Communities in Huhu Local Level Government (LLG) in Alotau District have raised concerns over environmental issues affecting their main water source along Gibara Creek to Gelekiwiwi and out to Huhu Bay.
The concerns are centered on water availability and quality, with community members from Gibara and Kilakilana reporting heavy siltation and changes to their primary water source.
Gibara landowner and Hy-Fen Limited Consulting Director Elphis Auboti said the community is experiencing disruptions to its water supply.
“The Gibara and Kilakilana community continues to experience disruptions to our primary water source.
We are seeing heavy siltation and changes to the local watershed, which has affected water availability for our people,” she said.
In August, the Milne Bay Provincial Health Authority (MBPHA) carried out an independent investigation into water and public health concerns in the area.
MBPHA Acting Director for Public Health, Berthsheeba Isei, said the inspection was conducted to assess community concerns linked to the water source.
“Gibara has a population of 489, with 48.7 percent reported to be affected by a compromised water source.
This investigation was to look into concerns raised, including reports of an increase in patients seeking medical care for ulcers, skin diseases and other health-related concerns,” Ms Isei said.
Ms Isei said this presents an environmental and public health concern, particularly for communities that depend on these water sources for domestic use.
