THE successful completion of the Taeloa Rural Health Clinic in Ward 5 of West Baegu-Fataleka, Malaita Province, would serve as a beacon of hope for locals.
Chairman for Ward 5 Development Committee, Norman Siosi stated this at the signing of a project for the construction of Taeloa Rural Health Clinic and Water Supply at the Japanese Embassy in Honiara last Friday.
The projects worth USD117, 317 (SBD 981,732.22) are funded through the Japanese Grassroots and Human Security Project.
Mr Siosi said both projects will reduce travelling distances for children, women and men to access healthcare and water.
“The Taeloa clinic will serve as a beacon of hope and a foundation for better healthcare services, ensuring that our people, especially our women and children, have access to quality medical care close to home.
“No longer will our people have to travel long and difficult distances to seek medical assistance. Instead, this facility will provide timely interventions, improving health outcomes and saving lives,” Mr Siosi said.
“Equally important, the Tealoa Water Supply project will provide clean and safe drinking water to our people. Access to clean is fundamental necessity, and its availability will greatly enhance the health and hygiene standards of our community.
“No longer will our mothers and children have to walk long distances to fetch water. This project will not only ease their burden but will also contribute to improved sanitation, reduced waterborne diseases, and overall well-being,” he added.
Mr Siosi extended appreciation on behalf of the people of Ward 5 to the Government of Japan for its unwavering support.
“Your commitment to uplifting rural communities such as ours is a testament to the strong and enduring friendship between Japan and Solomon Islands,” he said.
Mr Siosi also acknowledged the efforts of Ward 5 leaders, especially their Member of Provincial Assembly Daniel Suidani, community members and all stakeholders who have played a part in ensuring the success of the project proposal.
He urged the people of West Baegu Fataleka to take responsibility for the proper care and maintenance of the facilities are they are not just gifts but investments in the future of the Ward, therefore, it is upon the community to ensure their longevity so that generation to come may continue to benefit from them.
Japanese Embassy Counsellor Katsumasa Maruo said one of the priority areas under the Grassroots and Human Security Scheme human basic needs such as medical care.
“Malaita Province has the largest population of Solomon Islands, accounting for approximately a quarter of the total population. We hope that this project will not only improve medical situation in Taeloa village, but also serve as a role model for other communities in Malaita Province,” Mr Maruo said.
Mr Maruo emphasised the participation and contribution of the community is important, saying that even though the project is funded by the Government of Japan, it is the receiving community that must drive this project forward so as to improve their living conditions.
“The community should be the moving force of the project. With the commitment of the community, we are confident that the project will be successfully and smoothly carried out and reach the anticipated goal.
“We sincerely hope that this project will be remembered as a symbol of the friendship between the people of Japan and Solomon Islands for many years to come,” he added.
By AGNES MENANOPO
Solomon Star, Honiara
Photo caption: Counsellor Maruo (4th from right) and Ward 5 Development Committee Chairman Norman Siosi (1st from left) holding the grant board. Looking on are Ward reps, including MPA Daniel Suidani (third from left).
