In Mbiluah Ward (Ward 8) on Vella la Vella Island, something important is shifting. Community leaders are coming together intentionally to learn, reflect, and strengthen how they lead. Through targeted training, the Ward Development Committee (WDC) is building confidence and clarity in how communities work together and make decisions. 

Leadership in Solomon Islands has always been shared across different levels, from government and provincial leaders to chiefs, church leaders, committees, and women and youth. Yet in many rural areas, challenges remain. Limited resources, unclear roles, and gaps in coordination can make it difficult for WDCs to function effectively. Communication is not always consistent, participation can be low, and decision making is sometimes slow. 

At the same time, communities are dealing with increasing pressure from climate change. The threat of cyclones, flooding, and rising sea levels are affecting daily life, making strong and coordinated leadership more important than ever. 

In response, initiatives like the OMNIBUS Project, supported by the Australian Government and WWF, are supporting communities to strengthen leadership and governance. In May 2026, leaders from ten communities in Ward 8 gathered in Kolokolo for a two-day Leadership and Good Governance Workshop. This was the third training for the ward as part of its role as a pilot site. 

Participants included chiefs, church leaders, committee members, program coordinators, and representatives of women and youth. The workshop focused on participation and shared learning, using group discussions, role play, and reflection to explore leadership styles, conflict management, negotiation, and roles and responsibilities. In his opening remarks, Ward 8 Member of the Provincial Assembly, Hon. Kadiba Alu, emphasized that through collective effort, communities can help empower more young leaders and strengthen leadership at the grassroots level. 

For many participants, the training connected directly to real experiences. Chief Stanley Kabokera, President of the Sabina House of Chiefs, shared that the training built on existing knowledge while introducing new approaches. He has already begun applying a coaching leadership style to address challenges within his community. 

Faith leaders also highlighted the value of the training. Retired Reverend Rolland Mae stressed the important role churches play in shaping leadership and how shared learning strengthens communities. 

The workshop also highlighted the growing role of inclusive leadership. Women and youth are increasingly stepping forward and contributing to decisions. One example shared was during Cyclone Maila, when a woman took the initiative to organize families to move to safer ground, demonstrating leadership in a moment of urgency. Mrs. Zavani Tau, a church leader and female representative, highlighted the need for greater participation of women, youth, children, and persons with disabilities in decision-making processes. 

Participants like Mrs. Babra Enigeto described the training as a key milestone that strengthened confidence and encouraged more active participation. Others noted how young people who are usually quiet became more confident in speaking and contributing. 

By the end of the workshop, there was a strong sense that leadership could grow and adapt. With continued support and local commitment, efforts like this are helping communities build stronger, more inclusive systems of governance. 

Stronger leadership and governance will benefit nature. WWF’s work in Solomon Islands shows that when communities are well organized and inclusive in their decision making, they are better able to manage their natural resources. This includes improving community-based management of fisheries, supporting sustainable use of coastal and forest resources, and strengthening local rules that protect ecosystems. When leadership is clear and participation is strong, communities are more able to balance livelihoods with conservation, helping to protect the reefs, forests, and marine life that they depend on. 

This story has been drafted with AI assistance and reviewed by members of the Programme and Communications team.