MPNSCS Hosts Key UXO Consultation in Makira Province

Honiara – The Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Unit of the Ministry of Police, National Security & Correctional Services (MPNS&CS), under the leadership of Director Benzily Kasutaba, convened a critical UXO consultation in Makira Province on Tuesday this week. The event focused on gathering valuable views and inputs from provincial stakeholders on the UXO Consultation Paper, marking a significant step in advancing national efforts to mitigate UXO risks.

This consultation builds on successful engagements conducted in other provinces last year and positions Makira as the second-to-last province to contribute. The insights collected will directly shape a comprehensive Legislative Policy Paper, forming the foundation for a dedicated UXO Bill. A draft bill is targeted for completion by the third quarter of 2026.

“The active participation of Makira stakeholders underscores the collaborative spirit needed to address this longstanding challenge,” said Director Benzily Kasutaba. “Their inputs will strengthen our policy framework, ensuring safer communities across the Solomon Islands.”

The UXO Unit’s consultation series will conclude with a final session in Isabel Province on Monday next week, after which the team will finalize the policy paper and bill development.

From L-R: Senior Legal Officer Tanya Afu, EOD Deputy Director, Peter Ririvere and Director UXO Benzily Kasutaba

Standing from the back is the Director UXO guiding the participants during the consultation discussion.

Group 4 doing their presentation during the consultation.

Participants during the UXO consultation

–MPNSCS Press