The Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, shared crucial redevelopment plans in parliament today that address persistent issues of overcrowding, leaks, and outdated facilities in healthcare that have troubled the public for years. This announcement follows calls for updates regarding the government’s strategy on new hospitals in Suva.
Dr. Ratu Atonio confirmed that a Priority Infrastructure Plan has pinpointed 138 urgent areas needing attention. He highlighted that repair work, including upgrades to washrooms and critical roofing projects, is already underway. “We’ve identified 138 areas that need fixing at CWM, and some of that work has already begun, including the washrooms and major roofing repairs. We ask the public to please bear with us as we continue these upgrades,” he stated.
Beyond immediate repairs, a thorough transformation is on the horizon. The new Clinical Services Plan aims to dramatically increase hospital capacity by providing additional beds, emergency spaces, and outpatient rooms. The future facility at CWM is anticipated to be nearly twice its current size, which is expected to reduce waiting times, enhance safety, and improve access to necessary healthcare services for many Fijians who currently travel great distances for treatment.
Additionally, optimism surrounds the announcement of a new rehabilitation center in Tamavua, which will offer essential services to families in need. This 20-bed facility, fully funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), is scheduled to begin construction in early 2026, with an expected completion time of around 19 months, replacing an aging structure that has encountered operational difficulties for years. “Construction of the new 20-bed Rehabilitation Centre at Tamavua will begin in early 2026 and will take around 19 months to complete, fully funded by KOICA,” he noted.
Through these ambitious initiatives, the government is demonstrating a strong commitment to enhancing Fiji’s healthcare infrastructure, reflecting a hopeful vision for a healthier future for all citizens.