Pacific countries have been challenged by Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele to support young water professionals and accelerate innovation.
That’s because the region’s water future depends on strong governance, partnerships, and empowered new leaders.
Addressing the Pacific Water & Wastewater Conference and Expo in Honiara on Monday, he recognised the energy and ideas of early-career practitioners.
“You are our next generation of Water Champions. You bring fresh ideas, new energy, and bold solutions. We must support you with mentorship, opportunity, and trust,” the Prime Minister Manele said.
He highlighted two pillars for the future of Pacific water: governance and innovation. Governance must be “transparent, inclusive, and accountable,” he said, while innovation, from renewable-powered desalination to decentralised wastewater systems and smart, data-driven monitoring, can improve service reliability and resilience.
PM Manele stressed that governments alone cannot deliver these innovations. “Partnership and collaboration with the private sector, academia, regional agencies, and communities are vital,” he said. He also emphasised solutions that respect local governance, culture, and traditional knowledge, including the essential role of women and girls.
He pointed to the power of regional cooperation, noting that through associations like PWWA and development partnerships, Pacific countries can share lessons, build capacity, and advocate more effectively.
“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 urged leaders at every level to step forward and rise up as regional water champions.
“It is only through dedication and leadership that today’s challenges will become tomorrow’s sustainable solutions,” he said.
– OPMC
