★ Fri, 16 Oct 2026 ·HONIARA ·Updated daily

Institutions

Official updates from important public, service, business and development institutions in Solomon Islands.

Day 2 of the Inaugural PNG-SI Investment Forum

Day 2 of the inaugural PNG–SI Investment Forum is in full swing here at Heritage Park Hotel, and we couldn't be prouder of what's happening on the ground. Beyond the high-level dialogues and strategic investment discussions, this historic forum is also shining a well-deserved spotlight on local enterprise. Fifteen of our SME members are proudly showcasing their locally made Solomon Islands products as part of this first-ever event—proving that homegrown talent and innovation are central to our shared economic future. From handmade crafts to processed foods and everything in between, these businesses represent the spirit, resilience, and creativity of our people. They are not just displaying products; they are building brands, creating jobs, and contributing meaningfully to our national economy. We invite all delegates, investors, and visitors to take time today to explore the SME exhibition, connect with our local entrepreneurs, and see firsthand the quality and diversity of what Solomon Islands has to offer. Together, we are turning opportunity into investment—and building a growth corridor that leaves no one behind. 🇵🇬🇸🇧

PNG-SI Investment Forum video
Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry Business & Economy · 2026-08-20 Original ↗

Before Disaster Strikes: Why Early Warnings Must Reach Every Community

When a cyclone forms offshore or floodwaters begin to rise the effectiveness of an early warning system depends on more than a forecast. It depends on whether communities receive the right information and the right time and are able to act on it. Fiji has made significant progress in strengthening the systems and institutions that support early warnings. Government agencies, emergency responders, humanitarian organisations, telecommunication providers and community networks all play a key role in ensuring warnings move from detection to action. But one critical question remains: Can warnings consistently reach the last mile, including remote maritime communities and vulnerable populations before disaster strikes? The answer lies in understanding the entire warning chain. Detection and Coordination Every early warning begins with detecting a potential hazard and the rapid assessment of the risks it presents. Fiji is strengthening this process through efforts to enhance its Multi-Hazard Early Warning System and introduce the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP), which can enable warnings to be disseminated consistently across multiple platforms, including radio, television and mobile phones. For the Fiji Police Force, coordination is critical to turning warning information into action. With officers stationed across the country and longstanding links with communities, schools and faith groups, the force also plays an important role in disseminating information, particularly in remote and maritime areas. Assistant Superintendent of Police and Officer in Charge of Police Command Coordination Centre, Koroi Seduadua. UNDP “Coordination is very important because it triggers timely decision-making. It is also about ensuring safe community actions and safeguarding our people,” said Assistant Superintendent of Police and Officer in Charge of Police Command Coordination Centre, Koroi Seduadua. The recent Fiji Multi-Hazard Early Warnings System and Common Alerting Protocol workshop highlighted broad stakeholder consensus on the need for stronger governance arrangements, clearly defined institutional roles and improved coordination mechanisms to support warning generation, dissemination and response. Response Mobilisation Once a warning is issued, emergency services must mobilise quickly. For Fiji’s National Fire Authority, timely information allows firefighters and emergency personnel to prepare resources, coordinate with response partners and position teams ahead of a disaster. Station Officer for the National Fire Authority Command Centre, Rokowati Crocker. UNDP “As first responders, the sooner we receive the warning, the faster we’ll respond and the more lives will be saved,” said Station Officer for the National Fire Authority Command Centre, Rokowati Crocker. While tropical cyclones can often provide several days of lead time, other hazards such as earthquakes and tsunami threats may leave only a narrow window for action. In these situations, delays at any point in the warning chain can reduce the time available for communities to respond. Workshop participants identified resilient communication systems, interoperability between agencies and stronger telecommunication infrastructure as priority investments to improve warning dissemination and emergency response capabilities. Community-Level Delivery The greatest test comes at the end of the chain and whether a warning reaches people in time and in a form they can understand and act upon. Discussions reinforced the importance of maintaining redundancy through multiple communication channels, including mobile networks, social media, radio broadcasts and community-based communication systems, and ensuring that the communications must be inclusive and accessible to all and in multi-lingual format. For the Fiji Red Cross Society, strong local networks are essential. Disaster Management Resilience Coordinator at the Fiji Red Cross Society, Unaisi Baro. UNDP “The information needs to cascade right down to the last person or the last mile. It is also important that we are not only focused on one type of hazard, but prepared for all,” said Disaster Management Resilience Coordinator at the Fiji Red Cross Society, Unaisi Baro. The workshop also recognised the ongoing importance of traditional governance structures in supporting the last mile communication. Turaga-ni-Koro networks, provincial councils, and communication-based organisations continue to play a crucial role in sharing information and helping communities take proactive and protective action. The Evidence Gap The importance of strengthening every link in the warning chain is underscored by Fiji’s growing exposure to climate and disaster risks. According to the Fiji National Anticipatory Action Framework for Tropical Cyclones 2025-2027, Fiji Government estimated that by 2050, over 6.5 per cent of Fiji’s gross domestic product could be lost due to tropical cyclones and floods, with the number of people being pushed into poverty every year increasing by 25 per cent. Early warnings are therefore more than simply a technical investment but are also a critical tool for reducing disaster losses, protecting development gains and supporting anticipatory action before impacts occur. Inclusion Remains as a Gap Receiving a warning does not necessarily mean being able to understand or act on it.Participants highlighted that the need for warning system that are inclusive and accessible to all users, including persons with disabilities, women, older persons, children, non-English speakers, and communities in remote locations. For many vulnerable groups, receiving a warning does not automatically mean being able to understand it, access it or action it. Addressing these barriers remains one of the most significant challenges in achieving effective last mile early warning coverage. Closing the Gap Fiji has built strong foundations for a more coordinated and effective warning system. The challenge now is ensuring that these improvements translate into reliable last mile reach. This is at the heart of Fiji’s work under the he global Early Warnings for All initiative, launched by United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres, with the goal of ensuring that every person is protected by life-saving multi-hazard early warning systems by 2027. Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Hon. Mosese Bulitavu. UNDP Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Hon. Mosese Bulitavu said: “The Common Alerting Protocol offers Fiji an opportunity to modernise and strength our warning dissemination arrangements. By enabling alerts to be created once and distribute simultaneously across multiple communication channels, it can improve consistency, reliability, and speed in emergency communications. More importantly, it supports a coordinated national approach that ensures no community is left behind.” Fiji's next challenge is therefore not simply generating warnings faster, but strengthening the infrastructure and systems that carry those warnings to the last mile. This means investing in resilient telecommunications, ensuring backup communication channels are available when primary networks fail, improving interoperability between agencies, and making alerts accessible to people regardless of location, language or disability. Because in the face of disaster, time only saves lives when information reaches the people who need it most.

