Honiara, Solomon Islands, Wednesday 12 November 2025 – Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele today (Wednesday) joined national and provincial leaders in Dedeu, Isabel Province, to witness the soft launch of the new Deva Rural Health Clinic, a key step to improving rural health services.
The Deva Rural Health Clinic is fully funded by the Government of Solomon Islands through the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, at a cost of SBD 5.1 million.
The event marked a major milestone for the communities of Dedeu and Varagia, who will now have access to essential health care closer to home. The launch was officiated by the Minister for Health and Medical Services, Hon. Dr. Paul Bosawai, and attended by Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Hon. Jimson Tanangada, Deputy Secretary Health Care in the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Dr. Gregory Jilini, Premier of Isabel Province, Hon. Lawrence Hayward, and the Director of Health for Isabel Province, Mr. Frederick Martin Gavira, among other officials.
In his keynote address, Prime Minister Manele congratulated the people of Dedeu and Varagia for their patience and unity in supporting the establishment of the new clinic, which brings the total number of registered health facilities in Isabel Province to 35.
“This new clinic represents a centre of wellness and hope for the people of Dedeu, Varagia, and surrounding communities,” the Prime Minister said.
“Once operational, mothers, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities will no longer have to travel long distances to access basic health services.”
The Prime Minister emphasised that promoting good health is a shared responsibility, noting that while communities play a vital role in maintaining hygiene, clean water, and sanitation, the government’s role is to create the enabling environment for quality health service delivery.
He said the Deva RHC is a reflection of his government’s ongoing commitment to improving health infrastructure and ensuring rural communities have better access to care.
“As your MP for Hograno-Kia-Havulei Constituency and Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, my government remains committed to improving health infrastructure nationwide. The Deva RHC is a testament to that effort,” he said.
Prime Minister Manele also highlighted the strategic location of the new clinic, situated next to Deva Primary School, as a major advantage for students.
He said parents and guardians can now be reassured that medical help is just next door.
“Students who fall sick or get injured can receive treatment within minutes,” he said.
The Prime Minister took time to acknowledge the efforts of key stakeholders who made the project possible. He thanked the Ministry of Health and Medical Services for including the project in its 2024 development budget, the Isabel Provincial Government for its partnership, and the landowners and community leaders for their cooperation and peaceful support throughout the project’s implementation.
He also recognised the work of RSF Construction Ltd for completing the building despite challenges with shipping and payments.
The Prime Minister commended the event organisers for their efforts in making the occasion festive, with traditional dances, songs, and food prepared by community groups to celebrate the achievement.
He urged everyone to continue supporting the clinic beyond the opening ceremony.
“Once the celebrations end, the work continues. This facility will need your ongoing support to ensure it delivers the health services our people deserve,” he said.
The clinic includes a birthing room, postnatal room, WASH facilities, and a sick bay area, among other essential amenities. It is powered by both solar energy and a backup generator.
The new Deva Rural Health Clinic will open its doors to the public once final installations and staffing are completed.
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[PM Press Secretariat]
