The Groundbreaking ceremony for the new Pharmaceutical Warehouse at Motootua took place this morning.
Blessed by Reverend Elder Peteru Tone, the keynote address was delivered by Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, who spoke of the Government’s work to strengthen Samoa’s health system.
“The health and well-being of the people of Samoa remain a top priority to Government. This is reflected in the budget appropriation for the health sector, and also shown in the investment through the Health Sector Wide Approach Program (SWAP).
“The latest project is another step in the ongoing reforms of the health sector. Strengthening that started in early 2000, fifteen years ago.
“This warehouse will become the centre for the safe storage of pharmaceuticals and medicines to maintain quality and to also do away with wastage.
“The operations within the facility must ensure that the policy guidelines for effective and efficient procurement storage and distribution of pharmaceuticals and medicines are adhered to,” said the Prime Minister.
The new warehouse will cost $12.9 million and the project is funded with assistance from the World Bank, Australian and New Zealand Government and also health sector development partners such as WHO and JICA.
Australian High Commissioner in Samoa, Her Excellency Sue Langford spoke on behalf of fellow development partners.
Her Excellency said Australia is committed to delivering better health services for all Samoans.
“We know a healthier workforce is a more productive workforce and effective spending on health will help Samoa grow the economy and generate wealth, and can sustain further improvement in health and in other basic services,” said Her Excellency.
Ms Langford also praised the efforts and hard work by the Minister of Health, Afioga Tuitama Leao Dr Talalelei Tuitama and his staff for having the vision, the plan and drive to take this important project forward.
Construction of the new building has been awarded to Ca’Bella Pacific Construction Samoa Ltd and is expected to be completed within eleven months.
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