BY NED GAGAHE
A successful two-day Landfill Improvement Training was held in Gizo, Western Province, from October 22–23, 2025, bringing together 26 participants from national and provincial town councils across the country.
The training was jointly organised by the J-PRISM 3 Project, the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM), and the Western Provincial Government, in collaboration with the Gizo Town Council, Auki Town Council, Tulagi Town Council, Honiara City Council, Noro Town Council, and Munda Town Council.
According to a statement from JICA, participants were trained in both theory and practical skills on landfill improvement and management.
Key topics included the Semi-Aerobic Landfill (Fukuoka Method), compactor operation and maintenance, and data collection using the KoBo Toolbox.
The sessions were facilitated by Mr. Joe Kelesi, J-PRISM 3 Country Activity Team Coordinator, who guided participants through on-site demonstrations to help them apply new techniques in real-world scenarios.
Mr. Kelesi said the training aims to strengthen the technical capacity of landfill operators and to improve waste management practices across the country.
“This training helps our operators gain the confidence and skills they need to manage waste effectively and reduce environmental pollution,” he said.
The program also reinforced collaboration between the national government and provincial authorities, promoting shared learning, sustainability, and stronger local ownership of waste management initiatives.
JICA said this is the first training of its kind under the J-PRISM 3 Project in the Solomon Islands and it marks an important step forward to improve landfill management and final disposal sites nationwide.
Through such partnerships, Solomon Islands continues to move towards building cleaner, safer, and more sustainable communities for all.
Photo: JICA
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