In this bulletin:
1. SOL — No confidence motion filed against Solomon Islands PM Manele, PFP confirms formation of new coalition
2. TONGA — New Zealand pledges $30m support as PM Luxon visits Tonga
3. PACIFIC — Australia, NZ boost military co-operation over decade
4. FIJI — Fiji Labour Party leader Chaudhry questions legality of Constitution review commission
5. PNG — 19 parties in PNG put on notice
6. PACIFIC — President Heine joins Indo-Pacific Energy Security Forum in Tokyo
7. PACIFIC — WHO Western Pacific Regional Office signs new deal with friends of WHO Japan as funding pressures mount
8. PACNEWS BIZ — Tuvalu sets up Emergency Power Response Team to tackle major outages
9. PACNEWS BIZ — Pacific Fisheries Leaders move to accelerate East New Britain Initiative
10. PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji has ample fuel supply reassures PM Rabuka
11. PACNEWS BIZ — PM Marape moves to shield PNG from global fuel shock
12. PACNEWS DIGEST — The Republic of the Marshall Islands builds a BOLD response to Loss and Damage
13. PACNEWS DIGEST — Ouvéa tackles coastal erosion with native nurseries
14. PACNEWS DIGEST — Vanuatu Energy Resilience Project Moves from Drawing Board to the Shoreline
SOL – POLITICS: SIBC PACNEWS 1: Wed 18 Mar 2026
No confidence motion filed against Solomon Islands PM Manele, PFP confirms formation of new coalition
HONIARA, 18 MARCH 2026 (SIBC)—The Office of the Speaker of Parliament has received a notice of a motion of no confidence against Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.
The notice, signed by the former Deputy Prime Minister and Member of Parliament for South Vella La Vella, was received Monday and is now before Parliament for consideration.
It is currently undergoing the required seven-day notice period, which will lapse on Monday, 23 March 2026.
Clerk to Parliament Jefferson Hallu said the motion can be moved and debated once the notice period ends, and when the Prime Minister convenes Parliament.
“The motion can be moved anytime from 24 March 2026 onwards, whenever Parliament sits again,” he said.
This is the third motion of no confidence to be filed against Prime Minister Manele.
Earlier this week, 12 Cabinet ministers resigned from the Manele-led Government for National Unity and Transformation.
Most of them are members of the People’s First Party(PFP), who cited frustration and mistrust among coalition partners as reasons for their resignation.
The mass resignation leaves 12 of the 24 government ministries without ministers.
Deputy Wing Leader of the People’s First Party and former Health Minister Dr Paul Bosawai confirmed that a new coalition is being formed between the People’s First Party, opposition members, and independent MPs.
“There is a coalition being formed between the People’s First Party, opposition and independent members, and the number is 28 at the moment. In politics, we cannot pre-count numbers, but we respect the choices of politicians.
If we share the same common ground to redefine Solomon Islands and bring economic benefits to the country, then we are seeing support from our colleagues on the independent and opposition sides,” he said.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Manele welcomed Mary Daniella Zae Garu and Freda Tuki Soriocomua, who were officially sworn in at Government House.
The two MPs replaced ministers who had resigned from Cabinet.
Garu was sworn in as Minister for Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs, succeeding Stephen Kumi, while Ms Soriocomua was sworn in as Minister for Justice and Legal Affairs, succeeding Clezy Rore.
Prime Minister Manele congratulated both ministers, saying their appointments will help ensure the Cabinet remains functional and focused on its objectives.
Meanwhile, the defection of 19 government ministers and backbenchers to the Opposition and independent ranks has now left the Prime Minister running a minority government.
The defected government members have joined with the Opposition and Independent groupings bringing their total number to 28 MPs.
Twenty Seven (27) MPs took a photo shoot Monday without Hon Franklyn Wasi who had also resigned but was still overseas.
The group has also signed a new coalition agreement and filed a motion of no confidence against the Prime Minister.
Sponsored
“When such a significant number of sitting members, including ministers, abandon their own coalition, it signals a government in serious crisis,” a statement from the group said.
The statement said these decisions are not made lightly.
They reflect deep frustrations over internal divisions, lack of trust, and growing concerns that the government has lost its sense of direction and purpose.
This mass exodus raises urgent constitutional and governance questions.
“Can a government that has lost the confidence of 19 of its own members continue to claim legitimacy? Can it effectively govern while grappling with internal collapse?”
