Kadavu maternity waiting home built in just six weeks

A new maternity waiting home in Vunisea, Kadavu, which is expected to benefit more than 12,000 people, has been completed in just six weeks.

Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr Ratu Antonio Lalabalavu welcomed the short turnaround time, saying the project demonstrated what could be achieved with effective coordination and planning.

The Vunisea Maternity Waiting Home was funded by the New Zealand Government at a cost of $110,000, with implementation carried out by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

“I am told it took six weeks, from consultation to construction, to complete this prefabricated maternity waiting home,” Dr Lalabalavu said.

He commissioned the new facility this morning.

The facility will support pregnant women, including those considered high‑risk, who require closer monitoring before delivery.

It will also provide a comfortable space for families and relatives visiting Vunisea Hospital for clinics, check‑ups or admissions.

"The main purpose of the project is to ensure pregnant women of Kadavu who are nearing their due dates and high-risk pregnant women and their relatives have a place to call home here at Vunisea Hospital when they come for clinics, check-ups or admissions," a Ministry statement read.

The maternity waiting home is expected to serve the entire Kadavu Province, which has a population of 12,439 people across 75 villages and 35 settlements.

The facility includes three bedrooms, two bathrooms, two toilets and a porch, providing safe and practical accommodation for expectant mothers awaiting care.