BY CHRIS ALEX

New Zealand-based company KlipTank is here at the 9th Pacific Water and Waste Ministers Forum and the 16th Pacific Water and Wastewater Association (PWWA) Conference, currently taking place in Honiara.

The company is showcasing its game-changing, flat-pack modular water tanks, designed specifically for the unique geographic and environmental challenges faced by island nations across the Pacific.

Speaking to Island Sun, Duheine Myburgh, KlipTank’s water market manager, emphasised the company’s mission to deliver practical and sustainable water storage solutions to remote communities.

“We’re a small company based in New Zealand, the company is called KlipTank and we manufacture flat-pack modular water tanks.

“Our tanks vary in size from 20,000 liters up to 6 million liters as a single tank storage. We can provide supervision, training and installation resources should it be required but we like to empower the community,” Myburgh said.

Myburgh encouraged local authorities, like Solomon Water, to consider involving communities directly in tank installations.

“We suggest empowering the local community. Let them install the tanks themselves. We can provide training, manuals, YouTube videos, and online supervision. If really required, we can send supervisors to assist or train installers,” Myburgh said.

What makes KlipTank’s products particularly suited to Pacific Island conditions is their robust, corrosion-resistant design and logistical flexibility.

“Getting water storage into remote areas is very difficult,” Myburgh explained.

“Steel rusts, concrete cracks and is costly. Our tanks are designed to handle New Zealand’s high earthquake standards, so they’ll do very well in the Solomon Islands too.”

KlipTank tanks are constructed using anti-corrosive aluminum and HTPE (high tensile polyethylene) materials, with options for both hard and soft PVC roofing. Most notably, the tanks require no concrete foundations, instead sitting securely on compacted coral bases ideal for island terrains.

“The flat-pack design is a major benefit,” Myburgh added. “You can load multiple tanks into a single 40-foot container between 20,000 and 50,000 liters each. The amount of storage volume you can get per container is immense.”

One of KlipTank’s key reference projects is in the Marshall Islands, where they have delivered over 140 tanks, each ranging from 34,000 to 55,000 liters.

“All of these tanks were shipped flat-pack and assembled locally. It’s a testament to how scalable and effective our solution can be for Pacific communities,” said Myburgh.

Manufactured in Tauranga, New Zealand, KlipTank’s systems are engineered not only for efficiency and durability but for empowerment providing communities with the tools and training to manage their own water needs sustainably.

As the Solomon Islands and other Pacific nations look to strengthen water resilience amid climate and infrastructure challenges, KlipTank’s approach may offer exactly the kind of locally driven, smart solution that’s needed.

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BY CHRIS ALEX

As water scarcity tightens its grip on remote Pacific islands, New Zealand-based environmental solutions provider Bluemont has set its sights on bringing relief to Rennell and Bellona, the most water-stressed province in the Solomon Islands.

Present at the Pacific Water and Wastewater Conference 2025 (PWWC2025) and the 9th Pacific Water and Wastewater Ministers Forum, Bluemont is showcasing its innovative, solar-powered desalination systems, a potential game-changer for island communities struggling with drought and saline groundwater.

Representing the company at the event, Australian water sector expert Paul Hart introduced the community-based solution that Bluemont is advocating for: solar desalination units housed in compact, containerized systems that operate entirely off-grid.

“These systems are built for the Pacific.

“They’re clean, reliable, and scalable. For places like Rennell and Bellona, where communities depend solely on rainwater and groundwater is too salty to use, this technology can be life-changing,” said Hart in an exclusive with Island Sun News.

Bluemont has already submitted a grant proposal to Renew Pacific, developed in partnership with Solomon Islands’ Minister of Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs, John Tuhaika Jr.

The request seeks funding for four units to be installed across critical communities on Rennell and Bellona.

As climate-driven water challenges escalate, Bluemont hopes its installations in Rennell and Bellona will act as proof-of-concept for national and regional replication, offering a lifeline to island communities grappling with water scarcity.

Each unit is capable of producing 12,000 liters of safe drinking water per day, enough to support the daily needs of hundreds of people. The unit displayed at PWWC 2025 provides a smaller model, generating 4,300 liters per day, aligned with WHO guidelines for community consumption.

“These communities have no access to clean groundwater.

“They’ve drilled boreholes only to find salt. But with solar desalination, you bypass that problem entirely. You just need sunlight and seawater both abundant here,” Hart explained.