The statement said that what is unfolding is not just a reshuffling of numbers; it is a rejection of leadership that has failed to unite, failed to listen, and failed to deliver.
Political commentator and director of the Citizens Rights Advocacy Network Solomon Islands, Redley Raramo, said there was still time for the PM to stabilise the coalition.
“Negotiations are still ongoing and progressing. The Prime Minister is yet to announce a formal date for the parliament meeting”.
“”I wouldn’t be concluding here because anything to do with the numbers can only be manifested on the floor of Parliament,” said Raramo……PACNEWS
TONGA – DIPLOMACY: TALANOAOTONGA PACNEWS 1: Wed 18 Mar 2026
New Zealand pledges $30m support as PM Luxon visits Tonga
NUKU’ALOFA, 18 MARCH 2026 (TALANOA’OTONGA)—New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, has announced a NZ$30 million (US$17.58 million)expanded package of support for Tonga during an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and boosting resilience.
Luxon arrived in Nuku’alofa Tuesday with a delegation of ministers and business representatives, and was welcomed by the Deputy Prime Minister.
Talks with Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua, focused on economic cooperation, climate resilience and development priorities.
At a joint press conference, Luxon confirmed NZ$20 million(US$11.72 million) in general budget support over two years.
Additional commitments include NZ$5.25 million(US$3.07 million) over five years to strengthen health systems and services, NZ$5 million(US$2.92 million) in climate-flexible funding. And a NZ$2 million(US$1.17 million) to expand Pacific Resilient Food Systems support for Tongan farmers was also announced.
The funding comes as Pacific nations face mounting pressure from climate change and rising costs, with both leaders emphasising the importance of long-term resilience and sustainable growth.
Lord Fakafanua said the government welcomed deeper private sector engagement, highlighting a recent agreement between Sudima Hotels and King Tupou VI to develop a hotel at the new Parliament Precinct.
The project is expected to generate around 100 jobs and contribute an estimated T$18 million(US$10.54 million) annually to the economy.
Discussions also covered easing export barriers for Tongan pineapples into New Zealand, alongside plans for improved agricultural infrastructure in Vava’u.
The visit includes an audience with the King, site visits, and engagements with police and education sectors before the delegation departs today. Both governments say the outcomes reflect a shared commitment to long-term economic resilience and regional stability…..PACNEWS
PAC – DEFENCE/DIPLOMACY: AAP PACNEWS 1: Wed 18 Mar 2026
Australia, NZ boost military co-operation over decade
CANBERRA, 18 MARCH 2026 (AAP)—Australia and New Zealand will strengthen military co-operation as both nations navigate increasingly challenging global circumstances, with the war in Iran dragging on and the Pacific becoming more precarious.
Defence Minister Richard Marles and Foreign Minister Penny Wong met their counterparts, Winston Peters and Judith Collins respectively, in Canberra on Tuesday as part of annual talks.
The Australian Defence Force and New Zealand Defence Force will boost co-operation, with members of each being increasingly embedded in the other over the next decade as part of an “ANZAC 2035 vision”.
This will include increasing support for security operations in the Pacific, including tackling transnational organised crime, drug trafficking and natural disasters.
An Australia-NZ working group will identify where both forces can better integrate and train together, and there will be combined investment in defence industry production and procurement, the ministers announced.
“This is important not just because of the world today, but because both of our defence forces are growing,” Marles told reporters at a joint press conference following the ministerial meeting.
Growing the militaries in tandem allows both nations to better leverage their capabilities, Marles said.
Judith Collins
“It’s not lost on any of us that in the context of that world, it is profoundly important that in the community of nations, family as we are, stick closely together,” he said.
The joint statement described it as being “force multipliers for each other” with defence forces able to combine to tackle security threats.
Both nations would work closely with Pacific Island nations to lift capability and streamline co-operation across the region, Collins added.
“We are both Pacific, and our security is inextricably linked to the security of the Pacific region and its peoples,” she said.
The trans-Tasman partnership has never been more important, Senator Wong said.
“This is amplified middle power diplomacy in action,” she said.
Senator Wong said discussions with her counterpart also included oil supply coming out of the Gulf as Iran halts tankers traversing the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 percent of the world’s oil transits.
