More than 200 health facilities in Vanuatu remain incomplete due to ongoing contractor issues, severely impacting access to healthcare in remote communities.

The Ministry of Health reports that approximately 226 health centers across the country are still under construction, with delays attributed to unreliable contractors handling World Bank-funded projects.

Minister of Health, Hon. John Still Tariqetu, confirmed the setback following concerns raised by the President of Penama Province, Hilson Boe.

President Boe highlighted the urgent need for completed health facilities, citing a recent tragic case in which a young boy died after being unable to access timely medical care. “Following the death of the child, I authorized the Public Health Manager to take the boy to Lolowai, but he refused. From 10 AM until 2 AM, the child passed away,” Boe explained. “We need these health centers completed—our people in remote areas have no access to healthcare.”

In response, Minister Tariqetu acknowledged the delays and blamed the issue on contractors who had been paid but failed to fulfill their commitments. “These contractors have proven unreliable, and as a result, they are now blacklisted,” he said.

The Ministry is actively seeking new contractors to finish the projects and improve healthcare access across the country.