Guadalcanal Provincial Secretary of the Christian Outreach Center and a respected elder of the Navola community in North Guadalcanal, has voiced concerns and the risk linked to the tailings dam used by Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) when a disaster strikes.
Speaking during a Disaster Awareness Workshop held last week in Navola by the National Disability Forum of Solomon Islands (NDFSI), Stanley Vatiande warned that the dam poses a serious risk to nearby communities, especially during natural disasters.
“We don’t control the power of nature. That dam could break at any time if a disaster strikes such as heavy rain or earthquake,” he said.
Vatiande emphasized the importance of the workshop, describing it as a privilege for the community. He noted that similar sessions had previously been conducted by the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM).
“This workshop is a bonus. It equips participants with the knowledge and skills we need to prepare for and respond to disasters,” he said.
He added that flooding is one of the most frequent disasters affecting their community.
“If you look around, the land here is flat and most of our houses are built low. During floods, water can rise up to one or two meters and flow with the force of a waterfall,” he explained.
Vatiande also stressed the importance of inclusive disaster preparedness.
“It’s vital that we think of new ways to live in readiness for future disasters. We must also ensure we know how to care for persons with disabilities when disaster strikes.”
Six communities from Gaobata Ward in North Guadalcanal actively participated in that workshop to promote disability-inclusive disaster preparedness.
The workshop seeks to enhance the knowledge and skills of community members, especially leaders, women, and youth, so they can better understand their roles and responsibilities during disasters and emergencies.
The participating communities included Navola, Mbalasuna, Sopapera, Foxwood, Vutu, and Bokoniseu.
Speaking at the opening of the workshop, NDFSI Chief Executive Officer Casper Fa’asala emphasized the importance of inclusiveness in disaster response.
“We must think about everyone during times of crisis, people with special needs, women, children, and the elderly, and ensure their essential needs are met,” Mr Fa’asala said.
He thanked the community elders for mobilizing participants, including those with disabilities, to attend the workshop.
As one of the countries most affected by natural disasters such as cyclones, earthquakes, and tsunamis, the Solomon Islands remains highly vulnerable.
Mr Fa’asala stressed that because some disasters strike without warning, it is vital for communities to be prepared and to prioritize the care of people with disabilities.
“We have disabled children, youth, and elderly in our communities. Our women and elders are often the caregivers during disasters, so it’s crucial they receive proper training.”
Fa’asala also highlighted the need for proactive measures, such as building safe and comfortable housing for people with disabilities before disasters strike.
By AGNES MENANOPO
Solomon Star, Honiara