Early warning systems must reach every community
UNDP Environment & Climate · 2026-08-20 Original ↗

2026 PNG-SI Investment Forum PMs Charity Golf Tournament Wraps Up

That's a wrap for the 2026 1st PNG-SI Investment Forum PMs Charity Golf tournament.here at the Honiara Greens Our Investment Forum continues with Day 2 tomorrow. This two-day conference brings together government leaders, investors and businesses to explore opportunities in trade, investment, tourism, fisheries, infrastructure, energy and other key sectors.... THEME: From Opportunity to Investment: Building the PNG–Solomon Islands Growth Corridor. Two nations. One shared vision for stronger economic partnership.

2026 PNG-SI Investment Forum PMs Charity Golf Tournament Wraps Up
Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry Sports · 2026-08-19 Original ↗

UNDP Pacific invites expressions of interest for four national consultancy roles

UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji is inviting Expressions of Interest from qualified individual contractors to serve as National Social, Environmental Safeguard and GEDSI Consultant for Fiji, Vanuatu and Tuvalu, and National Expert on Biodiversity and Project Development for Tuvalu. The details Application submission deadline: 26 August 2026 at 1:30 am (New York time) For queries, please contact: procurement.fj@undp.org For submissions and more details, see below links: For National Social, Environmental Safeguard and GEDSI Consultant – Fiji: https://zurl.co/18B49 For National Social, Environmental Safeguard and GEDSI Consultant – Vanuatu: https://zurl.co/NAABn For National Social, Environmental Safeguard and GEDSI Consultant – Tuvalu: https://zurl.co/JFsl0 For National Expert on Biodiversity and Project Development (Tuvalu): https://zurl.co/y6JVW

UNDP Pacific Fiji consultancy vacancy UNDP Pacific Vanuatu consultancy vacancy UNDP Pacific Tuvalu consultancy vacancy UNDP Pacific Tuvalu biodiversity consultancy vacancy
UNDP Vacancies · 2026-08-19 Original ↗

