BY CHRIS ALEX

A student of Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has raised concerns on increasing logging in Makira-Ulawa province.

Jack Waito, who hails from East Makira, highlights the devastating environmental, cultural, and social costs of unchecked logging in the region.

According to Global Forest Watch, Solomon Islands lost over 688,000 hectares of tree cover between 2001 and 2020, with a significant portion of that deforestation on Makira.

At the current rate, experts warn that the province’s accessible forests could be entirely depleted within the next decade.

“This is not just about trees,” Waito said.

“Logging affects everything — our rivers become polluted, our gardens erode and sacred sites are destroyed. Our children grow up disconnected from the forest and its clean streams.”

Waito also criticised the fleeting benefits logging brings, pointing out that the monetary gains are minimal and short-lived.

“What do we really get in return? A few dollars, roads that break within two years and temporary jobs that vanish once the trees are gone. Meanwhile, the companies leave, abandoning our land in ruin.”

For Waito, the threat extends beyond the environment to the very identity of the Makiran people.

“Makira is rich in culture, language and biodiversity. We are caretakers of something unique. Trading that away for quick cash risks losing who we are.”

He stressed the importance of preserving forests, rivers and soils for future generations.

“Our children deserve to inherit a land full of birds, clean rivers with fish and fertile soil to grow their food.”

Urging unity across communities, Waito calls on chiefs, youth, church leaders, women, students and all Makirans to stand firm against logging expansion.

“Enough is enough. We must stop secretive deals and speak up in our villages to protect the mountains, valleys and rivers that sustain us. Like our grandparents before us, we must defend our land with pride, strength, and unity.”

“Makira is not for sale. We are not weak or voiceless,” Waito said.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]