Tulagi Ward 4 communities develop climate resilience plans through CAPSI adaptation pathway training
Communities in Tulagi Ward 4 are taking a proactive step toward securing their future following a recent Community-Led Adaptation Pathway (CAPSI) training focused on strengthening resilience to climate and economic challenges. The training took place at Tulagi from 26th to 28th May 2026 at the Central Provincial Conference room.
The training brought 40 participants together, community leaders, women, youth representatives, and other stakeholders from across Ward 4 to discuss the increasing pressures on local livelihoods.
Participants examined key challenges such as climate change, sea-level rise, population growth, and shifting market conditions—issues that continue to affect island communities throughout the Solomon Islands.
During the workshop, participants worked collaboratively to develop a shared vision for the future of their community. The vision prioritises improved food security, protection of marine resources, and strengthening income-generating opportunities.
“We want our children and grandchildren to live in a community where food is secure, our reefs are healthy, and we have a stable income,” said Mr Richard, Chairman of the Tulagi Ward 4 Ward Development Committee (WDC).
The training also introduced participants to the concept of “drivers of change”—factors that influence community livelihoods over time, including environmental, social, and economic forces. The Chairlady of the Tulagi Ward 4 Women’s Savings Group noted that the exercise helped participants understand how these challenges are interconnected.
“We did not realise how many factors are influencing our lives until we discussed them,” she said.
A representative from the Tulagi Youth Association echoed this perspective, highlighting the value of awareness gained during the training.
“Now we understand the risks better and how we can prepare,” the youth president said.
Through scenario planning activities, participants explored possible futures for their community, including both positive and challenging scenarios. This approach enabled them to identify strategies that remain effective regardless of changing conditions.
The workshop also assessed the community’s adaptive capacity—the ability to cope with and recover from external shocks such as natural disasters or market disruptions. Participants identified strengths such as strong local leadership, traditional knowledge and community cooperation. However, they also acknowledged ongoing challenges including limited infrastructure and restricted access to markets.
“This training opened our eyes to both our strengths and our weaknesses,” said a community leader. “We now know where we need to improve to be more resilient.”
Participants further developed “no regrets” strategies—actions that provide benefits under any future scenario. These include sustainable resource management, diversification of livelihoods, and strengthening partnerships with government agencies and development partners.
In the final phase of the training, participants mapped out adaptation pathways, outlining practical steps and responsibilities required to achieve their long-term vision.
“We now have a clear pathway of what to do next,” a youth representative said. “It is not just ideas—we have actions and responsibilities.”
A women’s representative described the training as empowering, noting that it has strengthened the community’s confidence in shaping its own future.
“We are not waiting for help—we are taking action ourselves,” she said.
Retired Reverend Father Derick emphasised that the CAPSI approach places communities at the centre of decision-making, combining local knowledge with structured planning tools.
“CAPSI is a holistic approach that can be applied in any leadership setting,” he said.
The workshop concluded with participants committing to work together to implement the strategies developed, ensuring a more resilient, sustainable, and self-reliant future for Tulagi Ward 4.
PRESS RELEASE
