#Solomon Islands #HALO Trust #WWII Explosives #Honiara

The Ongoing Threat of Unexplored Ordnance in the Solomon Islands

As the world reflects on the past 80 years since World War II ended, the Solomon Islands remains haunted by a perilous reminder of the conflict's legacy: unexploded ordnance (UXO). This island nation, particularly known for the infamous Battle of Guadalcanal, continues to grapple with the remnants of war that pose substantial dangers to its populace, especially vulnerable communities.

A Deadly Legacy

The presence of thousands of unexploded and abandoned munitions across the numerous islands in the Solomon Islands presents an ever-present hazard affecting lives, livelihoods, and overall development. Emily Davis, the Programme Manager of The HALO Trust in the region, articulated the grim reality: "The UXO threat in Solomon Islands is not just a historical issue – it's a daily danger." Everyday activities are disrupted, with children often stumbling upon grenades while playing in their backyards. Today’s practices even involve impoverished communities scavenging explosives for their fishing activities, reflecting a tragic intertwining of necessity and danger.

The precise scope of the contamination remains largely undocumented, complicating relief and safety efforts. According to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal Department (RSIPF EODD), over 50,000 explosive items have been rendered safe since 2011. However, this number represents only a fraction of what remains. Indeed, a recent audit by The HALO Trust underscored that a staggering 80% of the recovered ordnance originated from the United States, with Japanese sources accounting for 17%, and other nations for the remaining 3%.

Recent Incidents Highlight the Scale of the Problem

A telling example of the UXO threat emerged in 2023 during the preparations for the Pacific Games in Honiara. Building contractors on a 15-acre site unearthed over 8,000 explosive items, pointing to the extensive contamination throughout the city. Honiara, home to nearly 100,000 residents, sits atop the grounds of the Guadalcanal battleground and serves as a stark reminder of the perils concealed beneath the surface.

Collaborative Efforts Towards Resolution

In response to the ongoing crisis, The HALO Trust has made significant strides, thanks to the support of the United States Government and generous contributions from the American public. Collaborating with various local authorities, including the Ministry of Police, National Security, and the RSIPF EODD, HALO is employing battlefield records to pinpoint hazardous zones. This initiative is particularly critical in informal settlements like Mbokona, where children have been spotted playing with WWII-era grenades discarded near their homes.

In addition to clearance operations, The HALO Trust has launched an Explosive Ordnance Risk Education campaign aimed at enhancing public safety. This initiative includes the distribution of educational materials such as leaflets, posters, and educational resources for schools. These materials advise the public about safety precautions with messages like “don’t build fires,” addressing common activities that could trigger dangerous incidents.

Moving Forward

The hazardous materials from decades ago continue to complicate the lives of many in the Solomon Islands, posing a relentless threat. Continued awareness and education to prevent accidents is crucial as efforts to remove these munitions proceed. The urgent call to action highlights both the importance and challenge of addressing this legacy left over from World War II. The future safety of the residents depends not just on the clearing operations but also on educating the community about the risks that persist.

Efficiency and safety in tackling these challenges must remain high on the agenda, fostering a safer future for generations to come in the Solomon Islands.