The White River Clinic celebrated their "Baby Star of the Year" early this morning at the premises.
Head of Nurse, Mrs. Emily Biliki, said the idea of having such celebration was thought of as a way of encouraging mothers to take their babies for routine check-ups at the clinic."The idea of having this type of celebration has been in mind since July 18th 2006, and we've created a children's corner for such occasion," she told Solomon Times.
In a speech during the celebration, a Community Health worker from the Health Division, Ms. Sirine Aonima, said that the Solomon Islands National Policy on Disability was launched in 2005 by the Solomon Islands Government, and support has been given to the "Baby Star of the Year" event.
She said that the purpose of the policy is to break down barriers associated with disabilities, and encourage people with disabilities to be fully, and actively, involved in community life.
Ms. Aonima acknowledged White River for leading the way to a successful program, giving credit to the staff for enthusiastically taking responsibility in encouraging regular attendance at the Children Welfare Clinic (CWC).
She said that the Health Division was delighted to be able to support and assist with the program and celebrations.
A White River resident, present to witness the event, Mrs. Faye Ramosaea said that the Baby Star of the Year celebration that took place today was the first of its kind in the Solomon Islands.
Mrs. Ramosaea said that support from the national government and provincial government would be helpful to build such an activity "because our children's health is a number one priority and very important."
She thanked the nurses and stuff of the clinic for making the celebration a success.