SIG Strengthens National Response to UXO Challenge

The Government of Solomon Islands reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the serious and ongoing threat posed by Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) during the National UXO Coordination Meeting held yesterday at the Mendana Hotel. Hon. Jimson Tanangada, Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services, delivered the opening remarks underscoring the critical need for coordinated action to tackle this enduring security, safety, and development issue.

More than eighty years after World War II, UXOs continue to contaminate land and sea areas across Solomon Islands, endangering communities, limiting agricultural and economic development, and risking lives. The Minister emphasized that UXO is not only a historical legacy but a present-day threat demanding urgent, sustained government and partner collaboration.

The Government has recently approved the National UXO Policy, establishing a whole-of-government framework to unify ministries, agencies, and partners in a coordinated response. To further operationalize this policy, the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services is setting up a dedicated UXO Division to provide central oversight, coordination, and policy guidance.

Looking ahead, the government is also developing specific UXO legislation to set legal and safety standards for management, clearance, and commercial activities related to UXO, ensuring accountability and public protection.

Minister Tanangada called for innovation, proactive coordination, and collective responsibility among government bodies, donors, international partners, and local communities. He highlighted the importance of today’s meeting to review progress, align priorities, and strengthen partnerships toward implementing a one-year national UXO action plan.

As Solomon Islands chairs the Pacific Islands Forum until September 2026, UXO has gained regional prominence as a critical security issue. This leadership role presents a valuable opportunity to elevate the UXO agenda across the Pacific, mobilizing stronger donor support and shared technical expertise through a regional framework.

The Minister expressed deep gratitude to international partners including the Governments of the United States, Japan, Australia (through the Australian Defence Force), New Zealand, UNDP, The HALO Trust, local UXO companies, and other organizations supporting the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Department. Their ongoing collaboration remains vital for capacity building and safe clearance operations.

In closing, Hon. Tanangada reaffirmed a shared vision to make the Solomon Islands and the Pacific safer and free from UXO threats through coordinated innovation and partnership. “Together, we can turn this long-standing challenge into an opportunity for safer communities and sustainable development,” he said.

-MPNSCS Press