The capacity of the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) to treat patients has now been upgraded with 30 new dialysis machines purchased by the Government of Samoa.
Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa revealed in an announcement Friday afternoon that Cabinet had approved the purchasing of 30 new dialysis machines to improve their support for the increasing number of patients.
Savali reported that it indeed alarming to note that there are now young people also treated at the Foundation.
She further added that although Government will provide these machines for treatment, it will also continue to pursue, promote and encourage preventive measures through healthy living and healthy lifestyles.
According to Savali, the 30 new dialysis machines will complement the existing 30 machines at the Motootua location providing treatment for 200 patients.
And for Savai’i, 24 patients are treated with 9 dialysis machines housed in a special unit next to the Tuasivi Hospital.
Established in 2005, the Samoa National Kidney Foundation had six initial patients with only 11 dialysis machines.
Over the years, the number of patients needing treatment has escalated by three digits. And to cater for the shocking demand, the Government since 2020 invested in building new headquarters with more resources for treatment at a cost of $1.7 million tala at Moto’otua.
