Pacific Water Knowledge Exchange Program Launched to Build Resilience and Capacity

Honiara, Solomon Islands, 28 August 2025: A new regional partnership has been launched to strengthen technical capacity and climate resilience across Pacific water utilities through the Pacific Water Knowledge Exchange Program.

Funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the initiative brings together the Australian Water Association (AWA) and its members, the University of Technology Sydney – Institute for Sustainable Futures, and the Pacific Water and Wastewater Association (PWWA) with its members – Solomon Water (Solomon Islands), Tonga Water Board (Tonga), and the Department of Water Resources (Vanuatu).

The Program is designed to build operational and technical capacity within Pacific water utilities while supporting the sustainable operation and maintenance of ADB-funded infrastructure. It will also enhance climate resilience through the adoption of innovative policies and practices and create stronger avenues for collaboration and knowledge sharing between partners. With active ADB water investments in Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu, the initiative responds to clear operational needs while also presenting an opportunity to embed gender equality, social inclusion, and climate resilience at the heart of the region’s water sector.

Speaking at the signing, PWWA CEO Pitolau Lusia Sefo-Leau highlighted the significance of the partnership for the region’s future,

“This partnership marks a significant step forward for Pacific water utilities as we work together to build resilient, sustainable, and inclusive services for our communities. The Pacific Water Knowledge Exchange Program not only strengthens the technical and operational capacity of our utilities but also ensures that climate resilience, gender equality, and social inclusion are embedded in how we plan, operate, and deliver water services. PWWA is proud to collaborate with AWA, ADB, and our members in Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu to share knowledge, harness innovation, and support a stronger water future for our region.”

The official contract signing for the Program took place during the 16th Pacific Water Conference & Expo and the 9th Pacific Water Ministerial Forum, hosted in Honiara, Solomon Islands, from 25–29 August 2025. The agreement was formally signed by Kirsty Jones, representing the Australian Water Partnership, and Neeta Polchnel on behalf of the Asian Development Bank, alongside PWWA leadership and member utilities from Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu.