In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC — Pacific locks in first regional strategy to power small business growth
2. FIJI — TC Vaianu to pass west of Fiji today34. SOL — Solomon Islands activates National Disaster response as severe cyclone Maila batters Western Provinces
4. NZ — New Zealand Foreign Minister Peters to meet Rubio this week, will discuss Middle East in U.S visit
5. UN — UN nuclear agency chief ‘deeply concerned’ by reports of latest attack on Iran power plant
6. PACNEWS BIZ — Cook Islands faces fuel supply crunch as prices loom
7. PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji Government warns fuel prices driven by global crisis
8. PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji foreign reserves pressure
9. PACNEWS DIGEST — Invest in One Health to prevent pandemics, safeguard populations, strengthen health collaboration: WHO’s call on World Health Day
10. PACNEWS DIGEST — Building Climate-Resilient Urban Cities in the Pacific through Master Planning
PAC – PRIVATE SECTOR: PACNEWS PACNEWS 1: Tue 07 Apr 2026
Pacific locks in first regional strategy to power small business growth
SUVA, 07 APRIL 2026 (PACNEWS)—The Pacific has moved to put small businesses at the centre of its economic future, launching a region-wide strategy aimed at breaking down barriers and driving growth across micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
The Pacific Regional Private Sector Strategy 2025–2030 report sets out a coordinated plan to strengthen MSMEs by tackling long-standing constraints in six key areas — improving the business enabling environment, supporting growth and innovation, expanding access to finance, building resilience, promoting inclusive entrepreneurship, and enhancing regional dialogue.
At the heart of the strategy is a clear push to build a stronger, more adaptable private sector that can withstand shocks and take advantage of new opportunities in a rapidly changing global economy.
“The private sector remains the engine of economic growth in the Blue Pacific,” said Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa.
“As we navigate an increasingly complex global economy, it is more critical than ever that we support and empower Pacific enterprises and businesses in Smaller Islands States to be at the forefront of transformation, innovation, and inclusive development.”
The strategy marks the first time the region has adopted a single framework dedicated solely to private sector development, elevating its role from a supporting player to a central driver of economic policy.
“The Pacific Regional Private Sector Strategy marks a historic milestone — the first region-wide framework that places private sector development at the heart of regional economic policymaking,” Waqa said.
The strategy places MSMEs at the core of economic transformation in the Pacific, recognising their role as the largest employers, a major source of innovation, and a key contributor to sustainable development.
According to the report, MSMEs are “widely recognised as the catalyst of Pacific economies,” playing a critical role in job creation, entrepreneurship and economic diversification.
But despite their importance, many small businesses across the region face persistent challenges — from limited access to finance and complex regulations, to vulnerability to climate shocks and global disruptions.
The strategy responds directly to these challenges by focusing on practical reforms and targeted support aimed at unlocking the full potential of MSMEs.
It also recognises that a coordinated regional approach has been missing, despite ongoing national efforts.
“A coordinated regional approach is now essential to leverage the collective strengths of FICs, fostering regional economic integration through cross-border collaboration, facilitating shared resources, and sharing best practices to achieve common economic objectives across the Pacific region.”
The plan is built around six priority pillars designed to remove barriers and accelerate business growth.
Improving the business environment is a key focus, with calls to simplify regulations, reduce bureaucracy and create more predictable policy settings for businesses.
Growth and innovation are also central, with the strategy pushing for stronger support systems, including business development services, digital tools and sector-specific innovation to help MSMEs expand and compete.
Access to finance remains a major hurdle across the region, with many small businesses unable to secure loans due to high collateral requirements and limited financial records. The strategy highlights the need for alternative financing models and improved financial inclusion.
Building resilience is another major pillar, reflecting the heavy toll of climate disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic on Pacific economies. The plan calls for better disaster preparedness, climate-smart practices and stronger risk management systems.
Inclusive entrepreneurship is also prioritised, ensuring that women, youth, rural communities and informal sector operators are not left behind.
Finally, the strategy emphasises the importance of regional dialogue, strengthening cooperation between governments, the private sector and development partners.
A strong focus of the strategy is ensuring that growth is inclusive and benefits all segments of society.
The plan highlights the need to support women-led and youth-led enterprises, as well as businesses in rural and informal settings, which often face greater barriers to growth.
By promoting inclusive participation, the strategy aims to broaden economic opportunities and strengthen livelihoods across the region.
The strategy will be rolled out over five years, with a focus on high-impact actions identified through extensive regional consultations.
Implementation will largely be driven through Regional Collective Actions (RCAs), bringing together governments, technical agencies, international organisations and development partners to deliver results.
“This approach will ensure the Strategy addresses the most pressing issues by implementing Regional Collective Actions (RCAs) in collaboration with technical agencies, international organisations and donor partners within the medium timeframe, utilising available limited resources effectively.”
At the same time, the framework allows flexibility, with countries able to pursue tailored national actions where regional approaches are less suitable.
The strategy is also designed to complement existing national private sector plans, ensuring alignment rather than duplication.
A mid-term review is built in to allow adjustments as new challenges and opportunities emerge.
The broader goal of the strategy is to build a more resilient and dynamic private sector that can drive long-term economic growth in the Pacific.
By addressing structural barriers and strengthening the foundations for MSME growth, the plan aims to create a more competitive and inclusive business environment.
It also positions the private sector as a key partner in achieving regional development goals, including those outlined in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
With Pacific economies facing ongoing challenges — from climate change to global market volatility — the success of the strategy will be critical in shaping the region’s economic future.
At its core, empowering small businesses is key to building stronger, more resilient Pacific economies…..PACNEWS
FIJI – WEATHER WATCH: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS 1: Tue 07 Apr 2026
TC Vaianu to pass west of Fiji today
NADI, 07 MARCH 2026 (FIJI TIMES)—Tropical Cyclone Vaianu is currently located west of the Yasawa and Mamanuca groups, remaining offshore.
According to the latest track analysis, the system strengthened to Category 3 around 2am today as it moved closer to Fiji waters west of the Yasawa group.
The cyclone will make its closest approach to Fiji during daytime today, passing west of the Yasawa and Mamanuca groups without making landfall.
Despite remaining offshore, Vaianu is expected to bring gale to damaging winds across parts of the country, particularly affecting the Yasawa and Mamanuca groups, western Viti Levu and Kadavu waters.
Associated rainbands continue to spread across the Fiji group, with heavy rain expected to persist.
Authorities have warned that the risk of flooding remains high, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
By 12pm today, the cyclone is forecast to remain a Category 3 system as it tracks south-southeast away from Fiji.
Forecasters are continuing to monitor the system as adverse weather conditions impact the country…..PACNEWS
SOL – CYCLONE RESPONSE: INDEPTH SOLOMONS PACNEWS 1: Tue 07 Apr 2026
Solomon Islands activates National Disaster response as severe cyclone Maila batters Western Provinces
HONIARA, 07 APRIL 2026 (INDEPTH SOLOMONS)—-The Solomon Islands Government has activated national disaster management arrangements in response to Severe Tropical Cyclone Maila (Category 3), which continues to affect parts of the country, particularly Western, Choiseul and Isabel Provinces.
The National Disaster Management Office confirmed that the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) was activated on Friday 3 April and has been coordinating response efforts since, working closely with government agencies, provincial authorities, and partners.
The government emphasises that established disaster response systems have been in place and operational since last week, with agencies working in coordination to monitor the situation and support affected communities, guided by the National Disaster Management Plan 2018.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele said the Government is taking a measured and coordinated approach as the cyclone continues to pose risks.
“Our disaster management arrangements are fully activated, and we are closely monitoring the situation. At this stage, our priority is to ensure coordinated preparedness and response while assessments are ongoing,” Manele said.
He confirmed that Cabinet and Caucus will be formally briefed by the Chair of the National Disaster Council, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, and the Director of NDMO.
The Prime Minister also confirmed that Government is preparing an emergency allocation under the 2026 Contingency Warrant to support immediate response efforts.
“This provision will enable Government to respond quickly to priority needs as they are identified through ongoing assessments,” PM Manele said.
He further noted that decisions on additional measures, including any declaration of a state of disaster, will be guided by official assessments.
