PM Wale visits cyclone-hit Western and Choiseul Provinces to support recovery and reassure affected communities
Honiara, Solomon Islands – Prime Minister Hon. Mathew Cooper Wale will lead a reassurance visit to communities in Western and Choiseul Provinces from 27 to 29 May 2026, following the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Maila.
Tropical Cyclone Maila has caused severe disruption across parts of the Solomon Islands, with Western and Choiseul Provinces among the worst affected. Post cyclone assessments confirmed damage to homes, schools, health centres, food gardens, businesses, and livelihoods, leaving many communities in urgent need of support.
The newly established Government for Reform, Empowerment, Accountability & Transformation (GREAT) under the leadership of Prime Minister Wale has placed disaster response and recovery at the centre of its priorities.
The Prime Minister will be accompanied by key ministers and senior officials to strengthen collaboration with provincial leadership, demonstrate the Government’s commitment, and ensure the voices of affected communities are heard.
The visit reaffirms the Government’s commitment to supporting affected provinces and communities and to ensuring that the public’s welfare and recovery remain a central priority.
It also provides an opportunity for the Prime Minister to engage directly with provincial leadership and community representatives to reinforce continuity of response and recovery efforts.
The Government’s approach extends beyond immediate relief. Working with provincial authorities, community leaders, and international partners, the GREAT Government will support the transition from emergency response to early recovery.
The focus will be on rebuilding essential services, restoring livelihoods, and laying the foundation for long-term development.
All costs for the Prime Minister’s visit are fully covered by the Australian Government through the Australian High Commission in Honiara. The program is coordinated and supported by the National Disaster Council to ensure effective delivery and oversight.
The National Disaster Council acknowledges and thanks the Australian Government for its generous support, which reflects the strong partnership and shared commitment to recovery and resilience in the Solomon Islands.
The visit is expected to reassure Provincial Premiers in Western and Choiseul that the GREAT Government is doing everything possible to support affected communities during the response and into the recovery phase.
The Prime Minister will also meet directly with impacted communities to hear their concerns and share in the moment with them.
PRESS RELEASE
