Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Cooper Wale says early warning systems are a matter of survival for Solomon Islands, given the country’s exposure to natural disasters.
Speaking at the High-Level Roundtable on “Early Warnings for All” on 12 November 2026, Prime Minister Wale said the country’s 994 islands, including 90 inhabited islands, expose communities to cyclones, floods, landslides, earthquakes and rising sea levels.
He stressed that warnings must reach every island, village and household, regardless of how remote they are.
The Prime Minister highlighted national progress, including the country’s first national weather radar near Honiara International Airport, expected to commence operations by the end of 2026.
He also outlined efforts to strengthen weather observation networks, regional partnerships and communication systems through SIBC and telecommunications providers.
However, he acknowledged that reaching remote communities, sustaining infrastructure and securing adequate financing remain major challenges.
PM Wale called for predictable multi-year financing, simplified access to climate finance, technology transfer and stronger regional cooperation to strengthen early warning capabilities.
“Early warning without early action cannot save lives,” he told the roundtable, stressing that no community must be left behind.
He said the 2027 global deadline must deliver lasting protection rather than become another unfulfilled international commitment.
Source: PMO
