Health & Partners launch Child and Family Welfare System Multisectoral Implementation Plan 2025-2030

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services, partner Ministries, UNICEF and Australia Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) on 25^th July launched the “Child and Family Welfare System Multisectoral Implementation Plan 2025-2030” in Honiara.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Health Minister Dr Paul Bosawai, supervising Permanent Secretary Dr Gregory Jilini stated as a government, and as individuals who care deeply about the well-being of our people, we are gathered here for shared reason: to give every child in the Solomon Islands a safer and stronger start in life.

Dr Jilini described the implementation plan is more than a document. “It reflects what we value as a nation. It is a roadmap for how we work together to protect children, strengthen families, and support the most vulnerable members of our communities”.

“The work of protecting children is never simple, and never the job of just one ministry, one agency, or one sector. It is a shared responsibility, rooted in the law through our Child and Family Welfare Act 2017, and brought to life by people: social workers, health professionals, teachers, police, church leaders, and community champions”, said Dr Jilini.

Deputy Secretary Health Care and supervising PS Dr Gregory Jilini delivered the keynote address at the event.

He said on behalf of the Minister of Health and Medical Services, he is pleased that this Plan is fully aligned with our National Health Strategic Plan 2022–2031.

He explained, the health system is often the first place where signs of abuse or neglect are seen. That means our doctors, nurses, and midwives have a critical role, not only in providing care, but in responding with compassion and urgency.

“This Plan also connects closely with the National Education Action Plan 2022–2026. Schools must be places of safety, not fear. Teachers must be supported to notice when a child is not okay. The referral pathway must be clear. This Plan helps make that happen.

“Likewise, the goals of the National Children’s Policy 2023–2030 to ensure all children are safe, supported, and able to reach their full potential are carried forward here with practical, measurable actions.

“And, at the highest level, this Plan supports our country’s National Development Strategy 2016–2035, by promoting strong families, healthier communities, and a more inclusive society. When we protect children, we invest in the future of our nation”, said Dr Jilini.

DFAT Human Development Counselor Dr Tristan Amstrong delivered his remarks at the event.

He further stated what is appreciate most about this Plan is that it recognizes the value of people and relationships. It calls on each of us to play a role, whether through policy, service delivery, or community leadership. It also respects the strength that already exists in our homes, churches, and villages. It is not about replacing what works but about building it together.

“Of course, turning this Plan into reality will take effort. It will take continued coordination, funding, and training. But it will also take heart, the will to listen, to respond, and to put the child at the center of every decision we make.

UNICE Chief of Field Office Mr. Benjamin Grubb sharing his remarks.

“I want to acknowledge with deep appreciation the hard work of the Social Welfare Division, the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs, our key partners UNICEF and the Australian Government and its people, and all the ministries, civil society groups, and individuals who contributed to shaping this Plan.

Let us leave here today with a renewed sense of purpose. Let this launch not be the end of a process, but the beginning of a stronger, more coordinated, and more compassionate approach to child and family welfare across our islands.

“Together, we can create a Solomon Islands where every child grows up safe, valued, and empowered”, said Dr Jilini.

Meanwhile, all the partners who gathered at the launch also expressed the importance of the Child and Family Welfare System Multisectoral

MWYCFA Permanent Secretary Dr Cedrick Alependava sharing his remarks at the event.

Implementation Plan 2025-2030. All the partner pledges their support on how they can best implement the document plan.

Deputy Secretary Health Improvement Dr Nemia Bainivalu delivering the welcome remarks.

One of the little girl cutting the ribbon of the Multisectoral Implementation Plan document and looking on is all the officials.

Speaking during the panel discussions is Head of Family Unit, Public Solicitors Office, MJLA Ms. Kathleen Kohata.

Guests seated at the launch.

Director Social Welfare Ms. Linda Tupe introducing the panel discussion.

Ends///…