Prime Minister Hon. Mathew Wale arrives for the PMs Golf Charity event

Prime Minister Hon. Mathew Wale arrives for the PMs Golf Charity event

Prime Minister Mathew Wale arrives for the PMs Golf Charity event
Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry Business & Economy · 2026-08-19 Original ↗

Planned Water Disruption – Titinge

Wednesday 19th August 2026 PLANNED WATER DISRUPTION – Titinge Solomon Water would like to inform our valued customers that due to work requirements at Titinge, there will be two planned water shutdowns to allow Solomon Water’s contractor to carry out pipe interconnection works at the new reservoir. Customers are advised to take note of the following shutdown times: Shutdown 1 Friday 21 August – Saturday 22 August 2026 Time: 9:00pm – 1:00am Shutdown 2 Sunday 23 August – Monday 24 August 2026 Time: 9:00pm – 4:00am The planned shutdowns are necessary to allow Solomon Water’s contractors to carry out pipe interconnection works at the Titinge Tank Inlet . Customers living in and around the following areas will be affected with low pressure or no water during this time: • Naha Heights • Green Valley • Titinge • Mbokona • Lengakiki • Vavaya Ridge • Mbokonavera 1–5 • Skyline • Papaho • Choviri • West Kola Ridge • East Kola Ridge • Tanuli • Bua Valley • Zion • Kombivatu • East Kola • Titinge • Skyline and surrounding areas Affected customers are advised to collect and store enough water in clean, covered containers for use during the shutdown. We thank you for your patience and appreciate your understanding. For more information, please contact Customer Care Service. Phone: 44700 Email: service@solomonwater.com.sb Website: www.solomonwater.com.sb

Solomon Water planned water outage notice for Titinge
Solomon Water Infrastructure · 2026-08-19 Original ↗

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape arrives for PMs Golf Charity event

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Hon. James Marape arrives for the PMs Golf Charity event here at the Honiara Golf Club.

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape arrives for the PMs Golf Charity event
Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry Business & Economy · 2026-08-19 Original ↗

Tonga Climate Change Trust Fund recognises first 32 grantees

Moving from grant selection into action - the Government of Tonga has taken a major step forward with its Climate Change Trust Fund (TCCF), now in its first year of operation. The TCCF officially recognised its first 32 grantees at a Grant Signing Ceremony this week, formalising agreements that will drive climate resilience, risk-informed development, and sustainable livelihoods across the country. Grantees also took part in an onboarding refresher to strengthen grant management and reporting processes, as implementation begins. The signing follows a Development Partners Dialogue on the TCCF, bringing together government, development partners, and the private sector to align climate finance investments and shape a coordinated pipeline of climate-resilient initiatives for Tonga. "Koe kakato 'eni e fakanofonofo e tala fakaTonga – koe Pule'anga, koe Siasi, koe ngaahi kulupu mei he ngaahi tukui kolo, koe ngaahi kautaha 'ikai fakaPule'anga 'oku nau ngaue moe Hou'eiki Fafine, si'i kau faingata'a'ia pea moe to'utupu, koe faka'amu ke fakamalohia e va fengaue'aki pea mo tau ngaue fakataha he koe ola kaukaua 'etau ngaue fakataha koe founga pe ia ke tau tu'uloa ai he nunu'a 'o e feliuliuaki e 'ea." - "Working together is our strongest strategy for building a resilient Tonga in the face of climate change," said Lu'isa Tui'afitu-Malolo, Director, Climate Change Department, Ministry of Meidecc - Tonga – reflecting on the partnership between government, church, civil society, and community that underpins the Fund's work. The TCCF's operationalisation is supported through financial and technical assistance from the Government of New Zealand and the UNDP Governance for Resilient Development in the Pacific (Gov4Res) program — strengthening Tonga's national systems for climate finance and locally led climate action. Gov4Res is supported by the Australia in Tonga, New Zealand High Commission, Nuku'alofa, Tonga, KOICA Fiji Office 코이카 피지 사무소 and UK in Tonga

Tonga Climate Change Trust Fund grant signing Tonga Climate Change Trust Fund grantees Tonga Climate Change Trust Fund ceremony Tonga Climate Change Trust Fund participants
UNDP Environment & Climate · 2026-08-19 Original ↗

