BY NED GAGAHE
UNICEF, in partnership with the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) and Makira Ulawa Provincial Government, successfully concluded the fourth in a series of capacity-building workshops aimed at strengthening governance and improving the delivery of essential social services across nine provinces in Solomon Islands.
Held in Kirakira from July 1-9 with funding support from the European Union, the workshop brought together provincial officials, Ward Development Chairpersons (WDCs), Ward Support officers and representatives from civil society and non-governmental organisations.
The initiative builds on previous workshops held in Malaita, Isabel and Central provinces, and will continue to roll out across all nine provinces.
The workshop focused on strengthening the knowledge and technical capacity of government and ward-level staff to plan and budget for effective delivery of health, education, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services.
Participants gained valuable insights into the use of data for evidence-based planning and were equipped with practical tools to support inclusive, responsive, and accountable governance at the local level.
“This workshop is a crucial step forward in our shared commitment to improving the wellbeing of our communities, especially our children,” said Peter Trena, Provincial Secretary for Makira Ulawa Provincial Government.
“It is the first of its kind for our province, and we are grateful to UNICEF for this opportunity to build our capacity to better serve our people,” he added.
The workshop emphasized the importance of coordination between provincial and ward-level institutions to improve service delivery outcomes.
Participants also reflected on the current state of health, education, and WASH sectors in Makira Ulawa Province, and explored ways to enhance inter-agency collaboration and data-driven planning.
This initiative forms part of the Provincial Governance and Service Delivery Project jointly implemented by UNICEF through the European Union-funded programme.
It supports the Solomon Islands Government’s long-term vision outlined in the National Development Strategy 2016–2035, which promotes good governance, inclusive development, and access to quality basic services for all.
UNICEF remains committed to working with national and provincial governments to ensure every child in Solomon Islands has access to health care, quality education, and safe water and sanitation.
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