BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele recently made a solidarity visit to Western and Choiseul provinces following the devastation caused by Tropical Cyclone Maila, a Category 5 system, one of the strongest to impact the country.
PM Manele told the local media in his press conference yesterday that he undertook first-hand assessments in some of the worst affected red zone communities.
He said that this includes Sasamuga in South Choiseul, where unprecedented sea swells reached far inland, resulting in widespread destruction.
He also travelled to Gaomai village in Shortland Islands and Langana village on Simbo Island and met directly with families and community leaders.
“These engagements allowed me to witness first-hand the scale of damage to homes, livelihoods and essential community infrastructure. During my visit, I reiterated my call to all Solomon Islanders to continue supporting one another, especially those families and communities most affected. Despite the severity of this cyclone, I am grateful that no lives were lost.
“This is a testament to the resilience of our people and the preparedness efforts on the ground,” PM Manele said
He said that a thorough assessment has been conducted across the impacted areas and a detailed report will be submitted to Cabinet to guide the next phase of its response, especially the recovery and rehabilitation efforts.
“I extend the Government’s sincere appreciation to the Governments of Australia and New Zealand, as well as other development partners, business houses, churches, communities and families for their timely support and solidarity during this difficult period.
“While our country is no stranger to adverse weather conditions, the Government’s immediate focus on Western and Choiseul Provinces reflects the severity of this Category 5 system and the scale of its impact on those communities,” he said.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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