The Guadalcanal Provincial Government confirms the successful collection of 200 dignity kits from UNFPA Solomon Islands to support women and adolescent girls affected by the recent heavy rains and flooding across Guadalcanal Province.
The assistance follows an urgent request from Guadalcanal Provincial Health Services after widespread flooding during the recent rainy season caused temporary displacement, damage to homes, contamination of water sources, and disruption of essential health and sanitation services across several communities.
In response, UNFPA confirmed the availability of dignity kits, including menstrual hygiene kits, and coordinated their release through the National Medical Stores (NMS). The kits have now been formally handed over to the Provincial Health team for immediate distribution.
The 200 dignity kits will be distributed as part of Guadalcanal’s ongoing post-disaster health response operations. Priority beneficiaries include pregnant and lactating mothers, women and girls in remote flood-affected rural communities, and female-headed households. Distribution will be conducted through established health facilities, outreach teams, and community health networks to ensure timely, accountable, and equitable delivery.
Provincial Health Director, Dr Ray Seleso, highlighted the urgency of the intervention:
“The recent flooding has significantly disrupted livelihoods, damaged homes, contaminated water sources, and restricted access to essential hygiene supplies. Women and girls remain among the most vulnerable during this period, facing heightened risks to their health, protection, and dignity. It is imperative that we respond swiftly and decisively to safeguard their well-being during this emergency.”
Dr Seleso further emphasized the cultural significance of protecting women and girls in Guadalcanal:
“Women and girls are the future of Guadalcanal. In our matrilineal society, they are our lifeline — connecting us to our land, our heritage, and our resources. Their role is foundational to the strength and continuity of our communities. That is why their dignity, protection, and well-being must always be upheld and treated with the highest regard.”
Mrs Alicia Kenilorea, Program Specialist at UNFPA Solomon Islands, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to the emergency response:
“UNFPA is pleased to support the ongoing efforts of the Provincial Health Services to ensure that women and adolescent girls affected by the flooding receive essential dignity and menstrual hygiene supplies during this critical time.”
The Guadalcanal Provincial Government sincerely conveys its appreciation to UNFPA for its timely and steadfast partnership. This collaboration reinforces a shared commitment to protecting the sexual and reproductive health, safety, and dignity of women and girls across Guadalcanal Province, particularly in times of crisis.
