Four new vehicles for the Health Department donated by Japan and UNICEF
The Health Department is the recipient of some brand new vehicles bought from Fiji. Two Toyota Rush 1.5L 4 Speed Auto 7 Seater SUVs are already on the island and the other two will arrive on the next boat.
In a joint press release earlier this week, the government announced that the four vehicles were donated by the government of Japan and UNICEF.
Minister of Health Sauni Tongatule acknowledges the vehicles will be useful for Niue’s Covid 19 vaccination and community outreach programmes.
“I acknowledge the donated vehicles from the Government of Japan and UNICEF to support Niue’s COVID-19 programme, vaccination, and outreach to the community to ensure Niue’s eligible population is protected from the virus,” said the Hon. Sauni Tongatule, on behalf of the Government of Niue.
The government of Japan has previously donated heavy machinery for the Niue government and this year, they have extended that support to the health sector.
“This assistance is from Japan’s contribution and partnership with UNICEF to the global effort in the fight to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including in Niue. We are pleased that with this assistance, the Government of Niue will continue with its effort to successfully roll out its vaccination programmes for all eligible people living in the country to be vaccinated and stay safe from COVID-19,” said the Ambassador of Japan Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Niue, H.E. ITO Koichi.
UNICEF Pacific Representative Jonathan Veitch says that even with the high vaccination coverage achieved in Niue, there is still a need to ensure that the communities including children in Niue are safe and protected.
“We need to ensure that communities, including children, in Niue are safe and protected even with the high vaccination coverage achieved. UNICEF will continue to work with the Government in engaging with communities on the safety and importance of being vaccinated,” said Jonathan Veitch.
“We thank the Government of Japan for supporting small and remote Pacific Island countries in this battle against the global pandemic”, said UNICEF Pacific Representative, Jonathan Veitch.
Director of Health Dr Eddie Akauola says that the four vehicles bought from Fiji for the Health Department will be used for their vaccination and daily activities.
