In photo cutting the ribbon infront of the Urban Health Centre (left to right) Dr Anniver Aitorea, Director Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre, Clement Terewauri, Deputy City Mayor Honiara City Council, Hon. Morris Toiraena, Minister Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Jeff Roach Australia High Commissioner, Dr. Lawrence Diau Director Honiara City Council and sitting infront Ann Seinemua, Community representative Naha 1.
HISTORIC OPENING OF SOLOMON ISLANDS FIRST URBAN HEALTH CENTRE
Solomon Islands reached a major milestone in healthcare today/on Wednesday with the official opening of the Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre.
The Centre was officially opened by Minister for Health and Medical Services, Hon. Morris Toiraena, and Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach.
Hundreds of community members gathered to witness the historic occasion, celebrating with vibrant cultural performances that reflected the rich diversity of Solomon Islands and the pride of the Naha community.
The new facility represents a major investment in the health and wellbeing of Solomon Islanders and demonstrates the strength of the enduring partnership between Solomon Islands and Australia.
Marking the commencement of services, Minister Toiraena described the SBD250 million state-of-the-art facility set a benchmark for modern, efficient and patient-centred health service delivery in Solomon Islands.
“This remarkable facility is a testament to Australia’s commitment to quality and commitment to collaboration across design, construction, fit out and commissioning,” Minister Toiraena said.
“Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre sets a number of firsts, with all facets of primary healthcare under one roof, with Solomon Islands first nurse call system for patients to notify nurses when needing assistance, electronic queuing and digital patient record keeping, and so its impact will be felt across the entire health network in Solomon Islands.”
“This Centre reflects our government’s commitment to improve health infrastructure throughout Solomon Islands, and we will continue to collaborate together to strengthen and deliver improved services.
The Urban Health Centre opens its doors to the public tomorrow/Thursday. It will offer a comprehensive range of outpatient and primary healthcare services under one roof, including x-ray, laboratory testing, maternal and child health services and dental care.
The Urban Health Centre will also deliver services previously provided by Naha Clinic.
Designed to serve a catchment population of approximately 50,000 people, the facility is expected to significantly reduce pressure on the National Referral Hospital while bringing essential services closer to families.
Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach congratulated health workers, Honiara City Council and Ministry of Health and Medical Services officials for their tireless efforts in preparing the facility for operation.
“Our goal was never simply to construct a beautiful building. Our goal was to help deliver a modern health service that improves people’s lives for decades to come,” High Commissioner Roach said.
“Australia has worked side-by-side with Solomon Islands health officials to equip the facility, train staff and establish the systems, protocols and processes needed to support safe, high-quality care. That commitment to long-term sustainability is what makes this project truly transformative.”
High Commissioner Roach announced that Australia had this week approved almost SBD900,000 for a fully equipped ambulance to support the Centre’s operations and ensure patients can access emergency transport when required.
The opening of the Urban Health Centre forms part of Australia’s broader commitment to strengthening healthcare across Solomon Islands.
Naha community representative Ms Ann Seinemua said, spoke of the long history of the project and the growing needs of Naha for increased health services.
“Our community is so grateful, and we can’t wait to visit and look after our new Centre.”
Honiara Deputy Lord Mayor Mr Clement Terewa welcomed the opening as a landmark achievement for the city.
“This is one stop care for the betterment of our people,” Mr Terewa said.
“This project cements the longstanding commitment of town council, government and Australia to work together for the better of our people.”
“I’m grateful to the Naha clinical team as they have been integral to the planning and preparation of this Centre.”
The Solomon Islands Government and Australia reaffirmed their commitment to working together to strengthen the country’s health system and deliver lasting health outcomes for all Solomon Islanders.
The Birthing Centre is expected to start providing services in September, and will more than double birthing capacity in Honiara with five World Health Organisation-standard “respectful delivery” birthing suites.
This will mark the first time Honiara City Council has delivered birthing services for its residents.
ENDS
Health Minister Hon. Morris Toiraena rendered his remarks at the opening ceremony.
Australia High Commissioner Jeff Roach rendered his remarks at the ceremony.
Naha 1 Community representative Ann Seinemua rendered her remarks.
Honiara City Council Deputy Mayor Clement Terewauri sharing his remarks at the ceremony.
Honiara City Council Health Director Dr Lawrence Diau sharing the closing remarks at the event.
Guests seated at the opening ceremony.
In photo left to right: Dr. Lawrence Diau, Director HCC, Clement Terewauri Deputy Mayor, HCC, Hon. Morris Toiraena, Health Minister, Jeff Roach Australia High Commissioner and Dr. Tristan Amstrong, Human Development Counselor DFAT.
Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre Nurses.
A Naha Community rep presented a gift to Jeff Roach Australia High Commissioner.
Doctors consultation room
Inside the corridor of the Naha Urban Health Centre.
Dental room
Pathology