Strengthening Fiji’s Early Warning Systems for a More Resilient Future
This morning, the Fiji Government through the Fiji NDMO, in partnership with the UNDP Pacific Office, officially opened the National Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) Workshop and National Dialogue on Fiji’s Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (MHEWS).
Supported by the Green Climate Fund, the workshop brought together government agencies, telecommunications providers, broadcasters, development partners and technical experts, with a focus on strengthening governance arrangements, enhancing inter-agency coordination, and advancing the implementation of the Common Alerting Protocol – an internationally recognised standard that enables emergency alerts to be disseminated rapidly and consistently across multiple communication channels.
With technical support from UNDP together with the ITU, World Meteorological Organization and United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction - UNISDR Pacific, participants will work together to strengthen Fiji’s Multi-Hazard Early Warning System and ensure timely, accurate and actionable warnings reach all communities, especially those most vulnerable to disasters and climate-related hazards.
The three-day workshop will advance efforts to establish a coordinated, people-centered and multi-hazard warning dissemination system under the global Early Warnings for All (EW4ALL) initiative.
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BY CHARLES STENNETT
Preparatory phase in the installation of rainwater harvesting systems and the provision of water filtering buckets to clinics in Western Province affected by cyclone Maila, by the Adventist Disaster Relief Agency, (ADRA0 has been completed.
ADRA said the consultations were held with the Western Provincial Health Authority, clinic committees, and community leaders under the Rehabilitation of Rainwater Catchment System Project, RRCSP.
It said since the consultation phase was completed, it is now moving forward in the implementation of a six-month recovery project that will improve access to safe water to five rural health clinics affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila.
The clinics are Tubi and Tapurai on Simbo Island, Koriovuku and Keigold on Ranongga and Vanga clinic in Central Kolombangara.
Project Coordinator Melina Navo said consultations with the Western Provincial Health Authority and clinic committees were productive and received strong support from all stakeholders.
“The consultation phase has now been completed, and we are preparing to transport construction materials to the five clinics so installation of the rainwater systems can begin,” Ms. Navo said.
She added that health workers, clinic committees, and community leaders welcomed the project, noting that several clinics have experienced ongoing water shortages.
“This project is a great blessing to our rural communities. We sincerely thank the Australian Humanitarian Partnership, World Vision Solomon Islands as the prime organisation, and ADRA Solomon Islands for making this important initiative possible. The installation of rainwater harvesting systems will provide a more reliable water supply for patients, health workers, and surrounding communities,” she said.
ADRA said construction materials will begin arriving at the project sites this week, with installation works to follow as ADRA continues supporting the recovery of communities affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila.
The project is funded by the Australian Humanitarian Partnership (AHP), through World Vision Solomon Islands (WVSI), as the lead organisation and implemented by ADRA.
Photo credit: ADRA
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Environment Minister Ghemu meets Premier Veo on TC Maila recovery plans & Gizo, Western Province, 28 July 2026: The Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management [...]
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has issued an Orange Alert for all waters across the country as strong southeast to southwest winds sweep the region.
Impact-Based Warning Number 105 was released at 4pm yesterday, covering waters from Choiseul and Western Province through Isabel, Central, Guadalcanal, Malaita, Makira/Ulawa, Rennell and Bellona, and out to Temotu provinces.
According to the warning, seas are expected to become moderate to rough with moderate swells, raising the risk that small boats could capsize. Poor visibility is also expected during shower periods.
The Meteorological office service is urging sea travellers to take safety precautions and warns that the wind conditions can produce hazardous waves for small vessels.
Residents and mariners are seriously advised to stay informed and prepared, and to monitor SIBC and other media outlets for further updates.
SIMS said the warning’s risk assessment rates the likelihood of impact as high, with a significant impact level placing it in the “High Risk” category, and calls on people to be prepared.
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BY JOSES SAREN
The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM) has taken a significant step to improve hazardous waste management in the country with the convening of a validation workshop for the Draft National Hazardous Waste Management Strategy and Action Plan.
