Ranadi Dumpsite Kids: Why are HCC and Health Authorities Allowing this situation to happen?
A video from a social media creator in Honiara has brought hope to humanity but also sadness. “Kidd Tha Rock” the social media creator decided to celebrate his birthday by sharing a birthday cake with children at the Ranadi dumpsite in east Honiara. A great gesture that everyone appreciates and thanks him for. This gesture has indirectly brought the spotlight on an issue that needs attention immediately.
The video started smoothly, as a guest on the video “Solo Bwoy” another social media creator joined him on his birthday plan. You would think that they were going to a residential area for workers near the dumpsite, however, things went from happiness to a reality check for many viewers as they pulled up at the actual dumpsite filled with flies. A place you would never want to bring any children to.
A baby carried by a man near a makeshift house. Photo: Kidd Tha Rock’s Video
Many scenes in the video were sad but the particular one above is heartbreaking, sad and raises questions regarding the authorities in Honiara.
Children and babies living or spending long hours on a dumpsite face severe health and safety risks that can have lifelong consequences. Exposure to hazardous waste, toxic chemicals, and sharp objects can lead to injuries, respiratory problems, skin infections, and even poisoning.
The unsanitary conditions increase the risk of contracting diseases, such as diarrhea and infections, which are particularly dangerous for young children with developing immune systems.
Additionally, the lack of proper nutrition and clean water in such environments can stunt physical and cognitive development. Beyond physical health, the harsh and unsafe conditions can also cause emotional and psychological trauma, depriving these children of a safe and nurturing environment critical for their growth and well-being.
Kids waiting to share the cake. Photo: Kidd Tha Rock’s Video
The allowance of children to live, work, or stay at dumpsites by the Honiara City Council and health authorities is deeply concerning and reflects a severe lapse in governance and public health responsibility.
These environments are inherently dangerous, and disease-causing agents that can severely harm children’s health and development. By permitting this, authorities are failing to protect the most vulnerable members of society from life-threatening conditions, exposing them to the risk of injury, illness, and even death. The presence of children in such hazardous areas also underscores a broader issue of neglect, where the rights and well-being of these young individuals are overlooked in favor of convenience or a lack of proper intervention.
Photo: Kidd Tha Rock’s Video
Furthermore, allowing children to inhabit or work in these environments perpetuates a cycle of poverty and deprivation. Instead of being in school or a safe home environment, these children are forced into dangerous situations that stunt their physical, mental, and educational development.
The failure of authorities to intervene not only endangers the immediate health of these children but also limits their future opportunities, trapping them in a cycle of poverty and vulnerability. The Honiara City Council and health authorities must take immediate action to relocate these children to safer environments and provide them with the necessary resources for a healthier and more hopeful future.
You can watch Kidd Tha Rock’s Video here:
https://fb.watch/ubatNlK01Y/
