A new step to improve rural health care services has been launched in Malampa Province, with the government investing more than VT100 million through the Ministry of Health.
The investment follows a recent three-day provincial visit by Minister of Health, John Still Tariqetu, which included several major project announcements and contract signings to upgrade health infrastructure, expand facilities, and strengthen medical services to address some of the long-standing issues in some of the remote communities in Malekul.
A key highlight of the visit was the upgrade of the Tisman Dispensary to a Health Centre- now staffed with a registered nurse, midwife, and a nurse aide for the first time.
Minister Tariqetu said the upgrade means more lives can be saved, with more women and children gaining access to professional health care.
“This upgrade is not just about buildings , it’s about saving lives and bringing health services closer to our people,” said the Minister Tariqetu.
“This government’s priority is action- and our people deserve quality health care, no matter where they live.”
The Ministry also confirmed a VT24 million contract to redevelop the maternity ward at Norsup Hospital in Lakatoro, funded under the government’s New Policy Proposal (NPP), which focuses on maternal and child health.
The Atchin Island Aid Post will also be upgraded to a Dispensary, allowing full-time health services for island’s residents.
A VT73 million project has been signed with World Vision Construction to build the Wala Rano Dispensary- another facility that will provide health care access for remote communities.
During the visit, the Minister officially opened the upgraded Tontar Dispensary and the Espigles Bay Health Centre. Both were supported by strong community participation.
Access challenges across South Malekula also received attention, with the Ministry handing over a new boat and engine to the Ponvor Dispensary to strengthen emergency transport in remote islands.
Minister Tariqetu also reaffirmed the government’s commitment through a five-year plan to support Malampa’s Provincial Health Administration with further renovations and upgrades across all health facilities in the province.
This three-day visit marked not only a ministerial visit, but a shift in rural health delivery across the remotest parts of Vanuatu.
