Solomon Islands

Climate change is severely affecting the low lying islands of Malaita Province in Solomon Islands and inhabitants are looking at resettlement according to Malaita provincial health minister Erickson Otia.

Mr Otia who is also looking after the Environment department said residents of low lying islands are now feeling the pinch of rising sea level.

“Islands such as Lord Howe, Sikaiana, Kwai, Walande, Fanalei, Islands in Areare, Lau Lagoon, Langalanga and even low coasts on the main land are getting affected,” he said.

He said it was upsetting when he observed the rise of sea level and its impacts on inhabitants of these islands.

 Mr Otia said his staff have been going around the affected areas and talked to affected people.

“Most of these people are calling on the Government to help resettle them because sooner or later they will have no more homes.

He said women especially are worried and are actively behind the resettlement idea

Meanwhile, he said the Malaita Provincial government is sending out staff to vulnerable and affected Islands to get more information from people.

He added that logging has been one of the main activities that also have serious impact of people livelihood apart from Climate change.

SOURCE: SOLOMON STAR/PACNEWS

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