Local artists uplift Naha community with murals celebrating healthcare workers and their dedication.
The construction of the new Naha Birthing Centre murals has brought creativity and community spirit to the forefront. Local volunteer artists have transformed the walkway connecting the construction site and the existing Naha Clinic. Their vibrant murals celebrate nature, mothers, children, and the dedication of healthcare workers, creating a meaningful addition to the project.
Murals Reflect Community Values
One artist, Joy Tasia, shared her personal connection to the Naha Birthing Centre murals.
“I wanted every child who sees it to smile and feel hopeful, even in difficult times,” she said.
The initiative, led by Reeves ICON under Australia’s Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program, reflects the strong bond between the community and the Health Centre. The designs, developed in collaboration with Naha residents, aim to inspire, uplift, and symbolize the area’s shared values.
Celebrating Heroes Through Murals
Dan Curtin, Project Manager for Reeves ICON, emphasized the deeper significance of the artwork.
“It’s about creating spaces that connect with the community,” he explained. “These murals represent the transition from the current clinic to the new Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre.”
First-time painter William Fia described how the Naha Birthing Centre murals inspired him to honor health workers.
“This project is a chance to give back to the community and recognize our real-life heroes,” he said.
Community Support and Progress
Australian High Commissioner Rod Hilton acknowledged the vital role of community engagement in the Health Centre’s construction.
“Building a large, modern health facility in the heart of a community means dealing with noise, dust, and heavy vehicles every day,” he noted.
However, he also highlighted the art project as a sign of mutual respect between the community and healthcare workers.
“We’re not just building infrastructure. We’re fostering a community where health and humanity come together,” he added.
A Bright Future for Naha
The new Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre is expected to open in 2026. Its modern, climate-resilient design will provide essential services, including birthing care, dental care, and maternal health services. The murals, symbolizing community spirit, ensure that the centre will be more than just a building—it will be a hub of health and hope for Solomon Islanders.
Source: AHC
