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Your Health Tip for Today | 3 September 2026

Your Health Tip for Today | 03 September 2026

Your Health Tip for Today | 3 September 2026
Tavuli Health · 2026-09-03 Original ↗

National Health Programme Targets Malaria-Affected Provinces

National health programme targets malaria-affected provinces A national health settings and advocacy programme underway in Auki, Malaita Province, is targeting provinces identified as having significant malaria problems. The five-day programme brings together health officials and provincial stakeholders to strengthen community-based approaches to addressing malaria and other health challenges. The provinces and areas identified as targets include Malaita, Guadalcanal, Central Islands, Honiara City, Western and Choiseul. READ MORE: https://theislandsun.com.sb/national-health-programme.../

National Health Programme Targets Malaria-Affected Provinces
Island Sun Health · 2026-09-02 Original ↗

National healthy settings programme underway in Auki

By RODRICK DESURI Auki A five-day national Healthy Settings programme aimed at strengthening provincial health leadership, policy commitment and community action is currently underway in Auki, Malaita Province. The programme, led by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), is focusing on strengthening the implementation of the Healthy Settings approach and initiatives across Malaita. National healthy setting coordinator of Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Selwyn Warito, said the programme provides an opportunity to review and strengthen the Provincial Healthy Settings Coordinating Committee while increasing awareness among key stakeholders. Warito said the programme also aims to strengthen the capacity of provincial health workers to implement the Healthy Settings programme using the newly developed implementation guidelines. Group presentation. “We have completed the first three days of training on the implementation guidelines for provincial health workers since Monday,” he said. “Tomorrow, we will move into advocacy with the Malaita Health Council and stakeholders with stakeholders and churches, and on Friday we will conduct advocacy and awareness with the Malaita Provincial Government executive,” he said. He said the programme has six key objectives: advocacy and awareness; establishing or reviewing the Provincial Healthy Settings Coordinating Committee; training health workers on the new Healthy Settings guidelines; policy integration; capacity strengthening; and partnership and coordination. Warito said the Healthy Settings programme is not a new initiative, but an existing national programme that requires renewed attention and stronger implementation at the provincial level. He said the national programme has already been conducted in Guadalcanal, Honiara City Council and Makira, with Malaita now becoming the latest province to undertake the programme. The initiative is expected to strengthen coordination between the health sector, provincial leadership, communities and other stakeholders in promoting healthier environments and improving health outcomes across Malaita.

Island Sun Health · 2026-09-02 Original ↗

West Kwaio people thank UNICEF, Australia for health support

BY RODRICK DESURI Auki People of West Kwaio in Malaita Province have expressed their appreciation to UNICEF Solomon Islands and the Australian Government for supporting major improvements to rural health services in the constituency. The acknowledgement was made by West Kwaio Constituency Development Officer Bobby Siarani on behalf of the people during the official handover ceremony at Sinamauri Rural Health Centre on Monday. Through the partnership, three rural health facilities in West Kwaio have received solar electrification, while the Australian Government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), has supported staff housing, water tanks, and other essential improvements. Siarani said the support had delivered meaningful investments for communities across West Kwaio, including three rural health facilities, 31 water tanks and other essential projects aimed at improving the well-being and living standards of their rural people. He said the partnership has demonstrated the importance of government, development partners and communities working together to address service needs in rural areas. “First, I would like to acknowledge the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, UNICEF, Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Malaita Provincial Government and Provincial Health Services for working together in delivering this essential investment,” he said. He said the solar electrification has supported three health facilities in West Kwaio, as they were among the seven primary healthcare facilities in Malaita Province to receive solar power support. “For our people here in West Kwaio, this investment is meaningful to us because three of our rural health facilities are part of the seven primary healthcare facilities that have been solarised,” he said. He further acknowledged UNICEF for providing technical support, assessments and expertise to ensure the solar systems were properly designed and installed to meet the needs of the health facilities. Siarani also thanked the communities, chiefs and people of Sinamauri for their commitment and cooperation in supporting the implementation of the projects. He said the investments would strengthen rural healthcare delivery and provide health workers with improved facilities and a better environment to serve people in remote communities. He also said continued cooperation between government, development partners and local communities would be essential to ensuring such investments deliver lasting benefits for the people. For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-09-02 Original ↗

