Gizo Hospital in Western Province has recorded the highest number of baby deliveries for the year 2026 after five babies were born in a single day at the hospital.
Hospital authorities confirmed that the births were safely conducted by medical staff, with both mothers and newborns reported to be in stable condition.
The milestone has been described as a positive start to the year for the maternity unit, reflecting the continued efforts of nurses and midwives in providing essential maternal health services to the people of Gizo and surrounding communities.
Speaking to Solomon Star in an interview on Friday
Darlyn latkin registered Nurse on duty at the Maternity Ward said
there is a total of five babies born in New Years night.
Ms latkin said compared to preview years there are only few babies up to two and one or sometimes no babies were born.
She said however for this year 2026 is a very special year for those mothers who delivered their babies.
“We are looking forward for this year’s turnout for new years at the Maternity Ward,” she said.
The Assistant Director of Nursing Clinical Services at Gizo Hospital, Henrietta Jagilly, has confirmed that five babies—three girls and two boys—were successfully delivered at the hospital on New Year’s night and morning, marking the highest number of births recorded so far in 2026.
Mrs Jagilly said two of the mothers were referrals from rural clinics within the Western Province, while the remaining three mothers are residents of Gizo Town.
She said nurses on duty during the New Year’s night and morning shifts were pleased to be part of the milestone, despite spending the festive period away from their families.
“Even though they did not spend New Year with their families, they really enjoyed their time helping the mothers deliver their babies safely,” Mrs Jagilly said.
She added that delivering a baby on New Year’s night is a special experience for mothers and families.
“My message to all mothers out there is that giving birth on New Year’s night is a joyful moment. Despite the pain, it is a time of happiness and new beginnings,” she said.
Mrs Jagilly also noted that while communities were celebrating the New Year, the babies born on that night will forever share their birthdays with the New Year celebrations.
In her closing remarks, Mrs Jagilly extended her New Year wishes to all nurses at Gizo Hospital and throughout the country.
“I wish all nurses a prosperous New Year as they continue to carry out their duties with passion and commitment in serving our people,” she said.
Gizo Hospital continues to serve as a key referral centre in the Western Province, attending to expectant mothers from nearby islands and rural areas.
Health officials have congratulated the maternity staff for their dedication and commitment, noting that such achievements highlight the importance of supporting and strengthening maternal and child health services in the province
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
