Access to Safe Drinking Water Transforms Lives in the Solomon Islands

Strategic Insights -

For decades, residents of the Solomon Islands, like Hellen, a community member from Green Valley, faced a daily struggle to access clean drinking water. Families had to walk long distances to fetch water from streams, impacting their social and economic lives. However, the situation changed in 2022, thanks to a collaborative effort between the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Solomon Water to upgrade the country's water supply infrastructure. This initiative, under the Urban Water Supply and Sanitation sector project, has enabled the connection of over 8,000 families and businesses to a safe and reliable water supply.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Asian Development Bank (ADB) provided a $34 million grant from the Asian Development Fund and a $28 million loan to upgrade the country's water supply infrastructure under the Urban Water Supply and Sanitation sector project.
  • The project aims to improve water supply and access, sanitation services, hygiene awareness, and water conservation, with a focus on strengthening the operational capacity of Solomon Water.
  • Since 2019, the project has enabled Solomon Water to connect over 8,000 families and businesses to the water supply, with more expected to be connected as works progress.
  • Community members, like Stephen Melea, report an improvement in quality of life, with reduced burden on women and children, better hygiene, and increased time for education and other activities.
  • Local businesses, such as Iris Laumae's grocery shop, have also benefited from the improved water supply, allowing them to operate earlier and serve customers more efficiently.

Statistics:

  • 8,000 families and businesses connected to the water supply since 2019.
  • $62 million in total funding provided by the ADB, including a $34 million grant and a $28 million loan.
  • The project aims to improve water supply and access to over 20,000 residents in 10 districts.
  • Solomon Water expects to connect a further 5,000 families and businesses to the water supply in the coming years.
  • The project has a lifespan of five years, with a focus on increasing household access to safe water and improved sanitation.

Sources:

  • Press release by the Asian Development Bank.