Switzerland offers help to reopen Solomon Islands mission in Geneva

BY TONY IROGA SWITZERLAND has offered financial and logistical support to help Solomon Islands re-establish a permanent diplomatic mission in Geneva, Switzerland. The offer was made by Switzerland’s Special Envoy for the Pacific Region and Ambassador accredited to Solomon Islands, Her Excellency Barbara Anna Gonzenbach, during a bilateral meeting with Foreign Affairs and External Trade Minister Rick Houenipwela and Minister for National Planning and Development Coordination Peter Kenilorea Jr. in Koror, Palau. A statement from Prime Minister’s Office on Tuesday 1 st September said, the Swiss support package would assist Solomon Islands with key costs involved in establishing and maintaining a permanent mission in Geneva. This includes support for office accommodation and limited assistance towards residential accommodation for the head of mission. Ambassador Gonzenbach said Geneva offered a unique platform for small island states to engage directly with a wide range of international organisations and countries without having to maintain numerous diplomatic missions around the world. “For Solomon Islands, a permanent presence in Geneva would provide direct access to these institutions and strengthen the country’s ability to advance national and Pacific priorities on climate change, health, trade, human rights, sustainable development and international cooperation,” she said. Geneva is home to several major international institutions, including the United Nations Office at Geneva, World Health Organization, World Trade Organization, World Meteorological Organization and the Human Rights Council. Minister Houenipwela welcomed the Swiss Government’s offer, noting that Solomon Islands had previously maintained a diplomatic presence in Geneva before later consolidating its representation in Brussels. He said the concentration of international organisations and diplomatic missions in Geneva could provide an opportunity for Solomon Islands to make better use of its limited diplomatic resources. “As a Small Island State, we cannot have missions everywhere,” Minister Houenipwela said. He also noted that a Geneva mission could provide opportunities to engage through the Commonwealth Small States Office and identify other ways to reduce the operational costs of maintaining a diplomatic mission. In response to questions from Minister Kenilorea on office and residential accommodation, Ambassador Gonzenbach confirmed that substantial assistance could be made available under the Swiss proposal. Switzerland also offered administrative assistance, including access to interns and other support mechanisms to help a small Solomon Islands mission operate effectively. Ambassador Gonzenbach emphasised that a Geneva mission should be viewed as a long-term strategic investment for Solomon Islands. She also informed the meeting that Solomon Islands could explore double accreditation, with its head of mission accredited to international organisations in Geneva while also serving as a resident representative in Geneva, an arrangement possible for certain countries. The Swiss offer now provides the Solomon Islands Government with an opportunity to reassess its diplomatic footprint and consider whether a renewed presence in Geneva could deliver greater strategic value. Minister Houenipwela welcomed the proposal and thanked Ambassador Gonzenbach and the Swiss Government for the offer. He said the proposal would receive the highest consideration by the Solomon Islands Government. For feedback, contact: tonyiroga8@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-09-02 Original ↗

Your Health Tip For Today | 02 September 2026

Your Health Tip For Today | 02 September 2026

Tavuli News health tip video
Tavuli Health · 2026-09-02 Original ↗

Solar power to transform rural health services in Malaita

By RODRICK DESURI Auki Seven rural health facilities in Malaita Province are now powered by solar energy in a major boost to the delivery of essential health services for mothers, children and remote communities. The successful installation of solar electrification systems marks an important investment in strengthening primary health care, particularly in rural areas where reliable electricity remains a challenge. The facilities now have access to a sustainable source of energy that will support maternal and child health services, immunisation, emergency care and other essential medical services. The systems will also strengthen the facilities’ resilience during severe weather and other disruptions to electricity supply. The project was delivered through collaboration between UNICEF, the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Malaita Provincial Government and local communities. Speaking at the official handover ceremony, UNICEF Nutrition Officer Salome Aroma Namohunu said the achievement demonstrated the importance of strong partnerships in improving health services for Solomon Islanders. She conveyed the apologies and best wishes of the UNICEF Chief Field Officer and Maternal and Child Health Specialist, who were unable to attend the ceremony. “I would like to convey the apologies of the UNICEF Chief Field Officer and Maternal and Child Health Specialist for missing this occasion. However, they have conveyed their best wishes for the successful handover programme,” she said. Namohunu acknowledged the leadership of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and Malaita Provincial Health Services, while thanking the Australian Government through DFAT for its continued partnership and commitment to improving the wellbeing of Solomon Islanders. She said investment in primary health care was an investment in children and the future of communities. “Investing in every primary health care facility is an investment in our children,” she said. However, Namohunu said that the success of the solar systems would depend not only on the installation but also on long-term local ownership and proper maintenance. “Their long-term success will depend on the continued commitment of health workers, communities, provincial authorities, and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services to care for and protect these valuable assets,” she said. She reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to working alongside the national government and its partners to strengthen primary health care and improve the health and wellbeing of children, women and communities across Solomon Islands. For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-09-01 Original ↗

