Isabel Province receives a SBD 2.03 million EU-funded RWASH and Environmental Health Complex to strengthen public health services.
The Isabel Provincial Health Division in Buala has officially received a new Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (RWASH) and Environmental Health Division (EHD) Complex, valued at SBD 2.03 million, funded by the European Union (EU) under its Budget Support Programme for WASH in Solomon Islands on 3rd November 2026.
The handover ceremony was held under the theme, “Strengthening Environmental Health and RWASH Services Through Partnership for a Healthier Isabel Province.”
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) RWASH Manager, Jack Filiomea, acknowledged the support of the Isabel Provincial Government, the Provincial Health Division, and contractor 2CMJ Builders for their commitment throughout the construction process.
Mr. Filiomea said the complex was funded through the EU Budget Support Project for WASH in Solomon Islands, which commenced in 2015 and concluded in mid-2021.
“The building will provide office space for Environmental Health officers responsible for RWASH programme activities and environmental health statutory functions in Isabel Province. It will also provide secure storage for water supply hardware, fittings, materials, and accessories,” he said.
He said the new facility contributes directly to the Government’s commitment to improving public health and community wellbeing through disease prevention, health promotion, awareness programmes, rehabilitation, and coordinated efforts to reduce preventable health risks.
“The facility will also support the rollout of Healthy Settings initiatives in workplaces and strengthen WASH implementation in health facilities across the province,” Mr. Filiomea added.
He noted that the complex would contribute to improved access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene services and strengthen environmental health programmes that support the overall health and wellbeing of communities in Isabel Province and throughout Solomon Islands.
Isabel Provincial Health Director, Martin Gavira, described the handover as a significant milestone in strengthening environmental health and RWASH services in the province.
“This facility marks an important step forward in enhancing our capacity to deliver environmental health and RWASH services. It will serve as a centre for coordination, planning, innovation, and service delivery that supports healthier communities throughout Isabel Province.”
Mr. Gavira thanked the Isabel Provincial Government for allocating the land on which the facility was constructed.
“Your foresight and commitment provided the foundation for this development and demonstrated your continued support for improving health services and community wellbeing.”
He also acknowledged the leadership of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services in strengthening health infrastructure and services across Solomon Islands.
“Special recognition goes to the MHMS Environmental Health and RWASH Division for its technical guidance, strategic oversight, and continued partnership throughout the project. Your dedication to advancing environmental health has strengthened our provincial capacity to address public health challenges and improve RWASH outcomes.”
Representing the Isabel Provincial Government, Deputy Provincial Secretary Rex Manasseh expressed appreciation to the European Union for its generous support.
“On behalf of the Isabel Provincial Government and Executive, I sincerely thank the European Union for its generous funding and unwavering support in making this important infrastructure project a reality. Your investment demonstrates a strong commitment to strengthening health services and improving the lives of our people.”
Mr. Manaseh said the facility would provide a safe, professional, and conducive working environment for Environmental Health and RWASH staff as they continue delivering essential services across the province.
He also acknowledged the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and its Environmental Health Division for their strong leadership and partnership with the European Union in delivering the project.
“Through this collaboration, Isabel Province has been recognised as a priority location for the decentralisation of critical health infrastructure and services. Today’s handover is clear evidence of what can be achieved when governments and development partners work together with a shared vision and common purpose.”
The new RWASH and Environmental Health Division Complex is expected to strengthen the delivery of environmental health, water, sanitation, and hygiene services across Isabel Province, contributing to healthier communities and improved public health outcomes for years to come.
SOURCE// MHMS PRESS RELEASE
