THE Rotary Club of Papatoetoe Central from Auckland, New Zealand recently donated 72 oxygen concentrators valued at approximately $350,000 to the Ministry of Health.
Members of the club have successfully completed a series of humanitarian projects across Fiji, with the flagship initiative being the donation of 72 oxygen concentrators, aimed at strengthening critical healthcare capacity across the country.
Speaking on behalf of the club, president Naleen Chand said the project represented a significant milestone in supporting Fiji’s healthcare system.
“Alongside our health, education, and early childhood initiatives, we are proud to contribute to meaningful and lasting community impact,” Ms Chand said.
“The official handover was conducted by the Honourable Minister for Health, Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, alongside his team of dedicated health professionals.
“The Rotary delegation was honoured to be received at this high-level engagement.
“These life-saving oxygen concentrators will significantly strengthen respiratory care services across Fiji’s health system and support patients in critical need.”
Supporting community health, education and early childhood projects
In addition to the main initiative, several impactful community projects were delivered:
n Nausori Health Centre support
Essential medical supplies including bedding, phlebotomy needles, hubs, and related health items were donated to strengthen frontline healthcare services, with a commitment for continued support.
n Lautoka School for Special Education
Educational resources and essential support were provided to assist students with special needs, improving learning environments and access to necessary materials.
n Narewa kindergarten support
Support was extended to Narewa Kindergarten, assisting early childhood education through the provision of essential learning and classroom resources to enhance student development and wellbeing.
n Hospital support distribution (including Nausori, Sigatoka, Nadi and Labasa Hospital and other facilities)
Additional essential supplies were distributed to Labasa Hospital and other regional health facilities, further strengthening healthcare services across Fiji.
Leadership and Rotarian involvement
Ms Chand said these initiatives were made possible through the dedication of travelling Rotarians, contributors from New Zealand and Fiji, and strong collaboration with local health, education, and government stakeholders.
“Special recognition is given to the committed Rotarians who supported and participated in these projects — IPP PJ Dhatt, Jaspinder Dhatt, PP Raj Pardeep Singh, Ashima Singh, Mukesh Arora, and Vandana Arora.”
