PM Manele concludes visit to cyclone-hit communities in Western and Choiseul provinces
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
PRIME Minister Jeremiah Manele has concluded a series of visits to communities severely affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila, reaffirming the government’s commitment to recovery and rehabilitation efforts.
The Prime Minister and his delegation departed Gizo on Saturday night, travelling to Gaomai and Nila in the Shortland Islands before continuing on to Taro and Sasamuga in Choiseul Province.
Prior to the trip, the delegation also stopped at Legana in Simbo to witness firsthand the destruction caused by the cyclone.
Manele said the visit has given the government a clearer understanding of both the immediate and long-term needs of affected communities.
He said Tropical Cyclone Maila has caused widespread social, economic, physical and spiritual challenges across the impacted areas.
Manele said the government remains committed to supporting recovery and rehabilitation efforts in the months ahead.
“We will be working with our donor partners and the provincial governments to roll out recovery and rehabilitation efforts. It will not be easy, but our collaboration can help us restore lives to normal,” he said.
Acting Premier of Choiseul Province acknowledged the Prime Minister and his delegation for reaching out directly to affected communities, describing the visit as both significant and meaningful to the people of the province.
Provincial Member of Assembly for Ward 5, Clarence Vasaro, welcomed the Prime Minister to Sasamuga village, saying the people were honoured by the visit during one of the most challenging periods in their history.
“Today, our hearts are heavy because of Tropical Cyclone Maila, but we are deeply moved by your presence,” she said.
“In our culture, when a home is shaken, family arrives. Your visit feels like a father coming home to check on his sons and daughters. You have not just sent support from Honiara; you have stepped onto our shores to stand with us.
“Our homes may be broken, but our spirit of welcome is whole. Your visit gives us hope of rebuilding our communities together.”
Member of Parliament for South Choiseul, Tozen Leokana, also thanked the Prime Minister for taking time out of his schedule to visit affected communities.
“My people appreciate your visit. This shows your heart for my people,” he said.
Leokana said communities in his constituency are facing significant challenges following the cyclone, with key infrastructure such as hospitals, classrooms and homes severely damaged.
He called on the government and donor partners to assist with recovery efforts, while also acknowledging the presence of the Australian High Commission, fellow ministers and senior government officials who joined the visit.
The Prime Minister’s tour highlights the government’s ongoing efforts to assess damage on the ground and strengthen partnerships aimed at rebuilding communities impacted by Tropical Cyclone Maila.
The solidarity trip by the Prime Minister and his high-level delegation was made possible with support from Australia, Solomon Islands’ nambawan partner.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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