THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2026
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has intensified the national response to Cyclone Maila, announcing immediate relief funding and confirming plans to visit severely affected communities in Milne Bay Province later this week.
Speaking at a press conference at Melanesian Haus, he said the government is receiving detailed situation reports from provinces, districts, and local-level governments, giving a clearer picture of the devastation.
“We are in a disaster situation. Reports are now coming in, and the weather conditions are still ongoing. I want to assure our people that the Government is fully engaged and responding,” he said.
PM Marape revealed that K5 million has been allocated to each of six affected provinces, including Milne Bay and Bougainville, totaling K30 million in immediate relief support.
The funds will provide food, medicine, water, and other essentials while full assessments are conducted.
A comprehensive Cabinet submission is being prepared to capture the total cost of recovery and rehabilitation, with provisions to be made in this year’s and next year’s budgets.
Marape expressed deep concern for Milne Bay, describing it as one of the hardest-hit regions due to its vulnerable low-lying islands.
He confirmed plans to personally travel to the province, weather permitting, to assess the situation and provide leadership support. Other ministers, including Hon. Peter Tsiamalili, will be deployed to coordinate responses in additional provinces.
The Prime Minister also stressed the need for greater preparedness as climate-related disasters become more frequent.
“We must adapt as a nation,” he said, pledging long-term resilience programs for vulnerable communities.
He closed with a message of solidarity: “We stand in total solidarity with our people. The Government will walk with you through this difficult time.”