Students of Ghaobata school
By Alfred Pagepitu
For many families in North Guadalcanal, access to clean water was once a daily struggle.
In communities such as Popoloi, Mbebe and Bubulu, women and children often walked long distances to collect water for drinking, cooking and washing. During heavy rains, flooding frequently contaminated water sources, increasing the risk of disease. Limited access to proper sanitation also meant some households practised open defecation, posing serious health risks.
Today, these challenges are gradually easing.
The Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Project in North Guadalcanal, implemented by UNICEF with support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), is improving access to safe water and sanitation facilities.
On June 4, members of the media visited Popoloi, Mbebe and Ghaobata Community High School to witness the impact of the project. The visit highlighted how improved facilities are contributing to healthier and safer environments for families and students.
Media representatives, accompanied by partners from government and non-government organisations, inspected household and community sanitation facilities and spoke with residents and students about the changes.
At Popoloi Community, discussions focused on sanitation practices, behaviour change, community ownership and sustainability. Residents shared their experiences and expressed pride in the progress made.
In Mbebe, community leader Chief Stephen Kunia highlighted the strong participation of villagers, with most households now having completed or nearing completion of toilet facilities.
He recalled the difficulties faced in the past, particularly during flooding when water sources became unsafe and families had to travel long distances.
“Soon we will have clean water much closer to our homes,” he said.
He added that the project is not only improving access to services but also strengthening health awareness across the community.
Development gains are also evident in Bubulu Village, which was declared a No Open Defecation Community on September 15, 2023, under the Community-Led Total Sanitation programme supported by the Solomon Islands Government and Guadalcanal Provincial Government.
At Ghaobata Community High School, improved water access is making a significant difference.
Established in 2007, the school previously struggled with unreliable water supply, affecting daily activities and hygiene standards. Students and teachers often depended on distant water sources.
That has now changed.
Earlier this year, the school marked the completion of a new borehole and climate-smart solar-powered water system during World Water Day 2026. The project was supported by UNICEF in collaboration with the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification.
Principal Hudson Pegoa said improving water and sanitation was a key priority when he returned to the school in 2024.
Today, the new system is supporting better hygiene, improving the learning environment, and benefiting both students and staff.
Across North Guadalcanal, the WASH project is helping communities move towards a healthier and more sustainable future.
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