(Right) Mrs Doreen Fernando from Oxfam Solomon Islands, (second right) Mr JC Gaillard School of Environment of the University of Auckland, Mr Carlos Carlderon Oxfam New Zealand and Ms Jenny Knight University of Auckland team up to present the research on CCA and DRM

A team from the University of Auckland in New Zealand has joined with Oxfam International for research presentation on Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction in the country.

The team conducted a workshop with Oxfam Solomon Islands yesterday to present findings on Climate Change (CCA) Adaptation and Disaster Risks Reduction (DRM).

Knowing that Solomon’s Disaster Policy will expire this year, the team is optimistic it will integrate its research tool with the national and regional policy based on CCA and DRM findings.

Ms Jenny Knight, University of Auckland student said their coming to Solomon Islands is to see what actually has been done on the ground with regards to policy – this is their second workshop, first one being in Tonga.

“So far we found Solomon Islands has policy which is not according to the framework the best, actually nothing wrong with the policy but in reality there’s heaps of actions going on that are reflected in the policy,” Ms Knight said.

The Humanitarian Manager, Oxfam New Zealand, Mr Carlos Calderon said they are not here to give solution but facilitate process for locals to decide what is best for them concerning CCA and DRM.

Ms Jenny Knight from the University of Auckland after an interview with Island Sun at the Heritage Park Hotel

“Solomon Island Government is truly working towards that, and Oxfam is just supporter for those activities connecting what is happening with government, also giving examples with communities and what other people has to say,” Mr Calderon said.

Senior Program Manager for Oxfam Solomon Islands Mrs Doreen Fernando said the workshop convened stakeholders that include, the government, NGOs, CSO and private sectors.

The workshop yesterday was well deserved which put inclusive participation of stakeholders concerning the concept, and the outcome will document and presenting to NDMO.