China Steps Up Police Support with Free Medical Care for RSIPF

The China Medical Team (CMT) has provided free medical checks and medicines to officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police... The post China Steps Up Police Support with Free Medical Care for RSIPF appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Health · 2026-09-01 Original ↗

Nurses at Sinamauri rural health centre applaud Australia, UNICEF support

By RODRICK DESURI Auki Nurses serving at Sinamauri Rural Health Centre (RHC) in West Kwaio, Malaita Province, have applauded UNICEF and the Australian Government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), for improving facilities at the clinic. The nurses expressed their appreciation during a short tour of the facility with officials following the handover ceremony yesterday afternoon. UNICEF supported the successful installation of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system, while the Australian Government supported the construction of a staff house. The improvements are expected to strengthen primary healthcare services at the rural facility through sustainable and climate-resilient solutions. One of the nurses, Maxwell Oloisae said the new facilities would greatly support their work, particularly during night operations and emergencies. “For sure, it really helps and supports our services. For the past few days that we have had the lights, it has helped us attend to patients and carry out our work smoothly and successfully without hindrance,” he said. “This is much better than before, when we had to use a torch during the night to check patients and attend to emergency cases.” Mercy Suarana, a female nurse responsible for assisting mothers during deliveries, said the solar power had addressed a long-standing challenge faced by the clinic when mothers arrived for delivery at night. “This is much better than before. We now have lights if a mother goes into labour at night, and we can also preserve medicines that require power because we now have electricity. “Even though we still use our old delivery room, essential services are now available and operational. Before, we had to rely on the torch on our mobile phones,” Suarana said. Meanwhile, Ministry of Health and Medical Services representative and Director of Kilu’ufi Hospital, Dr David Danitofea urged the community and surrounding communities to take ownership of the improved facilities. He said the facilities should be properly maintained and protected so they could continue serving the people of Sinamauri and surrounding communities for many years and benefit future generations.

Island Sun Health · 2026-09-01 Original ↗

UNICEF hands over Solar Electrification to Seven Rural Health Facilities

By RODRICK DESURI Auki UNICEF Solomon Islands has officially handed over solar electrification systems to seven rural primary healthcare facilities in Malaita Province. The official handover ceremony was held today at Sinamauri Rural Health Care Centre in West Kwaio, Malaita Province. The seven facilities benefiting from the solar electrification project are Ata’a Rural Health Care Centre, Kwainabesi Rural Health Care Centre, Malu’u Rural Health Care Centre, Rafufu Rural Health Care Centre, Sinamauri Rural Health Care Centre, Lesiala Rural Health Care Centre, and Rohinari Rural Health Care Centre. The ceremony was witnessed by Malaita Provincial Premier Elijah Asilau’a, West Kwaio Constituency Development Officer Bobby Siarani, UNICEF representative Salome Aroma Namohunu, Second Secretary of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) Bridgette Cottrill, and Dr David Danitofea from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services. UNICEF nutrition officer, Salome Aroma with representatives of all key partners posed for a photo. The investment is valued at nearly SBD$1.89 million (approximately USD$236,000) and is expected to benefit thousands of people across Malaita for years to come. Speaking during the ceremony, UNICEF representative Salome Aroma Namohunu thanked the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, the Australian Government through DFAT, Malaita Provincial Health Services, community leaders, health workers and other partners for their support in making the project possible. She described the handover as an important achievement that would not only support patients but also improve working conditions for health workers and strengthen the capacity of rural healthcare facilities. “On behalf of UNICEF, I thank all the key partners who made this achievement possible,” she said. She said the handover marked the successful completion of the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at seven primary healthcare facilities across Malaita Province. Community members and leaders attending the handover. “The event also celebrates the partnership between the Government of Solomon Islands, the Australian Government through DFAT and UNICEF in strengthening primary healthcare services through sustainable and climate-resilient energy solutions,” she said. Namohunu also recognised the contribution of provincial authorities, health workers and communities in supporting the implementation of the initiative. She reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to working alongside the Solomon Islands Government and its partners to strengthen primary healthcare services and improve the health and wellbeing of children, women and communities across the country. The solar systems are expected to provide more reliable and sustainable electricity to the rural facilities, supporting essential healthcare services and improving access to quality healthcare for remote communities. For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-31 Original ↗

Challenges faced by health workers are real, Premier urges communities to take ownership of rural health facilities

