by EDNAL PALMER
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says the Government’s main focus for 2026 is on delivering what has already been approved in the national budget, while managing limited resources, capacity constraints, and ongoing external challenges.
Speaking at a first press conference for 2026 today, the Prime Minister said the passage of the 2026 Appropriation Act marks a shift from planning to action, with emphasis on careful implementation of programmes and projects across all ministries.
“With the budget now in place, our attention this year is on implementation — making sure approved programmes are carried out properly, responsibly, and in a way that delivers real benefits to our people,” Prime Minister Manele said.
He said last week the Policy Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation Unit at the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) brought together Permanent Secretaries and senior officials from all line ministries for a week-long policy review workshop aimed at improving coordination and value for money in government work.
Severe Weather Impacts Felt Nationwide
The Prime Minister also addressed the recent severe weather that has affected many parts of the country, including heavy rain, flooding, damage to roads and infrastructure, power outages, and loss of lives.
“These events have affected families and communities across Solomon Islands and remind us again of the importance of preparedness and strong coordination, especially for essential services,” he said.
He confirmed that the National Disaster Management Office activated national disaster arrangements following alerts and warnings issued by the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service.
Government Acknowledges Public Concerns
Prime Minister Manele said the Government is aware of ongoing public discussions on issues such as governance, service delivery, land matters, and the management of natural resources.
“These discussions show that people care about how the country is governed,” he said.
“The Government recognises this and is committed to acting carefully, lawfully, and always in the national interest.”
He added that wider challenges — including rising living costs, global economic pressures, climate impacts, and long-standing development constraints — continue to influence how the Government plans and prioritises its work.
Key Areas of Focus in 2026
The Prime Minister outlined several priority areas for the year ahead:
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Maintaining discipline in public financial management and ensuring public funds are used responsibly and transparently.
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Supporting productive and resource sectors, private businesses, and labour mobility opportunities to help strengthen household incomes and employment.
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Continuing infrastructure and service delivery projects already underway in transport, energy, telecommunications, health, and education, including key projects marking Solomon Islands’ 50th independence anniversary.
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Continuing reforms to improve coordination, oversight, and accountability across government institutions, in line with the law.
Bills Before Parliament
On the legislative programme, Prime Minister Manele said three Bills are currently on notice before Parliament:
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SOE (Amendment) Bill 2024
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Mineral Resources Bill 2025
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VAT Bill 2025
He said the Government is still waiting for the Speaker’s consideration on two additional Bills — the DDA (Amendment) Bill 2025 and the Civil Registration Bill 2025 — and will continue to work with the Clerk of National Parliament on the timing of Bills and committee hearings.
Regional Role and Ongoing Engagement
Prime Minister Manele also noted Solomon Islands’ regional and international responsibilities, particularly its role as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, while ensuring national interests remain protected.
He said progress will take time and not all issues can be resolved in one year, but the Government remains committed to steady work and engagement.
“The Government will continue to work with Parliament, provincial governments, communities, development partners and the media as we carry out our responsibilities,” he said.
He called for cooperation, patience, and a shared commitment to stability and responsible governance as the country moves through 2026.
