LocationsReflections from the Weathercoast: Bridging Gaps in Community Engagement
December 17, 2024
Daddley Lyn Meloma, PGSD, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer addressing participants at beginning of the workshop.
Author:
Daddley Lyn Meloma
PGSD Project Monitoring & Evaluation Officer
UNDP Solomon Islands
Email: daddley.lyn.meloma@undp.org
As a Monitoring and Evaluation Officer for the Provincial Governance and Service Delivery (PGSD) Project, funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP in Solomon Islands, my role often takes me to various corners of my country. I feel fortunate to serve for the development of my nation, supporting the decentralization process and working closely with the provincial governments to improve the service delivery at provincial level which is unfortunately very weak in the Solomon Islands.
Since the project operates in all nine provinces, I frequently travel for site verification visits, data collection for monitoring purposes, and to help provincial government officers enhance their capacity in monitoring and evaluation practices. This ensures they better understand the data and information required by the project.
My work revolves around facts and figures. While this might sound boring, it is balanced by the opportunity to travel and witness firsthand the outcomes of our project and how they benefit the people of my country or wantoks as we affectionately say in Pidgin, our national common language.
Each location tells its own story, with communities offering unique insights into their aspirations and challenges. My recent mission to Kuma Community in the Vatukulau Ward of the Weathercoast of Guadalcanal, to work with the Ward Development Committee (WDC) , was unlike any I had previously experienced. It highlighted the importance of this first-of-its-kind initiative to involve the community in a participatory planning process.
Having conducted similar workshops in Russell Islands and Tulagi in Central Province, Gizo in Western Province, and Taro in Choiseul Province, I couldn’t help but draw comparisons. These previous locations, while facing their own challenges, displayed an inspiring level of community engagement and organization. People showed genuine interest, participating proactively and enthusiastically. Despite similar socio-economic contexts, these communities benefited from better communication networks, accessible transport, and generally favorable weather conditions—factors that seemed to contribute significantly to their engagement and commitment.
The Weathercoast, however, painted a stark contrast. The isolation of this region is palpable. Extreme weather conditions throughout the year, turbulent seas and the lack of reliable phone signals or internet access make travel and communication a logistical challenge. This physical disconnection seems to result in a more subdued community dynamic. The lack of proactive involvement, coupled with an apparent lassitude among community members, was disheartening especially in a country renowned for its hospitality.
Our workshop, held at Kuma Community High School, aimed to enhance the understanding of participatory planning processes among WDC members and the local community members. While the participants were courteous and hospitable, the energy and commitment I’ve seen in other regions were notably lower. Engagement levels were modest, and only a few voices contributed meaningfully to the discussions. The challenges of daily life and the region’s isolation clearly take a toll on the community’s drive to shape their future.
A moment of the group discussion during the workshop.
The hospitality, though well meaning, reflected the region’s struggles. Accommodation was basic, and while comfort was limited, the effort to welcome us was clear. Meals were simple, and although the Solomon Islands are known for their fresh fish, we were offered canned tuna, likely due to the region's isolation and resource constraints. Fresh fruits and vegetables were also scarce. This was a poignant reminder of the disparities between this area and other parts of the Solomon Islands, where communities often have more resources to share.
Despite these challenges, there are glimmers of hope. The workshop organized by the project, symbolizes a tangible step toward engaging the community and addressing local needs. It’s a starting point—a small but significant initiative that I hope sparks a renewed sense of connection, engagement, and collective effort within the community.
Reflecting on this experience, it’s clear that bridging the gap in engagement requires a multi-faceted approach. Contextualizing strategies to the realities faced by the Vatukulau Ward is crucial.
First, improving communication and transport infrastructure is paramount. Without reliable access to the outside world, isolation will continue to hinder the community’s ability to connect, organize, and mobilize.
Second, tailored capacity-building initiatives must be prioritized to empower the WDC and local leaders. Training programs focused on inclusivity, participatory planning, and accountability can ignite a sense of ownership and responsibility, making the community more proactive.
Finally, fostering relationships with the community through sustained interaction and follow-up is critical. Trust is built over time, and consistent efforts can help overcome the inertia born of years of neglect, self-reliance and isolation.
As I left the Weathercoast, I carried with me a mix of emotions. The challenges here are immense, but so is the potential. This mission has reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of inclusive governance and community participation. With continued efforts and support, I am confident that even the most isolated communities in Solomon Islands can be empowered to shape their own destinies and thrive a bit more. The journey ahead is long, but every stride—even on rough seas—brings us closer to the goal of equitable and sustainable development for all.
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