Australia was engaging with countries it imported fuel from amid concerns about supply, including China, she added, as Beijing moves to restrict exports to shore up domestic supply…. PACNEWS
FIJI – CONSTITUTIONAL REVIEW: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS 1: Wed 18 Mar 2026
Fiji Labour Party leader Chaudhry questions legality of Constitution review commission
SUVA, 18 MARCH 2026 (FIJI TIMES)—Labour Leader Mahendra Chaudhry has questioned the Fiji Government’s authority to appoint a Constitution review commission without first securing parliamentary approval.
Chaudhry said any move to review the country’s supreme law must be properly mandated through Parliament.
“How can a committee to review the Constitution be appointed without first obtaining Parliamentary approval?” he asked.
He pointed to the 1997 constitutional review process as the correct precedent, where Parliament first authorised the exercise.
“A review of the Constitution must be properly authorised through a parliamentary resolution as it was done in 1997. Only then was a commission appointed to review the racist 1990 Constitution at the time,” Chaudhry said.
He stressed that both the establishment of the commission and its terms of reference should be approved by Parliament.
“This is a matter dealing with the Constitution. It must have proper mandate through Parliament which must also approve a terms of reference for the review commission,” he said.
Chaudhry said the Government should not proceed unilaterally on such a significant national issue.
“The government cannot simply go ahead and appoint a commission to review the Constitution without proper terms of reference and without it having parliamentary approval,” he said.
He also raised concerns that the Opposition had not challenged the move.
“One wonders why the parliamentary Opposition has not raised this matter?” he said.
Chaudhry further criticised the Government for failing to obtain parliamentary approval to lower the voting threshold for constitutional amendments.
“This government has been acting unilaterally in matters concerning the Constitution, creating fear and instability, undermining confidence in Fiji’s future,” he warned….PACNEWS
PNG – POLITICS: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS 1: Wed 18 Mar 2026
19 parties in PNG put on notice
PORT MORESBY, 18 MARCH 2026 (THE NATIONAL) —The Papua New Guinea Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates Commission has put on notice 19 political parties that their registration will be cancelled if they fail to comply with certain legislative provisions on time.
Political Parties registrar Emmanuel Pok, in a notice dated 16 March, 2026, said the parties would be given until March 30 to respond and show cause.
Four of the 19 parties have been warned to consult the Registry of Political Parties in the next 14 days of what is required of them. If they fail to comply, their registration will be cancelled.
They are the People’s Resource Awareness Party, New Generation Party, League for National Advancement Party and National Action Party.
The other 15 parties have also been given an extension of 14 days to respond or face the cancellation of their registration.
They are the PNG Party, Coalition for Reform Party, People’s United Assembly Party, Grassroots United Front Party, PNG One Nation Party, Paradise Kingdom Party, PNG First Party, Trust PNG Party, PNG Youths Party, PNG Youths Empowerment Party, People’s Guided Democracy Party, PNG Prosperity Party, Advance PNG Party, Future of PNG Party and PNG Liberal Democratic Party.
“The Registry of Political Parties would like to inform the registered political parties that they are being considered by the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates Commission to have their registration cancelled because of their failure to meet certain provisions of the Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates (OLIPPAC),” Pok said.
“Following the commission meeting on 03 March, the commission resolved and approved that the parties be given 14 days to show cause as to why their registration should not be cancelled.
“Failure to respond will result in the automatic cancellation of individual party’s registration.”
Meanwhile, Pok reminded public officers of all other registered political parties that in accordance with Section 88 of the OLIPPAC, their annual financial returns should to be submitted by 31 March….PACNEWS
PAC – ENERGY SECUTITY MEET: FSM GOVT PACNEWS 1: Wed 18 Mar 2026
President Heine joins Indo-Pacific Energy Security Forum in Tokyo
TOKYO, 18 MARCH 2026 (FSM GOVT) — President of the Republic of the Marshall Islands Hilda Heine, attended the opening of the Indo-Pacific Energy Security Ministerial and Business Forum (IPEM) in Japan on 14 March 2026.
President Heine departed Majuro on 12 March and arrived in Japan the following day to begin her official engagements.
The Indo-Pacific Energy Security Ministerial and Business Forum is a high-level, invitation-only meeting that brings together government leaders, industry representatives and development partners to strengthen cooperation on energy security across the Indo-Pacific region.
The two-day forum focuses on strengthening resilient energy supply chains, promoting strategic investment and building partnerships to support reliable and sustainable energy systems.
