Parliament approves millions in NGO health grants, extends key bills

Parliament yesterday approved millions of dollars in grants to non-governmental organisations (NGOs) supporting health services across Fiji and granted extensions for three key bills, following updates from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.

Minister for Health, Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, told Parliament the NGO grants are a critical investment, strengthening partnerships that deliver essential health and social services, particularly in remote and underserved communities.

“These organisations are embedded in our communities and work at the front lines of health care and social support services, directly interacting with our population,” Dr Lalabalavu said.

He outlined the Ministry’s five priority pillars for funding: counselling and rehabilitation; long-term care for the elderly and persons living with disabilities; primary health care including Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) prevention; sexual and reproductive health; and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).

Among the key grants, the Sai Prema Foundation received $3.9 million for pediatric cardiac surgeries, saving more than 120 children and families over $42 million in medical costs. The Frank Hilton Organization, which supports early detection and therapy for children with special needs, received over $1 million, benefiting more than 2,200 children over the past four years.

Funding is provided through two mechanisms: direct budget-line grants for long-standing partnerships, and competitive Expression of Interest grants to promote transparency and merit-based funding.

Dr Lalabalavu emphasised the Ministry’s commitment to monitoring and evaluating performance to ensure every dollar contributes to improving health outcomes nationwide.

Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu, welcomed the support for NGOs, noting their vital role in reaching vulnerable groups. He also urged clarity and transparency in how public funds are allocated.

In a separate parliamentary move, the Standing Committee on Economic Affairs was granted extra time to report on the Work Care Bill 2025, Accident Compensation Amendment Bill 2025, and Employment Relations Amendment Bill 2025 after consultations with stakeholders were deemed necessary.

The extensions were approved unanimously, ensuring members can continue scrutinising legislation while Government and civil society work together to strengthen Fiji’s health and social service networks.

Feedback: mere.ledua@fijisun.com.fj