A statement from MECDM yesterday said the workshop was opened by MECDM Minister Wayne Ghemu and brought together senior government officials, private sector representatives, and civil society groups to finalise a comprehensive framework to manage hazardous and chemical wastes across the country.
The statement said the strategic development is a key component of the GEF ISLANDS Pacific Project, a global initiative funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
The project is executed regionally by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) and is currently being implemented across 14 Pacific Island countries, including the Solomon Islands.
Hazardous waste management in Solomon Islands is currently fragmented, with various ministries and agencies operating independently without a unifying framework — a gap that has historically posed challenges to the effective transportation, treatment, and disposal of hazardous materials.
In his opening remarks, Minister Ghemu said the strategy effectively addresses the country’s hazardous waste management challenges and provides a practical framework for protecting public health and the environment.
He said the new roadmap will allow Solomon Islands to meet its international obligations while strengthening national capacity and improving waste management practices for future generations.
The draft strategy states that effective waste management cannot be achieved by government alone, calling for a coordinated and collaborative approach involving partnerships between government agencies, the private sector, development partners, and local communities.
Ghemu also thanked the GHD consultant team for its technical expertise in developing the document, and acknowledged the GEF ISLANDS Pacific Project for its financial support.
Feedback gathered during the validation workshop will be used to ensure the final strategy reflects national priorities and provides a sustainable, effective approach to hazardous waste management to support the country’s long-term development goals.
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BY TONY IROGA
More than 10 people have been reported missing following a major collapse of ground at the Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) site just after Sunday, midnight, police have confirmed.
Tetere Police told Island Sun last night that relatives have reported more than 10 people missing after the incident.
The missing individuals were believed to have been at the area that night, with some reportedly involved in marketing activities, consuming alcohol and remaining at the site before the tragedy occurred, police said.
Police officers who returned from the scene at around 7pm last night said no body has been recovered as search efforts continue.
“The collapsed ground is estimated to be between 20 and 30 metres deep and about 50 metres wide,” police said.
Police said the affected area remains out of bounds to the public due to the danger posed by the unstable ground.
“The site requires careful civil engineering assessment before excavation can begin safely. Recovering those believed to be buried under the debris will take time,” police said.
Police also confirmed that information received from relatives indicates the missing people are from Guadalcanal and other provinces.
Meanwhile, Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) says none of its employees were injured from the incident, adding that company machines and equipment were safe and accounted for.
The company in a statement yesterday said an identified staged slope movement occurred at the north-west edge of the non-operational section of Open Pit 1.
The company said that the affected area was not part of its active mining operations and that precautionary safety measures, including restricted access and exclusion zones, had already been established before the incident.
“Currently, no injuries, fatalities, or equipment damage have been confirmed. Mining operations and construction activities continue without disruption,” GRML said.
The GRML said it immediately activated its emergency response procedures by restricting access to the affected area, strengthening site security, maintaining the exclusion zone, and deploying technical teams to inspect and stabilise the site.
GRML said it is working closely with the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and other relevant authorities to ensure the safety and stability of the area.
“Verified updates will be provided through official GRML communication channels,” the company said.
GRML added that the safety and wellbeing of its employees, contractors and surrounding communities remains its highest priority.
Police investigations and search operations continue.
Photo credit: GRML
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By Alfred Pagepitu
A United States assessment team is expected to visit Solomon Islands by the end of August as the Government moves to advance the Bina Industrial Development Project into its next phase in Malaita Province.
Prime Minister Matthew Wale says the visit will help move the Bina project from a long-planned concept into a development-ready investment.
Speaking to media upon his arrival at Henderson Airport on Monday, Prime Minister Wale said his recent official visits to the United States and Japan were productive and focused on strengthening partnerships to support Solomon Islands’ development priorities.
“It was very productive, very fruitful in terms of resetting our relations with other countries, but also in terms of support for our development aspirations, where we have a coalition vision and policy,” Mr Wale said.
