PRIME MINISTER MANELE VISITS SIMBO ISLAND, MEETS AFFECTED COMMUNITIES IN LENGANA VILLAGE

Honiara, Solomon Islands, Saturday 18 April 2026 – Prime Minister, Hon. Jeremiah Manele, has visited Lengana Village on Simbo Island in Western Province as part of his ongoing solidarity visit to communities affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila.

Simbo Island, identified as one of the severely affected “red zone” areas, has sustained significant damage following the cyclone. During his visit, Prime Minister Manele witnessed firsthand the extent of destruction impacting homes, livelihoods, and community infrastructure.

The Prime Minister and his delegation were welcomed by the people of Lengana Village, who expressed their appreciation for the visit and the Government’s presence during this difficult time.

Community members took the opportunity to share the challenges they are currently facing as they begin the process of recovery and rebuilding. Among the key issues raised were the financial pressures on families, including requests for government support such as exemptions for school fees and other assistance to help restore livelihoods.

Prime Minister Manele acknowledged the concerns raised and assured the community that their voices have been heard.

“I have taken note of all the issues raised by the community, and I will be conveying these to the relevant line ministries and ministers for their consideration and appropriate action,” he said.

The visit forms part of the Prime Minister’s two-day solidarity mission to Western and Choiseul Provinces, aimed at demonstrating the National Government’s support and standing with affected communities in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Maila.

The Government, through the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) and in coordination with provincial authorities and development partners, continues to respond to the impacts of the cyclone, which has affected homes, schools, health facilities, food gardens, and livelihoods across the two provinces.

Prime Minister Manele reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring that the needs of affected communities are addressed as response efforts continue and recovery planning progresses.

The visit to Lengana Village follows earlier engagements with provincial leaders and other affected communities across Western Province.

PM at Lengana clinic

PM Manele accompanied by Premier Veo at Lengana, Simbo

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