The National Unexploded Ordnance (NUXO) Coordinating Office has successfully completed a week-long evaluation and inspection tour across Western and Choiseul Provinces.
According to Mr. Benzily Kasutaba, Director of the UXO Division under the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services, the purpose of the tour was to strengthen provincial commitment to addressing the enduring threat of unexploded ordnance (UXO) contamination and to enhance community safety through improved coordination and awareness.
From 21 to 28 May 2025, a joint delegation comprising representatives from NUXO, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal (RSIPF-EOD) Department, and Halo Trust undertook a series of engagements in Munda, Gizo, and Taro. Activities included strategic meetings, field site visits, and community awareness sessions.
“The tour focused on evaluating current Halo Trust operations, following up on recent UXO reports, and engaging with provincial leadership and local communities to promote coordinated UXO risk mitigation efforts,” Director Kasutaba stated.
Key Highlights of the Tour Included:
• Courtesy Calls and Briefings: The NUXO delegation held meetings with the Premier of Choiseul Province and members of the executive government. During these meetings, a briefing paper on UXO issues was presented, underscoring the urgency for a coordinated provincial response. The Premier expressed strong support and called for enhanced collaboration on UXO clearance and risk education.
• Community and School Awareness Programs: Awareness sessions were conducted at Goldie College in Western Province, aimed at educating students and staff about UXO threats and safety precautions. These sessions encouraged the sharing of knowledge across households and communities.
• Project Engagement and Support: The team visited the Choiseul Bay Township Project, identifying UXO clearance as a priority for new development areas. Halo Trust collected historical clearance reports and site maps to support upcoming non-technical survey activities.
• Risk Assessment and Recommendations: The delegation identified areas of high risk associated with both air-dropped and land service munitions. It was recommended that comprehensive UXO awareness briefings be provided to all personnel prior to the commencement of engineering works, along with the immediate implementation of risk mitigation protocols upon the discovery of UXO.
Director Kasutaba noted that despite adverse weather conditions which limited access to some locations, the tour successfully met its objectives of evaluation, awareness-raising, and stakeholder engagement.
The delegation emphasized the critical need for sustained dialogue and regular information-sharing between national and provincial stakeholders to ensure the effective management of UXO risks.
NUXO extends its sincere appreciation to the provincial governments of Western and Choiseul, Halo Trust, the RSIPF-EOD Department, and all community members who contributed to the success of this mission. Their partnership and commitment are vital to building a safer Solomon Islands.
Ends///
-MPNSCS Press