“Once Initial Damage Assessments are available and depending on the scale of impacts, the National Disaster Council will convene to determine the appropriate course of action, including whether to recommend a formal declaration under the National Disaster Council Act or manage the situation under existing arrangements,” he said.
The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force has also stepped up its preparedness. The Police Operational Centre has been activated to coordinate closely with NDMO and respond to any emerging security or humanitarian needs. Senior police officials are participating in ongoing coordination meetings, including NDMO briefings.
Government assures the public that proactive measures are being taken to address any potential humanitarian impacts resulting from the cyclone.
Agencies under the Ministry of Environment, including NDMO and the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service, continue to monitor the cyclone and provide regular updates, warnings, and safety advice. The Meteorological Service will issue advisories at least twice daily.
The Meteorological Service continues to warn of strong winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, and hazardous sea conditions. Communities in affected and at-risk areas are strongly urged to remain vigilant, follow official advice, and relocate to safer areas where necessary.
Members of Parliament in affected areas are encouraged to work closely with communities, provincial authorities, and response agencies to support ongoing efforts.
The Government acknowledges the continued cooperation of communities, frontline responders, and partners, and reiterates its commitment to safeguarding lives and property during this period.
“My thoughts are with all Solomon Islanders affected by this cyclone. Please remain alert, follow official guidance, and support one another during this time,” Prime Minister Manele added…..PACNEWS
NZ – DIPLOMACY: TVNZ PACNEWS 1: Tue 07 Apr 2026
New Zealand Foreign Minister Peters to meet Rubio this week, will discuss Middle East in U.S visit
WELLINGTON, 07 APRIL 2026 (TVNZ)—New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters is set to travel to the Washington DC this week, where he will meet with Secretary of State Marco Rubio among other officials.
In a statement, Peters said: “The current global context is the most challenging New Zealand has faced in the past 80 years”.
“We intend to discuss our shared commitments to cooperate in the Pacific and Indo-Pacific, as well as significant international developments – particularly the conflict in the Middle East and its impacts on our region.”
Peters said the meetings would advance New Zealand’s diplomatic, security and economic interests and “facilitate greater mutual understanding of our respective priorities”.
He was set to depart today and return on Friday. …PACNEWS
UN – NUKE ATTACK: UN NEWS CENTRE PACNEWS 1: Tue 07 Apr 2026
UN nuclear agency chief ‘deeply concerned’ by reports of latest attack on Iran power plant
THE HAGUE, 07 APRIL 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) —Reports of yet another projectile strike near the Bushehr nuclear power plant prompted Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to register his deep concern on Saturday.
The IAEA was informed of the strike – the fourth such incident in recent weeks – by Iranian officials. Iran also informed the agency that a member of the site’s physical protection staff members was killed by a projectile fragment and that a building on site was affected by shockwaves and fragments.
Grossi emphasised that nuclear power plant sites or nearby areas must never be attacked, noting that auxiliary site buildings may contain vital safety equipment. No increase in radiation levels was reported, following the latest incident.
Reiterating call for maximum military restraint to avoid risk of a nuclear accident, Grossi again stressed the paramount importance of adhering to the IAEA’s seven pillars for ensuring nuclear safety and security during a conflict.
The Seven Indispensable Pillars were introduced by the IAEA Director General in March 2022 to address the unprecedented challenge of maintaining nuclear safety and security when facilities are in a warzone.
*The physical integrity of facilities – whether it is the reactors, fuel ponds or radioactive waste stores – must be maintained.
*All safety and security systems and equipment must be fully functional at all times.
*The operating staff must be able to fulfil their safety and security duties and have the capacity to make decisions free of undue pressure.
*There must be a secure off-site power supply from the grid for all nuclear sites.
*There must be uninterrupted logistical supply chains and transportation to and from the sites.
* There must be effective on-site and off-site radiation monitoring systems, and emergency preparedness and response measures.
*There must be reliable communication with the regulator and others.
The previous strike on Bushehr took place on 18 March, when a structure about 350 metres from the reactor was hit and destroyed. No damage to the reactor or injuries were reported, but the agency warned that any attack near nuclear facilities risks violating key safety principles.
