By Georgina Maka’a
The Australian Government today officially handed over the Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre to the people of Solomon Islands.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who arrived in Honiara as the country celebrates its 48th Independence Anniversary, handed over the facility in a ceremony attended by Prime Minister Matthew Wale.
Delivering his address, Albanese said the center is proof of what Australia and Solomon Islands can achieve together.
“This place is proof of what Australia and Solomon Islands can achieve when we work together,” Albanese said.
“When we create local jobs — and empower locals with the skills to do them — from construction to health care. When we build for local conditions, with reliable clean energy and the resilience to handle extreme weather so that if disaster strikes, these essential services are there when people need them most.”
Albanese said the center brings together the comprehensive, high-quality care that every citizen of Solomon Islands deserves, especially the youngest Solomon Islanders.
“It is wonderful to think that there will be happy and healthy children who get immunisations and care here and go on to grow up and bring their own children here one day,” he said. “That is the positive and practical difference we can make when we build to last.”
He said the timing of the handover was fitting.
“On a day when your proud nation celebrates independence, this center is a celebration of the partnership between our citizens and our nations.”
Albanese also placed the facility within the broader context of bilateral cooperation, saying the efforts of Australia and Solomon Islands go beyond government-to-government relations.
“Our efforts are not just a partnership between nations — they are a pact between generations,” he said. “So that we pass on a healthier and stronger future to our communities and our countries.”
The center, valued at approximately SBD 250 million( AUD45million), is now under the management of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and the Honiara City Council.
Its official opening will be held in the coming weeks.
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