The Australian Government has reiterated its commitment to support the country’s health sector.
Delivering her remarks during the launching of the Ministry of Health’s National Strategic Plan 2022-2031, Acting Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands Sally-Anne Vincent says the plan sets the path for Australia’s Healthcare support to the country.
She assures them that they look forward to supporting Solomon Islands in achieving the outcomes of the strategic plan.
“Australia has a long history of supporting the Solomon Islands health system and has been the largest health partner for many years. But our support isn’t limited to what DFAT directly implements, we in fact fund many of Solomon Islands health partners, including WHO, UNICEF, UNFPA, GAVI, the Global Fund, universities, and non-government organizations.
And importantly, Australia’s support adapts to the times and context to meet Solomon Islands’ needs. Now that the National Health Strategic Plan 2022-31 is launched, we are keen to focus Australia’s wide and deep support on assisting Solomon Islands achieve the Plan’s key outcomes.”
Acting Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands Sally-Anne Vincent (center)
Ms. Vincent also states that their health sector programming will directly support the objectives of the National Health Strategic Plan.
“As we commence the design of the next phase of Australia’s support, we will explore new ways of working together with the MHMS and our development partners to maximize our combined efforts.
Partnership, coordination, collaboration, and communication are key to ensure Solomon Islanders achieve the best health outcomes possible.”
Among the many contributions Australia will provide for Solomon Islands, the Acting High Commissioner highlighted that the Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre is one of their key priorities.
“As we are just starting the design of our next program, I can’t say too much now on our specific future activities, but I can say that delivering the Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre is a key priority. You would have all seen our recent commitment with the MHMS to build the facility through the Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program.
We are busy planning the procurement approach now that will strongly support local jobs and economic activity. We have also budgeted a contribution to its ongoing maintenance costs after it is handed over.
However, our focus is not just on building and maintaining the infrastructure, we will develop a package of clinical and operational support to ensure the Facility delivers quality health outcomes,” she adds.
Ms Vincent assures that Australia remains a strong and accountable health sector partner for Solomon Islands.
“I can assure you that the full suite of Australian health efforts, whether through global, regional, or bilateral programs will all make a difference to Solomon Islands achieving its objectives. You can have certainty that Australia will remain a strong and accountable health sector partner.”
ENDS//
By Eliza Kukutu
