MCT rolls out Tourism Recovery Grant for operators affected by Cyclone Maila

Honiara – 12 November 2026; The Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) has commenced the rollout of the Tourism Recovery Grant to support tourism operators in Western and Choiseul provinces affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila.

The Ministry is pleased to announce the progress of the grant program, acknowledging concerns raised by tourism operators regarding the provision of recovery assistance following the cyclone.

The grant rollout began in September and is progressing, with eight tourism operators having so far received their recovery packages. These comprised seven operators from Western province and one from Choiseul province.

Meanwhile, payment is underway for the remaining eligible operators. The grant will cover a total of 29 tourism operators who were assessed by the Ministry, comprising 24 from Western province and five (5) from Choiseul province.

To help fast-track the disbursement process, the Ministry is urging operators whose payments are still pending due to vendor issues with the Ministry of Finance and Treasury (MOFT) to resolve these matters as soon as possible.

The Ministry is also reminding all operators to ensure they comply with relevant Provincial Ordinances and the Companies Act. This includes maintaining updated provincial business licences and company registration with the Company Haus.

These requirements are important prerequisites for the processing and disbursement of the grant payments.

The Ministry sincerely apologises for any inconvenience caused to tourism operators during the process and assures them of its continued commitment to supporting their recovery.

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism recognises the importance of a resilient and sustainable tourism industry in strengthening the national economy, creating opportunities and delivering lasting benefits to people across the country.