A Vision for a Healthier Bougainville

At the heart of this groundbreaking collaboration is a powerful vision for improving the lives of Bougainville’s people. The BHCP will focus on empowering communities to take charge of their health, strengthening health systems, and addressing key health priorities. Key long-term goals include:

• Improving health outcomes across communities and ensuring every person has access to the care they need.
• Integrating a robust preventative health model into the ABG Department of Health and local communities, supported by innovative monitoring systems.
• Empowering and resilient communities that can drive their own development and tackle broader social challenges.

The programme will also deliver significant short- and medium-term outcomes, such as increasing community knowledge on preventative health practices, establishing clear referral pathways for health and social issues, and enhancing communication systems for effective health promotion.

A Partnership Built on Trust, Respect, and Bold Ambition

This MoU reflects the unwavering commitment of all parties to the health and prosperity of Bougainville’s people. With the leadership and guidance of the ABG Department of Health, this partnership will ensure that every action taken is in the best interests of the people of Bougainville. The commitment of the ABG to empowering its citizens through healthcare is clear, with the Department of Health playing a central role in guiding, overseeing, and ensuring the integration of the programme into existing health systems.

The ABG Department of Health’s proactive engagement in shaping the programme’s health promotion content, co-designing strategies, and driving integration of the BHCP functions into the national health system, will be a model of governance and collaboration that will resonate throughout the region and beyond.

Collaboration at the Highest Level

Under this MoU, the ABG Department of Health’s leadership and vision for a sustainable, self-reliant health system will be crucial in overseeing and guiding the implementation of the BHCP. Their involvement will extend beyond high-level strategic planning, as they will also provide crucial guidance on health indicators, advise on monitoring and evaluation systems, and ensure that the programme's activities are aligned with Bougainville’s specific health needs.

This collaboration also includes the establishment of an Advisory Group that will provide ongoing oversight and direction. Comprising representatives from the ABG Department of Health, LMNZ, MFAT, and other key stakeholders, this group will ensure that the programme stays on track, monitors its progress, and ensures maximum impact for the people of Bougainville.

A Commitment to Sustainability and Impact

The ABG’s commitment to long-term health improvements is demonstrated by the programme's alignment with Bougainville's health priorities, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and its focus on reducing the burden of disease while strengthening the capacity of local health systems.

The continued success and sustainability of the BHCP depend on the ongoing financial support of the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). In the event that MFAT funding were to cease, discussions will be initiated to explore alternative funding options, ensuring that the programme's vital work continues uninterrupted.

A Future Transformed

This MoU is not just a document – it is a bold declaration of the shared commitment to shaping a brighter, healthier future for Bougainville. Through the dedication and leadership of the ABG Department of Health, alongside the expertise and support of LMNZ and the New Zealand government, this programme will leave a lasting legacy of improved health, empowerment, and resilience for generations to come.

Quote from the Minister of Health, ABG

"The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding is a defining moment for the health and well-being of the people of Bougainville. It is a testament to the strong leadership and unwavering commitment of the Autonomous Bougainville Government to ensuring that every citizen has access to quality healthcare. We are proud to partner with The Leprosy Mission New Zealand and all stakeholders involved, as we work towards a future where Bougainville's communities thrive in health, strength, and resilience. This is just the beginning of a new era in healthcare for Bougainville, and together, we will make a lasting difference."