Participants are also discussing ways to expand energy collaboration, support infrastructure development and strengthen strategic cooperation among Indo-Pacific partners. The discussions highlight the need for trusted partnerships and coordinated action to support long-term regional energy security and resilience.
President Heine’s participation reflects the commitment of the Republic of the Marshall Islands to work with regional and international partners on energy access, infrastructure development and climate resilience—issues that are critical for Small Island Developing States.
On the sidelines of the forum, President Heine held a brief meeting with Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Ryosei Akazawa, where both sides reaffirmed the longstanding relationship between the Marshall Islands and Japan.
She also attended a private luncheon hosted by the United States Secretary of Commerce Doug Burgum and Minister Akazawa, together with other regional leaders.
The discussions at the luncheon focused on strengthening cooperation on energy, trade and sustainable development across the Indo-Pacific region…. PACNEWS
PAC – HEALTH: PACNEWS PACNEWS 1: Wed 18 Mar 2026
WHO Western Pacific Regional Office signs new deal with friends of WHO Japan as funding pressures mount
MANILA, 18 MARCH 2026 (PACNEWS)—The World Health Organisation Western Pacific Regional Office (WPRO) has strengthened its partnership with Friends of WHO Japan following the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), as the agency faces growing financial and geopolitical challenges.
WHO Regional Director Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala described the agreement as a reflection of long-standing cooperation and shared commitment to global health.
“There is nothing on this Earth more to be prized than true friendship.”
He said the partnership was demonstrated through the agreement signed this week with the Japan-based organisation.
“That beautiful truth was manifested this week by Friends of WHO Japan a longtime partner in health, through the Memorandum of Understanding signed with our WHO Western Pacific Regional Office based in Manila,” said Dr Piukala on X.
The Friends of WHO Japan, led by Professor Yasuhide Nakamura, is a private, nonprofit public health organisation established in 1965 to support the mission of the World Health Organisation.
Dr Piukala said the organisation has played a key role in advancing public health over more than six decades.
“Over the past 60+ years, this very special entity has:
*provided WHO and global health information in Japanese;
*led public awareness initiatives through regular publications, lectures, and symposiums;
*built domestic and international health networks;
*supported capacity strengthening and human resource development; and
*contributed to WHO programmess through fundraising and partnership-based support.”
He said its initiatives have ranged from hygiene education and essay competitions for students to international symposiums and support for overseas health projects.
The new agreement is expected to deepen collaboration between the two organisations.
“The MoU signed this week takes our collaboration to a new level. It’s more than just a document. It’s a commitment to walk forward together all the more at a time of unprecedented challenge.”
Dr Piukala also pointed to increasing financial strain on the WHO, linked to global political shifts.
“The United States’ move away from WHO, compounded by other shifts in geopolitics, has created significant political and economic challenges.”
“Our financial pressures, already difficult last year, have only intensified,” he said.
He said efforts to secure funding have become more difficult.
“While we continue to knock on many doors for support, the tough global climate means that help does not come easily.”
Dr Piukala acknowledged Japan’s continued support as critical to the organisation’s work.
“That’s why the support we have consistently received from Japan – its government, prefectures and private sector – means so much to us.”
“This generosity, especially coming from the private sector – where WHO has historically found it challenging to foster alliances – touches us deeply.”
He said the new agreement could open the door to new forms of collaboration.
“I hope this MOU marks the beginning of a new chapter, one where we explore innovative models of collaboration that bring fresh energy and solutions to our region,” he said……PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
TUVALU – POWER RESPONSE TEAM: PACNEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 18 Mar 2026
Tuvalu sets up Emergency Power Response Team to tackle major outages
FUNAFUTI, 18 FEBRUARY 2026 (PACNEWS)— Tuvalu has convened the first meeting of a newly established Emergency Power Response Team aimed at strengthening the country’s ability to respond to major electricity outages.
The team has been set up under the Ministry of Transport, Energy, Communication and Innovation (MTECI) to improve oversight of the country’s electricity system and provide independent technical advice to the minister responsible for energy.
“Last week marked the first meeting of the Emergency Power Response Team, which has been established under the Ministry of Transport, Energy, Communication and Innovation (MTECI) to strengthen Tuvalu’s capacity to respond promptly to major power outages, improve technical oversight of electricity generation assets, and provide independent technical advice to the Minister responsible for energy”.