The Prime Minister said Bina remains a key priority and confirmed his strong interest in progressing the project.
“I expect that by the end of August, America will send an assessment team to Bina. I have a very strong interest in Bina and I will give it a very firm commitment, subject to the details, to get Bina from a greenfield to a development stage.”
Mr Wale said the next phase would involve establishing critical infrastructure required to support future investment.
“That means that we go from having a wharf, jetty, port, fuel storage, water, energy, some basic roads, that gets it to development stage.”
He said reaching that stage would help attract further investment from development partners and the private sector, including opportunities for downstream processing and manufacturing.
“Then after that, I will get interest more from US Development Finance Corporation (DFC) and private sector, downstream processing, so factories and all that.”
The Prime Minister acknowledged more technical work is required before the project can move forward, including preparing the necessary information for potential investors.
“We have much work to do to be able to get all the information we need, so by the time it comes to August, we have a bankable project to present.”
Mr Wale said he remains hopeful that construction work could begin next year, although funding arrangements and project details are still being finalised.
“I would like to start working next year on construction.”
He said government officials will continue working with development partners, including the International Finance Corporation (IFC), New Zealand and other supporters involved in advancing the project.
“We now need to get our officials to work, and IFC, and New Zealand, and those who are standing with us.”
The Prime Minister said Bina is a critical development project and expressed confidence that the necessary support can be secured.
“Bina is a critical one and I am very confident that the funding, everything is not confirmed yet, but I am very confident.”
ENDS//
The post U.S. Team to Assess Bina Development Project Next Month in Malaita Province first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) confirms that at approximately 00:45 AM on 27 July 2026, a localized slope movement occurred at the northwest edge of Open Pit 1.
Prior to the incident, GRML had already implemented precautionary safety measures, including restricted access and exclusion zones.
Currently, no injuries, fatalities, or equipment damage have been confirmed. Mining operations and construction activities continue without disruption.
Immediately following the slope movement, GRML activated its emergency response protocols:
• Prohibiting entry of non-operational and external personnel into the affected area;
• Reinforcing site security and maintaining full closure of the hazard zone;
• Deploying technical teams to conduct inspections and advance stabilization and remediation work.
GRML continues to work closely with the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and other relevant authorities to ensure safety and stability at the site. Verified updates will be provided through official GRML communication channels.
The safety and wellbeing of our employees, contractors, and surrounding communities remain our highest priority.
– Gold Ridge Mining Limited Public Statement
The post Gold Ridge Mining Limited – Preliminary Statement on Incident at Gold Ridge Mine first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
By Georgina Maka’a. Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) says its emergency response teams are working closely with police to manage...
The post Gold Ridge Pit Collapse Sparks Emergency Response appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
How do you monitor volcanic activity and prepare for a possible eruption? 🌋
Earlier this month, geoscience and meteorological staff from Solomon Islands’ Geological Survey Division (GSD) of MMERE worked alongside colleagues from Earth Sciences New Zealand(ESNZ) during a week of practical training focused on volcano monitoring, hazard assessment and eruption response.
As the government agency responsible for monitoring volcanic activity in Solomon Islands, GSD works closely with the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) and provides technical advice to the Solomon Islands National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) to support preparedness and response planning.
Together, participants explored volcano types, volcanic hazards and impacts, monitoring techniques, satellite tools, hazard mapping and response planning. The training also included hands-on work on volcano monitoring processes, eruption confirmation, and communicating potential risks to the aviation sector.
A highlight of the week was the team's work on Aviation Colour Codes and Volcano Observatory Notices for Aviation (VONAs), which provide important information to aviation authorities about volcanic activity that could affect flight safety. During the training, participants issued VONAs to the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centres (VAACs) in Wellington and Darwin for the first time. Both centres were highly supportive of the initiative, which helps strengthen regional information sharing and aviation safety arrangements.