Director-General’s Desk | FFA welcomes Vanuatu Police Commissioner

Director-General’s Desk | FFA welcomes Vanuatu Police Commissioner FFA was pleased to welcome the Commissioner of the Vanuatu Police Force, Karlshem Bongran and his delegation to FFA Headquarters in Honiara yesterday for a courtesy visit. The visit provided an opportunity to highlight FFA’s role in supporting its 17 Members to sustainably manage their offshore fisheries resources, strengthen regional Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS), and maximise the social and economic benefits from the region’s tuna fisheries. FFA Director-General Noan David Pakop highlighted that cooperation is the cornerstone of FFA’s work, with the priorities of Members guiding the Secretariat’s efforts. Through regional cooperation, FFA supports sustainable tuna fisheries management, strengthens fisheries surveillance, helps reduce losses from illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and supports Members to maximise opportunities for government revenue, export earnings and employment across the tuna sector. The delegation also visited the FFA Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre (RFSC), where they gained insight into its role in regional surveillance, information sharing, and coordinated monitoring which also contributes to broader regional security. The visit also highlighted the Niue Treaty Subsidiary Agreement (NTSA) and how it enables FFA Members to coordinate fisheries surveillance, share information, and strengthen collective efforts to combat IUU fishing across the Pacific. Commissioner Bongran acknowledged the important work FFA continues to deliver for its Members and appreciated the opportunity to learn more about the regional systems and capabilities available to Vanuatu to support their national efforts and priorities.

FFA welcomes the Vanuatu Police Commissioner Vanuatu Police delegation visits FFA Headquarters FFA briefing for the Vanuatu Police delegation Visit to the FFA Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre FFA and Vanuatu Police representatives
FFA Environment & Climate · 2026-08-19 Original ↗

Our Telekom staff at the first PNG-Solomon Islands Investment Conference

Our staff are on the ground at the 1st Papua New Guinea–Solomon Islands Investment Conference at Heritage Park Hotel. For information on our services and other Telekom-related enquiries, visit the Telekom booth and speak with our team. We’re proud to deliver the connectivity keeping delegates connected and online throughout this landmark event.

Our Telekom staff at the PNG-Solomon Islands Investment Conference
Our Telekom Business & Economy · 2026-08-19 Original ↗

First PNG-SI Investment Forum gets underway

Our two days firstever PNG-SI Investment Forum is underway

Video preview for the first PNG-SI Investment Forum
Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry Business & Economy · 2026-08-19 Original ↗

Our Telekom supports first PNG-SI Investment Conference

Our Telekom is proud to be the Official Communication Partner and Platinum Sponsor of the 1st Papua New Guinea–Solomon Islands Investment Conference, which kicks off today. We're delivering the connectivity to keep delegates online throughout this landmark event.

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Our Telekom Business & Economy · 2026-08-19 Original ↗

Lusiana Bulu turns market experience into leadership and advocacy

Lusiana Bulu, president of the Ba Market Vendors Association, has transformed her experience as a market vendor into a platform for advocacy, leadership, and positive changes for fellow vendors. From selling produce at the market to sharping decisions that impact her community, Lusiana’s journey is a powerful reminder of what happens when women are supported to lead. Her story highlights the importance of inclusive leadership and ensuring women have a seat at the decision-making table. Read her story https://zurl.co/UiRRG

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UNDP Women & Youth · 2026-08-19 Original ↗

Board of Directors visit: Seeing port operations first-hand

BOARD OF DIRECTORS VISIT: SEEING PORT OPERATIONS FIRST-HAND Solomon Ports Board of Directors today visited the Ports Container Terminal and operations area to gain first-hand insight into our day-to-day operations, the systems we use, and how our teams work to deliver safe, efficient and reliable port services. During the visit, the Board met with staff and had the opportunity to better understand our operational processes, assess the efficiency of existing systems, discuss areas for improvement, and hear directly from the people working on the ground. The Board also visited the International Berth No. 1 Redevelopment Project, one of Solomon Ports’ major infrastructure projects, to receive an update on the progress of the works and see the development first-hand. The visit reflects the Board’s commitment to strengthening oversight, understanding our operations and supporting continuous improvement across Solomon Ports. Watch the highlights from the visit:

Solomon Ports Board of Directors visits port operations
SIPA Infrastructure · 2026-08-18 Original ↗