The Government in a statement said the team includes Tuvaluans based both in the country and overseas with expertise in engineering and electricity systems.
Officials said the group will work closely with the Tuvalu Electricity Corporation (TEC) to improve the reliability of the national power system.
“They will work closely with the Tuvalu Electricity Corporation (TEC) to support timely technical assessments following significant outages, strengthen preventative maintenance planning, and identify practical measures to improve the reliability and resilience of Tuvalu’s power system.”
The Ministry said the initiative aims to strengthen power delivery and ensure better preparedness when outages occur.
“The Ministry thanks members of the Emergency Power Response Team for providing their support to Tuvalu as it strives toward enhanced power delivery capabilities for all Tuvaluans.”
The establishment of the response team comes as Pacific island countries continue to strengthen energy infrastructure and improve resilience in small and remote power systems….PACNEWS
PAC – FISHERIES: FFA PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 18 Mar 2026
Pacific Fisheries Leaders move to accelerate East New Britain Initiative
BRISBANE, 18 MARCH 2026 (FFA)—The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) Secretariat, the Parties to the Nauru Agreement Office (PNAO), and the Chair of the East New Britain Initiative (ENBi) Working Group met on Monday for an inception meeting to advance regional collaboration to progress the East New Britain Initiative, a key platform for strengthening fisheries development and value-addition in the Pacific.
The meeting was chaired by Papua New Guinea’s Managing Director of the National Fisheries Authority, Justin Ilakini, in his capacity as Chair of the ENBi Working Group.
The discussion focused on strengthening coordination between the FFA Secretariat and PNAO, including outlining the complementary roles both Secretariats can undertake to help accelerate the implementation of ENBi.
The meeting follows the directive from Ministers at the 24th Forum Fisheries Committee Ministerial Meeting (FFCMIN24), who called for strengthened collaboration to advance the Initiative.
Opening the meeting, Ilakini underscored the importance of ensuring that the ENBi remains inclusive and regionally coordinated. He noted the need to engage additional partners beyond the fisheries sector, given that fisheries development depends on cooperation across multiple sectors.
FFA Director-General Noan David Pakop highlighted the importance of the meeting in helping clarify the Ministerial directive and reinforcing cooperation between the FFA Secretariat and the PNA Office.
He acknowledged PNG’s leadership in chairing the ENBi Working Group and welcomed the participation of PNAO as a clear signal of the priority being placed on the Initiative.
Pakop emphasised that the ultimate objective of the ENBi is to maximise the benefits of Pacific fisheries resources for Pacific peoples, particularly through increased in-region processing, investment, and value-addition.
The meeting concluded with a forward-looking commitment from both FFA and PNAO to review and update the existing Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) between the two Secretariats.
The revision will incorporate coordination arrangements related to the East New Britain Initiative and strengthen collaboration moving forward….PACNEWS
FIJI – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL PRICE: FBC NEWS/FIJI TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 18 Mar 2026
Fiji has ample fuel supply reassures PM Rabuka
SUVA, 18 MARCH 2026 (FBC NEWS/FIJI TIMES)—Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has assured the public that Fiji has enough fuel supply to meet the needs for the next few months and there is no need for panic.
Speaking to the media after the cabinet meeting Tuesday, Rabuka stated that the next supply of fuel will be arriving soon.
“There should be no price hike. There’s no need for any price hike because there’s no need to panic yet. We have been assured of the supply, the stock of supply we have and when the next stock will arrive.”
The Government is closely monitoring the developments emanating from the U.S-Israel conflict with Iran, and meeting with local suppliers who have already secured fuel supply.
Meanwhile, thee Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) says it has received reports of individuals arriving at service stations with drums, gallons and other containers to store large quantities of fuel, raising both safety and supply concerns.
The Commission warned that this growing trend of bulk fuel collection is unnecessary, stressing that national fuel supply remains stable.
FCCC Chief Executive Officer Senikavika Jiuta said such behaviour risks creating artificial shortages, as excessive purchasing quickly depletes available stock at service stations.
She also cautioned that storing fuel in large quantities at residential properties is not only dangerous but may breach provisions under the Petroleum Act 1970, exposing individuals to potential fines or imprisonment.
The FCCC is urging the public to remain calm, purchase only what is necessary, and avoid unsafe storage practices that could endanger households and communities.
