News and Public Notices

The severe weather conditions brought on by Cyclone Maila over the past week have significantly affected our communities across Bougainville. Strong winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding have caused widespread damage to homes, livelihoods, and essential services.

The government has mobilized our response teams from the Bougainville Disaster Directorate through the Department of Community Government. The Disaster Directorate is actively monitoring and assessing the situation and has already commenced mobilizing relief efforts for our outer islands as well Buka and the mainland.

Restoration work has commenced on sections of the Bougainville Highway where access is possible. The landslip in Panguna is currently being cleared, and the road is expected to be reopened to vehicles soon. Efforts are also underway to repair areas affected by severe flooding, while relief supplies are being distributed to communities impacted by rising waters and high tides.

I have been advised that the Department of Infrastructure and Utilities, the Department of National Works and Highways, and the Office of the Regional Member are closely monitoring river levels along the highway. Repairs to crossings and bridges will proceed once conditions improve and water levels subside.

At this time, travel by sea, land, and air remains restricted. All relief operations will therefore be coordinated through the Disaster Directorate at regional and district levels. The government is ensuring that necessary resources are made available to support affected communities.

I call on our leaders at both the National Government and the Autonomous Bougainville Government to continue working together to address this situation. Our priority must be the safety of our people and the restoration of essential services and livelihoods.

I want to assure all our people that government support will reach those affected. Please take all necessary precautions and avoid unnecessary risks, as the weather remains unpredictable and potentially dangerous.

Above all, do not lose hope. Our people have endured war, volcanic eruptions, and cyclones far greater than this. We are resilient, and we will overcome this challenge together.

Stay safe, and may God bless you all.

 

H.E. Ishmael Toroama, MHR
President

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