practical terms, this means that Japan strongly desires that this hospital serve the needs of patients for a long time to come.”
He also called on the Solomon Islands Government to take ownership of the hospital seriously.
First built in 1965 by the British Colonial Government, Kilu’ufi Hospital is Malaita’s premier health facility that has served the province over the last 60 years.
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