BY NED GAGAHE
The new UNICEF Pacific Representative, Hamish Young, has presented his Letter of Credentials to Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, reaffirming UNICEF’s commitment to supporting children and communities in Solomon Islands.
The presentation took place on Friday March 6, 2026, where both leaders held discussions on key development priorities and the growing impacts of climate change on Pacific Island countries.
During the meeting, Mr Young highlighted the increasing vulnerability of the Pacific region to climate-related disasters, saying that small island states face significant threats despite contributing very little to global carbon emissions. He said highlighted the importance of stronger global action and international cooperation to address climate change.
Prime Minister Manele acknowledged the challenges facing Solomon Islands, saying that the country ranks as the second most at-risk nation in the world according to the 2025 World Risk Index.
He said the country continues to face multiple natural hazards including tropical cyclones, floods, earthquakes, tsunamis and rising sea levels.
The Prime Minister also commended UNICEF for its rapid humanitarian response following the severe flooding that affected parts of the country last month.
Discussions also focused on the country’s development challenges, particularly in child health, nutrition and access to services across Solomon Islands’ widely dispersed islands.
Prime Minister Manele said that with a rapidly growing and youthful population, investing in human capital and strengthening social services remains a national priority.
Mr Young reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to continue supporting programmes that address child health, nutrition, education and community resilience across the country.
He explained that Solomon Islands remains one of UNICEF’s top priorities in the Pacific due to its population growth and development needs, adding that UNICEF is working to expand its programmes despite a challenging global funding environment.
Mr Young also highlighted the importance of partnerships with international donors and regional partners, including support from the European Union, Japan and the Republic of Korea. He also expressed interest in strengthening engagement with Australia, including partnerships with businesses and philanthropists.
During the meeting, Mr Young congratulated the Prime Minister on Solomon Islands’ upcoming 50th anniversary of independence in 2028, describing it as a significant national milestone.
Prime Minister Manele said preparations are already underway for the anniversary, noting that the event will not only celebrate culture and unity but also showcase the country’s development progress, national initiatives and community achievements.
Both leaders reaffirmed the strong partnership between the Government of Solomon Islands and UNICEF, with the Prime Minister praising the work of the UNICEF team in the country and encouraging continued collaboration to support children and communities.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen cooperation in addressing climate challenges, building resilience and advancing development outcomes for children and communities across Solomon Islands.
Photo credit: Press Secretariat, OPMC
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