Earlier in the month, in an address to the IAEA Board at the agency’s headquarters in Vienna, Austria, Grossi underscored the risk of a nuclear incident from the military escalation since Iran “and many other countries in the region that have been subjected to military attacks have operational nuclear power plants and nuclear research reactors”. …. PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
COOKS – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL PRICE: TVNZ PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 07 Apr 2026
Cook Islands faces fuel supply crunch as prices loom
RAROTONGA, 07 APRIL 2026 (TVNZ)—The Cook Islands is bracing for tough times ahead amid an uncertain supply of fuel — a major problem, as most of the country’s electricity generation depends on diesel.
Two tankers arrived last week, giving the Cook Islands another 40 days of gas. Diesel supplies have been extended out to 60 days and jet fuel to 40 days, but the country remains in a precarious position.
“It goes without saying we are at the end of the supply chain,” said Brett Porter from Toa Petroleum.
While fuel comes from Singapore, the vessel only stops in New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji and Tahiti. The Cook Islands’ fuel is dropped off in Fiji and reloaded onto another tanker.
Porter said that tanker then takes fuel to Tonga before continuing on to the Cook Islands.
“That additional stop for the MR tanker — the discharge and the reloading — adds significant costs,” he said.
Fuel suppliers in Rarotonga have been notified that contracts are being cancelled and they will now have to negotiate fuel prices on the spot, competing for the same volumes as everyone else.
“Our suppliers are now asking for payment where the order is fixed prior to loading. That’s major — that is not possible for us to comply with — so we’ve gone to the Government and asked for intervention to help pay for that.”
1News asked Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown what could be done, and he admitted it was a major concern, but said the Government would assist.
“We’ve provided a facility through our local bank for the procurement of US dollars to our private sector companies, to enable them to make their purchases,” he said.
Fuel price hikes are inevitable, with Porter saying he expects petrol to reach the mid $7(US$4) per litre range, with diesel costing even more.
Liana Scott from the Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council said nobody wanted to panic too much, “but we need to be realistic about the situation as well”.
She said the Cook Islands was currently enjoying strong tourist numbers, with very few cancellations so far, as the Pacific is being seen as a safe zone despite the crisis intensifying overseas.
However, she said the island nation was in a catch 22 situation.
“Tourism is the backbone of our economy, but it is only operational if we have the fuel to support it.”
Scott said there were limitations around renewable energy in the Cook Islands, and the tourism industry wanted to tap into alternative sources.
“We’d like to see Government enable renewable energy for businesses and actually encourage it by offering support — cheaper loans through the banks, lower mortgage rates — to enable investment in renewable energy because of the large upfront costs.
“We want open, frank and real dialogue and discussions. We don’t want any hidden agendas — we just want the facts as they are,” she said.
There is some optimism the Cook Islands Government will step up. During Covid 19, proactive measures were introduced, including wage subsidies, a pause on electricity bills, and negotiations with banks to support those with mortgages.
Scott said the right time to have those conversations is now, to prepare for the unknown.
“In terms of businesses and the wider community, the worry is there. I think we need to think a little more practically,” she said……PACNEWS
FIJI – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL PRICE: PACNEWS/FIJI GOVT PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 07 Apr 2026
Fiji Government warns fuel prices driven by global crisis
SUVA, 07 APRIL 2026 ( PACNEWS/FIJI GOVT)—The Fiji Government has rejected claims by the Fiji Trades Union Congress (FTUC) over fuel pricing, warning that rising global costs are already hitting supply and that current price adjustments are needed to avoid shortages.
In a statement, Government said it is “incorrect to suggest that all fuel currently being sold was purchased at old prices,” stressing that new shipments have already been secured at much higher rates.
“Fuel for April has already been procured at higher global rates, and supplies for May and June have also been secured at elevated prices, despite ongoing global uncertainty. Supply is not guaranteed until shipments depart and arrive.”
Authorities said fuel companies were already taking heavy losses to maintain supply.
“Fuel companies were already absorbing losses of more than $1(US$0.50) per litre for April fuel. As earlier mentioned the price of a barrel has increased from US$95 a barrel to US$230 a barrel. A shipment of fuel has increased from $12m(US$6 million) to $30m (US$15 million).”
Government said the latest price adjustment is necessary to keep fuel flowing into the country.
