BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
PROVINCIAL Member for Ward 12 in Western Province, Jenty Isaac, praises communities that have achieved the No Open Defecation (NOD) status, describing the milestone as a significant step towards improving public health and community wellbeing.
Speaking during the NOD declaration ceremony at Ilitona and Pine communities in Ward 12 this week, Isaac said proper sanitation plays a vital role in preventing diseases, promoting health, and enhancing the overall quality of life.
He said poor sanitation has contributed to the spread of preventable diseases such as diarrhea, which has affected many people—especially children—in rural areas.
“One of the most effective ways to protect our children is through the elimination of open defecation,” Isaac said.
Isaac congratulated the people of Ilitona and Pine for their dedication and teamwork in achieving NOD status. He also acknowledged donor partners and implementing agencies for their continued support.
“I would like to thank the Australian Government through DFAT for providing the necessary funding, and our partners—UNICEF, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, the Western Provincial Health Authority, and ADRA—for implementing this important project,” he said.
Isaac reaffirms that the current Western Provincial Government is committed to supporting policies and plans that strengthen health, water, and sanitation systems to improve the livelihood of communities across the province.
He said the provincial policy framework aligns with the national agenda to promote clean and healthy villages, emphasizing the importance of maintaining sanitation standards.
Isaac further assured that Ward 12 will continue to work closely with the Provincial Health Authority, Ministry of Health, and donor partners to extend the NOD program to more communities.
He urges residents, particularly those in NOD-certified communities, to take responsibility for maintaining their sanitation facilities.
“These facilities were funded through taxpayers’ money, and it is our duty to look after them. Caring for these facilities is part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a clean environment,” Isaac said.
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