By SEPKOLIN WALNE
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon visited the construction site of the new Centre for Eye Health at the Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) on Tuesday.
The new facility is being funded by the Zealand Government through the Fred Hollows Foundation NZ.
“New Zealand is incredibly proud to contribute to this national centre, which will help to address the eye health needs facing Papua New Guinea, which has one of the highest rates of blindness globally,” Mr Luxon told health officials during the visit.
“This is one of the largest investments in eye care globally through official development assistance.
“Together, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Fred Hollows, and other donor partners are establishing a purpose-built national facility for eye health.
“One that will actually enable the training of health professionals and the delivery of surgical care.”
He added that the Centre for Eye Health would help address gender disparities in access to eye care, which disproportionately affect women and girls.
“This investment is part of New Zealand’s broader and longstanding commitment to improving health in Papua New Guinea,” PM Luxon said. “Health is currently our largest sector of development cooperation.”
PNG Health Minister Elias Kapavore reaffirmed the country’s commitment to promoting eye care as a vital component of public health.
He said the Centre for Eye Health would train eye doctors, nurses, and ophthalmologists.
“The centre will also provide specialised services and support outreach programs across the provinces.”
Minister Kapavore thanked the Fred Hollows Foundation NZ and acknowledged PM Luxon’s continued support.
PMGH Chief Executive Officer Dr Paki Molumi thanked the Government and people of New Zealand for their significant contribution in establishing PNG’s first dedicated eye training hospital, describing the Centre for Eye Health as a powerful example of what strong international partnerships could achieve.