BY JOY OFASIA
Nurses make up about 75 percent of the Solomon Islands health workforce, showing their important role in caring for people across the country.
This was highlighted during the 2026 International Nurses Day celebration in Honiara, where health officials recognised the key contribution of nurses in keeping the health system running despite many challenges.
Speaking at the event, Japhet Honimae, acting National Nursing Director, said nurses continue to work on the frontline despite rising demands, shortages, climate impacts and growing aged care needs. “Nurses continue to sustain care, protect communities and hold health systems together often under immense strain,” he said.
Honimae said nurses are present at all levels of health facilities across the country and are central to achieving universal health coverage in Solomon Islands.
He said the theme for International Nurses Day highlights that the power of nursing can be measured through better outcomes and stronger systems. “Empowered nurses directly lead to better patient outcomes, increased safety and more resilient health system,” he said.
He also acknowledged ongoing challenges including uneven staff distribution, with more than half of the workforce based in Honiara.
He said despite recruitment efforts, officials say more work is needed to meet rising demand for nurses nationwide. He revealed almost 50 percent of annual training funds are used for nurses in midwifery, child health, primary care, acute care, leadership and management.
He said empowering nurses through education, leadership training and professional development is key to strengthening the health system in Solomon Islands.
