By John Houanihau

Simon John, Field Supervisor of the Honiara City Council (HCC) Waste Management and Control Division, has urged residents living near the Mataniko River to take responsibility for preserving and caring for the river.

Speaking to Island Sun, John highlighted the growing challenges posed by increasing waste in the Mataniko River.

“In the past, this river was cherished by our parents, who appreciated its pristine condition. However, due to population growth and other factors, the river has deteriorated and is now heavily polluted,” he said.

John called on the public, government ministries, volunteer organizations, community youth, and NGOs to support efforts to restore the river.

“We urge everyone to join us in this call. Maintaining the cleanliness of our city is a collective responsibility,” he said.

John emphasized that the HCC alone cannot ensure a clean city and that residents must take an active role in keeping Honiara clean.

“It is not solely the duty of HCC employees; rather, it is the obligation of all Honiara residents. The beauty of our city is a shared concern,” he added.

He also appealed to residents living along the riverbanks to properly manage household waste and make use of the waste collection services provided by the HCC.

“Waste collection vehicles regularly service our neighborhoods, transporting garbage to the designated disposal site at the Ranadi dump. Let us, as residents of this city, take pride in our environment.

“The condition of our city reflects our actions and attitudes towards it. If there are opportunities for public clean-up campaigns, I encourage everyone to participate wholeheartedly and contribute to the beautification of our community,” he concluded.