BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Governor-General Sir David Tiva Kapu calls on the government to strengthen climate resilience measures and disaster preparedness as Solomon Islands continues to face the growing impacts of climate change and natural disasters.
He made the call when he delivered his address at the 77th official birthday of His Majesty King Charles III event at the National Stadium last Friday.
Sir Kapu acknowledged the devastation caused by recent natural calamities, including Tropical Cyclone Maila, which affected communities across Western, Choiseul, Isabel, Central, and Guadalcanal provinces.
He thanked the government, development partners, non-government organisations, churches, individuals and communities for their support to families affected by Cyclone Maila.
“Your efforts to assist affected families and communities have provided much-needed relief and complemented government actions during this difficult time,” Sir David said.
He said the nation stands in solidarity with affected communities and stressed the importance of continued assistance to help people recover and rebuild their lives.
Sir Kapu warned that Solomon Islands faces not only the threat of natural disasters but also the long-term challenge of climate change.
“Climate change is not a subject for academic debate. It is a daily reality for our people,” he said.
He pointed to rising sea levels, saltwater intrusion into agricultural land and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns as clear signs of the climate crisis affecting the country.
“We are paying the price for a crisis we did not create,” he said.
He urges the government to continue to advocate for climate action on the international stage and take stronger measures at home to build resilience.
He calls for increased investment in climate-resilient infrastructure, protection of forests, and measures to secure freshwater supplies.
He also stressed the need for better management of the country’s marine resources through science-based planning and long-term strategies.
Sir Kapu said addressing climate change requires urgent action to safeguard communities, livelihoods and future generations from worsening environmental threats.
Photo credit: John Houanihau
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