BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Jessie Larui, president of Solomon Islands Midwifery Association, calls for stronger investment in midwifery through education, regulation, and professional support to improve maternal and newborn healthcare services across the country.
She made the call during the celebration of the International Day of Midwives, on Tuesday this week at the Multipurpose Hall futsal court in Honiara.
Ms Larui said that the three key pillars identified by the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) for strengthening the profession are Education, Regulation, and Association.
Speaking at the event, she said that investment in education and continuous professional development is essential to build a stronger midwifery workforce.
She acknowledged the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) for offering a Bachelor of Nursing in Midwifery programme, which has increased the number of trained midwives in the country.
She also revealed that a newly reviewed postgraduate diploma in midwifery aligned with ICM standards is expected to be offered next year.
The president adds that the importance of empowering midwives is to take on leadership roles in health policy, planning, and management at the national level.
She also calls for a dedicated midwifery regulatory framework.
“The current nursing regulations are not enough to fully govern the unique scope of midwifery practice,” she said.
She also urges for a review of the Nursing Council Act to establish a separate registration process for midwives and ensure the profession is properly recognised under national legislation.
The Solomon Islands Midwifery Society (SIMS) is recognised for advocating and supporting professional development within the sector.
She urges stakeholders, policymakers, donor partners, and health authorities to address the shortage of midwives, improve working conditions, provide fair salaries and incentives, and ensure equal distribution of midwives to rural and remote communities.
Ms Larui praised midwives for their dedication and commitment to saving the lives of mothers and newborns throughout Solomon Islands.
Photo credit: John Houanihau
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