Malaita Health Summit brings leaders together to strengthen primary health care and local health solutions
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), supported by Australia, hosted a Provincial Health Summit in Auki, Malaita from 18–22 May 2026 to strengthen primary health care systems.
The summit is part of the national rollout of the Primary Health Care Performance Initiative (PHCPI) framework, bringing together women representatives, provincial government officials, leaders from different sectors, religious leaders, community leaders, the provincial health team and NGOs, and the Australian Government . Participants jointly assessed health system performance and developed practical improvement actions.
Hon. Elijah Asilaua, Premier of Malaita Province, said the summit comes at a critical time to address pressing health challenges and strengthen development outcomes in Malaita Province.
“I sincerely acknowledge and thank the Government of Australia, the National Government of Solomon Islands, and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services for their continued partnership and commitment to strengthening health services in our province,” said Premier Asilaua.
“Health remains a fundamental pillar of development, and without a healthy population we cannot achieve sustainable economic growth, quality education, or resilient communities,” he said.
“Strong Primary Health Care is essential for improving the wellbeing of our people and advancing the social and economic development of our province”.
“Improving health outcomes requires strong collaboration between government, development partners, and communities. Through Ward Development Committees, our people can actively participate in shaping and strengthening health services,” he added.
Provincial Minister for Health Hon. Rosely Akomu said it was her first time attending a Provincial Health Summit and described the experience as insightful and valuable.
“This is my first time attending a Health Summit, and it has given me important insights into the realities of our health system, especially the need to strengthen Primary Health Care and revitalise the Provincial Health Council,” she said.
Malaita Provincial Health Director Dr David Danitofea said primary health care remains the foundation of the health system and is essential for prevention, early care, and building trust with communities.
“Malaita Province’s health priorities and challenges cannot be solved by the health services alone. Government departments, donors, development partners, religious leaders, women leaders, youth, businesses and communities must work together, while individuals also have a responsibility to look after their own health and wellbeing,” he said.
Australian High Commissioner, Mr Jeff Roach, said the summit reflects the strength of the Solomon Islands Australia Partnership in supporting improved health outcomes.
“Bringing provincial leaders, health workers and communities together like this ensures solutions are grounded in local realities. By working together, with local voices leading the way, we can identify practical solutions that are inclusive and sustainable,” the High Commissioner said.
During the summit, participants reviewed health system performance, developed a Provincial Health Scorecard, identified priority gaps and co-designed actionable improvement plans, using tools such as Root Cause Analysis and Plan–Do–Study–Act cycles to support locally owned and locally driven solutions.
The summit reflects a shared commitment to Tok Stori, Lokol Voisis, Lokol Soluson, strengthening collaboration, local leadership, local ownership, and collective action to improve health outcomes.
PRESS RELEASE
