Health Minister Elias Kapavore has reaffirmed the Government's commitment to the long-awaited Central Provincial Hospital, telling Parliament that K25 million has been allocated in the 2026 Budget to progress the project and will be released only when work commences for the Central Provincial Hospital.

The Minister made the announcement while responding to questions from Central Governor Rufina Peter regarding health funding and hospital development in the province.

Kapavore said the funding was specifically intended to advance the establishment of the Central Provincial Hospital and was not meant for operational expenses.

"That funding is allocated to start the work of the Central Provincial Hospital. It is not to be used for any other purpose," he told Parliament.

The Minister said the funding would support the initial stages of the project, including design and preparatory works, which must be completed before construction can proceed.

He stressed that the Government was committed to strengthening health infrastructure across the country through its broader health sector development strategy.

Kapavore also highlighted staffing challenges within the Central Provincial Health Authority, claiming the authority had only filled around 30 per cent of its required workforce positions.

He urged provincial health administrators to continue recruitment efforts while working closely with the National Department of Health.

The Minister said improving provincial health infrastructure was critical to easing pressure on major referral hospitals and ensuring healthcare services were available closer to communities.

The proposed Central Provincial Hospital is expected to become a major healthcare facility for the province and help improve access to specialist medical services for residents.

Once completed, the hospital is expected to reduce the burden on healthcare facilities in the National Capital District while supporting growing populations in Central Province.