New Zealand donates 39 water tanks to Tasimboko Ward, improving water access for 2,000 Guadalcanal residents
Hundreds of community members gathered at Tumupape Village in Tasimboko Ward on Monday, 13 July, to witness the official handover of 39 water tanks donated by the New Zealand High Commission.
The event was attended by officials from the New Zealand High Commission, the Guadalcanal Provincial Assembly Member for Tasimboko Ward, Guadalcanal Province media personnel, and community leaders, including elders, church leaders, women, and youth representatives from surrounding villages.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, New Zealand High Commissioner Jonathan Curr said New Zealand was pleased to partner with the Tasimboko Ward Committee to help address ongoing water shortages experienced by communities in the ward.
“Small, community-focused initiatives can have significant impacts on the lives of families,” Mr Curr said.
“While this contribution may appear small, it will make a meaningful difference in addressing some of the water challenges you face every day. We understand that many families have had to travel long distances to collect drinking water, and we hope these water tanks will help ease that burden and improve daily life for everyone.”
Guadalcanal Provincial Assembly Member for Tasimboko Ward, Hon. Jimmy Saea, welcomed the support and expressed gratitude to the New Zealand Government for its contribution to the wellbeing of local communities.
Hon. Saea said the project is expected to benefit approximately 2,000 people across more than 30 villages, including six local churches.
The provision of water tanks forms part of New Zealand’s broader commitment to supporting communities in meeting their water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) needs throughout Solomon Islands.
In Guadalcanal Province, New Zealand has partnered with UNICEF, the Solomon Islands Government, and the Guadalcanal Provincial Government through the WASH in Schools Programme to improve water and sanitation services in schools.
Since 2016, the programme has supported 42 schools across Guadalcanal Province and is now expanding to an additional 20 schools. More than 13,000 students and 500 teachers have benefited from improved water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure, services, and training.
These investments are helping schools become healthier, safer, and more supportive learning environments for children while strengthening access to essential services for communities across the province.
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