Friday 10th of April 2026
Bougainville’s national leaders have announced an urgent K5 million emergency response package following widespread devastation caused by Cyclone Maila, which has crippled infrastructure, displaced communities, and triggered an emerging humanitarian crisis.
Ramason Bridge in Tinputz has been cut off at the embankment, severing a critical transport link and further isolating communities in North Bougainville.
Regional Member Hon. Peter L. Tsiamalili Jr., South Bougainville MP Hon. Timothy Masiu, Central Bougainville MP Hon. Jimmy Miringtoro, and North Bougainville MP Hon. Francesca Semoso confirmed they have collectively agreed on a coordinated response strategy following a high-level meeting.
While the meeting was held, Hon. Francesca Semoso remained on the ground in Bougainville, maintaining direct oversight of the situation in her electorate.
“This is not just a weather event this is a humanitarian and infrastructure emergency affecting the whole of Bougainville,” the leaders said.
Entire communities remain submerged in South Bougainville, with severe flooding reported along the Pangra River.
Key highlights of the destruction include:
• Roads cut off, including access to Panguna
• Coastal devastation in Torokina and surrounding areas
• Strong winds continuing across the region
• Food gardens destroyed, raising serious food security concerns
The damage now extends across Bougainville, with North-West and North-East coastal areas also significantly impacted.
Leaders confirmed K5 million in emergency funding will be immediately deployed for:
• Food assistance
• Clean water supply
• Emergency medical services
The funding is aimed at stabilising affected communities and preventing further hardship.
The response will be coordinated through the Autonomous Bougainville Government’s Community Government Division, under the Disaster and Emergency Directorate.
Leading the operation:
• Director Julius Nohu
• Coordinator Quentin Talingapua
Working alongside District Development Authorities (DDAs) and community governments, the structure will ensure rapid and coordinated delivery of aid.
The cutting of Ramason Bridge at Tinputz highlights the scale of infrastructure failure, with communities now facing restricted movement, supply disruptions, and delayed emergency access.
Authorities warn that further assessments may reveal additional critical infrastructure damage.
Bougainville National leaders are urging the National Government to act swiftly, prioritising emergency funding and rapid deployment of response teams.
“We stand united. We will respond, recover, and rebuild together with our people.”
