The Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, announced significant redevelopment initiatives in parliament today, addressing long-standing issues of overcrowding, leaks, and outdated facilities that have frustrated the public for years. This update comes in response to inquiries regarding the government’s progress on new hospitals in Suva.
Dr. Ratu Atonio revealed that a Priority Infrastructure Plan has identified 138 urgent areas requiring attention. He noted that repairs, including upgrades to washrooms and major roofing works, have already commenced. “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 announced.
In addition to the immediate repairs, a comprehensive transformation is planned. The new Clinical Services Plan aims to increase hospital capacity significantly, providing more beds, emergency spaces, and outpatient rooms. The future CWM is envisioned to be nearly double the size of the current facility, which will lead to shorter waiting times, safer environments, and improved access to essential health services for many Fijians who currently have to travel considerable distances for care.
The announcement of a new rehabilitation center in Tamavua also brings optimism to families reliant on such services. Funded entirely by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the 20-bed facility is set to begin construction in early 2026 and is expected to take around 19 months to complete, replacing an aging structure that has faced operational challenges 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 emphasized.
With these developments, the government is committed to significantly enhancing healthcare infrastructure and services in Fiji, aiming to create a brighter and healthier future for all its citizens.