The Bluemont system stands out for its sustainable design. It runs entirely on solar power, requires no fossil fuels or chemical additives, and includes a patented freshwater backwash system that reduces maintenance and extends the lifespan of its reverse osmosis membranes.

But Bluemont’s impact goes beyond technology.

“We don’t just deliver systems we build local capacity. Each site will have at least three trained community operators ideally women who have proven to be our most effective stewards of this technology. This is about more than infrastructure, it’s about empowerment and resilience,” Hart emphasized.

As climate-driven water challenges escalate, Bluemont hopes its installations in Rennell and Bellona will act as proof-of-concept for national and regional replication, offering a lifeline to island communities grappling with water scarcity.

Founded in 2004, Bluemont is an Australian-owned company operating out of New Zealand, with a mission to deliver climate-resilient, community-centered solutions. With in-country teams and stocked inventory, the company is equipped for fast delivery and deployment throughout the Pacific.

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Collin Beck, Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) National Committee co-chair, has thanked Solomons students, together with Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change, for bringing the issue of climate change to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

The Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change (PISFC) is a youth-led organisation whose members are students from Pacific Island countries, including Solomon Islands.

In March 2019, 27 USP Law students from 8 Pacific Island countries came together and campaigned to convince the Pacific Island Forum leaders to seek an Advisory Opinion from the ICJ on climate change and human rights.

“We have this year, the ICJ issued an advisory opinion on the issue of climate change. We need to unpack that and consider the responsibility of the state as far as climate change is concerned.

“On this note, I want to acknowledge the youths, especially our youths from Solomon, who participate in terms of helping and facilitating to work with the Vanuatu government to push the issue to the ICJ in Hague, to make an advisory opinion on it.

“So, to the youth, thank you so much for doing something for humanity, but also doing something that the region identified as the number one threat,” said Mr Beck.

Earlier this year, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in Hague, Netherlands, issued its advisory opinion on the obligations of states in respect of climate change.

The ICJ ruled that States have an obligation to protect the environment from greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and act with due diligence and cooperation to fulfil this obligation. 

The Court further ruled that if states breach these obligations, they incur legal responsibility and may be required to cease the wrongful conduct, offer guarantees of non-repetition and make full reparation depending on the circumstances.

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BY CHRIS ALEX

The Government of the Solomon Islands has successfully launched three new routes under its Franchise Shipping Scheme (FSS), marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to boost maritime connectivity and foster economic development in remote island communities.

This initiative aims to improve access to essential goods, services, and opportunities, with a focus on island regions that have long struggled with inadequate transport options.

The newly operational routes include:

Route 3: Servicing Sikaiana Island, which is currently running.

Route 5: Connecting to Rennell Bellona Province, with the first trip scheduled soon.

Route 6: Covering the Makira Island Weather Coast, which began its first trip two weeks ago.

These routes are part of a broader initiative that includes seven routes in total, designed to service some of the most isolated and underserved areas of the country.  

The remaining routes serving Temotu, Ontong Java, Ndai, Shortland Islands, and Guadalcanal’s weather coast are still under deliberation by the Ministerial and Central Tender Board.

The Franchise Shipping Scheme, originally launched in 2009 and co-funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the European Union (EU), is now fully funded by the Solomon Islands Government.  

This strategic shift aims to ensure long-term sustainability and operational success as the government allocates grants through the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) budget to subsidize shipping services on these crucial island routes.

Chris Resana, FSS administration officer, outlined the rigorous requirements for shipping operators applying for the scheme, which include minimum vessel capacity, a proven track record of over 12 months of operational experience, and compliance with safety regulations.

These standards ensure that the scheme will provide reliable and safe shipping services to outer island communities.

“We are focusing on both near-coastal and in-shore services. Near-coastal services cover the more distant outer islands such as Temotu and Shortland Islands, while in-shore services are designed for coastal regions like Makira and Guadalcanal’s weather coast,” Mr Resana explained.

The FSS aims to improve vital transport links for islands with insufficient maritime infrastructure, which have often faced irregular shipping schedules.

These challenges have hindered economic growth by limiting access to markets, goods, and services. Through the scheme, the government is working to ensure that communities in these remote areas can access essential resources, boosting both local economies and social well-being.

The latest development in the FSS highlights the ongoing commitment of the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) to support the productive sector, with a clear recognition of the critical role that reliable and efficient shipping services play in driving economic development in the Solomon Islands’ more isolated regions.

