Rarotonga, Cook Islands, 28 August 2026
Pacific health leaders have concluded the Pacific Heads of Health Meeting 2026 in Rarotonga, Cook Islands, following three days of discussions on strengthening regional health priorities and modernizing the Healthy Islands journey.
Held from 25 to 27 August under the theme “Modernizing the Healthy Islands Journey: Building Resilient Health Systems for a Digital Age”, the meeting brought together Heads of Health, senior officials and regional partners to agree on recommendations addressing shared health priorities.
Discussions focused on the renewed Healthy Islands Vision 2050, sustainable health financing, noncommunicable diseases, reproductive health, workforce development, health data and research, artificial intelligence, climate resilience, health security and regional partnerships.
The meeting reinforced the importance of resilient, equitable and future-ready health systems grounded in Pacific priorities, country realities and government leadership.
“Hosting the Pacific Heads of Health Meeting in Rarotonga has brought Pacific health leaders together around the priorities that matter most to our people. The meeting has helped us consider how the Healthy Islands journey can respond to a changing health, climate and digital environment,” said Bob Williams, Secretary of Health, Te Marae Ora Ministry of Health, Cook Islands.
“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,” said Dr Berlin Kafoa, Director of the Public Health Division at the Pacific Community.
“Regional cooperation extending beyond the health sector is critical to shift the dial on many priorities including noncommunicable diseases and climate change. WHO will continue providing technical support and strengthening partnerships across the Pacific and beyond towards a resilient and healthy Pacific for future generations,” said Dr Mark Jacobs, World Health Organization Representative to the South Pacific and Director of Pacific Technical Support.
The meeting’s outcomes will inform continued regional collaboration and future health governance discussions, supporting healthier and more resilient Pacific communities.
Notes to editors
About the Pacific Community (SPC)
The Pacific Community (SPC) is the principal scientific and technical organisation in the Pacific region, supporting development across its member countries and territories through science, knowledge and innovation.
About the World Health Organization (WHO)
The World Health Organization (WHO) is the United Nations agency that connects nations, partners and people to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable – so everyone, everywhere can attain the highest level of health.
Media contacts
Shanesh Prasad | Strategic Communications and Engagement Officer | Pacific Community (SPC) | Email: shaneshp@spc.int
Howard Ngimetua | Communications and Public Relations Advisor | Te Marae Ora - Ministry of Health | Email: howard.tangimetua@cookislands.gov.ck