The week wrapped up with a simulated unrest and eruption exercise focused on Savo Volcano, allowing participants to put their new knowledge and processes into practice.
New Zealand is proud to support partnerships that build capability, share technical knowledge and help Solomon Islands strengthen its preparedness for natural hazards.
As a country that also lives with active volcanoes, New Zealand values opportunities to share experience and learn alongside Pacific partners.
🌋🇳🇿 🇸🇧 🌋
Earth Sciences New Zealand
Solomon Islands National Disaster Management Office
Solomon Islands Meteorological Service
BY CHARLES STENNETT
Clinical and public health workers in Makira-Ulawa province are now equipped with knowledge, practical tools and hands-on exercises to develop local action plans and standard operating procedures for disaster preparedness and response following a Climate Change and Health Disaster Management training held in the provincial capital Kirakira.
A statement from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS said 36 clinical and public health workers participated in the Pilot Training on Climate Change and Health and Disaster Risk Management to strengthen their capacity to protect communities from the increasing health challenges posed by extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and disease outbreaks.
Through the training, health workers learned essential knowledge, practical tools, and hands-on exercises to develop local action plans and standard operating procedures for disaster preparedness and response.
A baseline knowledge assessment was also conducted across seven health facilities, including Kirakira Hospital, identifying key gaps in workforce knowledge and practice related to climate change and health and disaster risk management.
The training was the first of its kind for health workers in the Makira-Ulawa province to attend with support from various organizations including MHMS, World Health Organization (WHO), Global Environment Facility (GEF), and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).
Supervising Director for Makira-Ulawa Provincial Health, Dr. Aloysius Samo, Jr. said since more than 5 years serving the province, this is the first time he has witnessed and been part of an integrated training.
“I want to thank WHO for the technical support provided, and all the facilitators for their expertise shared during the training,” he said.
Dr. Samo Jr encourages participants to make good use of the knowledge and skills gained during the training.
Director of the Environmental Health Division, Ethel Mapolu, speaking on behalf of the Acting Permanent Secretary for Health and Medical Services, thanked the participants for attending the training.
“Makira-Ulawa Province is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and disasters, with communities often experiencing the frontline impacts of cyclones, sea level rise, earthquakes, water insecurity, and disease outbreaks, among other climate-related challenges that often disrupt essential health services.
“We cannot ignore the risks posed by climate change and its impacts on health. Therefore, we must put measures in place to ensure that communities are adequately prepared and their well-being protected against the impact of a rapidly changing climate,” she said.
World Health Organization Technical Officer for Health Emergencies, Georgios Theocharopoulos emphasized that the health impacts of the climate crisis are already being felt across Solomon Islands, with drought recently reported by some communities.
“Building resilient health systems that can withstand and respond to these events require sustained and robust investment in our frontline workforce. By working together, Government, communities and partners, our ability to protect the most vulnerable becomes stronger and more effective”. Theocharopoulos said.
Organized by the MHMS – Environmental Health Division, in collaboration with WHO, the training was made possible by GEF through UNDP.
This is the second pilot training conducted in the provinces, the first being in Temotu Province last year.
Photo credit: MHMS
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The National Disaster Council (NDC) has provided an update on ongoing recovery efforts following Tropical Cyclone (TC) Maila, as the Solomon Islands transitions from immediate response into the recovery phase.
NDC Chair, Mr David Hiba Hiriasia, said recovery is a critical and complex component of disaster management that requires careful planning, accurate data, and coordinated action across multiple sectors.
“Recovery is not a quick or simple undertaking, contrary to what some may assume.
“Affected communities and Provinces can be reassured that the Council is working diligently to fast-track key processes, including securing Cabinet approval and collaborating closely with all stakeholders to ensure that recovery interventions are implemented in a transparent, accountable, and inclusive manner.
“The government has not forgotten its commitment and will continue to stand with all families and communities affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila,” Mr Hiriasia said.
A key part of the process is the initial damage assessment, which is now completed and is undergoing validation and endorsement by Provincial Governments.