In another development, Fiji Gas has reassured customers that there are no disruptions to the supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in the country, despite growing concerns over fuel availability.
In a public announcement Tuesday, the company said LPG supply remains secure even as global energy markets face uncertainty linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
“Fiji Gas wishes to reassure all our valued customers and the general public that there are currently no issues with the supply of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) to Fiji,” the statement said.
The company explained that LPG supply chains differ from petrol and diesel, which are more directly affected by international shipping routes.
“Fiji’s LPG is sourced directly from a regional supply chain and independent of the direct shipping disruptions currently seen in the Middle East,” Fiji Gas said.
It added that shipments remain on schedule, ensuring consistent supply across the country.
Fiji Gas also urged customers not to engage in panic buying or hoarding, warning that such behaviour could create unnecessary pressure on the system.
“We urge our customers not to engage in panic buying or hoarding,” the company said.
The company confirmed that its terminals in Lami, Lautoka, Sigatoka, Labasa and Savusavu are well stocked, with resupply continuing as planned.
“Cylinder deliveries and bulk supplies will continue as per our normal schedule,” the statement said.
Fiji Gas also highlighted safety concerns associated with storing excessive amounts of LPG.
“Storing excessive amounts of gas cylinders at home or in businesses is a significant safety hazard and is highly discouraged,” it said.
The company added that it continues to work with the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) to ensure fair and transparent pricing, noting that any price changes typically follow a standard monthly adjustment cycle…..PACNEWS
PNG – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL PRICE: PNG SUN PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 18 Mar 2026
PM Marape moves to shield PNG from global fuel shock
PORT MORESBY, 18 MARCH 2026 (PNG SUN)— Prime Minister, James Marape has assured Papua New Guineans that the Government is proactively implementing comprehensive measures to safeguard the country’s fuel security and shield citizens from the impact of rising global fuel prices, particularly in light of escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Prime Minister Marape said the Government is working on standby fuel supply arrangements to ensure continuity of supply across the country, as global energy markets face increasing volatility.
“We are putting in place standby facilities to guarantee fuel security for our nation going forward,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“In light of what is happening globally, especially in the Middle East, we are not taking any chances when it comes to ensuring that our country has sufficient fuel reserves.”
He said global developments, including risks to major fuel supply routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, have reinforced the need for Papua New Guinea to take early and decisive action to secure its energy needs.
The Prime Minister confirmed that relevant authorities have been directed to explore relief measures for citizens should international fuel prices increase.
“I have instructed our economic and energy teams to look at how we can provide relief to our people if fuel prices rise globally,” he said. “Our goal is to ensure that the impact of global fuel price increases is not heavily felt here at home.”
Prime Minister Marape emphasised that the Government aims to keep fuel prices stable and within manageable levels for households and businesses.
“We want to maintain fuel prices below the rate of inflation and ensure they remain at a realistic and affordable level for our people,” he said.
“We will do everything within our means to cushion the shock that may arise from price increases elsewhere in the world.”
He acknowledged the critical role of key partners in strengthening the country’s fuel preparedness, including State-owned enterprise Ok Tedi Mining Limited and its energy arm, which have taken proactive steps to secure supply.
“I thank Ok Tedi Mining Limited and Ok Tedi Energy for mobilising sufficient resources to stock fuel, including aviation fuel for our aeroplanes and other essential petroleum products,” Prime Minister Marape said.
Ok Tedi has moved early to secure additional aviation fuel shipments and, together with existing stocks and fuel already in transit, is helping to ensure continuity of Jet A1 supply for the aviation sector in the near term.
The company has also confirmed it holds sufficient diesel reserves for its operations and has indicated its willingness to assist in coordinating supply should additional diesel be required elsewhere in the country.
“This is a strong example of how responsible national companies can work alongside Government to support energy security and economic stability during uncertain times,” PM Marape said.
The Prime Minister also confirmed that the Government is working closely with major fuel suppliers to maintain supply and manage costs.
“We are engaging with Puma Energy and ExxonMobil to ensure continued importation of fuel into the country,” he said.
“At the same time, we are working with them to contain inflationary pressures and examine targeted subsidy options to bridge any price gaps.”
Prime Minister Marape reiterated that the Government remains vigilant and prepared to act decisively to protect the economy and the welfare of Papua New Guineans.
“Our focus is on preparedness, stability, and protecting our people.
