Gov’t reaffirms commitment to work with WHO

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Prime Minister Hon. Manasseh Sogavare has reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to work together with the World Health Organization (WHO) to address issues faced by the country in the health sector.

This was during a courtesy visit made to the Prime Minister by the Western Pacific Regional Director of WHO, Dr Takeshi Kasai last week.

Issues of mutual concern in the health sector were discussed between Prime Minister Sogavare and Dr. Kasai.

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Prime Minister Sogavare raised some of the challenges faced by the country in tackling issues such as Non- Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and highlighted the steps taken by the government to address Malaria in the country.

“Whilst climate change is a serious concern for the Solomon Islands, NCDs is taking the lives of people every day,” Prime Minister Sogavare stated.

The Prime Minister further acknowledged the role of the WHO in pursuing the national strategic priorities.

In response, Dr. Kasai said he was encouraged by the Prime Minister’s acknowledgment of WHO’s work, and took account of his concerns about health-related issues in the country.

Dr Kasai highlighted his mission to Rarumana Village in Western Province as an opportunity to learn more about health issues at the community or grass-roots level. “The more I learn, the better I can lead my team to support the Solomon Islands,” Dr Kasai said.  He confirmed his commitment to working together with the government and to look at health as investment for the country.

This is the first time for Dr. Kasai to visit the country as Regional Director for the WHO since his appointment in February this year.

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