A transformative US$240 million investment backed by the World Bank is set to revolutionize Fiji’s healthcare sector, now entering an early market engagement phase. Contractors are being invited to participate in an information-sharing conference for the Pacific Healthy Islands Transformation (PHIT) Project, as detailed on the World Bank website.
This substantial investment, approximately FJ$540 million at current exchange rates, marks one of the largest healthcare infrastructure initiatives ever undertaken in Fiji. The project is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health and Medical Services Fiji and the Ministry of Finance Fiji, with financial support from several international entities, including the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, the OPEC Fund for International Development, and the Pandemic Fund.
PHIT aims to modernize Fiji’s health system through targeted investments focused on healthcare infrastructure, the implementation of digital health services, enhancement of primary healthcare, workforce training, and improved regional coordination.
As part of the early market engagement strategy, the Ministry has convened a hybrid conference to inform qualified contractors about three key work packages. These involve the design and construction of a new radiotherapy and medical imaging center near the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, the upgrades or complete rebuilds of 17 primary healthcare facilities across various urban, rural, and maritime locations, and the design and delivery of a modular patient ward block at the CWM Hospital.
This engagement process serves to brief the construction market on the scope, scale, and delivery approach of the PHIT investments while allowing potential bidders to gain a clearer understanding of the project requirements ahead of the formal procurement process.
Upon completion, the PHIT Project is anticipated to significantly bolster Fiji’s healthcare capacity, enhance access to specialized services, particularly cancer treatment, and improve the resilience of health facilities nationwide. This represents a promising advancement in public health outcomes and illustrates a commitment to a healthier future for all Fijians.