Construction of the new SBD250m/AUD45m Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre in East Honiara has officially commenced. 

Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles, was joined by Solomon Islands Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr Paul Popora Bosawai, at a ceremony at the new Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre construction site to officially mark the commencement of main works construction. 

“Once complete, this centre will see the very best of care be provided to this community and Honiara,” Marles said. 

“We want this birthing clinic to make a real difference to the health and lives of the people of Solomon Islands, now and well into the future,” he added.

“The facility will be built to Australia’s high standards of quality.

“We’ll include local workers wherever possible, we’ll listen to the voices of the community and health workers who will use this new facility, and we will complete this project together.” 

The centre will provide a new benchmark of health care in Solomon Islands.

New mothers and mothers-to-be will be able to access the very best pre and post-natal care, giving the next generation of Solomon Islanders the very best start possible, and easing pressure on the National Referral Hospital. 

The new centre has also been designed to withstand earthquakes and other natural disasters and will be delivered ready to go, with high quality equipment, and staff trained in how to use it.  

“Most importantly, Australia will also support the handover and maintenance of the facility to ensure the Ministry has the skills and know-how to maintain it well into the future,” Marles said. 

Minister of Health and Medical Services Dr Paul Popora said the Naha Birthing Centre is an exciting project for the GNUT Government and they look forward to witnessing the opening of the new Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre once completed in February in 2026.

“It is my hope the birthing facility will truly deliver the services it promises.” Dr Paul emphasized.

Once complete the centre will provide first class birthing, pre and post-natal care services for women, as well as eye, dental, pathology, x-ray and ultrasound and pharmacy services. A large general-purpose room will provide a flexible space for public and community health initiatives.  

Following the ceremony Marles met with Naha Clinic nurses, community representatives and local contractor, Alrico Constructions to thank them for their ongoing commitment to the project.