Community leaders from Naha, East Honiara have completed a two-day leadership training course in preparation for the opening of Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre next year.
The 11-person group have played an important role supporting the design, delivery and local community engagement around the new $250 million health facility.
Local trainer Pasifiki HR said the training was designed to give leaders practical tools to use in their community to raise awareness about the importance of ‘inclusive infrastructure’ and ‘inclusive healthcare’ to ensure everyone in the community would benefit when the centre opens.
Acting Australian High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands, Andrew Schloeffel, said, a great deal of attention had been given to building a high quality and welcoming health centre, with private birthing suites, culturally appropriate spaces and full wheelchair accessibility.
“Having ramps and spaces for people with disabilities, and private rooms for mothers to give birth – that’s how we include everyone.”
“We’re very grateful to the Naha community, and their leaders, for the full support they’ve given to this project so far – and now the finishing line is in sight,” Mr Schloeffel said.
The training will support community leaders to talk with people ahead of the centre opening next year, with a focus on ensuring everyone, from the young and old, is looked after.
Local leader, Ms Eva Otaniao, said the training was already making a difference.
Ms Otaniao is a member of the Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre Community Liaison Group and active in her community.
She said the training highlighted the importance of recognising widows, the elderly and those with health issues, to make sure they’re not forgotten.
“This workshop has helped me see new ways of leading and making good decisions for my community,” Ms Otaniao said.
“As leaders, we need to organise visits and check-ins for our vulnerable members who are an important part of our community. Everyone matters, whether they are young, old, sick, or have a disability. It’s about making sure everyone has a voice and feels valued.”
Mr Schloeffel said Australia is proud to be supporting initiatives that built leadership capacity to support new infrastructure developments.
“Quality, well-built infrastructure provides the foundation for development, but investing in Solomon Islanders ensures development benefits everyone.”
– OPMC
