Water and sanitation are central to Solomon Islands’ development and vital for health, education, livelihoods, and climate resilience.
Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele, MP, has reiterated this on Monday when speaking at the opening of the 9th Pacific Water & Wastewater Ministers Forum.
During his official address, Prime Minister welcomed leaders, innovators, and water professionals from across the Pacific to Honiara, calling the gathering a chance to work together to secure safe and resilient water services for all.
“Water is not just a utility issue,” he said. “Every dollar invested in water is an investment in people, in livelihoods, and in our shared future.”
Prime Minister Manele highlighted the challenges facing Pacific communities, including rising seas, prolonged droughts, extreme weather events, pollution, and aging infrastructure.
He outlined the Solomon Islands Government’s response, including strengthening institutions, climate-proofing infrastructure, and integrating resilience into planning from villages to Honiara.
He also called for regional collaboration, urging ministers, partners, and utilities to share practical solutions to improve water and wastewater services across the Pacific.
“Better planning and investment must be supported regionally so that no Pacific child grows up without safe water and sanitation,” he said.
On financing, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of affordable, efficient, and accountable water services, guided by the principles of resilience, sustainability, and equity.
He encouraged innovation in governance, technology, and service delivery, and recognised the role of young water professionals as the next generation of Water Champions.
“Partnership is our strength. When we act together, our small islands are not small voices, we are a powerful chorus calling for sustainable water futures,” he said.
PM Manele also made a call to action for commitment, collaboration, and leadership. “Let us be bold; let us be united. Water is life, water is dignity, water is resilience, water is our shared future,” Prime Minister Manele said.
The conference ends this Friday.
– OPMC