This process ensures that information is accurate and reflects the real impacts experienced by families and communities, guaranteeing no one is left behind as recovery interventions are designed and implemented.
Mr Hiriasia clarified that funding support for TC Maila recovery has been announced by several development partners, including the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, the Governments of Australia and New Zealand, the People’s Republic of China, and others.
“All funding announced is specifically for TC Maila recovery,” he said. “The State of Disaster declaration for Western and Choiseul Provinces issued due to the severity and extent of TC Maila’s impacts was the formal trigger enabling many partners to mobilise their support.”
The NDC clarified that TC Maila funds do not go into any NDC or NDMO account. Government-managed funds are channeled through the Solomon Islands Government Consolidated Fund, administered by the Ministry of Finance and Treasury in accordance with national financial regulations.
Some development partners are also delivering assistance through civil society organisations and other implementing agencies under their own recovery programmes.
The NDC does not hold a standing budget capable of responding to all disasters and relies on Government allocations and development partner support to mobilise resources.
Any utilisation of TC Maila funds to respond to other disasters must be done strictly within the appropriate laws and financial regulations. Any new disaster event will require separate financial resources.
In addition to TC Maila recovery, the NDC is finalising a Cabinet Paper seeking financial support to respond to current El Niño conditions affecting the country.
This proactive step is necessary to ensure the Government can mobilise resources early and reduce the impacts of prolonged dry conditions on communities.
Mr Hiriasia reminded the nation that Solomon Islands will continue to face disasters, and climate change will intensify their severity.
He called on families, communities, Provincial Governments, and ministries to play their part in strengthening national resilience.
“Homes, clinics, schools, and public buildings must be constructed to proper standards, and risks must be carefully considered in all development decisions.
“We must be proactive, not reactive, and I urge communities to prepare for any future disasters.
“Personal and community efforts to prepare and mitigate impacts help protect lives and reduce the overall cost and complexity of Government response during disasters. This shared responsibility is essential to building a safer and more resilient nation,” he said.
The Council acknowledged and sincerely thanked all individuals, churches, communities, business houses, and development partners who have supported those affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila.
“Your contributions — whether through food and non-food items, logistical assistance, or financial resources — have played a vital role in sustaining families during the immediate response phase and continue to complement Government’s ongoing recovery efforts,” Mr. Hiriasia said.
[end]
GCU statement
The post NDC updates nation on tropical cyclone Maila recovery efforts first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
The National Disaster Council (NDC) has assured communities affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila that the Government remains committed to supporting...
The post Gov’t Fast-Tracks TC Maila Recovery, Assures Affected Communities appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
Mini solar power project strengthens Solomon Islands–China partnership & Honiara, 20 July 2026: The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM) today announced [...]
A total of 36 clinical and public health workers across Makira Province participated in the Pilot Training on Climate Change and Health and Disaster Risk Management to strengthen their capacity to protect communities from the increasing health challenges posed by extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and disease outbreaks.
Through the training, health workers learned essential knowledge, practical tools, and hands-on exercises to develop local action plans and standard operating procedures for disaster preparedness and response. This is important after a baseline knowledge assessment conducted across seven health facilities, including Kirakira Hospital, identified key gaps in workforce knowledge and practice related to climate change and health and disaster risk management (DRM).
Makira Provincial Health Supervising Director, Dr Aloysius Samo, Jr., expressed his appreciation to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), World Health Organization (WHO), Global Environment Facility (GEF), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the facilitators for bringing the pilot DRM training to Makira Ulawa Province. He said this pilot training is a first of its kind, especially for the provincial health sector. “Since more than 5 years serving the province, this is the first time I have witnessed and been part of an integrated training. I wanted to thank WHO for the technical support provided, and all the facilitators for their expertise shared during the training.”
Group activity.
He encouraged participants to make good use of the knowledge and skills obtained during the training. He noted that the knowledge and skills gained will save families and communities across Makira Province when there is a disaster.
