Trusted by mothers across Ra: Maternity hospital celebrates 55th anniversary

The Ra Maternity Hospital has celebrated 55 years of operation, marking a significant milestone in maternal healthcare in Ra Province.

At just $30 for admission and delivery, the hospital remains affordable for families from a range of socio-economic backgrounds.

Since its establishment in 1970, the hospital has seen both the number and quality of admissions and deliveries steadily increase, cementing its reputation as a trusted choice for expectant mothers.

From its humble beginnings as the Navunibitu Catholic Maternity Unit with just seven beds, the hospital now regularly handles 15 to 20 births a month, drawing mothers from across Ra and neighbouring communities including Wainibuka, Tokaimalo, Nailuva, Navuni’ivi, and Namuaimadi.

Former midwife Kinisimere Senikuta, who served at the hospital for nearly 16 years, says the growth extends beyond numbers.

Senikuta highlighted the hospital’s holistic approach to care, with mothers and babies provided with gowns, clothes, baby wipes, soaps, and diapers throughout their stay.

Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer Colleen Wilson echoed this sentiment, saying that it's not the only iTaukei women but also Indo-Fijian women who choose to deliver in the hospital.

Relief Charge Nurse Isoa Natui also expressed optimism about maintaining growth, crediting recent improvements for attracting more patients.

As Ra Maternity Hospital celebrates over five decades of care, its journey offers a blueprint for sustainable maternal healthcare – nurturing communities one mother and one baby at a time.