The Bobolo community in Malaita Province will soon have reliable access to clean and safe drinking water following the signing of a grant agreement under Japan’s Grassroots and Human Security Project.
The grant contract was officially signed on Thursday, 5 February 2026, paving the way for the construction of a new water supply system aimed at improving health, sanitation and overall living conditions for residents of the rural community.
The project, valued at more than $347,000 (US$43,333), is funded by the Government of Japan and will support the installation of infrastructure to ensure consistent access to clean drinking water for the people of Bobolo.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, community representative Ms Joylin Oli said the agreement marked a significant milestone after many years of effort by the community to secure a safe and reliable water supply.
She said access to clean water had long been a priority for the community, with leaders exploring various avenues and approaching different partners in search of assistance.
“The support we receive today brings hope and dignity to our people and turns a long-held vision into reality,” Ms Oli said, while thanking the Japanese Embassy for its timely support.
Japanese Ambassador to Solomon Islands, H.E. Keiichi Higuchi, said access to clean water remains a basic human need and a key focus of Japan’s Grassroots and Human Security Scheme.
“Water is life. Everyone deserves access to clean water, regardless of where they live,” Ambassador Higuchi said.
He noted that investment in water supply systems plays an important role in improving public health and supporting long-term socio-economic development, particularly in rural communities.
Community leaders present at the ceremony included Mr Felix Bosokuru, Community Project Coordinator, Ms Judith Afia, Vice Community Project Treasurer, and tribal chief Mr Peter Alufo’oa, who welcomed the project as a major step forward for Bobolo.
Ambassador Higuchi emphasised that community participation would be essential to the project’s success, adding that local ownership is key to sustainable development.
The Bobolo water supply project is expected to significantly reduce water-related health risks and improve the daily lives of families in the community.
By LEILANI OSO
Solomon Star, Honiara