BY RODRICK DESURI AUKI The challenges faced by health workers in rural communities are real, and communities must take ownership of their health facilities to ensure essential services are maintained, Malaita Provincial Premier Elijah Asilau’a has urged. Premier Asilau’a made the appeal during the official handover of solar electrification to seven Rural Health Care Centres in Malaita Province. He said the health facilities and solar systems represent important investments made for the benefit of the people, particularly mothers, unborn babies, children, elderly people and future generations. “Let us protect the solar equipment, maintain the health facilities and support our health workers in ensuring that these services continue to operate effectively,” Premier Asilau’a said. “Taking care of them means we protect an investment that will continue to bring better health services, hope and improved lives to our communities for many years to come,” he added. Meanwhile, Ministry of Health and Medical Services representative and Director of Kilu’ufi Hospital, Dr David Danitofea, also appealed to community leaders and members to take ownership of the rural health facilities and protect the new solar equipment. Dr Danitofea made the appeal while delivering his key remarks during the official handover ceremony at Sinamauri Rural Health Care Centre. He said looking after the facilities would not only benefit communities but also provide better working conditions and support for health workers serving in rural areas. “When we look after these health facilities, it will help us and also support our health workers,” Dr Danitofea said. He recalled an incident at Rafufu Rural Health Care Centre where health workers had to continue their operations without proper lighting. “We have used mobile phones and vehicle lights to complete our operations for patients. So, with these facilities, it will transform our rural health care into a more reliable and effective service,” he said. The new solar electrification is expected to improve the ability of the seven rural health facilities to provide essential health services, particularly during power outages and at night. For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-31 Original ↗

Masked men raid White River shop, assault Chinese national and flee with cash

BY NED GAGAHE Police are investigating an armed robbery in White River after masked men allegedly broke into a shop, assaulted a Chinese national and fled with a large amount of cash on August 22. A press statement from Police media today confirmed that several masked suspects gained entry to the shop through a rear door before attacking the victim. One of the suspects allegedly struck the victim on the forehead with a weapon before the group fled the scene with the cash. The victim sustained injuries during the incident and was rushed to the National Referral Hospital (NRH) for medical treatment. Police said two male suspects have since been arrested as investigations continue. Investigators also recovered SBD$18,000, which police believe may be connected to the robbery. Police are treating the case as an attempted murder and robbery investigation and are continuing efforts to identify and arrest other suspects who remain at large. Police said one person of interest is believed to be a Papua New Guinean national who is known to police in connection with previous alleged offences. Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or noticed suspicious activity around XX Store at White River on August 22 to come forward with information. Members of the public can contact White River Police on 21363. Police have assured the public that investigations are continuing and that information provided by members of the public will be handled appropriately as part of the investigation. For feedback, contact: tonyiroga8@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-28 Original ↗

Isabel steps up TB fight, over 200 screened as health teams detect new cases and expand preventive treatment

BY NED GAGAHE MORE than 200 people in Isabel Province have been screened for tuberculosis (TB) as health authorities step up efforts to detect the disease early and prevent its spread in communities. The targeted TB contact investigation and preventive treatment mission was conducted from July 24-30 with support from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Programme and Isabel Provincial Health Office, a media statement by World Bank said today. The mission screened 220 TB contacts, including 189 contacts of rifampicin-resistant TB cases and 31 contacts of drug-susceptible TB cases. Of those screened, 33 people were diagnosed with latent TB infection, and all eligible contacts were started on tuberculosis preventive treatment (TPT). The health team also detected three new TB cases, which were linked to treatment to ensure they received timely care and to reduce the risk of further transmission within households and communities. More than 200 people were also reached through community awareness activities, focusing on TB symptoms, prevention, treatment adherence and the importance of seeking medical care early. The mission also targeted frontline health workers, with 49 healthcare workers screened and 11 diagnosed with latent TB infection and started on preventive treatment. Minister of Health and Medical Services Morris Toiraena said the results demonstrated the importance of taking TB services directly to communities. “These results show the value of bringing TB services closer to communities through active screening, early detection and preventive treatment,” he said. Mr Toiraena said identifying people at risk early, linking confirmed cases to treatment and strengthening provincial health workers’ skills would help protect families and reduce TB transmission. Isabel Provincial Health Director Martin Gavira thanked the health teams for their work and technical support, particularly the training conducted on latent and active TB at Buala Hospital. He said the provincial health team looked forward to continuing the work. The mission also focused on strengthening the province’s capacity to manage TB cases beyond the outreach period. Thirteen healthcare workers were trained and mentored in TB contact investigation and preventive treatment. Their knowledge scores improved from 49 percent before training to 81 percent after training. The team also provided six days of practical coaching and on-site support to build the confidence and skills of provincial health workers. Supportive supervision was conducted at Buala Hospital, while outreach activities were carried out in Rifukoti village in Buala Ward and Kolosori village in Hovikoilo Ward. The activities were aimed at improving TB reporting and monitoring, infection prevention and control, and the implementation of preventive treatment at provincial and community levels. WHO Representative in Solomon Islands Dr Howard Sobel said contact tracing remained a critical part of TB prevention. “Contact tracing lies at the heart of tuberculosis prevention,” Mr Sobel said. He said Isabel Province had demonstrated the importance of ensuring every TB case was followed by a thorough contact investigation to identify people at risk early. Sobel commended the province for what he described as comprehensive, timely and high-quality contact tracing. MHMS and its partners also acknowledged the support of the Isabel Provincial Health Office, Buala Hospital staff, community leaders and health workers in making the mission successful. The mission was funded by the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. Implementation support was provided by the Burnet Institute and World Vision Solomon Islands.

