28 March 2019

Rennell Islanders in the Solomon Islands are relying on clean water shipments after a toxic oil spill near their home.

Clean-up and salvage efforts are still underway in Rennell, after a mining ship groundedon a reef there....

A Honiara-based community member said locals got very sick in the first two weeks after the spill but have mostly recovered.

Stephen Nikamatu'a said they are now in need of clean water sent from the capital.

"The big issue we are facing back home, they say our water tanks have been contaminated by oil plus bauxite, so we tried to send some water last ship."

Mr Nikamatu'a said the recent shipment has nearly run out and they are looking to send more water.