NCD Governor Powes Parkop met with the Minister for Health, Dr. Lino Tom, Health Secretary Dr. Liko Osbourne and his Deputy Secretaries and senior officers, Mr. Ken Wai, Ms. Elva Lionel, Mr. Ambrose Koaram, Dr. Dora Lenturuth as well as the Chairman of NCDPHA, Mr. Daniel Waswas and his Executive Officer, Dr. Newton Albert.
The meeting according to a media update from the Governor, was held to address outstanding issues impending the progress towards the commencement of construction of our NCD Level 5 Hospital at Tete Gerehu.
“After much discussion it was resolved that we all supported the project 110 percent and the Health Secretary will be working closely with Treasury Secretary to have the final submission to NEC as soon as possible.”
Governor Parkop also stated that they all were in support of the funding mechanism that has been secured with China Construction Bank and Bank of China with a contractor to build at their choice and will negotiate the final terms of the funding agreement with the two Banks once the National Executive Counsel grants approval to the funding proposal.
“We will set up the Project Trust Account with support instrument from Finance Minister as soon as possible to facilitate the financing arrangements from National Government and the Banks.”
“NCDC will be the Project Management Unit (PMU) spearheaded by City Manager.”
“We will ensure the engineering, road construction, fencing and relocation of settlers start and get completed this year for actual construction of the level 5 hospital to start next year or as soon as possible.”
Additionally, the Governor stated that they would be working simultaneously to address any technical issues especially on final detailed designs of the hospital especially on specific facilities so they conform to all Health requirements and standards.
“We will engage an independent Project Management Team to ensure the hospital construction meets health standard requirements to attain the desired outcome and value for money.”
Furthermore, a Project Steering Committee (PSC) will be made up of representatives from all key Government Departments from the Prime Minister and the National Executive Council, National Planning, Department of Works, CEPA will be ensured composed of Inter-government stakeholder agencies to have oversight over hospital project.
“I hope to give our residents of NCD and all our people in the rest of the country another update once NEC approves loan finance mechanism we are proposing with the two Chinese Banks.”
Meanwhile the NCD Level 5 Hospital is part of the National Health Plan 2022 to 2030 and all other health facilities in the City under control of NCD PHA will be upgraded and managed in alignment with this new level 5 Hospital.
“It is vital for our Capital City and also for the rest of the country as it will enable us to also realize the National Referral and Teaching Hospital.”