BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The two-day UNICEF Solomon Islands and Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) Media Workshop wrapped up yesterday.
The workshop aims to strengthen collaboration between the media and stakeholders, ensuring that communities’ voices and experiences are amplified in the national conversation on clean water and sanitation.
The day two-day workshop brought together journalists from SIBC, Tavuli, Solomon Star, Island Sun, In-Depth Solomon, ZFM, Isles Media, Non-Government organisation with the likes of Live & Learn and ADRA.
The even which commenced on Wednesday with opening remarks from Ben Grubb, UNICEF Pacific Chief of SI Field Office, followed by overview of sanitation landscape in Solomon Islands Q& A session, plenary discussion, ethical consideration reporting and impactful story telling for behavioural change and a group activity.
The two days event then ended with a field trip yesterday that brought together journalists, UNICEF staff and WASH officers, NGOs, and government representatives.
The closing program took participants to three communities and Ghaobata School in North Guadalcanal constituency, where residents are now benefiting from improved Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities facilitated with the support of UNICEF together with other partners.
Some of the communities showcased projects that are nearly complete, with progress reported at 99 percent completion.
Journalists were given firsthand exposure to the impact of WASH initiatives, highlighting how access to safe water and sanitation is transforming schools and villages in that particular area.
UNICEF, NGOs and Government representatives yesterday, emphasised that partnership with the local media is crucial to raise awareness, promote accountability, and encourage community participation in sustaining WASH projects.
Photo credit: John Houanihau
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