The 26 Ward Development Committees (WDCs) in Western Province have gathered crucial information to enhance sanitation at the provincial, ward, and village levels, particularly in rural areas.
This follows a training workshop held in Gizo last week, organized by the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund’s (UNICEF) Rural Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (RWASH), and the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA).
Funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the workshop aimed to raise awareness about the importance of proper sanitation in maintaining public health and preventing waterborne diseases.
Speaking to Solomon Star in an interview, Eric Hale, UNICEF RWASH Program Officer for Solomon Islands, highlighted the vital role of WDCs as the bridge between the Provincial Government and local communities.
“Access to clean water and proper sanitation is fundamental for healthy living. Through workshops like this, we hope to empower communities with the knowledge and tools to improve their sanitation systems,” he said.
During the sessions, facilitators covered key topics such as:
- The importance of clean water sources
- Construction and maintenance of proper toilets
- Strategies to reduce the spread of sanitation-related diseases
Lloyd Hodge, WDC Secretary and Acting Project Officer of Ward 18 (Rendova), emphasized the need for community involvement in achieving sustainable sanitation solutions.
“It’s not just about providing infrastructure but ensuring that people understand the significance of using and maintaining these facilities,” Hodge said.
He pointed out that sanitation is often overlooked, with communities prioritizing water, infrastructure, and other developments.
“One of the key insights I have gained is the need for stronger collaboration between stakeholders such as RWASH, ADRA, and the Provincial Government.
“This close cooperation will help us achieve shared goals for a better cause,” he added.
The workshop concluded with participants outlining action plans to enhance sanitation standards in their communities, reinforcing their collective commitment to fostering a healthier living environment.
By Ulutah Gina
Solomon Star, Gizo
