China donates SBD 200,000 to support Pacific Water Forum in Honiara, advancing regional water security talks.

The People’s Republic of China has contributed SBD 200,000 to support the upcoming 9th Pacific Water and Wastewater Ministers (PWWM) Forum and the 16th Pacific Water and Wastewater Association (PWWA) Conference and Expo (PWWC25), to be held in Honiara from 25–29 August.

The funding was officially received by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification, Dr. Chris Vehe, who acknowledged the support and said it would assist in delivering a successful event.

“This contribution will greatly assist in hosting a successful forum, enabling us to strengthen water and wastewater services across the Pacific and share knowledge, experiences, and solutions for a sustainable future,” Dr. Vehe said.

Established in 2015, the PWWM Forum has become a regional platform for policy dialogue on water security, which is regarded as central to public health, economic development, and climate resilience.

The 2025 event, to be hosted at the National Aquatic Centre, carries the theme “Water and Wastewater Service for All: Connecting People, Policies and Communities for a Shared Sustainable Future.” It will bring together ministers, utility professionals, policymakers, researchers, young professionals, and development partners from across the Pacific.

According to organisers, the forum aims to elevate the Pacific voice on water security, and to advance sustainable financing and capacity building for water-related services. Ministers will meet for one and a half days to deliberate on challenges and opportunities in the sector.

The Solomon Islands Government, together with the Solomon Islands Water Authority, the PWWA Secretariat, and the Pacific Community (SPC), is coordinating preparations. Last year, the forum was hosted in Rarotonga, Cook Islands.

Delegates and stakeholders are expected to arrive in Honiara this weekend ahead of the week-long programme.

Source: MMERE