Western Province is taking significant steps to strengthen climate resilience and disaster preparedness through the ongoing rollout of Ward Development Committee (WDC) training under the Integrated Economic Development and Community Resilience (IEDCR) Program.
Now in its third week, the initiative is being delivered across five wards, including Simbo, Mbilua, Nusa Roviana, Kusaghe, and Ngatokae, with a focus on equipping local communities to better understand and manage environmental risks.
The training provides practical tools for identifying local hazards, assessing the impacts of climate change, and integrating risk-informed approaches into ward development planning. Officials say the program aims to ensure that future development projects are not only responsive to current community needs but are also sustainable and resilient to environmental challenges.
In addition to the training, Ward Forums are being held to encourage greater community participation, transparency, and accountability in local development processes. The forums give residents an opportunity to engage in discussions about development priorities, funding allocations, and ongoing projects within their wards.
By the end of the current rollout, the Western Provincial Government is expected to have delivered climate resilience training in 13 wards, marking an important milestone in strengthening environmental awareness, disaster preparedness, and sustainable community development across the province.
The initiative highlights the growing importance of community-led action in addressing climate change and building a more resilient future for Western Province.
source : Western Provincial Government