“We are conducting a comprehensive review of the scheme to ensure operational efficiency, service reliability, and its continued alignment with our goals of economic growth and social development.

 “The new routes will have a significant impact on local economies, improving access to critical services, and facilitating trade and communication across the islands,” said Resana.

As the FSS continues to expand, the government remains committed to addressing the challenges faced by island communities, ensuring that all regions benefit from the national push toward improved infrastructure and connectivity.

The scheme’s success marks a critical step in reducing isolation and fostering greater national unity through enhanced transportation networks.

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BY NED GAGAHE

Co-Chair of the National Organizing Committee for the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting Colin Beck has outlined key priorities such as political leadership, peace and security, economic development, and climate change as central to the region’s future.

Mr Beck was responding to questions raised by a member of the public during the SIBC Radio Talk Back Show on Sunday August 24, 2025.

The questions centred on what priority issues are currently on the table, what to expect following the Forum Leaders Meeting, and the role of Solomon Islands in the regional and global context.

Mr Beck who is also the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) highlighted the need for strong political leadership from both Solomon Islands as Chair and the wider region.

He said cooperation will be critical on peace, security, resources, and economic development.

He drew particular attention to the Pacific’s nuclear legacy. The region, once used for nuclear testing and waste dumping, continues to face challenges today with nuclear waste storage in the Marshall Islands and the discharge of treated nuclear water into the ocean.

“This poses long-term risks, lasting up to 30 years,” Mr Beck said, stressing the need to strengthen scientific capacity to monitor and interpret international data to ensure ocean health and safeguard tourism, food security, and the livelihoods of Pacific peoples.

Beck also highlighted political developments in New Caledonia, where issues of decolonisation and recent violence demand close regional attention.

He said efforts are underway to build a political accord that ensures stability.

Mr Beck further stated the concept of an “Ocean of Peace”, a declaration designed to prevent militarisation and coercion in the Pacific.

For the first time, such a declaration will be pursued under Solomon Islands’ chairmanship, extending beyond Honiara to the next Forum meeting in Palau.

On economic priorities, Mr Beck pointed to labour mobility and fisheries as central to regional development.

He said Pacific nations are working under the PACER Plus framework to establish common principles for labour mobility.

On fisheries, he stated that Solomon Islands hosts the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), which generates significant regional revenue.

“The Pacific earns about USD 500 million annually from licensing and access fees, with Solomon Islands benefiting both financially and through employment for more than 2,000 people in fisheries,” Mr Beck said.

He said Climate change remains the number one threat to the Pacific, Mr Beck said.

He highlighted the International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion process, an initiative Solomon Islands is supporting alongside Vanuatu to hold states accountable for their climate responsibilities.

He thanked Solomon Islands’ youth for their leadership in this effort, describing it as “a contribution not only to humanity but to the Pacific region as a whole.”

Mr Beck also referenced the recent UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France, where Pacific leaders renewed commitments to safeguard the ocean.

Looking ahead, Mr Beck said education and health remain important issues for the Forum agenda.

More critically, he stressed the need to reform the Pacific Islands regional architecture to make it “fit for purpose.” With more than nine organisations currently involved, he said better coordination and restructuring are essential.

“Solomon Islands, together with its regional neighbours, is committed to driving this reform forward during its leadership,” Mr Beck affirmed.

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BY MORRIS NAFU

The Noro Roads Improvement project, a key initiative under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), is making impressive strides, with completion now at 85 percent.

Backed by the World Bank and executed by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), this project is set to significantly enhance connectivity, safety, and economic prospects for communities in Noro and neighboring areas in Western Province.

A press statement from MID confirms the key achievements to date which include the sealing of approximately 5.3 km of vital roadways with asphalt concrete, installation of concrete pavement on Port Exit Road, and the construction of concrete-lined drainage systems along with a new box culvert.

Many of these tasks have been conducted simultaneously across various road sections, with contractor, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), increasing its workforce to accommodate the expanded scope of work.

The statement also mentioned that current activities involve; repairing selected sections of the Noro–Munda Road to restore pavement integrity, laying concrete pavement on Port Entry Road for enhanced durability under heavy traffic, and installing curb and gutter systems on Mobil Road and Bonito Drive to improve drainage and edge stability.

All operations are being carried out with strict adherence to quality assurance and environmental standards, in line with project milestones and donor expectations.

