Solomon Islands Government and World Vision Solomon Islands hosted a side event in COP29 titled “Hunger and Climate Change: a Challenge to Child Well Being” in Moana Blue Pacific Pavilion on Tuesday, 19 November 2024.
Taking place on Food, Agriculture and Water Day at COP29, the panel discussion is aimed to raise awareness of the impacts of climate change on child hunger in Solomon Islands and share solutions to build resilience and adaptation to the challenges.
Climate change has a devastating, compounding impact on hunger and malnutrition, and this impact is seen most visibly in the lives of vulnerable children. According to UNICEF, 1 in 6 children under 5 years of age in the Pacific region, are experiencing severe child food poverty. This is compounded by the impacts of Climate Change; Pacific SIDS including Solomon Islands are one of the lowest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions but are paying the greatest price. Solomon Islands is dealing with the existential threat posed by climate change including the impacts on the right to food.
World Vision, in conjunction with communities and government partners in Solomon Islands, has spoken to almost 100 children on the impacts on climate on their food security. Their responses were unequivocal climate change is having a negative impact on children and their communities access to food.
The panel discussion consists of PS Susan Sulu of the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, Irene Marbun of the WV Solomon Islands Operations Manager and Alan O’Brien Deputy Director of Climate Unit, Irish Aid/Department of Foreign Affairs Ireland.
During the panel discussion, PS Susan Sulu underscored the critical need for substantive action on emission reductions to maintain the target of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. She articulated the important nexus between climate and ocean as well as the significance of the ocean in addressing food security and the deep cultural and emotional significance of the ocean to Solomon Islanders. Ms Sulu shared the poignant response of a group of young boys from Sikaiana, an outer island in Malaita province, regarding the effects of climate change on their communities, yet a resolute determination to remain on their island rather than relocate because they do not want to disconnect with their oceanic way of life.
In a similar vein, Alan O’Brien emphasized the collective responsibility of being global custodians of the ocean, highlighting the necessity of its protection. He also affirmed Ireland’s commitment to support Small Island Developing States (SIDS), including the Solomon Islands. Furthermore, Irene Marbun stressed the importance of amplifying children’s voices, noting that they are essential stakeholders in shaping a sustainable future.
In conclusion, collaborating effectively to combat child hunger is essential. This partnership plays a critical role in addressing the challenges posed by climate change, as it enables shared resources, innovative strategies, and a more comprehensive approach to ensure resilience and sustainability in our communities.
PRESS RELEASE
Hunger and Climate Change: A Challenge to Child Well-Being
