Newly elected Prime Minister Mathew Wale has placed the youth of Solomon Islands at the centre of his vision for the country, using his inaugural speech to challenge young people to “be ambitious, get involved, and help drive national change.”
Prime Minister Wale said leadership is about “service, not status.”
“Help keep us accountable and responsible,” he urged. “When we act as if we are your lords, please remind us that we are your servants.”
He warned that the changes ahead may be difficult, but insisted they are necessary if the nation is to progress and flourish.
“Fellow Solomon Islanders, change is coming. These changes are necessary and may be painful,” Wale said, calling on citizens to “put your hand to the plow” and work alongside the government.
In one of the most significant moments of his speech, Wale turned directly to the country’s youth, urging them to step forward as active partners in shaping the nation’s future.
“I appeal to the youth of our country: be ambitious for yourself and be part of the growth we want to see in Solomon Islands,” he said.
Wale said the success of upcoming reforms and development plans will depend heavily on youth participation, innovation, and leadership.
Wale said the success of his government’s reform agenda would depend significantly on the engagement and commitment of young Solomon Islanders.
