It is my great pleasure, on behalf of the Pacific Water and Wastewater Association (PWWA), to welcome you to the 16th Pacific Water Conference & EXPO and 9th Pacific Water Ministerial Forum, taking place in the beautiful Solomon Islands from 25-29 August 2025.

This year, we will gather under the theme:

"Water and Wastewater for All: Connecting People, Policies, and Communities for a Sustainable Future."

Water security remains one of the most pressing challenges for our Pacific communities. With the increasing impacts of climate change, rapid urbanization, and resource constraints, it is more critical than ever to strengthen our collaboration, share innovative solutions, and drive meaningful policies to ensure safe and sustainable water and wastewater services for all.

This conference provides an invaluable platform for Ministers, utility leaders, water professionals, industry experts, and development partners to engage in insightful discussions, exchange best practices, and explore new technologies tailored to the unique needs of our region. The Ministerial Forum will foster high-level policy dialogue, while the Young Water Professionals Program will continue to nurture and empower the next generation of water leaders in the Pacific.

As we convene in the Solomon Islands, I encourage you all to take full advantage of the sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities that this conference offers. Let us work together to create resilient water solutions that will serve our communities now and for generations to come.

A heartfelt thank you to our host, the Government of the Solomon Islands, and all our partners, sponsors, and participants who have made this event possible.

We look forward to a productive and inspiring conference!

Vinaka vakalevu, fa’afetai tele lava, and thank you!

Pitolau Lusia Sefo-Leau (CEO – PWWA)