Member of Parliament (MP) for West New Georgia–Vona Vona Constituency Hon George Temahua, has warned that rising living costs, youth unemployment and climate change are straining households and threatening national stability, urging Parliament to intensify efforts to strengthen institutions and service delivery.
Speaking during the Motion of Sine-Die in December, Temahua said the Solomon Islands economy remains “sensitive to external pressures” and many families are struggling to cope with higher prices.
“Our economy remains sensitive to external pressures and many households continue to feel the strain of rising living costs,” he said. “Service delivery challenges persist in most areas, reminding us of the importance of sustained attention to implementation and coordination. Youth unemployment and related social pressures remain a shared concern for all of us in the House.”
He added that climate change and natural disasters are compounding difficulties for communities and development projects nationwide. “These challenges are not unique to one government or to one parliament,” he said.
“They require patience, cooperation and a collective commitment to work together over time.”
He stressed that managing a small economy in a volatile global environment requires “steady policy direction, prudent decision-making and stronger coordination between government, Parliament and society to build resilience.”
He also highlighted the importance of strengthening transparency and accountability in government, saying: “Strong institutions are the foundation of public trust. Continued effort to strengthen transparency, accountability and coordination across government will reinforce confidence in our national system.”
While acknowledging progress in infrastructure and public facilities, he said long-term prosperity depends on creating opportunities at home, particularly for young people.
“The well-being of our people must remain central to all policy choices,” he said.
“I reaffirm my commitment to always stand for the needs, concerns and aspirations of the people of West New Georgia–Vona Vona.”
By ANDRIANAH DELASALET KOLE
Solomon Star, Honiara