“The recent price adjustment ensures they can secure fuel for May and June without further losses that would risk national supply.”
It also stressed that pricing is not set by Government.
“Fuel prices are set by the independent FCCC, not Government. FCCC has explained the basis of increasing fuel prices in consultation with the fuel companies and the Fuel Advisory Committee, and government accepts this explanation that we are indeed in abnormal times.”
The Government acknowledged the impact on households and pointed to measures already taken.
“Government acknowledges the pressure on families and confirms:
• The minimum wage was increased within two years of taking office
• The Employment Relations Bill is strengthening worker protections
• Financial mitigation measures are being developed to cushion the impact of the global fuel crisis.”
It also urged the public to cut fuel use where possible.
“Government also reiterates Phase 1 advisories to save on fuel costs:
• Reduce unnecessary travel
• Carpool and use public transport
• Work from home where possible
• Reduce electricity use and switch off lights
• Consider solar lights”
The statement also pushed back on criticism, saying wage issues must be addressed across the board.
“While Government continues to advance worker protections, it is also important to note that resistance to wage increases has come from some employers. Advocacy by FTUC for improved wages and conditions must also be directed where such resistance exists.”
Government said the situation is about managing a global crisis, not choosing sides.
“This is not a situation of choosing between fuel companies and workers. It is about managing a global crisis responsibly, ensuring that Fiji maintains fuel supply, protects economic stability, and supports its people during a period of international uncertainty.”
“Government remains committed to transparency, responsible management, and acting in the best interests of all Fijians.”….PACNEWS
FIJI – FOREIGN RESERVES: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 07 Apr 2026
Fiji foreign reserves pressure
SUVA, 07 APRIL 2026 (FIJI TIMES)—Price shocks are coming for Fiji’s $3.5 billion (US$1.75 billion) foreign reserves with the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) projecting downside risks, and foreign reserves pressures to possibly reach our shores earlier than expected.
As the Israeli-U.S war on Iran continues into its second month in the Middle East and an ensuing energy supply crisis spreads slowly across other regions of the world, including in the Pacific, RBF in its March economic review has warned that it is expecting the external sector conditions to be challenging over the near term.
“Higher global fuel prices are expected to raise input costs across transport, logistics, and electricity generation and other industrial sectors, reducing short-term value added even if output levels hold steady,” the RBF stated.
“Tourism is particularly exposed, as elevated aviation fuel costs will increase airfares and operating expenses, making travel less affordable for price-sensitive markets and creating added headwind to the visitor arrivals outlook for the year.
“Overall, while domestic indicators have been resilient in the first two months of 2026, the combination of global uncertainty, higher transport costs and sector wide cost pressures leaves Fiji’s growth outlook of 3.0 percent downward biased, with risks tilted toward softer activity over the coming months.”
As a central bank, RBF is mandated to manage twin monetary policy objectives of maintaining low inflation and healthy foreign reserves for Fiji, important for sustained economic stability.
Both are currently under pressure from the war in the Middle East.
“Rising global fuel prices and continued supply–chain disruptions are expected to filter through to domestic prices pushing inflation higher in the coming months,” the bank noted.
“With global fuel supply risks elevated, the current inflation outlook of 2.5 to 3.0 percent is now upward–biased.
“These conditions have heightened the importance of foreign reserves (FR), especially as higher oil prices and ongoing volatility in global shipping could weaken Fiji’s external position.
“For now, FR remains adequate at around $3.5 billion(US$1.75 billion) (31/03), equivalent to 5.0 months of retained imports and are projected to remain sufficient in the medium term.
“However, risks are tilted to the downside as continued volatility in global fuel markets and freight costs also raises the likelihood of reserves pressure emerging earlier than anticipated.”
RBF has again kept its Overnight Policy Rate at a low 0.25 percent to help maintain low inflation….PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Invest in One Health to prevent pandemics, safeguard populations, strengthen health collaboration: WHO’s call on World Health Day
MANILA, 07 APRIL 2026 (WHO)—A pathogen that originates in animals spreads to humans, triggering a pandemic.
