PACIFIC Health Leaders reinforced the importance of resilient, equitable, and future-ready health systems grounded in Pacific priorities, country realities, and government leadership as they concluded the 17th Pacific Heads of Health Meeting in Rarotonga, Cook Islands.
The meeting was held from August 25–27 under the theme “Modernising the Healthy Islands Journey: Building Resilient Health Systems for a Digital Age,” bringing together Heads of Health, senior officials, and regional partners to agree on recommendations addressing shared health priorities.
The three days of discussion focused on the renewed Healthy Islands Vision 2050, sustainable health financing, non-communicable diseases, reproductive health, workforce development, health data and research, artificial intelligence, climate resilience, health security, and regional partnerships.
The meeting’s outcomes will help inform continued regional collaboration and future health governance discussions, supporting healthier and more resilient Pacific communities.
Cook Islands’ Ministry of Health Secretary of Health, Bob Williams, said hosting the Pacific Heads of Health Meeting had brought leaders together around the priorities that matter most to the people.
“The meeting has helped us consider how the Healthy Islands journey can respond to a changing health, climate, and digital environment,” he said.
Director of the Public Health Division at the Pacific Community, Dr Berlin Kafoa, stressed that the meeting helps translate regional discussions into practical action for countries and communities.
“SPC remains committed to working alongside countries and partners to strengthen capacity, support evidence-based decision-making, and advance the Healthy Islands Vision 2050 through coordinated action.”
Meanwhile, Director of Pacific Technical Support and WHO Representative to the South Pacific, Dr Mark Jacobs, emphasised the need for Pacific regional cooperation.
“The Healthy Islands vision remains a strong foundation for health development in the Pacific. Regional cooperation is essential as countries respond to non-communicable diseases, climate-related health risks, emerging health threats, and technological change.”
