THE Western Provincial Capital Gizo is one of the beneficiaries of the ‘Sustainable Waste Actions in the Pacific’ (SWAP) Project funded by the Agence Franaise de Development (AFD).
SWAP project is worth $3million Euros and covers six countries in the Pacific region.
For Solomon Islands, Gizo and Tulagi are beneficiaries of the project.
This was revealed by the Deputy Secretary Corporate of the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster and Meteorology (MECDM), Karl Kuper when speaking at the official handing over of a new backhoe loader last Friday.
He said Gizo is fortunate to be part of the SWAP Project by benefiting from two key components: the ‘Marine Litter Pilot Project’ and the ‘Disaster Waste Management initiative.’
He explained that the Marine Litter Pilot Project involves data collection on marine debris that ends up on Gizo’s beaches, while the Disaster Waste Management Initiative focuses on strengthening waste management in the aftermath of disaster events.
Under the Waste Management initiative, a critical objective has been established to improve landfill operations during disaster events, ensuring that waste is properly managed and disposed of the wake of a disaster.
“As part of this objective, a scoping study for Landfill Rehabilitation and/or Climate Proofing in the Solomon Islands was undertaken in April 2023.
“This study, carried out by an expert consultant, identified the needs of supporting landfill operations in both Gizo and Tulagi.
“Based on the study’s findings, it was agreed that given the limited budget allocated for this component under the SWAP Project, a backhoe loader and spare-parts would be procured to assist with the management of the Gizo waste disposal site.
“Following this decision, a public tender was issued to procure the backhoe loader and we are pleased to partake in its handing over ceremony.
“The backhoe loader which is critical for improving landfill operations was successfully procured at a total cost of USD77, 368.44, which included the loader, spare parts and necessary training for local personnel on the proper care and maintenance of the equipment,” he said.
The training of drivers is essential to ensure equipment remains operational and that Gizo’s waste management staff have the skills to use the maintain it effectively.
By MOFFAT MAMU
Solomon Star, Gizo
