TWO new buildings were opened at Niu'eiki Hospital in 'Eua including a Children's Ward and Clinic on July 18, funded by the Government of Japan at a cost of TOP$175,000 pa'anga.

The Japanese Ambassador to Tonga HE Mr Yasuo Takase handed over the keys to the Minister of Health at a ceremony for the commissioning of the new buildings, attended by the Minister of Health Hon 'Uliti Uata and Minister of Finance Hon Sunia Fili at 'Eua.

A spokesperson for the Japanese Embassy in Nuku'alofa said that with the completion of the new buildings the hospital can now put children in a separate and safer ward.

Patients suffering from non-communicable diseases will also have a separate ward so that patients can benefit from better consultations and treatment.

In March 2009, Japan formalised its assistance to Niu'eiki and committed the $175,000 for the construction of the buildings under Japan's Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security (GGP).

Japan in its ongoing commitment towards assisting Tonga supports efforts by the people and the Government of Tonga to ensure basic human needs and achieve the Millennium Development Goals.