Solomon Islands stands to benefit from a USD$40 million pledge from developed members of the UN.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Heads of State and Government, along with the private sector, foundations, international organizations, civil society and research organizations, today kicked off a major concerted worldwide effort to accelerate progress on women's and children's health.

With pledges of more than $40 billion, the Solomon Islands, over the next five years, could tap into the Global Strategy Fund for Women and Children's Health.

The fund has the potential to further prevent unwanted pregnancies and assist in controlling deadly diseases such as malaria and HIV/AIDS. It could also ensure access for women and children to quality facilities and skilled health workers.

"We know what works to save women's and children's lives, and we know that women and children are critical to all of the MDGs," Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said. "Today we are witnessing the kind of leadership we have long needed."