The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)
Access to healthcare for underserved communities in Tuvalu
A new agreement between UNOPS, the government of Tuvalu and the World Bank will strengthen health service delivery for the people of Tuvalu.
With over $10 million in funding – part of the larger Tuvalu Health System Strengthening Project – UNOPS will upgrade the only hospital in the country, construct a new clinic and rehabilitate 10 existing clinics in the outer islands of Tuvalu.
At UNOPS, we are dedicated to enhancing healthcare systems where it's most crucial. Today, we mark a major advancement in our efforts as we partner with the Tuvalu Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the World Bank to improve healthcare delivery across Tuvalu.
One of the smallest and most isolated countries in the world, Tuvalu is home to just over 11,000 people. Classified as a Least Developed Country, it comprises nine dispersed low-lying islands in the South Pacific Ocean. The entire population of Tuvalu is served by one 50-bed hospital on its main island, Funafuti. The new and rehabilitated clinics will bring healthcare delivery closer to isolated communities and reduce pressure on the main hospital.
The four-year project – based on health system assessments conducted by UNOPS and funded by the World Bank – prioritizes bringing innovative and resilient infrastructure solutions to the people of Tuvalu. Inclusive and climate-resilient infrastructure solutions will protect the facilities from natural hazards, inherent for Small Island Developing States, and move the nation closer to its goals for universal and inclusive healthcare.
“By upgrading the Princess Margaret Hospital and local clinics, this initiative will localize quality care and make health services more accessible to all Tuvaluans, especially for those on the outer islands. This project reinforces our joint commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 3 - ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all," added Sanjay Mathur.