Drug resistance renders lifesaving medicine useless. Air pollution worsens chronic diseases, reducing life expectancy. Unsafe food systems lead to serious illness. These challenges may seem unrelated, but are part of a singular reality: human, animal and ecosystem health are inextricably connected. Yet too often, these challenges are addressed separately, with fragmented solutions and funding.
This World Health Day, WHO in the Western Pacific Region is calling on Member States, political leaders and policymakers to move beyond words and invest optimally and holistically in a shared vision of One Health.
One Health recognises that protecting health requires collaboration across sectors, disciplines and countries. Numerous regional and global health emergencies, including the devastating COVID-19 pandemic, have long shown that this integrated approach is essential.
More than 60 percent of known infectious diseases and up to 75 percent of emerging diseases come from animals. Each year, zoonotic diseases affect more than 2 billion people and claim over 2 million lives. Around 600 million people fall ill from unsafe food annually. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) could cause 10 million deaths each year by 2050. In the Western Pacific alone, 3.5 million people die each year from preventable environmental causes such as air pollution and unsafe water.
“These are not separate problems,” said Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific. “They are connected. And so must our solutions be. Working in silos will simply not deliver the impact we need. We have no time to lose.”
Across the Western Pacific Region, there are several examples of countries taking action.
In Indonesia, stronger surveillance and vaccination efforts are reducing the risks of zoonotic diseases. In the Pacific island country of Tonga, a national workshop brought together human, animal and environmental sectors to respond to dengue and other threats, paving the way for further multisectoral collaboration. In Malaysia, hospitals are strengthening their response to antimicrobial resistance through coordinated action.
“These and many other efforts show what is possible. But they also highlight what remains to be done. Too often, health challenges are addressed in isolation. Funding is fragmented, leadership is divided and consequently progress is slower than it should be,” underscored Dr Piukala. “Political leadership is absolutely essential to bring ministries and sectors together, align investments and act at scale.”
“Investing in One Health is not only necessary but also cost effective. Preventing pandemics and other health emergencies costs far less than responding to them. Yet despite the overwhelming evidence, investment has not kept pace with the risks,” noted Dr Gina Samaan, WHO Western Pacific Regional Emergency Director.
“The Pandemic Agreement, reached by WHO Member States last year, codifies One Health as absolutely essential. Once a country ratifies the Pandemic Agreement, it becomes legally binding – making it incumbent on that government to fully elevate One Health to the prominence it deserves.”
In this regard, World Health Day 2026 coincides with two major global health events happening this week in Lyon, France, with key implications for the Western Pacific region.
The international One Health Summit, co-hosted by France and Indonesia, and attended by heads of state and ministers, is the highest level gathering ever to advocate for the One Health agenda.
Reflecting the vision of the One Health Quadripartite (the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation, the UN Environment Programme, the World Health Organisation, and the World Organisation for Animal Health), the Summit aims to turn commitments into comprehensive action encompassing zoonotic diseases, AMR, food systems and climate change, aligning with France’s G7 Presidency.
This is followed by the Global Forum of WHO Collaborating Centres that reiterates the importance of sustained investments and partnerships not only pertaining to One Health, but science and medicine as a whole.
The Forum celebrates WHO’s global network of more than 800 Collaborating Centres, including almost 200 across the Western Pacific Region. These institutions carry out critical research and other activities that help lead to lifesaving scientific discoveries, support countries to detect disease outbreaks earlier, strengthen laboratory systems, improve food safety and build a more prepared health workforce.
“Standing with science means standing with collaboration. It means recognizing that health is shaped by the systems that connect us,” said Dr Piukala. “We have an unprecedented opportunity to turn One Health into a true political and societal priority. This is how we protect lives, strengthen security and build a healthier future for all.”
World Health Day, celebrated annually on 7 April, marks the anniversary of the World Health Organisation’s founding. The 2026 theme is “Together for health. Stand with science,” focusing on One Health and scientific collaboration. …PACNEWS
For more information, please contact: wprocom@who.int
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Building Climate-Resilient Urban Cities in the Pacific through Master Planning
PORT MORESBY, 07 APRIL 2026 (SPREP)—The critical role of Master Planning as a solution to the challenges faced by Pacific cities was at the centre of discussions during the Seventh Pacific Urban Forum (PUF7) in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.
