BY NED GAGAHE
Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) Peter Kenilorea Jnr says malaria continues to pose a major public health challenge in Solomon Islands, with cases increasing despite years of coordinated prevention and treatment efforts.
Speaking during the signing of a Japanese grant agreement to provide modern malaria diagnostic equipment yesterday, Kenilorea said the disease remains a heavy burden on many communities, particularly those in remote and rural areas.
While considerable progress has been made over the years through coordinated prevention, treatment and surveillance efforts, malaria remains a burden on many of our communities, particularly those in remote and rural areas, and the number of malaria cases has been increasing in Solomon Islands,” he said.
Kenilorea said the 168 million Japanese Yen grant (approximately SI$8.4 million) for malaria diagnostic equipment comes at a critical time in strengthening the country’s health system.
He said the new equipment will improve the Health Ministry’s ability to detect malaria cases quickly and accurately, allowing health workers to provide timely treatment while enhancing disease surveillance across the country.
“Early and accurate diagnosis is essential not only for saving lives but also for reducing transmission and advancing our national goal of malaria elimination,” he said.
Kenilorea said the grant will complement the ongoing work of the Ministry of Health and its development partners to improve healthcare delivery and build a more resilient health system capable of responding to existing and emerging health challenges.
He acknowledged the Government of Japan for its continued commitment and partnership in supporting Solomon Islands’ development priorities.
“On behalf of the Government of Solomon Islands, I acknowledge Japan’s commitment, support and partnership in ensuring that our development agenda continues to align with our common vision for sustainable growth, social wellbeing and regional stability,” he said.
Kenilorea said Solomon Islands looks forward to strengthening its longstanding partnership with Japan as both countries continue to work together towards a healthier and more prosperous future.
Photo credit: Ned Gagahe
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