Figure 1 In group photo: MHMS Deputy Secretary Health Corporate Mr Jacob, NRH Chief Executive Officer Dr Malefoasi, High Commissioner of India H.E Nath and two of his officials, MFAET Assistant Secretary Asia & Pacific Branch Ms Walenesea and some NRH HODs and staffs standing in front of the new Dialysis machine
NRH CMC received Dialysis Equipment from the Republic of India
The National Referral Hospital (NRH), Comprehensive Medical Center (CMC) yesterday afternoon received a Dialysis Equipment from the people and Government of the Republic of India.
The High Commissioner of India (based in Port Moresby, PNG) His Excellency Mr Ravindra Nath handover the equipment to the National Referral Hospital, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr George Malefoasi.
Figure 2 Figure 3 High Commissioner of India (based in Port Moresby, PNG) H.E Ravindra Nath sharing his remarks
NRH CEO in receiving the equipment thanked the Government and people of India for showing generosity towards the health of the people and Government of Solomon Islands. In receiving the gift, he mentioned that it is timely and very crucial as the Ministry of Health & Medical Services is working very hard to ensure the people of need access these important and higher level of health care in the country.
“In receiving this equipment, your Excellency, may I assure you, that this piece of medical equipment will be taken care of and be of great use in treating and managing our patients with complications of renal diseases including kidney failure problems in the country and for those who would badly need this service”, said Dr Malefoasi.
He stated the hospital and the Ministry of Health & Medical Services acknowledges the relationship between the two Governments and the commitment to foster partnership in development and services provision in the health and medical in the country.
Figure 3 NRH CEO Dr George Malefoasi speaking at the event
“The Ministry of Health is aware of the abundance human resources and medical technology the India has and the recognition of India workforce globally”, said Dr Malefoasi.
He also highlighted the upcoming bilateral medical cooperation with the India Government and Solomon Islands includes;
- Procurement and supplies of medical drugs, consumables and medical devices from India Pharmacopoeia (IP). A delegate from SI pharmacy and medical therapeutic board and committee will be visiting the potential supplies soon this year.
- Training of health and medical staff In India. Negotiations with Indian hospital and university to start soon. The medical training committee will visit selected Indian University and hospital next month.
- A plan for recruitment of India health and medical specialists for the country. A cabinet paper will be presented to allow for recruitment of international diverse medical specialists.
- Other initiatives in advanced medical developments and services expansion such as private.
CEO Malefoasi again thanked H.E Ravindra Nath for braving the bad weather experienced in the region to come over and hand over this valuable and much need medical equipment to the hospital.
Meanwhile, High Commissioner of India, H.E Mr Ravindra Nath when handing over the equipment stated this gesture is not only a symbol of friendship but also a testament to their unwavering commitment to enhancing healthcare and bringing life-saving care to underserved communities across the region.
“This dialysis machine is a deliverable of our Honourable Prime Minister Modi’s announcement at the 3rd FIPIC Summit in Port Moresby in May 2023. At that summit, our Prime Minister emphasized India’s dedication to fostering stronger regional cooperation and support”, said H.E Nath.
Figure 4 Acting High Commissioner of India Mr. Ravindra (3rd right) handover the dialysis machine to NRH Chief Executive Officer Dr George Malefoasi (2nd left) while looking is MHMS Deputy Secretary Corporate Mr. Layten Jacob (Left) and Mr. Pappu Kopgate Lising Officer High Commission of India (right) and Mr Akshay Kumar Meeno Political & Commercial Office, High Commission of India (2nd right)
He added another equipment the Indian’s Government that is in the process of procurement and soon will be handover to MHMS is a sea ambulance.
He concluded the Indian Government is committed to its bilateral friendship and ensures that healthcare facilities across the region are equipped with the necessary resources to save lives and improve the well-being of all.