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-28 Original ↗

$250M NAHA CENTRE OPENS AS FIRST URBAN HEALTH CENTRE IN HONIARA

SBD250m Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre opens, expanding primary healthcare services for 50,000 Honiara residents. The SBD250 million Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre officially opened yesterday, marking a major investment in Solomon Islands’ healthcare system and introducing expanded primary health services designed to serve a catchment population of about 50,000 people. The facility [...] The post $250M NAHA CENTRE OPENS AS FIRST URBAN HEALTH CENTRE IN HONIARA appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Health · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

Rising heat puts vaccine storage at risk

BY JOSES SAREN Solomon Islands’ health system is a decentralised network of facilities, from the National Referral Hospital in Honiara down to rural clinics and nurse aide posts. It serves a population scattered across nearly 1,000 islands. According to the Solomon Islands National Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA), that spread already creates serious logistical challenges, pushing many communities toward traditional and community-based care alongside the formal system. The CRVA identifies 374 health facilities nationwide. Many depend on constant cooling to store vaccines and medicines safely. The assessment currently rates that risk as low. It projects the risk will climb to extreme by the end of the century under a high-emissions scenario. The CRVA, prepared by Beca International Consultants Ltd with the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster and Meteorology (MECDM) and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), states that extreme heat days in the Solomon Islands are already increasing. Honiara now records more than three times as many very hot days each year as it did in the 1950s, the CRVA states. By the end of the century, a greater share of days each year are projected to exceed high or extreme temperatures above 39 degrees Celsius, according to the assessment. The CRVA warns that facilities relying on cooling for vaccines and medicines will face mounting strain as temperatures rise. It also flags a second, less visible cost. The assessment states that mental health burdens linked to sea-level rise and extreme events are increasingly documented, including persistent worry and stress in coastal and atoll communities facing saltwater intrusion and few options to relocate. Because health underpins the functioning of other sectors, the CRVA warns that disruptions to health services can trigger cascading impacts across the wider economy and community wellbeing. For feedback, contact: jsbalq909@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

Floods and cyclones threaten access to health care

BY JOSES SAREN Health centres in the Solomon Islands often depend on a single road, or a privately owned boat, to reach the people who rely on them. According to the Solomon Islands National Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA), tropical cyclones can disrupt that transport entirely, delaying or preventing timely care. The CRVA states health facilities and services already face a high present-day risk from coastal flooding, and a moderate risk from river flooding. Both risks are projected to reach extreme levels by mid-century under a high-emissions scenario, the assessment says. The CRVA warns the risk is greater for mountainous islands such as Guadalcanal, where steep river catchments raise the danger of flash flooding. Present-day risk from coastal hazards is already high for facilities located close to the shore, according to the assessment. That risk is projected to reach extreme levels by the end of the century as sea levels rise, the CRVA states. The assessment, prepared by Beca International Consultants Ltd with MECDM and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), notes that many health facility buildings are not designed to withstand current or future levels of cyclones, storm surge, or extreme rainfall. It states this makes buildings highly sensitive to roof damage, water ingress, foundation damage and loss of essential utilities. The CRVA also points to a health cost beyond damaged buildings. It states that contaminated water supplies during flooding raise the risk of diarrhoea, typhoid, leptospirosis and malnutrition, particularly for young children, the elderly and people with existing health conditions. The assessment separately flags a persistent risk of ciguatera fish poisoning, which it says is likely to intensify as seas warm, along with algal blooms and water quality problems from stagnant water during droughts. Because health services underpin community wellbeing, the CRVA warns that disruptions can trigger cascading impacts across other sectors. For feedback, contact: jsbalq909@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

