BY SAMIE WAIKORI
The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management, and Meteorology (MECDM) has reiterated its commitment to supporting the Government of National Unity and Transformation’s (GNUT) policy priorities.
Speaking during the debate on the sine die motion in Parliament on Monday December 15, 2025, the Minister for Environment, Hon. Polycarp Paea, emphasized his ministry’s ongoing efforts to deliver tangible results for the people of the country.
“I am pleased to report that the ministry has made significant progress in advancing key programs and projects that directly align with the GNUT’s policy priorities for 2025,” Minister Paea said.
“These initiatives include efforts in environmental protection, sustainable resource management, climate change adaptation and resilience, disaster risk management, and the provision of 24/7 early warning services,” he added.
The minister also highlighted several key milestones achieved by the ministry in 2025.
“We’ve made notable strides in addressing loss and damage through policy dialogue and investment strategies, enabling Solomon Islands to access the international loss and damage fund,” Paea explained. “Additionally, we’ve launched the country’s first National Adaptation Plan, expanded protected areas with landowner involvement under the Protected Areas Legislation, started the construction of disaster warehouses in Honiara and Auki, and made significant progress on the country’s first weather radar.”
These achievements, according to Paea, underscore the ministry’s leadership in advancing climate action, safeguarding biodiversity, and protecting communities nationwide.
However, the minister also acknowledged the challenges in delivering environmental, climate change, disaster management, and meteorological services across the provinces and communities. He pointed out that these are complex, cross-cutting issues requiring strong national, regional, and global collaboration.
Paea further highlighted legislative and policy gaps, especially in enforcement, compliance, and the institutional capacity of the ministry. He also noted the need for stronger data sharing and coordination to ensure timely reporting and evidence-based planning.
“Despite these challenges, the ministry has shown resilience and innovation, supported by strong partnerships with line ministries, provincial governments, NGOs, civil society organizations (CSOs), churches, the private sector, and our bilateral and multilateral partners,” Paea said.
The minister expressed his gratitude to these partners, acknowledging that their contributions remain crucial in advancing shared objectives and achieving meaningful outcomes.
“As we look toward 2026, I reaffirm my ministry’s commitment to managing our resources effectively and delivering clear, practical results for the people of Solomon Islands,” Paea said.
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