Tonga has taken a major step toward sustainable healthcare with the commissioning of a new Medical Waste Treatment Unit at Vaiola Hospital.
The state-of-the-art equipment, funded through Australia’s Vaccine Access and Health Security Initiative (VAHSI), will safely dispose of hazardous and infectious materials.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Tonga, His Excellency Mr Brek Batley, praised the milestone, saying, “Australia continues to invest in better health care for Tongans and in high-quality, resilient infrastructure to support the hardworking staff at the hospital.”
It is part of a broader TOP 4.2 million investment that has also seen new units installed at ‘Eua and Vava’u hospitals since 2022.
The Minister of Health, Dr ‘Ana ‘Akau’ola, emphasized the unit’s impact, stating, “This unit is more than just an installation, it is a symbol of our shared commitment to safeguarding public health and protecting our environment for future generations.”
The need for upgraded waste treatment was identified during the COVID-19 pandemic, when increased medical waste from protective equipment and vaccinations highlighted gaps in disposal methods.
The Ecosteryl Unit is designed to safely process healthcare waste from Vaiola Hospital and surrounding health centres, promoting a cleaner environment. This initiative aligns with Tonga’s commitment to sustainable healthcare practices.