Pacific cities and communities are increasingly confronted with overlapping and intensifying risks. Rapid urbanisation, combined with climate-related hazards such as cyclones, flooding, and sea-level rise, is placing unprecedented strain on infrastructure, services, and natural systems
A special session at the PUF7 on the role of master planning in shaping resilient and sustainable urban development across the region was co hosted by the Pacific Climate Change Centre of SPREP and the National Spatial Planning Authority Office of Tonga’s Ministry of Lands and Surveying.
A key priority emerging from discussions was the need to better integrate traditional land tenure systems with modern planning approaches to enable inclusive and sustainable urban growth.
“By actively engaging local communities and local leaders, we gain valuable insights into cultural practices”, said Mrs. Tupou Lauaki – Senior Urban Planner, National Spatial Planning Authority Office, Tonga.
There are a myriad of challenges facing our Pacific cities and communities – coastal subsidence and environmental degradation further threatens the safety and long-term viability of settlements, while the expansion of informal settlements continues to challenge housing, transport networks, and essential utilities.
“We’ve seen these dynamics particularly pronounced in growing urban centres such as Suva and Honiara, where population growth is outpacing planning systems and resource capacity,” said Cindy Vunagi – Director, Physical Planning, Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey, Solomon Islands.
“Against this backdrop, master planning is emerging as a vital tool for the Pacific. It provides a structured, long-term framework to guide urban growth in a way that is both strategic and inclusive.”
Master planning allows governments and communities to anticipate and manage risks, integrate climate adaptation measures, and ensure equitable access to land, housing, infrastructure, and economic opportunities. The special session during the PUF7 underscored that Pacific islands require planning models that are tailored to their unique geographical, cultural, and social contexts.
With the Pacific Small Islands Developing States being amongst the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change despite contributing less than 0.03 percent to the world’s total greenhouse gas emissions, master planning is a very real solution.
“In the Pacific context, master planning must go beyond conventional urban design,” said Tuileva Tuileva
“It requires approaches that respect customary land tenure systems while incorporating modern planning frameworks. This balance is essential to safeguard cultural identity and community cohesion while enabling sustainable development.”
During the session participants discussed solutions for critical questions facing the region, such as how to balance customary land systems with modern planning frameworks, how to manage rapid urbanisation while limiting informal settlement growth, and how to incorporate indigenous knowledge into formal planning systems.
The role of emerging solutions—such as renewable energy, resilient infrastructure, and appropriate smart technologies—was also explored in light of resource constraints.
“Effective master plans in the region must be community-driven ensuring local ownership and participation, climate-resilient integrating adaptation and disaster risk reduction and flexible and adaptive to respond to changing environmental and socio-economic conditions,” said Jeffrey Kaitip – Director, Department of Urban Affairs and Planning, Ministry of Internal Affairs, Vanuatu.
The panel brought together leading practitioners from across the Pacific, including Cindy Vunagi – Director, Physical Planning, Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey, Solomon Islands, Tupou Lauaki – Senior Urban Planner, National Spatial Planning Authority Office, Tonga, Jeffrey Kaitip – Director, Department of Urban Affairs and Planning, Ministry of Internal Affairs, Vanuatu, and Viliami Tupou – Chief Spatial Planner, National Spatial Planning Authority Office, Tonga.
Their contributions highlighted practical experiences, ongoing challenges, and innovative approaches being implemented in their respective countries.
In closing, Dr. Alexei Trundle of the University of Melbourne reflected on one of the region’s most complex challenges: balancing urban development with cultural integrity. He noted that while master planning is a powerful tool for building climate resilience, it must be carefully implemented to avoid perceptions that it could alienate communities from their customary lands.
These insights will contribute to the outcomes of the 7th Pacific Urban Forum, reinforcing master planning as a central pillar for building resilient, inclusive, and future-ready cities across the Pacific.
The Seventh Pacific Urban Forum was hosted by the Government of Papua New Guinea and the National Capital District Commission of Port Moresby from 24 to 26 March. It brought together representatives from across the Pacific’s national and local governments, along with development partners, civil society, academia, urban practitioners, and the private sector, to showcase solutions for the region’s growing cities and towns. …PACNEWS
