Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Jeremiah Manele, visited Sasamunga in South Choiseul last Sunday as part of his ongoing solidarity mission to communities affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila.
Sasamunga was among the hardest-hit areas in Choiseul Province, where villagers experienced unusually massive swells that reached inland, forcing many residents to evacuate to higher ground.
Communities reported waves never seen before, resulting in widespread destruction across surrounding rural areas.
Tropical Cyclone Maila, with sustained winds exceeding 120 kilometres per hour, caused extensive damage across Western, Choiseul, and Isabel Provinces, impacting homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods.
Addressing community members and leaders in Sasamunga, Prime Minister Manele reaffirmed the purpose of his visit, emphasising that the National Government stands in solidarity with the people during this difficult time.
“You are not alone. The Government stands with the people of South Choiseul as you recover and rebuild from the impacts of this disaster,” the Prime Minister said.
Prime Minister Manele also reflected on his previous visit to Sasamunga during his tenure as Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, noting that the damage caused by Tropical Cyclone Maila has been more severe than past events experienced by the community.
He acknowledged that while it was not possible to visit all affected communities, the Government remains committed to supporting all those impacted across the province.
The Prime Minister commended the Member of Parliament for South Choiseul, Torzen Leokana for his leadership and support to communities during the crisis.
Prime Minister Manele expressed gratitude to the people of Sasamunga for their warm welcome despite the challenges they are currently facing, and gave thanks that no lives were lost during the disaster.
“We are grateful that no lives were lost. As a Christian nation, we continue to have faith and support one another during these difficult times,” he said.
The Prime Minister highlighted the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, stressing the importance of long-term planning and preparedness.
“We must be prepared for changing weather patterns. As we rebuild, we must also plan ahead to better withstand future disasters,” he added.
Prime Minister Manele assured the community that the concerns and issues raised during the visit have been noted and will be communicated to relevant authorities for consideration.
“The National Government is with you. We will continue to work to support our people as recovery efforts progress,” he said.
The visit to Sasamunga forms part of the Prime Minister’s broader mission to Western and Choiseul Provinces, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to stand with affected communities and support recovery efforts following Tropical Cyclone Maila.
The delegation traveling with PM Manele includes MP for South Choiseul, Torzen Leokana, MP for Shortland Islands, Isikeli Vave Jnr, Chairman of the National Disaster Council, Mr. David Hiba Hiriasia, Australian High Commissioner, H.E Jeff Roach, Western Provincial Speaker, Mr. Ramrakha Talasasa and other senior government officials from the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
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