Allan Lilia, Permanent Secretary of MID, said the improvement of Noro Road reflects our dedication to enhancing infrastructure nationwide.

“These upgrades not only improve connectivity for local communities by making roads more climate-resilient and safer but also foster economic growth and regional development.

“I applaud all stakeholders, including our project team, the contractor, and the supervision consultant, for their commitment to delivering quality work,” he said.

In addition to the Noro Roads Improvement, the statement notes that SIRAP2 is also facilitating upgrades at Santa Cruz Airfield, constructing four new bridges in Malaita, enhancing Honiara and Munda Airports, and upgrading Santa Cruz and Suavanao Airfields.

The project also includes investments in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, maintenance of regional airports, rehabilitation of 21 km of East Road between Baratolo and Atori, and sealing of 12 km of North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction.

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BY MORRIS NAFU

Officers from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) took part in a disability inclusive development dialogue that aims to bolster disability mainstreaming within the agriculture sector.

This event marks the culmination of a series of discussions initiated in August 2024, involving various government ministries last week Friday, August 15.

Facilitated by the National Rehabilitation and Disability Division (NRDD) of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) and supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), this dialogue represents the final engagement under the ongoing initiative.

In a press statement, participants from MAL expressed gratitude for the enlightening presentation, which expanded their understanding of disability-inclusive development.

The session highlighted the practical application of the Solomon Islands National Disability Inclusive Development Policy 2023–2031 (SINDID Policy) and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) in their work.

“The Disability Inclusive Development agenda emphasizes that true development entails ensuring access to essential needs and services, while lack of access perpetuates poverty—a reality evident across various ministries.

“The dialogue aims to foster inclusivity in national development by addressing the attitudinal, institutional, environmental, and communication barriers that impede equitable service delivery,” the statement said.

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9th Pacific Water and Wastewater Ministerial Forum highlights role of water and sanitation

BY LORETTA B MANELE

The Ninth Pacific Water and Wastewater Ministerial (PWWM) Forum held in Honiara from August 25-26 highlights the role of water and sanitation in pacific communities.

In their communique or statement, ministers and Ministerial representatives of the 9th PWWM Forum expressed deep gratitude to the Government and people of Solomon Islands for the warm hospitality and excellent arrangements extended to all delegations during their stay in Honiara.

Ministers reaffirm that access to safe and sustainable water and sanitation is fundamental to the wellbeing of people in the Pacific region, to the resilience of communities and to achieve sustainable development.

They strongly expressed that water security and wastewater management are vital to climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, human health, food and energy security, prosperity and the protection of Pacific ecosystems hence call for increased development partner support.

Also raised is the urgent need to bring water and wastewater priorities to a higher level within the regional agenda through strengthened links to Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) processes to ensure sustained political commitment and action.

“Ministers agreed that water is not only an economic issue but a matter of security and a fundamental human right,” said the statement.

In relation, ministers also emphasised the role of PWWM Forum in informing PIF (Pacific Islands Forum) Leaders on water and wastewater priorities, challenges, and needs.

This echoes the ministers further support of the importance of raising water visibility at the highest political levels, including systematic reporting to the PIF Leaders.

As noted in the 9th PWWM Forum statement, ministers recognise the need for all Pacific Island Leaders to champion water security at national, regional, and global levels.

Ministers were also encouraged to work with their Heads of Government to ensure water is prioritised in PIF Leaders’ deliberations, commencing at the PIFLM in Honiara.

Going forward, ministers laid emphasis on commitment, collaboration and championing water issues through the channel of urgent action to advance Water Security and SDG 6 in PIF Leaders processes.

“Ministers reaffirmed shared commitment to working with Pacific communities, CROP organisations, and development partners to ensure safe, reliable, and resilient water and sanitation services.

“Ministers called for stronger commitment of partner support to national and regional frameworks to maximise impact and deliver coordinated support that meets the priorities of Pacific Islands on water security,” said the statement.

Ministers have also agreed for the 2026 PWWM Forum to include regional preparations for the UN Water Conference in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The Pacific Community (SPC) and the Pacific Water and Wastewater Association (PWWA) have been acknowledged by the ministers of the 9th PWWM Forum for their supporting coordination, technical expertise, and regional engagement.

Further noted is that ministers have agreed that the tenth PWWM Forum in 2026 will be held in French Polynesia and request that the Secretariat work closely with members and partners to progress the outcomes of this Forum, and to prepare a comprehensive update for consideration at the next meeting.

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