Community members commend RWASH for sanitation training

By RODRICK DESURI Auki Community members in Ward 26, West Kwaio, Malaita Province, have commended their Provincial Assembly Member, John Sugono, and Rural Water Sanitation and Hygiene (RWASH) Unit for providing sanitation training in their communities. The training was conducted at Bona and Kwari’ekwa communities earlier this month, providing rural residents with knowledge and practical skills on how to construct proper sanitation facilities. One of the elders from Kwari’ekwa, Jack Aimaua, said the training had given villagers an important opportunity to learn about proper sanitation and its benefits to community health. He commended Mr Sugono for working with RWASH to ensure the training reached communities in Ward 26. “Actually, we really appreciate and are glad to commend our Provincial Assembly Member, John Sugono. It is through his efforts that he saw this training as important for the people in his ward,” he said. “Proper sanitation is one of the important things in human life, so I want to thank him for using his position to affiliate with RWASH and make this training possible for us,” Mr Aimaua said. The RWASH training programme focuses on community health, sustainable sanitation construction and developing practical technical skills among rural communities in the Solomon Islands. Community members said such programmes are important in improving sanitation practices and reducing health risks in rural areas. For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-26 Original ↗

Naha Urban Health Centre to begin services

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU The newly opened Naha Urban Health Centre will commence services tomorrow, marking a major step forward in primary healthcare delivery in Honiara. Minister for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) Morris To’iraena made the announcement during the official opening of the Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre today. The ceremony was attended by Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Jeff Roach, government representatives, Honiara City Council officials and community representatives. The facility was handed over to Solomon Islands by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on July 7. Mr To’iraena said the facility consists of two components, the Naha Urban Health Centre and the Naha Birthing Centre. He described the Urban Health Centre as the first Level Two health centre in Solomon Islands, providing a comprehensive range of primary healthcare services under one roof. “The facility includes dental services, pharmacy, pathology, medical imaging and outpatient services. It is also fitted with Solomon Islands’ first nurse call system, which alerts staff when a patient requires additional medical attention. “An electronic queuing system has also been installed for frequently used services, including dental and outpatient care. Under the system, patients will receive a number at reception and wait in designated areas until their number is displayed on an electronic screen,” he said. To’iraena said these systems would help improve efficiency, reduce congestion and provide safer and more patient-centred healthcare. “The Naha Birthing Centre will provide birthing services for low-risk mothers and has five birthing suites. The centre is expected to help reduce overcrowding at the National Referral Hospital’s labour ward,” he said. He however, said the birthing centre will not commence services immediately because preparatory works are still being completed to ensure safe deliveries and the Ministry will make a public announcement when the birthing centre is ready to begin operations. He said the new facility reflects the Government’s commitment to improving health services in Honiara and across Solomon Islands, including investment in health infrastructure in rural areas. “The centre will also contribute to developing the country’s future health workforce by providing clinical training opportunities for nursing students from Solomon Islands National University and other institutions. It may also serve as a training facility for apprentices in health facility operations and maintenance,” he said. Minister To’iraena acknowledged Australia for its support through the Solomon Islands-Australia Health Partnership, including funding for the design, construction, fit-out and commissioning of the facility and, the Honiara City Lord Mayor Eddie Siapu and the Honiara City Council (HCC) for their support and contribution to the project. “The facility is under the jurisdiction of Honiara City Council and will require ongoing support from both the Council and the Ministry to maintain its infrastructure and services,” he said. Mr To’iraena thanked the Naha community for its patience during construction and called on residents and health workers to help protect and maintain the facility and urged stakeholders to work together to ensure the new health centre stands the test of time and continues providing healthcare services to women, children, families and everyone seeking medical care. For feedback, contact: jhouanihau24@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-26 Original ↗

