20 April 2001 Media Statement

NZ aid provides mobile health clinic for Samoa

Directing aid to where it's needed…

New Zealand's overseas aid programme is helping to provide a mobile health clinic in Samoa.

The mobile clinic is a big, colourful bus with decorations that reflect an icon of Samoa – its colourful public buses.

Associate Foreign Affairs Minister Matt Robson launched the mobile health clinic at the South Seas Health Care Clinic in Otara today.

New Zealand's Overseas Development Aid programme funds the Samoa Child Health Project. The Project is a partnership between New Zealand and the Department of Health in Samoa.

The new mobile clinic will provide primary health care services including basic medical assistance and treatment, medicine, screening, immunisation, health education and promotion, and support for parents and families.

Matt Robson said the clinic is a good example of the way New Zealand's overseas aid is tied closely to projects that have a direct benefit.

"The priority for New Zealand aid is our immediate neighbours, and as Minister I need to know that the aid will directly benefit people in need.

"Direct funding for a mobile health clinic in Samoa meets those objectives.

"It will promote early treatment of illness, the importance of immunisation, healthy and safe food, and a safe home environment in both physical and emotional terms," Matt Robson said.

ENDS

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