Seaweed farmers in West Are Are in the southern region of Malaita Province are raising alarm after an oil spill reportedly reached their seaweed farms in Uhu Harbour.
Farmers say the spill, believed to have originated from a nearby logging operation, is now threatening both their seaweed crops and the surrounding marine environment that local communities depend on.
The incident was first reported last month when villagers noticed oil spreading across parts of the harbour where seaweed farms are located.
Photos showing traces of oil in the water were later circulated on social media, drawing widespread concern and prompting calls for authorities to immediately investigate the source of the pollution.
Local resident Learnzie Waikohee, who witnessed the spill, said the contamination could severely affect community livelihoods if urgent action is not taken.
“We witnessed the incident this afternoon and have taken photos as evidence of the logging oil spill in Uhu Harbour.
“We believe this pollution could destroy our community seaweed farms and affect the entire area around our seaport.”
Farmers fear the oil would suffocate seaweed plants and block sunlight needed for their growth, potentially destroying crops that many families depend on for income.
They also warn the spill could damage other marine resources in the harbour, including fish, shellfish and coral reefs that sustain coastal communities.
West Are’Are has recently become one of the key seaweed farming areas in Malaita, with many villagers turning to the industry as an alternative source of income.
But farmers said the oil spill now threatens to undo years of effort to develop the industry in the region.
Community members are calling on responsible authorities to urgently investigate the incident and contain the spill before it spreads further.
Some residents say the company responsible for the pollution must be held accountable for any damage caused to the environment and to the livelihoods of seaweed farmers.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