Unplanned water disruption - West Kola Ridge

Tuesday 18 August 2026 UNPLANNED WATER DISRUPTION– West Kola Ridge Solomon Water would like to inform our valued customers that there is a burst pipe at West Kola Ridge and water supply has been turned off. Customers living in and around the following areas will be affected with low water pressure or no water at this time: • West Kola areas • Kolale area • Matariu • Forum Fisheries Agency areas • Mbua Valley • Tanuli • East Kola area • Zion • Mudland • Kombivatu • ⁠Fereladoa • ⁠Fulisango Our maintenance team is on site currently working to fix the burst. We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Please call Customer Care for more information. Phone: 44700 Email: service@solomonwater.com.sb Website:

Solomon Water Infrastructure · 2026-08-18 Original ↗

Our Telekom supports S-League with M-Slen handsets

SUPPORTING S-LEAGUE ⚽📱 We are pleased to donate two brand-new handsets to the S-League organizing committee to support the implementation of M-Slen transactions for match entry at Lawson Tama. Earlier this year, S-League adopted M-Slen as the official platform for football fans to purchase match entry. While this is a new adjustment, we commend the organizing committee for embracing the initiative and working towards a more efficient entry process. S-League representative Junior Siosi received the handsets on behalf of the organizing committee from one of our staff members. We remain committed to supporting initiatives that contribute to the development of local football. Support our local teams and enjoy the games at Lawson Tama.

Our Telekom supports S-League
Our Telekom Sports · 2026-08-18 Original ↗

Fiji Innovation Hub Showcase turns ideas into Pacific opportunities

🌍The two-day Fiji Innovation Hub Showcase 2026 brought together entrepreneurs, investors and industry leaders to turn ideas into new opportunities for Fiji and the Pacific. 💡Governor of the Reserve Bank of Fiji Ariff Ali emphasized: “Innovation is no longer a peripheral issue. It is central to Fiji’s economic future.” 🚀The Showcase highlighted how mentorship, finance, and partnerships can unlock innovation, enterprise and transform ideas into impactful solutions for resilience and growth. Tanya Cumbermack-May, UNDP Operations Manager, said: " It (Fiji Innovation Hub) creates opportunities for entrepreneurs to collaborate, access mentorship, strengthen their business models, and develop investable solutions capable of attracting both local and international investment." This is an initiative of the Pacific Digital Economy Programme supported by the European Union in the Pacific, Australian High Commission, Fiji and New Zealand High Commission, Suva, Fiji. The Programme is jointly implemented by UNDP and United Nations Capital Development Fund.

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UNDP Business & Economy · 2026-08-18 Original ↗

Our Telekom supports TMC Foundation's community youth work

We’re pleased to assist Moses Jnr Aunama, founder of TMC foundation - Our Journey -, as he continues his meaningful community work with local youths in and around his area.We believe in supporting positive influences within our communities, and we look forward to working further with TMC Foundation through some of its upcoming youth engagement programs.All the best, Moses! Keep up the great work and continue making a positive difference in the communities you serve. 🙌

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Our Telekom Business & Economy · 2026-08-17 Original ↗

Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 built for tough work

Built tough. For people who work tougher. 💪Meet the Samsung Galaxy XCover 7, the rugged phone made to survive where others fail. Drops, dust, water, the worksite, the outdoors, the daily grind. This one keeps going when the going gets rough.🛡️ Rugged, durable build that takes a beating📸 50MP camera for sharp shots in any condition📺 6.6" smooth display, clear even outdoors⚙️ MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ performance🔋 Reliable power for a full day's workPerfect for tradies, field workers, farmers, fishermen, and anyone who needs a phone as tough as they are.Only $3,676.Grab yours at your nearest Our Telekom foneshop.Tag someone who's hard on their phone. 👇

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Our Telekom Business & Economy · 2026-08-17 Original ↗

When your technology just works, your business is free to grow

When your technology just works, your business is free to grow.Every minute your systems are down is a minute your business isn't moving. Slow networks, security worries, IT problems that pull your team away from what matters, they all add up.Our Telekom's Expert Managed IT Services take that weight off your shoulders. From networking and security to desktop support, we keep your business connected, protected, and running smoothly, so you can focus on what you do best.

