Australia and Solomon Islands expand HIV testing, treatment and prevention
More Solomon Islanders will have access to HIV prevention, testing and treatment services under expanded support for the national response to HIV and communicable diseases.
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) and Australia are working together to strengthen HIV prevention, testing and treatment services across the country. Over SBD$5 million in Australian support will be delivered through health and community partners to improve service delivery, build workforce capability and increase community awareness.
The support comes at a critical time as Solomon Islands works to address rising HIV case numbers and strengthen systems for a coordinated, sustainable national response.
Minister for Health and Medical Services, Honourable Morris Toiraena, said
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Government and people of Australia for your enduring friendship and unwavering commitment to improving the health and well-being of Solomon Islanders. The rising rate of HIV infections is deeply concerning. Thank you for this generous donation, which will support the Ministry of Health and Medical Services in its efforts to curb the upward trend of new HIV cases through preventative measures, early detection, and treatment.”
The support package will strengthen prevention, testing and treatment services, build workforce capability, improve community awareness, and support stronger systems and surveillance.
Health workers across all 10 provinces will receive additional training and support to improve HIV services, while communities will benefit from awareness and engagement activities to encourage prevention, early testing and access to care.
The package brings together support across multiple areas of the national response—from policy development and planning through to health workforce development, service delivery, surveillance, community engagement and technical assistance.
Australian High Commissioner, Jeff Roach, said Australia was committed to working alongside Solomon Islands to strengthen health security and improve health outcomes.
“The Solomon Islands Government is leading the response to HIV, and Australia is proud to support that effort through investments in health workers, stronger systems and community awareness,” High Commissioner Roach said.
“Expanding access to prevention, testing and treatment means more people can get the information, care and support they need earlier, helping reduce transmission and keep families and communities healthy.”
Australia’s support will include strengthening HIV surveillance and case monitoring systems, updating national treatment guidelines, developing the next National HIV/STI/Viral Hepatitis Strategic Plan, and building the capability of the health workforce through training and mentoring. Community engagement activities will also support prevention, awareness and access to services, particularly for populations at greater risk of HIV infection.
Australia and MHMS continue to work together to strengthen health security and improve health outcomes for all Solomon Islanders.