BY JOY OFASIA
Families across Solomon Islands are being urged to make disaster preparedness a priority at home, with communities reminded that they are often the first to respond when disasters strike, before government assistance and emergency relief arrive.
Speaking at the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction event in Honiara this morning, Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management & Meteorology Hon. Wayne Ghemu emphasis that “resilience starts at home,”.
Th minister said families, neighbours and communities play a critical role during the first hours of an emergency, when immediate assistance may not yet be available.
Hon Ghemu said that preparedness does not have to be complicated, encouraging households to take simple steps such as discussing what to do during a cyclone, identifying safe places to evacuate to, preparing essential supplies and ensuring family members know who to contact in an emergency.
“Preparedness is not something distant or complicated, it is something we can build every day through conversations, small actions and shared responsibility,” he said.
Families were also encouraged to consider the needs of vulnerable household members who may require additional assistance during disasters.
He also highlighted that taking these precautions can help save lives, protect livelihoods and enable families to recover more quickly after emergencies.
Hon Ghemu said household preparedness could also reduce pressure on government and emergency response agencies by lowering the number of families requiring emergency shelter, food assistance and other forms of relief.
“Preparedness at home is not only life-saving but also cost-saving,” the minister said.
The Minister emphasised that while government, provincial authorities and development partners all have responsibilities, preparedness ultimately requires the participation of every household and community.
He urged Solomon Islanders to strengthen their families, support their neighbours and work together to build safer and more resilient communities.
“Ultimately, preparedness is everyone’s responsibility,” the speaker said.