“We will continue to monitor global developments closely and take all necessary steps to ensure that Papua New Guinea remains resilient in the face of external shocks.” said Marape…PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The Republic of the Marshall Islands builds a BOLD response to Loss and Damage
MAJURO, 18 MARCH 2026 (SPREP)—– Spread across 29 low-lying atolls and five coral islands, with an average elevation of just two metres above sea level, the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) stands among the most physically vulnerable nations on Earth to the climate crisis.
RMI continues to encounter the most severe consequences of climate change yet remains a steadfast leader in global climate action. This leadership is being demonstrated once again this week as RMI progresses national efforts to address climate change induced loss and damage through the Building Our Pacific Loss and Damage (BOLD) Response Project Inception Workshop.
Held from 17-19 March, the workshop brings together key stakeholders to set the priorities in strengthening a national response to loss and damage. Supported by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) and Climate Analytics, the workshop is an opportunity to discuss the project and ensure the approach to achieve the agreed project objectives are aligned with national priorities, needs, and existing efforts.
“Our land, our culture, our identity, and our very existence as Marshallese people is under threat from a crisis, to which we had negligible contributions to its cause. This is the injustice at the heart of our climate action, and the reason we are here today.”
“For the Marshall Islands, sea level rise, saltwater intrusion and frequent flooding events are already causing economic loss and damage, threatening our freshwater supply and food security. Beyond economic costs, climate change also leads to significant non-economic loss and damage including threats to our cultural heritage, traditional knowledge and community identity.”
Warwick Harris, Deputy Director of the RMI Climate Change Directorate says, in shedding light on the importance of building a response to loss and damage.
The BOLD Response Project is a five-year initiative funded by the Government of Germany under the International Climate Initiative (IKI), across five Pacific island countries. By enabling Pacific countries to integrate loss and damage considerations in national planning, the project has the potential to safeguard important economic and non-economic values.
BOLD Response Project Manager Malaki Iakopo highlighted the importance of engaging with stakeholders to build a national response to loss and damage.
“As we move towards adaptation limits, the BOLD project plays an important role in building understanding of non-economic loss and damage in the Marshallese context, identifying community needs and culturally grounded responses as well as exploring climate finance mechanisms for loss and damage efforts”, he said.
In 2018, RMI was the first Small Island Developing State to submit a long-term climate strategy to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Tile Til Eo, committing to net zero emissions and 100 percent renewable energy by 2050. The work undertaken this week by national stakeholders will chart a path forward in addressing loss and damage, grounded in lived experience and reflects RMI’s determination in the Tile Til Eo to survive, lead, and illuminate the way for others.
The Building our Loss and Damage (BOLD) Response Project is a five-year project running from 2025 to December 2029 and is funded by the Federal Republic of Germany through its Federal Foreign Office, under the International Climate Initiative (IKI). The Republic of Marshall Islands BOLD Inception Workshop is held in Majuro from 17 – 19 March 2026.
BOLD is implemented by a consortium led by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) and Climate Analytics, across five Pacific Island countries Fiji, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Samoa, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu….PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
Ouvéa tackles coastal erosion with native nurseries
OUVEA, 18 MARCH 2026 (SREP)— As Pacific shorelines face the increasing threat of rising sea levels and associated coastal erosion and submersion risks, the community of Ouvéa is launching a grassroots defence. Moving away from traditional ‘hard’ infrastructure like concrete or boulders sea walls, the island has embraced Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to protect its coastline and empower its people.
Through the Pacific Ecosystem-based Adaptation to Climate Change (PEBACC+) project, local volunteers have begun a series of three intensive training sessions to build and manage eight low-cost plant nurseries. These facilities, costing approximately USD$1000 each, are designed to be simple, affordable, and easily replicated by communities.
The initiative is focused on giving the communities the tools to grow their own coastal protection. Under the expert guidance of Jean Jacques Villegente with Eriaxis Tree Nursery, and coordinated by Estelle Wamo of the Iaai Initiative Office, the project has seen an outpouring of enthusiasm with over 200 participants in training sessions across customary districts, particularly from women and children, under benevolent supervision and direct contribution from customary authorities and elders.
“The heart of this project is our young people and our women, who have shown up with incredible energy at every session,” said Estelle Wamo. “Seeing a child plant a cutting that will one day grow into a massive coastal barrier is powerful. It connects our traditional respect for the environment with a modern way to protect our future.”
