Getting ready for Naha Birthing Centre
Media release
Fifteen midwives and nurses from Honiara City Council health facilities have begun a comprehensive training program in preparation for the opening of the new Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre next year.
Nurse Educator for Midwifery, Sister Susan Dikahehe, welcomed the training, highlighting the need to upskill frontline health workers well ahead of working at the new Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre.
“The training helps our midwives and registered nurses deliver the best care possible, whether it’s routine deliveries or emergency obstetric care,” Sr. Dikahehe said.
Commencing in late March, the midwife training covers essential topics such as identifying complications during labour, managing emergency cases, and improving the safety of both mothers and babies during delivery.
The upskilling initiative is part of a range of health planning and capacity building activities Australia has been supporting since last year to ensure the modern new Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre is up and running at handover in early 2026.
Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said the initiative reflects the importance of complementing large investments in health infrastructure with parallel support for strong clinical systems and well-trained personnel.
“For over six months, Australia, Honiara City Council and the National Referral Hospital, under the leadership of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, have been collaborating towards the efficient operation, fit out and maintenance of the new facility,” Mr Hilton said.
“With construction of the facility now passed the halfway mark, we’re confident that everyone will be ready to provide the care that Honiara’s mothers and newborns deserve, using this first class, fully equipped facility.”
The midwives and nurses are currently completing a six-week attachment at the National Referral Hospital’s Labour Ward to apply their training under the supervision of experienced medical staff.
Sister Natasha Sanau, a registered nurse at Naha clinic, said the practical training and support from senior midwives have been very helpful.
“In the first five days I have assisted in three normal deliveries and one emergency case. I’m feeling much more confident now,” Ms Sanau said.
The new Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre is a flagship investment in the health of Solomon Islanders under the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership.
The fully-equipped facility will feature five modern delivery suites, 17 short-stay beds, an operating theatre, and a full range of outpatient, diagnostic, and pharmacy services.
The centre is expected to play a major role in reducing pressure on the National Referral Hospital by offering accessible, high-quality care for women and families in Honiara’s rapidly growing eastern suburbs.
