The Parliamentary Opposition strongly condemns Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s shocking decision to abandon the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting in Palau just hours after arriving, in order to rush back to Solomon Islands to confront a leadership crisis of his own making.
The Prime Minister’s abrupt departure from this important regional meeting is a serious embarrassment for Solomon Islands and raises fundamental questions about the stability, judgment and priorities of the GREAT Coalition Government.
As the outgoing Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, the Prime Minister has a responsibility to provide leadership, represent Solomon Islands with dignity and participate fully in discussions on issues of vital importance to the Pacific region.
Instead, the Prime Minister has been forced to leave the regional leaders’ meeting prematurely because his Government is facing a major political crisis at home.
Home Affairs Minister Fr. Hon. Manasseh Maelanga MP, filed a motion of no confidence against the Prime Minister, over what he described as a fundamental breakdown of confidence in the leadership and decision-making style of Prime Minister Hon. Mathew Wale.
This is not simply a political disagreement. It is a profound leadership failure by Prime Minister Wale.
The Opposition Leader, Hon. Manasseh Sogavare MP, reminds Prime Minister Wale that amid heightened political uncertainty at home in January of this year, Prime Minister Manele travelled to Brisbane, Australia, where he committed himself to the full duration of the Pacific Islands Forum Troika meeting while facing a No Confidence Motion against his leadership at home.
As Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, Manele joined the first in-person Troika meeting of 2026 alongside incoming Forum Chair and President of Palau, His Excellency Surangel Whipps.
The meeting reaffirmed the Forum leaders’ shared commitment to regional unity, solidarity and collective leadership at a time of heightened global uncertainty, with Manele’s participation underscoring his continued engagement in regional affairs despite the political challenge to his leadership at home.
Prime Minister Wale, by contrast, has been compelled to abandon an important regional commitment because his political house is unstable.
The Opposition adds, if a serving senior minister can move a motion of no confidence against his own Prime Minister within three months of the Government taking office, then the Prime Minister must accept that there is a serious breakdown of trust and confidence in his leadership.
The Opposition will continue to stand firmly for accountability, transparency, responsible leadership and the national interest.
At a time when our country should be demonstrating stability, maturity and strong leadership in the Pacific, PM Wale has regrettably presented the Pacific Islands region with a picture of political uncertainty and division.
[end]
Opposition statement
The post Opposition: Prime Minister Wale’s shock departure from PIFLM, a national embarrassment first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) conducted a Gender, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) training for its staff at the Heritage Park Hotel on Monday.
A statement from MFMR said the ministry hopes the training will increase existing GEDSI knowledge and GEDSI application skills for MFMR staff across key divisions.
It said, key GEDSI knowledge will include key issues and findings from recent research, namely the Solomon Islands gender and fisheries fact sheet, published in 2026.
Key GEDSI skills will focus on GEDSI analysis.
Human rights in fisheries content will be included for a broader people-centred and human-rights-based lens.
The workshop also aims to socialise key policy statements, objectives and corresponding outputs, targets and indicators including the implementation plan for the MFMR GEDSI Strategy to ensure MFMR staff are aware and familiar with the strategy and know their roles, responsibilities and timeline to implement the strategy.
BY BEN BILUA
In Jejevo
THE 18th Synod of the Diocese of Ysabel (DOY) has entered its third day with a number of reports, motions, resolutions and proposed changes to the administration and structure of the diocese.
Day three began with a Holy Eucharist led by Reverend Hudson Norman, followed by breakfast before delegates proceeded to the main synod session.
The session is being presided over by the Chair of the 18th Synod, Bishop Christopher Hope Fihu.
Also present during the synod session is a legal team from Whitlam K Togamae Lawyers providing legal advice.
The first business includes confirmation of the minutes from day two, followed by a call for questions, motions, reports, resolutions and bills.
A number of reports are scheduled to be presented during the session.
These include reports from the Senior Priest of Zamako, Senior Priest of the Gaoma Region, Senior Priest of Lawela and Senior Priest of Tuvano.
The Mission Secretary and Evangelist Coordinator are also expected to present their respective reports.
Reports from the Sunday School and Youth and the Mother Union are also part of the day’s agenda.
Among the key matters before the Synod is Motion One, concerning the Strategic Plan of the Diocese of Ysabel.
The Synod is also expected to consider the work of the Strategic Plan Draft Committee established for 2026.
Other matters on the agenda include the proposed establishment of a Reconciliation Office and the re-appointment of the Diocesan Cathedral Working Committee for 2026.
The Synod will also consider the recruitment of an Education Secretary as part of strengthening the diocese’s administrative and education work.
A proposal to establish a Western Region within the Diocese of Ysabel is also before the Synod.
Another significant proposal is for St Peter Church at Noro to become a standalone parish.
The proposals and reports are expected to provide delegates with an opportunity to assess the current work of the diocese and consider priorities for its future ministry.
The 18th Synod brings together clergy, church leaders and representatives to deliberate on matters affecting the Diocese of Ysabel and its ministry.
The deliberations continue as the Synod works through its agenda and considers the proposed motions, reports and resolutions.
BY BEN BILUA
In Jejevo
THE General Secretary of the Church of Melanesia, Andrain Toni, has called on the clergy to take greater responsibility in building a resilient Church for future generations.
Speaking during the 18th Synod of the Diocese of Ysabel, Toni said the diocese appeared to be relatively well resourced for its present ministry demands, but stressed that resilience required responsible stewardship of the Church’s people and resources.
He said a resilient Church was one that used its people and resources wisely while ensuring that its foundation remained firmly rooted in Jesus Christ.
