The construction of a new maternity ward at the CWM Hospital in Suva is still in its first phase.

Health Minister Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete says the contractors are preparing the building site and then construction of the building will begin.

He says once completed, more females will be accommodated.

“We are hopeful that once this 200 bed facility finally opens, it will continue to improve the number and capacity to look after our women and also the maternal services in Lami-Nausori corridor.”

Dr. Waqainabete says many women choose to deliver babies in Suva therefore there is a need to build extra units.

Once completed, the maternity unit will be able to accommodate 200 more women.