The Most Rev. Leonard Dawea, Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACoM) handed over two 5,000 liters of Rota tanks to our small Anglican Community in Bellona yesterday afternoon.
A joyous Chairlady of the All Hallows community in Bellona, Mrs. Hellen Haikiu received the donation on behalf of the community.
The tanks were funded by the Anglicans in Development (AID) project through the Anglican Church of Melanesia Board of Mission.
Archbishop Leonard in his short remarks at the handing over said, the project aims to address the ongoing water scarcity challenges that “our small Anglican Community and nearby community face.”
Chairlady Hellen Haikiu, speaking after the handover, expressed her deep gratitude for the much-needed water tanks, which she believes will greatly alleviate the water difficulties the community faces.
“Right now, we rely heavily on rainwater for drinking, cooking, and washing. At times, we are forced to go to other family members to fetch water from their tanks. These new tanks will be a huge relief,” Chairlady Haikiu said, visibly relieved at the development.
Archbishop Leonard in his address during the ceremony, emphasized the significance of the water tanks in tackling the effects of climate change and ensuring access to safe water.
He thanked Anglicans in Development (AID) for their crucial support through the Climate Change and Disaster Preparedness Project, which made the initiative possible.
“It is with great joy and gratitude that I stand before you today,” said the Archbishop, addressing those who gathered to witness the handing over. “The provision of these water tanks is a testament to our shared commitment to respond to the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in the water sector.”
He acknowledged the long distances and hardships faced by the community, particularly women and children, who often have to walk far to access safe drinking water. The Archbishop highlighted that the tanks would not only meet the immediate needs of the community but also serve future generations.
“This gift is not just about providing water for today, but about ensuring that your children, and their children, will have access to this vital resource,” he said. “I urge you to care for these tanks diligently, for they are not just a gift but a responsibility.”
The Archbishop also expressed his thanks to AID and the ACoM Climate Change and Disaster Preparedness Project for their generous support, acknowledging the collaboration of Project Coordinator Casper Supa, who was also present during the handover.
With the support of AID and ACoM, the community is hopeful that these water tanks will offer long-term solutions to their water needs and improve overall living conditions.
The event marked a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to bring sustainable and practical solutions to communities affected by climate change in the Solomon Islands.
