The Solomon Islands is a stunning country, a wonderful place to dive and, in many ways, a version of paradise.
But one of the stand-out things about this nation is not the land or sea – it’s the people. The Solomons welcome is one to behold.
However, the islanders are not without their socio, economic and geographic issues with problems ranging from rising sea levels to financial hardship and high unemployment.
Another challenge is access to healthcare, especially for those living in remote villages. That is why the Loloma Foundation is such a fantastic project.
A non-profit organisation based in California, they are dedicated to improving healthcare and enhancing the quality of life for under-served communities in the South Pacific region.
For nearly 25 years they have been providing medical, dental, and eye care services through volunteer teams of doctors, nurses, dentists, and other medical professionals. By partnering with local leaders, government agencies, and community members, the Loloma Foundation ensures its initiatives address the most pressing needs in a sensitive and sustainable manner.
A core aspect of the foundation’s work involves regular medical missions to remote areas, where healthcare services are limited or non-existent.
And this is where Emperor Bilikiki comes into the picture.
For a few weeks every year, Bilikiki stops being a liveaboard for divers and becomes a floating hospital. We are able to transport these amazing volunteers so they can treat patients in the hardest-to-reach parts of the country.
In September 2024 – the most recent Loloma visit – we had 12 doctors from the United States, three local doctors and two women’s health educators on board.
The trip visited several villages around the Russell and Florida Islands and provided amazing medical care. The medics included paediatricians, general doctors and dentists – Bilikiki’s dive deck became a dental clinic! – and a total of 1102 patients were seen.
The women’s health educators were able to conduct informative meetings in the communities and gave away a total of 678 period kits sponsored by Days For Girls, while 77 people who needed dental aid – something not readily available in most of the Solomons and very much needed – were seen.
The work of the Loloma Foundation is amazing in its reach and its effect. It not only treats but emphasises education and public health promotion. By teaching about nutrition, hygiene, and disease prevention, they encourage long-term improvements in well-being.
We are very pleased to offer our continued support to the Foundation in their efforts to improve the lives of Solomon Islanders – efforts we are able to see making a real difference.
As Emperor Bilikiki’s onboard managers Pato and Fernando said after the last visit: “Being part of these missions is truly a privilege and, on top of being fun, it feels rewarding to be able to give back to the communities that are so welcoming to us during our diving trips.”
Following the Loloma slogan: ‘Help us make paradise healthy’, is something we are very happy to do.
To find out more about the Loloma Foundation you can visit their website – www.lolomafoundation.com