Cabinet approves funds for emergency relief and supplies following tropical cyclone: PM Manele
BY LORETTA B MANELE
Cabinet has approved an initial allocation of $10 million as the Government’s commitment to meet emergency relief efforts and supplies for communities impacted by Tropical Cyclone Maila.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele made the announcement during his press conference yesterday.
Speaking to media, he said responsible implementing ministries are now tasked to work with the National Disaster Council to deliver Cabinet’s decision.
Mr Manele said the government has activated the national disaster response arrangements under the National Disaster Management Plan 2018 to ensure that all response efforts are coordinated, timely, and focused on the needs of our people.
“The National Disaster Management Office, working through Provincial Emergency Operations Centres, has already received initial reports of significant impacts to homes, schools, health facilities, transport infrastructure, and the livelihoods of our people in Western, Choiseul, Isabel, and other affected areas,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the government’s immediate priorities focus on emergency humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the provision of emergency food supplies, clean and safe drinking water, Non-Food Items (NFIs) such as emergency shelter kits, family kits and hygiene kits.
He also said that restoring critical infrastructure and services remains essential to ensure assistance reaches affected communities quickly and reduces further humanitarian risks and disease outbreaks.
“Detailed assessments will begin once conditions are safe, to determine the full extent of damage and priority needs.
“The Government is already prioritising the implementation of a national response plan focused on immediate relief and humanitarian assistance. This will be delivered through the stakeholders, partners, and committees under the National Disaster Council Arrangements,” he said.
He also commended efforts already made by some constituency offices and community leaders who have begun mobilising support for their affected communities.
The Prime Minister calls on both national and provincial government authorities to work closely with the National Disaster Council.
“At this time, I call on all national and provincial government authorities to work closely with the National Disaster Council through the Solomon Islands National Disaster Management Arrangements. This includes the National and Provincial Disaster Operations Committees (N-DOC and P-DOCs), to ensure that our response to TC Maila is targeted and well-coordinated.
“Strong collaboration across sectors will be critical for effective logistics, information management, and the timely delivery of assistance to those most in need,” he said.
He also acknowledged Solomon Islands development partners, humanitarian organisations, churches, civil society groups and the private sector.
“Your continued cooperation and support are critical in ensuring that assistance reaches those most affected. The Government welcomes your collaboration as we coordinate national relief and recovery efforts,” he said.
The Prime Minister also made a call for safety, urging the public, particularly those in affected and high-risk areas to remain vigilant and to follow the advice and instructions issued by the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS), the National Disaster Management Office, and their respective provincial authorities.
“Please avoid unnecessary travel by sea or road during this period of severe weather. Our fishermen, small boat operators, and all maritime vessels are strongly advised to remain in safe harbour until conditions improve.
“Communities living along low-lying coastal areas are advised to remain alert to the risk of storm surges and flooding and to move to higher ground where necessary.
“I also encourage communities to continue supporting one another during this difficult time. Check on your neighbours, assist the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities, and ensure that vulnerable members of our communities are kept safe and supported,” he said.
He also calls on Solomon Islanders to show the same strength they have always shown in the face of natural disasters.
“My fellow citizens, Solomon Islanders have always demonstrated resilience and solidarity in the face of natural disasters. Time and again, our people have shown strength, compassion, and unity during times of hardship. This situation calls for that same spirit of national unity. We have always stood together in times of hardship and together we will rebuild our communities and lives.
“Let us remain calm, stay informed through official channels, and continue to support one another as one nation and one people,” he said.
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
