BY LORETTA B MANELE

West Honiara Constituency has received a significant boost for White River Clinic, thanks to a generous donation of medical equipment and a vehicle from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

The official handover ceremony took place on Wednesday at the clinic and was attended by distinguished guests and representatives from the PRC embassy office, Honiara City Council (HCC) and West Honiara Constituency representatives.

Among those present were Li Qinghua, Counselor from the PRC Embassy, Counselor for Ward 1, Rex Konofilia, Dr. Lawrence Diau, HCC Provincial Health Director, Adrian Simbe, HCC Director of Nursing and Dr Thomas Oitalo, Head Medical Officer who oversees the White River Clinic.

Dr Oitalo expressed his gratitude for the timely donation, emphasizing its importance for the clinic’s operations.

“We sincerely thank the PRC for their trust and belief in us by donating this equipment. We are humbled and privileged to have received this support, which will enhance our ongoing operations and benefit not only the White River community but also other communities within the capital.”

Counselor Li Qinghua expressed her joy at the handover ceremony, describing the donation as a gift from China to the people of West Honiara.

“This clinic represents a light of solidarity and shared humanity. It is a testament to the profound friendship between the Chinese people and the Solomon Islands and a reflection of our commitment to improving health services in the region.”

Li highlighted PRC’s ongoing efforts to enhance medical services in the Solomon Islands, referencing the recently inaugurated China-AIDED National Referral Hospital Comprehensive Medical Center, which was handed over in January.

The facility is equipped with advanced medical technology and aims to provide high-level medical services, better training opportunities and job creation for the local population.

Brian Taupiri, West Honiara constituency development officer (CDO) revealed that over $400,000 in funding provided in 2023 facilitated the purchase of the vehicle and essential equipment for the clinic.

“On behalf of our Member of Parliament, Namson Tran and the people of the Constituency, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to the PRC for their unwavering support throughout this project.”

Taupiri acknowledged the delay was caused by the national election and the establishment of the new office but expressed pride in the successful delivery of this vital initiative.

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