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Our Telekom Business & Economy · 2026-08-17 Original ↗

UNDP supports Tonga to implement whistleblower protections

UNDP Pacific recently supported Tonga’s efforts to put its Whistleblower Protection Act into practice, through a four-day workshop bringing together the Anti-Corruption Commissioner of Tonga, United Nations Development Programme - Seoul Policy Centre - UNDP 서울정책센터 and the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission of the Republic of Korea.The workshop combines Korea’s experience with Tonga’s own context, looking at practical systems for safe reporting, handling disclosures, responding to retaliation and strengthening institutional accountability.It’s about moving from legislation to systems that people can trust and ensuring those who speak up are protected.The initiative is supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea through the SDG Partnerships programme.

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UNDP Politics & Government · 2026-08-17 Original ↗

Our Telekom supports SIAAA Career Connect event

We are thankful to have been part of the Solomon Islands Australia Alumni Association (SIAAA) Career Connect Event held at the Mendana Hotel on Tuesday last week. Our two staff members were present and had the opportunity to assist attendees by providing information and responding to important inquiries throughout the event.We appreciate the opportunity to connect, engage, and contribute to such a meaningful initiative. We look forward to participating in more similar events and strengthening our collaboration with SIAAA in the future.Thank you to SIAAA for bringing everyone together and creating a valuable platform for connection and opportunity.

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Our Telekom General News · 2026-08-17 Original ↗

Operation Island Chief identifies 16 vessels of interest in major regional surveillance effort against illegal fishing

Sixteen vessels of interest (VOIs) were identified during Operation Island Chief 2026 (OPIC26), one of the higher numbers recorded in recent FFA coordinated regional surveillance operations, as Members and partners stepped up fisheries monitoring activities across the region. The two-week long operation, coordinated by the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) from 3-14 August, also resulted in four vessels being apprehended. Personnel taking part in Operation Island Chief 2026 stationed at the FFA Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre at the FFA Headquarters in Honiara. Photo: FFA The operation ran for two weeks, covering approximately 27.5 million square kilometres of Pacific waters. Photo: FFA OPIC26 covered approximately 27.5 million square kilometres of Pacific waters, monitoring the activities of more than 3,000 fishing vessels operating within the Area of Operation. The operation involved extensive aerial and surface surveillance across the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of 11 FFA Members and adjacent high seas areas. Participating Members were Australia, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Republic of Marshall Islands, Naoero, New Zealand, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. The operation was supported by members of the Pacific Quadrilateral Defence Coordination Group (Pacific QUADs) and Fisheries Analysts - Australia, France, New Zealand and the United States - through the provision of surveillance assets and other operational support. The Operation was supported by FFA Monitor, Control and Surveillance tools plus additional input from partners; Western Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, Pacific Community (SPC), Joint Analytical Cell, Global Fishing Watch, Hawkeye 360, Starboard and Canadian Dark Vessel Detection. The Papua New Guinea Defence Force taking part in Operation Island Chief. Photo: PNG Defence Force Samoa police doing patrols at sea during Operation Island Chief 2026. Photo: Samoa Police Maritime Wing Security officials of the Republic of Marshall Islands conducting an inspection onboard a fishing vessel during Operation Island Chief 2026. Photo: RMI Sea Patrol Fisheries and security officials of Naoero take part in Operation Island Chief 2026. Photo: Naero Police Maritime Unit The Australian Defence Force (ADF) deployed a Royal Australian Air Force C-27J Spartan aircraft, crew and support personnel to the Solomon Islands to support Operation Island Chief 2026. Photo: ADF Members of the Royal New Zealand Air Force during Operation Island Chief 2026. Photo: NZDF The outcome reflects the increasingly targeted nature of regional surveillance operations, combining intelligence analysis, satellite and remote-sensing technology, aerial surveillance, surface patrols and vessel inspections to identify activities requiring further investigation by Members. "Operation Island Chief has again demonstrated the value of our collective efforts to detect and respond to IUU [illegal, unreported and unregulated] fishing, which remains a serious threat to the sustainability of our region's valuable tuna resources," FFA Director-General Noan David Pakop acknowledged following the close briefing of OPIC26 at the FFA Headquarters in Honiara on Friday. "The identification of 16 vessels of interest is a significant outcome from this operation and demonstrates the strength of our increasingly targeted approach to regional surveillance. These results reflect the growing capability of our Members, supported by intelligence, technology and strong partnerships, to identify activities of concern and protect our vast ocean areas." FFA Director-General Noan David Pakop at the opening briefing of Operation Island Chief 2026 held at the FFA Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre in Honiara. Photo: FFA A key highlight of OPIC26 was the use of Pacific QUAD surface and air capabilities to enable national Shiprider arrangements for the Republic of the Marshall Islands. RMI Sea Patrol officers with the US Coast Guard during Operation Island Chief 2026. Photo: RMI Sea Patrol National officers from the Marshall Islands embarked aboard United States Coast Guard vessels, allowing them to conduct fisheries patrols and boarding activities under their respective national authorities. This was complimented by Solomon Island officials joining the Royal Australian C-27J Spartan crews for aerial surveillance within the Solomon Island EEZ. Operation Island Chief 2026 by the numbers Operation Island Chief covered approximately 27.5 million square kilometres of Pacific waters monitoring over 3,000 vessels operating the Area of Operation. During the operation: 10,884 satellite detections were analysed 92 vessel sightings 133 vessels were boarded and inspected 45 vessel contacts with high risk IUU assessments 16 vessels of interest (VOI) were identified 4 vessels were detained or apprehended Information relating to vessels identified during the operation has been referred to the relevant national authorities for assessment and any follow-up action in accordance with their respective national processes. Operation Island Chief also provided an opportunity to strengthen the skills and operational experience of fisheries and maritime personnel from across FFA Members. Twenty-five secondees from participating Members were deployed to FFA's Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre (RFSC) in Honiara, which served as the main regional coordination centre for the operation. Operation Island Chief 2026 coordination team based at the FFA Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre in Honiara. Photo: FFA The secondees included personnel from national fisheries agencies, maritime units, navies and police services, working alongside FFA specialists to monitor the regional surveillance picture, analyse information and support national surveillance activities. The group brought together experienced surveillance personnel and officers participating in a regional operation for the first time, allowing knowledge and operational experience to be shared between Members. FFA provides ongoing technical support and capacity development to its Members in monitoring, control and surveillance, alongside the regional systems and coordination arrangements that support collective fisheries surveillance operations. Operation Island Chief is part of FFA's programme of regional monitoring, control and surveillance operations, bringing together Members and partners to support compliance with fisheries rules and strengthen the protection of the Pacific region's fisheries resources. HONIARA, 17 AUGUST 2026 Media Contacts: Emily V. Moli FFA Communications Manager e: emily.moli@ffa.int Ernest Ta'asi FFA Communications Officer e: ernest.ta'asi@ffa.int Priscilla Ragu FFA Communications Officer e: priscilla.ragu@ffa.int About Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) FFA assists its 17 Members to sustainably manage fishery resources that fall within their 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs). FFA provides expertise, technical assistance and other support to its members who make decisions about their tuna resources and participate in regional decision making on tuna management. Find out more here: www.ffa.int

