FIRST BABY BORN AFTER THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE NEW NAHA BIRTHING CENTRE

DFAT representative, Jemma Thompson meeting the newborn with his family

Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre Staff, DFAT and family with new born

A Naha family has welcomed the first baby born at the new Naha Birthing Centre since its official opening.

Ms. Helma Sikekolo safely delivered a healthy baby boy weighing 3.2 kilograms at 12:40am on 8 October 2026. Ms. Sikekolo expressed her appreciation for the care she received and thanked the nurses and doctor who cared for her during labour and delivery.

Her husband, Mr. Vatopu, also thanked the health workers for ensuring the safe delivery of his wife and baby, and acknowledged Australia and Solomon Islands Government for establishing the facility.

The couple’s two older daughters were born at the National Referral Hospital and Gizo Hospital. Now living at Naha 2, the family welcomed the opportunity to access birthing services closer to home.

“Having this facility close to home made a big difference for our family. It gave us confidence knowing my wife could access care nearby when time came to give birth,” Mr Vatopu said. “We are grateful to the nurses and doctors who cared for my wife and baby, and to everyone who helped make this service available for families in our community.”

Dr. Gregory Jilini, Permanent Secretary (Acting), MHMS said: “The safe delivery of the first baby at the Naha Birthing Unit is an important milestone for our health system and for the families we serve. This facility brings essential maternity services closer to communities, helping mothers access skilled care throughout pregnancy, labour and delivery.

“We congratulate Ms. Helma Sikekolo and her family on the birth of their baby boy and acknowledge the dedication of our nurses, midwives and doctors who continue to provide quality maternal and newborn care. The Ministry remains committed to improving access to safe and reliable health services for all Solomon Islanders.”

Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach said the first birth was a special moment for the new Centre and the community.

“It’s wonderful to see the first baby born at the Naha Birthing Centre since it officially opened,” High Commissioner Roach said.

“This is what the Centre is here for, to help mothers and babies get safe, quality care closer to home. Australia is proud to be part of that.”

The Naha Birthing Unit began providing 24/7 low-risk birthing services this week as part of the Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre’s transition to full round-the-clock operation.

ENDS