Handover Ceremony of the Medical Outreach Vehicle (May 30, 2025)
2025/5/30
Ambassador and Ministry of Health Officials with the distinguished guests
Ambassador and Hon. Minister of Health Hon. Valasi,
H.E. Mr. SUZUKI Ryotaro
New funded vehicles under Japan’s ESDP
On 30 May 2025, H.E. Mr. Ryotaro Suzuki, Ambassador of Japan to Samoa, officially handed over a Medical Outreach Vehicle to the Government of Samoa in Apia, on behalf of the Government of Japan. This provision is part of the Economic and Social Development Programme signed in August 2021, and follows the handover of a Dental Clinic Vehicle in 2024. The combined value of both vehicles amounts to JPY 100 million (approximately USD 910,400 or WST 2,334,000).
The ceremony was held in the presence of the Honourable Minister of Health, Mr. Valasi Luapitofanua To’ogamaga Tafito Selesele, officials from the Ministry of Health, and other distinguished guests.
The Medical Outreach Vehicle is equipped with essential medical instruments, such as a blood pressure monitor, thermometer, and an examination bed, and is designed to function as a mobile clinic. It enables doctors and nurses to visit remote and hard-to-reach areas such as outer islands and mountainous regions to provide basic healthcare services, including health check-ups, antenatal care, and vaccinations. The vehicle is not intended for patient transportation but rather serves as a mobile base for medical personnel to conduct consultations and minor treatments on-site.
This support aims to strengthen Samoa’s primary healthcare system and reduce disparities in access to medical services. It is also expected to contribute significantly to the establishment of a sustainable healthcare delivery system. Furthermore, the project reflects the deepening friendship between Japan and Samoa and supports the country’s social stability and socio-economic development.
The ceremony was held in the presence of the Honourable Minister of Health, Mr. Valasi Luapitofanua To’ogamaga Tafito Selesele, officials from the Ministry of Health, and other distinguished guests.
The Medical Outreach Vehicle is equipped with essential medical instruments, such as a blood pressure monitor, thermometer, and an examination bed, and is designed to function as a mobile clinic. It enables doctors and nurses to visit remote and hard-to-reach areas such as outer islands and mountainous regions to provide basic healthcare services, including health check-ups, antenatal care, and vaccinations. The vehicle is not intended for patient transportation but rather serves as a mobile base for medical personnel to conduct consultations and minor treatments on-site.
This support aims to strengthen Samoa’s primary healthcare system and reduce disparities in access to medical services. It is also expected to contribute significantly to the establishment of a sustainable healthcare delivery system. Furthermore, the project reflects the deepening friendship between Japan and Samoa and supports the country’s social stability and socio-economic development.