KONGU LAVATA, a small but resource-rich community just a few minutes by boat from Gizo, has made a historic step forward by officially establishing its first Community-Based Management (CBM) system — a milestone initiative aimed at improving local governance, conservation, and community development.
Once described as a “neglected community,” Kongu Lavata is home to diverse ethnic groups and mixed Christian denominations.
Despite facing years of hardship and limited access to basic services such as health, education, and clean water, the community has now come together to take control of its own future.
At the heart of this change is the Kongu Lavata Resources Management Association, a newly formed and registered body that will spearhead the management of community affairs.
The association, chaired by local leader Silas Kelly Kiko, includes a board and several subcommittees dedicated to key areas such as women’s development, youth, sports, forestry, and disability inclusion.
“This is a milestone for us,” Chairman Kelly told the Solomon Star in an interview.
“For many years, our people have lived here — some for more than 30 or 40 years — and have struggled without proper access to health services or schools. Now, with this association, we can organize ourselves better and work toward real development.”
Access to basic services remains one of the community’s biggest challenges.
Residents must travel by boat to Gizo, costing around $20, or walk nearly two hours to reach town whenever someone falls ill.
The local school has also struggled to operate consistently due to lack of support.
However, Kongu Lavata’s natural wealth is undeniable.
The area is known for its rare sea grape species, which have caught the attention of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). The organization is now collaborating with the community to explore sustainable management and conservation opportunities.
WWF’s involvement has sparked renewed optimism among locals, who believe the partnership will help protect their environment while empowering the community economically and socially.
“The formation of this association will help us manage our resources properly and attract development partners,” Kelly added.
“It gives us a voice and a structure to plan our future.” he said.
He added around December next month they will formally launched some of their projects activities and officially declared the association.
“At the moment there are other donors are on green light waiting to help and assist our community for some Development aspirations,” he further added.
The establishment of the Kongu Lavata Resources Management Association marks a turning point for the small coastal community from years of neglect to a new chapter of self-reliance, partnership, and hope.
Meanwhile, last month GPS Mapping has been surveyed at Kongu.
The important activity by WWFSI is supported by the Climate Resilience Nature Project, DFAT will help improve planning, development, and service delivery in the area.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
