Communities on Tongariki, Tongoa and Makira-Mataso are reporting falling water levels and drying gardens, raising concerns on water shortages as the dry season continue till January , 2027
Area Administrators for Tongariki, Tongoa and Makira-Mataso ,
Donald Viriam have reported the challenges, with residents relying heavily on rainwater to meet their daily needs.
Mr. Viriam, said water tanks on Makira-Mataso had been refilled by recent heavy rainfall and will run dry if the island receives no rain.
He said some garden crops had already been affected, although coconut trees and other fruit trees were still doing well.
Tongoa Reports Falling Water Levels
In Tongoa, Area Administrator Billy Thomas said water levels in village well is dropping had dropped significantly.
He also reported that crops were drying out and cattle were struggling to find food.
Mr Thomas said dry conditions and dust were affecting community health, particularly children and older people their children are experiencing skin disease such as scabies.
Makira-Mataso Depends on Rainwater
Area Administrator Andrew Morris said the two islands of Makira and Mataso depended heavily on rainwater and the prolonged dry season period is a serious concern.
He said the lack of water was already affecting gardens, with crops starting to turn brown and communities in the two island will suffer if the dry season continue till January 2027.
Government Outlines El Niño Response
The reports come as the Government has outlined its response to water shortages due to the current El Niño season
During Parliament’s second ordinary session last week, Shepherds Outer Islands MP John William Timakata raised concerns about water supplies in several islands, including Makira, Mataso, Tongariki, Buninga and Emae.
Prime Minister Jotham Napat said VT60 million had been allocated across provinces to address water-related issues. He also outlined a proposed arrangement involving the vessel Helper 1, which has a desalination system and could supply water to smaller islands in the Shepherds group.
Climate Change Minister Ralph Regenvanu said the Council of Ministers had approved VT10 million for each province on 1 October to assess El Niño impacts, identify affected communities and determine their needs.
He said provincial disaster and climate change committees had been carrying out assessments, with some initial responses already underway.