Director of the Environmental Health Division, Ms Ethel Mapolu, speaking on behalf of the Acting Permanent Secretary for Health and Medical Services, Dr Gregory Jilini, acknowledged and thanked the participants for attending the training.
Ms Mapolu noted that Makira Ulawa Province is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and disasters, with communities often experiencing the frontline impacts of cyclones, sea level rise, earthquakes, water insecurity, and disease outbreaks, among other climate-related challenges that often disrupt essential health services.
“We cannot ignore the risks posed by climate change and its impacts on health. Therefore, we must put measures in place to ensure that communities are adequately prepared and their well-being protected against the impact of a rapidly changing climate,” she said.
Group discussion.
WHO Technical Officer for Health Emergencies Mr Georgios Theocharopoulos emphasized that the health impacts of the climate crisis are already being felt across Solomon Islands, with drought recently reported by some communities.
“Building resilient health systems that can withstand and respond to these events requires sustained and robust investment in our frontline workforce. By working together, Government, communities, and partners, our ability to protect the most vulnerable becomes stronger and more effective. This training is a step in that direction.” He further acknowledged the strong leadership of MHMS and thanked GEF and UNDP for their continuous support.
Organized by the MHMS – Environmental Health Division, in collaboration with WHO, the training is made possible by GEF through UNDP. This is the second pilot training conducted, the first being in Temotu last year.
BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Minister for Lands, Housing and Survey, Oliver Salopuka issued a strong call to the international community at the United Nations High-level Meeting on the Midterm Review of the New Urban Agenda, for enhanced cooperation under SDG17 in New York.
In his address, he outlined specific needs for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), including increased access to climate and urban development finance to close existing gaps, capacity building in governance, and support for nature-based solutions and resilient infrastructure.
A statement from the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey said, Minister Salopuka, called for sustainable urban development and climate change and reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ dedication to the New Urban Agenda and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, noting that this shared vision is deeply embedded in the nation’s National Development Strategy 2016–2035.
He said while the Solomon Islands remains predominantly rural, critical demographic shift had taken place driven by a high population growth rate of 3 percent and a youthful demographic in which 70 percent of the population is under 29, hence, the nation experiencing rapid, unplanned urban expansion.
Mr Salopuka said this growth is most notable in Honiara and emerging provincial centers, presenting economic opportunities but is also placing immense strain on housing, infrastructure, and public services, which has led to the complex growth of informal settlements.
Compounding these urbanisation challenges is the existential threat of climate change. Minister Salopuka warned that rising sea levels, frequent coastal flooding, and extreme weather events are actively reshaping the future of the nation’s towns and threatening critical infrastructure.
“These realities reinforce the need to integrate climate resilience into every aspect of urban planning and development,” he stated.
Minister Salopuka said to manage these challenges, the government has implemented the Solomon Islands Urban Policy and aligned it with the National Disaster Management policy to construct climate and disaster-resilient towns.
These coordinated national efforts have yielded significant progress: today, more than 93 percent of Solomon Islanders in urban areas have access to improved drinking water, and over 81 percent have access to improved sanitation.
He also mentioned several transformative infrastructure investments driving the nation forward which include the Tina River Hydropower Project, which aims to provide affordable electricity and support the transition to renewable energy, and the Solomon Islands National Broadband Infrastructure Project which is currently deploying a network of 161 telecommunications towers to transform digital connectivity across the islands.
Photo credit: Ministry of Housing, Lands and Survey
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
FOURTEEN communities on Gizo Island have received much-needed relief supplies following the devastating impact of Cyclone Maila.
Volunteers from the Solomon Islands Red Cross Western Branch yesterday completed the distribution of relief items to more than 30 affected households across the communities.
Red Cross volunteers verifying the data before distributing the items
The relief supplies included tarpaulins, shelter kits, kitchen sets, hygiene kits and household kits.
The items were donated by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Save the Children and the Australian Government through AusAid.
