BY CHRIS ALEX

Mayor Eddie Siapu has called on people and authorities to work together to address urban challenges facing Honiara city.

Siapu praised this year’s national theme, “Unity and Stability for Transformation and Prosperity,” calling it a powerful call to action.

“It challenges us all in relationships, in leadership, in communities and as citizens to reflect on how far we’ve come, to evaluate the direction we’re heading and to strengthen our commitment to a future defined by inclusiveness, resilience, and sustainable progress,” he stated.

Shifting focus to Honiara’s challenges, Mayor Siapu described the capital as “the beating heart of the Solomon Islands” and a city full of hope and opportunity, but acknowledged it faces serious pressures.

One pressing concern raised was the lack of urban land, particularly for cemetery use.

“If we do not act swiftly and strategically, we risk turning parts of our city into unmanaged burial spaces. This is not sustainable,” Siapu warned.

He called on the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey, as well as other relevant agencies, to fast-track urban land planning to ensure that “both the living and the dead are treated with dignity”.

Another major issue spotlighted was waste management, specifically the deteriorating condition of the Ranadi dump site.

“The current state of the Ranadi dump site is not only unacceptable, it is a growing threat to public health and the environment. Waste volumes are rising daily, and we must adopt modern, sustainable waste disposal systems,” he said.

Siapu urged all stakeholders, including the central government, development partners and private sector waste management experts to collaborate with Honiara City Council on finding environmentally responsible solutions.

The mayor reinforced the importance of unity, not only in spirit but in action.

“We need to work together across all sectors to build a capital city that reflects the values, hopes and ambitions of our nation,” he concluded.

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