Operation Island Chief 2026 Personnel at the FFA Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre in Honiara Operation Island Chief covered 27.5 million square kilometres of Pacific waters Papua New Guinea Defence Force personnel Samoa police conducting patrols at sea Marshall Islands security officials inspecting a fishing vessel Naoero fisheries and security officials Royal Australian Air Force C-27J Spartan crew Royal New Zealand Air Force personnel FFA Director-General Noan David Pakop RMI Sea Patrol officers with the US Coast Guard Operation Island Chief 2026 coordination team
FFA Law & Security · 2026-08-17 Original ↗

Kongulai Water Source restored after burst-pipe repairs

Sunday 16 August 2026WATER RESTORATION NOTICE: KONGULAI WATER SOURCESolomon Water would like to advise our valued customers that the Kongulai Water Source has now been reinstated following the completion of repair works on the burst pipe.Please note that it may take up to 48 hours for our water supply systems at Tasahe, Titinge, Lengakiki, Skyline and East Kola to fully recover following the restoration.Customers may continue to experience low water pressure or no water while the system gradually recovers.If you are still experiencing no water or low water pressure after 48 hours, please call 44700 or send us a message on Messenger with your water meter account number and contact details.Solomon Water thanks our valued customers for their patience and understanding during the disruption.For more information, please contact Customer Care:Phone: 44700Email: service@solomonwater.com.sbWebsite: www.solomonwater.com.sb

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Solomon Water Infrastructure · 2026-08-16 Original ↗