Red Cross Western Branch volunteer team leader, Samantha Ratu said the distribution targeted households identified through assessments conducted after the cyclone.
Volunteers unload items at one of the communities
She said beneficiaries included families whose homes were partially damaged, those who lost their homes entirely, households with children and people living with disabilities.
“Recipients are the ones who have lost part of their house, completely lost their houses and also families with children as well as people with disability,” Ratu said.
Villagers smile with content after receiving their supplies
She acknowledged the support of donor partners and the efforts of Red Cross volunteers in Western Province who assisted to deliver the supplies to affected communities.
“The items were donated by our donor partners while Red Cross volunteers in Western Province helped with the distribution to the affected families,” Ratu said.
Community leaders and women have welcomed the assistance, saying the supplies will help ease the burden on families as they continue rebuilding their lives after the cyclone.
One of the recipients, Vorivori village resident Maxwell Gori, described the relief supplies as a blessing for his family.
A happy Mr Maxwell Gori and his granddaughter after having received their items
Gori said a large tree fell onto his family’s kitchen during Cyclone Maila, destroying cooking utensils and damaging part of the structure.
He said the damage forced the family to prepare meals in the open for weeks after the disaster.
“This tarpaulin and kitchen set are a huge blessing for me and my family. I wholeheartedly acknowledge the donor partners, the government and the Red Cross Western Branch for these supplies,” Gori said.
The 50-year-old lives with his wife and grandchildren and vividly remembers the terrifying night Cyclone Maila struck the village.
“There was no rain, only the wind. It was really strong. We watched in awe as the wind rushed through the village. All of a sudden, a branch broke from a nearby tree and landed on our kitchen,” he recalled.
Gori said the family endured sleepless nights as powerful winds battered the village, bringing down tree branches and causing widespread damage.
The relief distribution forms part of ongoing humanitarian efforts to assist communities affected by Cyclone Maila as recovery work continues across Western Province.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) is pleased to announce the successful completion of the Riffle Range Roundabout Upgrade, marking another significant milestone under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP).
The completion of the roundabout and associated drainage infrastructure represents a major achievement in the ongoing effort to improve Honiara’s road network and enhance the safety and efficiency of transport services for all road users.
The upgraded roundabout is designed to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and provide safer movement for motorists, pedestrians, public transport operators, and nearby communities.
The new drainage system will also improve stormwater management in the area, reducing flooding risks and helping to protect the road infrastructure during periods of heavy rainfall.
Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, Mr. Mike Qaqara , welcomed the completion of the works and acknowledged the cooperation of the public throughout the construction period.
“The completion of the Riffle Range Roundabout is another important achievement under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project. This upgrade will improve traffic efficiency, road safety, and accessibility for the growing number of road users in Honiara.
“We thank the public, nearby businesses, and communities for their patience and understanding while the construction works were underway. While temporary inconveniences were unavoidable, the completed roundabout will deliver long-term benefits for commuters and contribute to a safer and more resilient transport network.”
Mr. Qaqara also acknowledged the commitment of project partners, consultants, and contractors in delivering the works to a high standard.
The Government of Solomon Islands remains committed to investing in quality infrastructure that supports economic development, improves connectivity, and enhances the daily lives of our people. We are grateful for the continued support of the Asian Development Bank and all stakeholders involved in the successful delivery of this important project.
The Riffle Range Roundabout Upgrade was implemented by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP) with funding support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Solomon Islands .
The project forms part of broader national efforts to modernise transport infrastructure, improve road safety, strengthen connectivity, and support sustainable economic growth throughout Solomon Islands.
[end]
LMCP statement
The post Riffle Range roundabout upgrade fully completed first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
BY RODRICK DESURI
Auki
The Member of Parliament for West Kwaio Constituency, Claudius Tei’ifi and his office delivered the first shipment of materials to his people yesterday via LC Gloria at Anoano log point.
The materials delivered yesterday were mainly for two of the three wards (Ward 26 and 27) in his constituency.
