(Photo: Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Hon. Richard Marles and Hon. Minister for MECDM Wayne Ghemu witnessing the drone demonstration by NDMO Drone-pilots yesterday.)
SOLOMON ISLANDS RECEIVES FOUR DRONES FROM AUSTRALIA TO ENHANCE DISASTER RESPONSE
The Solomon Islands Government through the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology receives FOUR aerial drones from the government of Australia through its Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Défense Honourable Richard Marles in a handover ceremony held at Aola Wharf, Point Cruz, yesterday.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, MECDM Minister Hon. Wayne Ghemu said it is a great privilege to receive this advanced drone equipment from the Government and the People of Australia. The handover marks a significant step forward in strengthening Solomon Islands’ national disaster preparedness and response capabilities. It also stands as a testament to the enduring cooperation and deep friendship shared between the two nations.
Hon. Minister. Ghemu on behalf of the Solomon Islands Government conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the Government and the people of Australia for their steadfast and generous support. The provision of the drones reflects Australia’s shared commitment to strengthening the Solomon Islands sovereign humanitarian response capacity. “This partnership is demonstrated across many areas, from major infrastructure initiatives to the technical training of our disaster response personnel,” Minister Ghemu added.
Australia’s collaborative efforts with the Solomon Islands have contributed to the proposed new humanitarian and multi-agency warehouse in Honiara, the Auki humanitarian warehouse, and the refurbishment of Provincial Emergency Operation Centres in Gizo and Lata. It also included support for the newly constructed Taro Provincial Emergency Operation Centre, delivered through the Integrated Disaster Risk Management Project under UNDP funded by the Australian Government. This operation centre stands as a significant achievement and will soon be formally handed over to the Government and People of Solomon Islands. These contributions will substantially enhance the national capacity to respond effectively to disasters, particularly within the critical first 48 hours of an emergency.
Hon. Ghemu also acknowledged Australia’s substantial support in strengthening the capacity and capability of the National Emergency Response Team (NERT). As the Solomon Islands’ flagship initiative for disaster management, NERT represents a firm commitment to safeguarding people through a highly trained and rapidly deployable response team. Through Australia’s partnership, NERT officers now have access to advanced skills, technology, and resources including the drone capability received, positioning them to respond with greater speed, precision and confidence both in country, and in the future, within the wider region.
The drones handed over today (yesterday) will significantly elevate the operational strength of the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO). Their advanced aerial assessment ability will allow officers to quickly evaluate disaster impacts, support search and rescue operations, and enable faster, better-informed decision-making. This ensures that relief reaches affected communities more efficiently and more effectively, Hon. Ghemu stated
“Beyond immediate response, these drones will strengthen our ongoing risk reduction efforts, supporting community-based disaster management programs through continuous monitoring, mapping of vulnerable areas, and enhanced preparedness planning. By investing in these tools, we are investing directly in safer, more resilient communities”.
In his final remarks Hon. Minister Ghemu also wished to commend three NDMO officers who have completed comprehensive drone-pilot training under the invaluable guidance of the Australian Defence Force. Their professionalism and technical expertise will ensure that this new capability is used safely, responsibly, and to its full potential.
“This donation forms an integral component of our broader humanitarian partnership, anchored in a shared vision for long-term capability building and resilience”.
MECDM and NDMO extends appreciation to their partners, the RSIPF Maritime and all agencies and partners who continue to assist in expanding and strengthening Solomon Islands disaster management systems.
(Photo: Captain Hayden Wearne (ADF) drone-pilot trainer with NDMO Pilots Henry Smith Malvi, Branson Pitakia and Steve Nasiu pose for a photo after the handover ceremony).
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MECDM Press Release