Naha Urban Health Centre Sets New Standard for Urban Health Services

BY JOY OFASIA The newly opened Naha Urban Health Centre has set several firsts for Honiara City Council and Solomon Islands’ urban health services, marking a significant step towards modern, efficient and patient centred healthcare delivery in the capital. Speaking at the official opening ceremony, Minister for Health and Medical Services Hon. Morris Toiraena said the new facility was the first Health Centre Level 2 in Solomon Islands, bringing a range of primary healthcare and diagnostic services together under one roof. “This is a new level of health facility providing all facets of primary health care under one roof,” Minister Toiraena said. The centre provides expanded services including dental care, pathology, medical imaging, a community pharmacy and comprehensive primary healthcare. Minister for Health and Medical Services Hon. Morris Toiraena . It is also fitted with Solomon Islands’ first nurse call system, designed to alert staff when a patient requires additional medical attention. Another new feature is an electronic queuing system for frequently used services, including dental and outpatient care. Patients will receive numbered tickets at reception and can wait in designated areas, including the garden and downstairs until they are called. Minister Toiraena said the facility represented “a big step up for Solomon Islands” and would establish a new standard for safe and efficient healthcare delivery. He announced that the Urban Health Services would commence operations from the following day. The second part of the facility is the Naha Birthing Centre, which will provide birthing services for low-risk mothers. With five birthing suites, the centre is expected to help reduce overcrowding in the labour ward at the National Referral Hospital. However, the birthing centre will open at a later date while preparatory works are completed to ensure safe deliveries. The Ministry will announce when the service is ready to commence. Minister Toiraena acknowledged Australia’s support in funding the design, construction, fit out and commissioning of the facility under the Solomon Islands Australia Health Partnership. He also called on the Honiara City Council, Ministry of Health, Naha community and health workers to work together to maintain the facility and ensure quality services. “Together we can ensure this great facility stands the test of time and lives to serve our women, children and every person that comes to seek the healthcare they need,” he said.

Sunday Isles Health · 2026-08-26 Original ↗

Fitness reaches Guazaro

BY RICHARD MENANOPO More than 30 Guazaro residents have received a practical introduction to fitness testing as the National Sports Council (NSC) takes its sport, health and recreation awareness programme into Isabel Province. The outreach at the Melanesian Brotherhood Welchman Section Headquarters combined health awareness with practical activities aimed at encouraging regular exercise and healthier lifestyles. The NSC said the programme was held on Thursday as part of its Sports and Recreation Development Awareness & Introduction Programme, with a focus on the role of physical activity in preventing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). Participants were also introduced to the council’s “Fitness Blo Iumi” programme through three basic fitness assessments — a 60-second maximum push-up test, a 60-second maximum sit-up test and the Beep Test. The practical activities allowed participants to assess their fitness while gaining a better understanding of the importance of staying active. The awareness session also covered the importance of sport in combating NCDs, the structure of sport in Isabel Province and the Fitness Blo Iumi programme. For the Guazaro community, the outreach was significant as residents said they had never experienced a programme of this nature before. Section Elder Brother Dickson Mae welcomed the initiative, describing it as a first for the community. “Thank you very much on behalf of the community. We have never had a program like this come to us before, so this is the first of its kind for us. We are very happy to have received this program,” Mae said. He also expressed hope that similar programmes would continue reaching the community in the future. The outreach was supported by the Buala NCD Department and the Isabel Provincial Sports Desk, with JICA Volunteer Hitomi Mizutani and Isabel Provincial Sports Coordinator Adrian Ratana also acknowledged for their assistance. The Guazaro visit forms part of NSC’s broader effort to take sport, recreation, fitness and health awareness beyond Honiara and closer to provincial communities. For Guazaro, the initiative provided more than a fitness session, giving residents a first-hand introduction to the value of regular physical activity and healthier lifestyles as part of the wider fight against NCDs. For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-25 Original ↗

Auki public toilet closed, public forced to use seaside

By RODRICK DESURI Auki Members of the public and vendors at the Auki Market have raised concerns over the closure of the market’s public toilet since last Thursday. The closure has caused inconvenience to the large number of people who use the market daily, forcing some members of the public to use the seaside and other corners around Auki town to relieve themselves. A concerned market vendor, who requested that her name be withheld, said the toilet had been closed since Thursday last week. She said market authorities had informed vendors that the toilet outlet was blocked. The vendor said the closure had created particular difficulties for women and other members of the public who need access to proper toilet facilities. “Yes, it has been closed since Thursday last week. What we heard from the authority is that the toilet was blocked,” she said. When asked where people were going to relieve themselves, she said some had resorted to using areas along the seaside in front of the market. “We just go to any place where we feel safe along the front market seaside or somewhere else. But mostly, people go behind the toilet area,” she said. Another concerned resident, Hillary Clinton, said the issue should be addressed as soon as possible because public toilet facilities are essential to public health and hygiene. He argued the handling of the situation, saying the continued closure reflected poor management by the market authorities and the responsible government authorities. “If the market authority is prioritising serving the people, this issue should have been fixed immediately,” he said. “For sure, it has shown negligence in the services provided by the market authority. The problem is a small issue and should have been fixed last week,” Clinton said. He added that if the blockage required more extensive work, the market authority should have sought assistance from the provincial government to resolve the problem. The Island Sun sought comment from Auki Market management, but the responsible officer was unavailable due to other commitments. For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-25 Original ↗

