After months of diligent negotiations, Solomon Water has made significant milestone in the Noro Water Supply Upgrade Project by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the landowners of the Ziata source, marking a critical step forward in securing the water supply for Noro. 

The signing was done on Tuesday 29 October 2024.

This MOU is the result of a series of meetings and negotiations spanning several months, allowing for much-needed rehabilitation and upgrade of the water supply system, benefiting the community with improved water quality and security.

The signing took place at the Honiara Hotel. Representatives from the three tribal groups; Biku, Talasasa and Zinihite signed the MOU along with Carmine Piantedosi; Solomon Water CEO and Dr. Culwick Togamana; Chairman of the Solomon Water Board. 

Present at the signing was Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification, Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey and reps from the Prime Ministers Office.

In his remarks, Dr. Christopher Vehe, PS for Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification said; “This MOU signing marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between water resource custodians which is you and us; we cannot be successful if we don’t have proper models in place that take into account the interest of land-owners and non-landowners alike.” 

He urged Solomon Water and the government to continue drive sustainable partnership with our people. 

He also emphasized that we need to strengthen this unification that was portrayed in the MOU signing for development.

Partnership with Ziata Landowners

The Ziata source serves as a key water source for Noro, and cooperation with the landowners is crucial to the project’s success. The Biku, Talasasa, and Zinihite tribal groups have long been custodians of this source, and their active participation in the MOU discussions demonstrates their commitment to securing a sustainable water future for the region. This inclusive approach ensures that the interests of all stakeholders are respected, and it underscores Solomon Water’s commitment to working collaboratively with local communities.

Project Overview

The Noro Water Supply Upgrade Project is part of Solomon Water’s Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Sector Project (UWSSSP), a vital initiative aimed at addressing critical water quality and supply issues in the growing town of Noro. 

The existing facilities are outdated, and the upgrade project will provide a modern water treatment plant (WTP), ensuring the community has access to safe, reliable drinking water.

The scope of the project includes the complete demolition of existing structures and the design, construction, and installation of a fully operational water intake system, treatment plant, and reservoir. Key components of the upgrade are:

• Sump and pumping system with water hammer protection
• Backwash water storage and pumps
• Chlorination system and sludge treatment pond
• Electricity, SCADA, PLC, and communication with the reservoir
• Office space for operators and associated site improvements, including fencing and access
• Demolition of redundant facilities and refurbishment of the intake and reservoir

These upgrades will transform the water supply infrastructure, ensuring it meets modern standards and can support Noro and surrounding community’s growing demand for clean water.

Looking Ahead

The signing of the MOU signals the start of construction activities, which will soon commence at the water treatment plant site. The project is expected to take several months to complete, with careful planning to minimize disruption to the public and the environment. 

By upgrading the water intake, treatment plant, and reservoir, Solomon Water is investing in the long-term resilience of Noro’s water supply, ensuring the town is well-prepared for future growth.

This project marks a pivotal moment in Solomon Water’s broader efforts to upgrade and modernize water infrastructure across the country. The successful collaboration with the Ziata landowners highlights the importance of community involvement in delivering sustainable, high-quality water services to all.

Solomon Water will provide further updates as construction commences.