The materials included housing scheme materials, fisheries, and agriculture projects and individual and community projects.
A report from the constituency office stated that the list of project recipients for the shipment had been finalised, printed, and distributed to the Constituency Development Committee (CDC) subcommittees in each community in the three wards of West Kwaio.
It stated that the final list was well screened by the community subcommittee representatives, and consultations were held with their people.
“Each community subcommittee member should have a copy of the list of recipients. This is the final list of recipients after it was well-screened,” the report stated.
It is understood that this shipment comes as a relief given that constituents had waited for almost three years for these projects.
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Mini Solar Power Project Strengthens Solomon Islands–China Partnership Phase 1 Completed; Phase 2 Ready to Launch & Honiara, 26 June 2026 — The ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM) today announced the successful completion of Phase 1 of the Mini Solar Power Project, [...]
BY JOSES SAREN
Temotu Province Premier Stanley Tehiahua says he personally created and manages the Temotu Provincial Government’s official Facebook page because the province currently cannot afford to recruit a Media and Communications Officer.
According to a statement from the Temotu Provincial Government by the Premier, the page’s primary purpose is to ensure people of the province, both at home and abroad, receive timely, accurate and official information on government decisions, policies, development programmes, public notices and other matters of public interest.
Premier Tehiahua said filling the communications role, along with other essential positions including a Provincial Legal Adviser and Law Enforcement Officers, remains difficult due to the province’s ongoing financial constraints.
He said the provincial government has instead prioritised funding for essential operational services and to meet the Minimum Conditions under the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF) Assessment, to keep the provincial administration functioning effectively.
The Premier said personally managing the page allows the government to communicate directly with the public, provide timely updates, reduce misinformation, and cut down on the need for multiple separate media interviews.
He added that the page also gives citizens a channel to raise constructive views, recommendations and discussion that can help improve government policies, programmes and decision-making, and thanks followers for what he described as respectful contributions and thoughtful debate.
Premier Tehiahua reminded followers that the page exists to serve the people of Temotu through responsible and constructive communication, and said anyone dissatisfied with its purpose, management or content is free to stop following it, noting participation is voluntary.
He thanks members and followers for their continued support and engagement, and said the province can grow stronger through mutual respect, transparency and open communication.
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
A disaster officer based in Gizo said some recovery programmes have already started reaching affected communities, despite concerns raised over the pace of recovery operations in recent months.
The officer explained that delays in the recovery process were largely caused by the time required to compile and verify the Initial Damage Assessment (IDA) report, which serves as the foundation to plan and coordinate recovery activities.
He said persistent bad weather and the geographical challenges of Western Province are two major factors to the slow progress.
The officer said Western Province consists of scattered islands spread across a vast area, making transportation and access to affected communities difficult, particularly during rough sea conditions.
He said the completion of the IDA report marks an important milestone and allows authorities to move forward with the development of a comprehensive recovery plan.
“With the IDA report now completed, the next stage is to develop the recovery plan that will guide all recovery activities,” the officer said.
He said the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) is expecting to lead the preparation of the recovery plan, while other government ministries and agencies are expected to provide technical support in their respective areas of expertise.
The officer said the recovery plan will outline priority interventions and identify resources required to restore damaged infrastructure, livelihoods and essential services affected by the cyclone.
“Once the plan is finalised, provincial sectors and relevant stakeholders will be expected to implement recovery programmes according to the priorities and strategies identified in the document,” he said.
The officer said government agencies at the provincial level must be prepared to carry out recovery activities efficiently once the plan is endorsed.
“Different sectors within the province must be ready to implement the recovery efforts based on the recovery plan once it is completed,” he said.
Tropical Cyclone Maila caused widespread damage across parts of Western Province earlier this year, affecting homes, food gardens, community infrastructure and livelihoods.
Authorities hope the completion of the recovery plan will accelerate rehabilitation efforts and help affected communities rebuild and restore normalcy in the months ahead.
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