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MHMS and KOICA Sign Agreement Worth $6 Million to Improve Health Outcomes for Mothers and Newborns
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) have recently signed a Record of Discussions aimed at enhancing maternal health care in the Solomon Islands. The agreement was signed by MHMS Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Pauline McNeil, and KOICA Country Director, Mr. Kapchae Ra, at the World Health Organization Country Representative office.
The 4-year project, which commenced last year, seeks to improve the health outcomes of mothers and newborns in five target provinces: Honiara, Guadalcanal, Western, Central, and Malaita Provinces. The project, valued at five million USD, will be administered through the World Health Organization Representative Office in the Solomon Islands. Additionally, during the visit, KOICA pledged an additional 1 million USD in bilateral support directly to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
The MHMS expressed gratitude for the timely assistance from the Korean Government and emphasized the significance of the project for the health and well-being of mothers, infants, and children in the Solomon Islands. The Permanent Secretary highlighted that while the Solomon Islands has been making progress in improving maternal and child health, support from strategic health partners is crucial to enhance access to quality services for mothers, newborns, and children, aligning with the National Health Strategic Plan 2022-2031.
KOICA Country Director, Mr. Ra, also conveyed appreciation for the dedication and leadership of the MHMS in the health sector. He announced KOICA’s commitment to supporting the Ministry of Health in the Solomon Islands with a total contribution of six million USD. Specifically, KOICA seeks collaboration with the ministry to improve the procurement processes for sea and vehicle ambulances, with the aim of enhancing the delivery experience for pregnant mothers and sick babies. Mr. Ra emphasized the importance of the ministry’s close support, ownership, and accountability for the success of the project.
Source: MHMS