The nurseries will produce native plants like Scaevola taccada, known locally as Hu or Hum, and Sporobolus virginicus grass, which are both good at binding sand to reduce coastline erosion during storms. Planting for the first wave of cuttings is set for March 2026, with a second generation of seed-grown plants ready for the 2027 season.
“The objective is to make the population autonomous by equitably giving the local population, through their local associations, the tools and knowledge to run their own nurseries, and restore vegetation by themselves in their own backyard by the beach,” said Mr. Tillewa Maurice, Mayor of Ouvéa. Over 40 local tribal associations have already expressed interest in getting involved in the PEBACC+ project and efforts, ensuring that once the seedlings are ready, there will be plenty of hands ready to plant them along the seaside.
“What we are witnessing in Ouvéa is a powerful shift in how we approach climate adaptation. By embracing NbS, Ouvéa population is choosing a path that is both sustainable and culturally grounded,” said Francois Tron, PEBACC+ Coordinator, SPREP.
“This project is also about restoring the natural relationship between the people and their environment, which is particularly important as, over the past few decades, the coastal vegetation has been largely cleared with evolving representations of what a “beautiful” seaside looks like, evolving fire practices & availability of new vegetation maintenance tools.
“Our goal through PEBACC+ is to prove that when you provide communities with the right tools and weave in ancestral and modern knowledge and wisdom, they become the most effective guardians and rehabilitators of their own ecosystems. Ouvéa’s success is a model that is very likely to influence many low-lying Pacific islands,” said Tron.
The PEBACC+ project field demonstration activities in Ouvéa are a collaborative effort supported by the Province of the Loyalty Islands, the Municipality of Ouvéa and the Customary Council, led by the Syndicat d’Initiative Iaai with active engagement of a very large proportion of the whole island population. On a regional scale, the project is co-financed by the Kiwa Initiative and the French Facility for Global Environment (FFEM) and implemented by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP)….PACNEWS
Vanuatu Energy Resilience Project Moves from Drawing Board to the Shoreline
PORT VILA, 18 MARCH 2026 (UNDP)—The technical team behind the Vanuatu Energy Resilience Project (VERP) has officially moved from the drawing board to the shoreline. In a mid-February field mission, experts from the Department of Energy (DoE) and UNDP began hands-on assessments to protect critical solar infrastructure using “Nature-based Solutions” (NbS).
Launched in July 2025, the CDRI-funded project is not just building energy systems; it is redesigning how they survive in one of the world’s most disaster-prone nations.
Assessing the Frontlines
In February, the assessment team—including . Julius Mala (DoE) and VERP technical Team: Muhan Maskey and Joel Galeb—visited three key sites across Efate, Nguna, and Pele Islands:
*Port Vila Fish Market Mini Grid (Efate Island)
*Utanlang Village Micro Grid (Nguna Island)
*Tangovawia School Micro Grid (Pele Island)
The mission’s goal was to identify site-specific vulnerabilities—such as salt spray, erosion, and flooding—that threaten the longevity of these renewable energy hubs.
The team conducted a multi-layered physical and technical inspection, mapping out soil stability and drainage patterns to determine where nature can do the work of a sea wall or a windbreak. By identifying areas for coastal buffers, windbreaks, and bioswales, the project aims to use local vegetation to shield sensitive solar panels and structures from extreme weather.
The team’s work on the ground included:
*Technical Inspections: Examining solar PV systems, structures, and fencing to understand exposure to strong winds and coastal impacts.
*Environmental Mapping: Documenting existing vegetation cover and identifying natural water flow improvements.
*Community Engagement: Meeting with local stakeholders to collect insights on local hazard history and traditional ecological knowledge.
*Prioritisation Analysis: Reviewing logistical considerations, land tenure clarity, and technical compatibility to rank sites for the NbS demonstration pilot.
A critical outcome of these field assessments is the injection of targeted funds to strengthen the resilience of these energy assets. Based on the structured multicriteria assessment and scoring conducted during the mission, the project will prioritize and fund specific NbS interventions—such as windbreaks and erosion control planting—to provide a physical layer of protection for the solar mini/micro grids.
These investments are designed to ensure that community-managed infrastructure remains protected long after the project ends by institutionalizing these risk-informed designs within the Department of Energy’s standard workflows…PACNEWS