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“You Smiled Through Your Pain”: PM Wale Moved By Choiseul’s Strength After Cyclone Maila

Prime Minister Matthew Wale has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting communities affected by Cyclone Maila in Choiseul Province.

During a visit to Saqigae Village in North West Choiseul, the Prime Minister witnessed first hand the extent of damage to homes and school facilities caused by the cyclone.

He expressed deep concern after visiting makeshift tents currently being used as classrooms following the destruction of school buildings.

“I have seen and heard your cries, and I can only imagine the suffering of our people in other cyclone-affected areas in other parts of the province,” the Prime Minister said.

Prime Minister Wale stressed that a government must remain connected to the struggles of its people.

He adds any government that fails to feel the pain of its citizens risks becoming insensitive to their needs.

The Prime Minister also shared deep admiration for the resilience showed by the people of Choiseul province.

“Today, I visited you but you smiled through your pain,” he said.

The PM and his delegation in Saqigae Village

Member of Parliament for Northwest Choiseul, Harry Kuma, who accompanied the Prime Minister thanked him for making the visit.

Mr Kuma who is also the Minister of Commerce, Industry, Labour & Division noted that despite only recently assuming office, the Government has demonstrated clear commitment to recovery efforts.

Local chiefs and elders also commended the Prime Minister for his humility and willingness to engage directly with affected communities.

Villagers from nearby communities including Ngarione, Salakana, Vouza, and Vagara gathered to welcome the Prime Minister and his delegation.

The Prime Minister and his delegation have since arrived in Gizo last night, Western Province, for the second leg of their reassurance visit.

[ENDS]

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  • Ronald Toito'ona

    Ronald Flier Toito’ona is a distinguished Solomon Islands Investigative journalist. He is part of In-depth Solomons, an investigative newsroom based in Honiara dedicated to transparency and accountability.

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