Malou Clinic without nurse, community calls for health worker

BY RODRICK DESURI Auki People in Malou community in South Malaita, Malaita province are calling on health authorities to urgently deploy a nurse to their local clinic after they have been without one for some time. The community appeals to the Afio Area Health Centre and Kilu’ufi Hospital to recruit and assign a nurse to serve at the Malou Clinic. Senior nurse, Cliff Sanau made the call on behalf of the community, saying Malou urgently needs a nurse because the community is located far from other nearby health facilities. He said the community has already demonstrated its commitment to improving access to healthcare by taking up the initiative to build the clinic. “The Malou community itself built the clinic years back. Currently, the clinic is still equipped with essential medicines, but it is operating without a nurse. “The only need here is the completion of the staff house, but honestly, the people here really need a nurse to serve them,” he said. He said the Malou Clinic serves a population of around 300 people, including children, young people, adults and elderly residents. He urges health authorities to consider the community’s request and to ensure that a nurse is deployed to the clinic as soon as possible to provide much needed basic healthcare services to the people of Malou. For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-24 Original ↗

Empowering Young People with SRHR Knowledge

Empowering Young People With SRHR Knowledge: A Future Built on Informed Choices Young people benefit most when information, access, and support come together and that’s exactly what happened when SIPPA joined the SINU Open Day 2026 at Kukum Campus. SIPPA’s presence created a safe, welcoming space where students could engage openly on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), ask questions, and connect to essential services that protect their health and strengthen their future. Source: SIPPA

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Sunday Isles Health · 2026-08-22 Original ↗

‘Malaria elimination remains within reach’ – APLMA CEO

BY NED GAGAHE Solomon Islands can still eliminate malaria despite the challenges facing the country and the wider Asia-Pacific region, says Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance (APLMA) Chief Executive Officer Dr Sarthak Das. Dr Das said countries including Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste and Cabo Verde had demonstrated that malaria elimination was achievable, even under difficult circumstances. He made the remarks during the launch of the Solomon Islands National Roadmap for Malaria Elimination 2026–2040 in Honiara on Thursday 20 th August. In photo: Health Permanent Secretary (Acting) Dr. Gregory Jilini, Health Minister, Hon. Morris Toiraena, Prime Minister Mathew Cooper Wale, APLMA, Chief Executive Officer Dr. Sarthak Das and Secretary to Prime Minister – Special Duty Sir Jimmie Rodgers. Photo credit: MHMS. The roadmap sets a national target of eliminating malaria by 2038, with the country aiming for World Health Organisation certification by 2040. Dr Das said Solomon Islands should focus on what was possible rather than being overwhelmed by the challenges facing its health system, remote communities and available resources. “Let’s also remember Sri Lanka eliminated malaria while they were undergoing a civil war. Timor-Leste eliminated malaria recently,” he said. He also pointed to Cabo Verde’s elimination of malaria and Indonesia’s significant progress as further examples of what could be achieved through sustained action. Dr Das said the Asia-Pacific region had experienced a worrying reversal in its malaria fight, with cases increasing from about 2.5 million in 2015 to 4.4 million in 2024. He attributed the increase to several factors, including changing climate conditions and declining health financing. However, he said these challenges should not prevent Solomon Islands from pursuing elimination. Dr Das described the new national roadmap as an important opportunity to translate the country’s ambition into measurable evidence of progress. He particularly highlighted the roadmap’s move to track malaria data by constituency and ward rather than only by health zone. He said this would allow the country to identify areas of high transmission and take more targeted action. Dr Das said successful malaria elimination would ultimately depend on action at the sub-national level. Dr Sarthak Das, CEO of APLMA, expressed his appreciation to the Prime Minister and the Health Minister after receiving the gifts them. “The successful demonstration at the sub-national level is one of the most powerful arguments a country can make to show what’s possible,” he said. He said evidence of progress in individual communities and areas could also inspire further action and investment. The roadmap has introduced several changes aimed at strengthening accountability, including constituency and ward-level surveillance, stronger cross-government planning and resourcing, and improved reporting requirements. Dr Das said APLMA would continue supporting Solomon Islands as it moved from developing the roadmap to implementing it. He said the ultimate goal was to ensure children being born today would grow up without knowing malaria as a disease. “We have the evidence, we have the tools,” Dr Das said. For feedback, contact: nedgagahe@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-21 Original ↗