Temotu Provincial Government Achieves first milestones of Service Delivery under PGSD sector grants funded by European Union
The Temotu Provincial Government (TPG), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and funding from the European Union, has made significant progress in addressing critical water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) challenges under the partnership of the Temotu Provincial Government and UNDP’s Provincial Governance and Service Delivery Project.
This initiative, integrated within the Provincial Three-Year Rolling Plan, highlights the importance of participatory planning and effective implementation to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting governance and service delivery for more sustainable communities around Solomon Islands.
The project offers its first notable improvements in WASH infrastructure with the successful implementation of seven projects across schools and health centers.
These include the Venga, Maina, Fenualoa, and Gawa Schools Water Supply Projects, where 5,000L and 10,000L water tanks were installed, as well as the Mamineo School Sanitation Project, which delivered upgraded facilities. The Nemba/Manoputi and Taipe Health Center Water Projects have ensured functioning water supply systems.
The initiative directly benefits 539 individuals, including 21 men, 21 women, 121 boys, and 376 girls. These advancements will enhance access to safe drinking water and promote better hygiene practices, particularly among school children and staff and healthcare patients and workers.
The project accounts for 31% of the Provincial Capital Expenditure budget for 2024/2025, underscoring a significant contribution to the education and health sectors.
“The Temotu Provincial Government greatly appreciates UNDP’s unwavering support in enhancing service delivery in the social sector. The provision of WASH facilities not only addresses immediate community needs but also contributes to long-term sustainable development,” said X X, Provincial Secretary.
“Access to clean water has been a game-changer for our school. Students now stay in class longer and concentrate better, knowing they have access to safe drinking water,” said X X, Principal of Venga School.
“As a mother, I feel reassured knowing that the health center now has reliable water access. This will ensure better hygiene practices and safer care for our families,” commented XX XX, mother of a student from Nemba School.
“Despite tight timelines and logistical challenges, the success of these projects underscores the importance of effective collaboration and coordination. We look forward to continuing this partnership to address future needs,” stated Mozammel Haque, UNDP Project Manager for Local Governance.
Time constraints were a significant challenge indeed, with the six-week implementation period proving insufficient time for implementation given the geographical remoteness of the province and delays in shipping schedules.
Future projects will require more realistic timelines to ensure smooth execution. Logistical challenges, such as irregular shipping schedules, caused delays in the delivery of materials, highlighting the need for better coordination with shipping providers and earlier procurement planning showing also the reality of the service provision to remote areas of Solomon Islands.
Additionally, detailed project designs and Bills of Quantities (BOQs) should be prepared in advance to streamline implementation and budgeting processes.
TPG is committed to sustaining the achievements of the WASH projects through continuous community engagement, capacity building, and effective monitoring. The establishment of Community Monitoring Groups (CMGs) will play a vital role in ensuring the longevity of the infrastructure.
Looking ahead, TPG, with the support of UNDP and European Union, plans to implement a second phase of activities in 2025. This phase will focus on expanding WASH facilities to additional schools and health centers but also improving education services, reinforcing Temotu’s commitment to achieving local populations’ quality of lives and improving the services they receive from the local government.
The partnership between TPG, UNDP, and the European Union demonstrates the power of collaboration in addressing critical development challenges. Temotu Province looks forward to building on this momentum, ensuring that every resident has access to essential services and infrastructure for a healthier and more sustainable future.
Ends// With Photos
AHC
