Members of the three wards in the Malaita Outer Islands (MOI) have united for the first time to push climate change and tuna issues onto the national and regional agenda.
Representatives from Ward 31 (Luaniua), Ward 32 (Pelau), and Sikaina came together in Honiara on Saturday during the 42nd Anniversary celebration of Malaita Province.
Chairman of the Ontong Java Trust Board, Lawrence Makili, described the occasion as historic, marking the first time Sikaina joined Luaniua and Pelau in such a gathering.
“This is a welcoming trend that allows us to stand together on climate change and tuna issues,” Makili said.
He stressed that government support on climate change policy has been lacking, despite MOI communities being directly affected by rising sea levels.
“Our people depend on sea resources like fish since time immemorial,” Makili said. “But due to climate change, it is becoming harder to find fish nearby. We now have to travel long distances by outboard motor to catch fish.”
Makili also lamented that MOI communities, despite being located on rich fishing grounds, have never benefited from the multi-million-dollar tuna industry.
With the 54th Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) scheduled to take place in Honiara next month, Makili said the three wards are planning to work with civil society organisations to ensure climate change and tuna issues are included as discussion points.
“This is one of the options available if government does not take our issues forward at the Forum meeting,” he explained.
Saturday’s celebration drew a large crowd, who were treated to Polynesian dances and feasting.
Malaita Provincial Assembly Members present included Emmy Akomu (Ward 31), William Inoga (Ward 32), and Lemuel Kevianga (Ward 32).
However, the Member of Parliament for MOI and Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, Polycap Paea, was absent as he is currently overseas.
The local organisating committee wish to thank Tarzan Holosivi of TTC, Ernest Teutao, Billy Holosivi, Nehemiah Kealoe and the wards MPAs and MP for their support of making the program successful.