“A resilient diocese is one that remains standing because its foundation is in Jesus Christ,” Toni said.
He challenged clergy and Church leaders to look beyond the present and consider what they were building for generations to come.
“The challenge today is whether we are building something equally strong for the generation coming after us,” he said.
Toni noted that the Diocese of Ysabel became a diocese in 1975 and has now reached its 50-year milestone.
For five decades, he said, the diocese had administered the affairs of the Anglican Church of Melanesia across Isabel, Western and Choiseul provinces, as well as the Russell Islands.
He said the anniversary provided an opportunity for the diocese to reflect on its history while also considering its responsibilities for the future.
According to Toni, the Diocese of Ysabel currently has 72 active priests, eight administrative staff, four zones, 31 parishes and 181 vestries.
The diocese serves more than 33,000 people, based on figures from the 2019 census.
Toni said the size and reach of the diocese demonstrated the importance of responsible leadership and stewardship of its human and material resources.
He also described the Synod as an important time for clergy and Church leaders to come together to seek God’s plan and divine wisdom for the Diocese of Ysabel.
Toni urged participants to use the Synod not only to discuss the challenges facing the diocese, but also to discern ways of strengthening its ministry and ensuring that the Church remained resilient.
He said the future strength of the diocese would depend on the decisions being made by its leaders today and their commitment to building a Church that could continue serving its people for generations to come.
作者:本·比卢亚
在杰杰沃
美拉尼西亚教会(Church of Melanesia)总干事安德雷恩·托尼(Andrain Toni)呼吁神职人员在为未来世代建设有韧性的教会方面承担更大的责任。
托尼在伊萨贝尔教区(Diocese of Ysabel)第18届主教会议上发言时表示,该教区目前在满足现有事工需求方面资源相对充足,但强调韧性需要对教会的人员和资源进行负责任的管理。
他说,一个有韧性的教会是明智地使用其人员和资源,同时确保其基础牢牢扎根于耶稣基督之中。
“一个有韧性的教区是因为其基础在耶稣基督之上而屹立不倒,”托尼说。
他挑战神职人员和教会领导者超越当前,考虑他们为未来世代所建设的内容。
“今天的挑战是我们是否在为后来的世代建设同样强大的东西,”他说。
托尼指出,伊萨贝尔教区于1975年成为教区,现在已迈入50周年里程碑。
他表示,五十年来,该教区管理着美拉尼西亚圣公会(Anglican Church of Melanesia)在伊萨贝尔、西部和乔伊索尔省以及拉塞尔群岛的事务。
他说,周年纪念为教区提供了反思历史的机会,同时也考虑未来的责任。
根据托尼的说法,伊萨贝尔教区目前有72名在职牧师、8名行政人员、4个区域、31个教区和181个教堂。
根据2019年的人口普查数据,该教区服务于超过33,000人。
托尼表示,教区的规模和覆盖面展示了对人力和物质资源进行负责任领导和管理的重要性。
他还将主教会议描述为神职人员和教会领导者共同寻求上帝计划和神圣智慧的重要时刻。
托尼呼吁与会者利用主教会议不仅讨论教区面临的挑战,还要探讨加强其事工和确保教会保持韧性的方法。
他说,教区未来的力量将取决于其领导者今天所做的决定以及他们对建设一个能够继续为其人民服务的教会的承诺。
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Thirty-one members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) have arrived in Solomon Islands to participate in the second iteration of Exercise Coastwatchers for 2026.
The ADF personnel arrived on Saturday, August 29, with the joint exercise between the ADF and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) commencing on Monday, a statement by the Australian High Commission (AHC) yesterday said.
Exercise Coastwatchers is the premier training activity between the two forces and is designed to strengthen the sovereign policing capacity of the RSIPF, AHC said.
The exercise is jointly developed by the ADF and RSIPF and responds directly to the needs of the Solomon Islands Government and the police force.
Training during the latest exercise will be conducted both in Honiara and in several provinces, covering a range of specialised skills aimed at strengthening the RSIPF’s operational capabilities and developing future trainers within the force.
The latest iteration will build on knowledge and skills gained during previous Coastwatchers exercises, with participants undertaking more advanced and complex scenarios.
The training is designed to enable participants to plan, lead and deliver training in support of policing operations across Solomon Islands.
One of the key components is the Advanced Small Boats course, which will cover areas including small-boat maintenance and advanced navigation.
Participants will deploy to several provinces as part of the course, progressively developing the skills required to serve as small-boat handlers, instructors and, eventually, team leaders.
Following the opening of the Western Border Outpost (WBO ) , the ADF will also provide additional training to RSIPF personnel in the use of high-specification Parrot drones.
The drone training will support the RSIPF’s border surveillance activities from the WBO.
Other components of the exercise include advanced medical training, administration, vehicle maintenance and logistics.
The medical training will equip police personnel with skills to respond to emergencies and provide vital first aid, while the administration course will strengthen capabilities in records management and organisational processes.
Vehicle maintenance and logistics training will also focus on improving efficiency, extending the operational lifespan of RSIPF vehicles and ensuring equipment reaches officers where and when it is required.
Australia’s Acting Defence Adviser to Solomon Islands, Brett Verity, said Exercise Coastwatchers demonstrated the strength of the security partnership between Australia and Solomon Islands.
“Exercise Coastwatchers is an important training activity we conduct in Solomon Islands which delivers practical skills that support the RSIPF in its day-to-day operations and long-term capability development,” Mr Verity said.
He said the exercise reflected Australia’s commitment to working with Solomon Islands to build capability and strengthen relationships.
“Most importantly, Exercise Coastwatchers is building the capability of the RSIPF to protect the people, resources, and security of Solomon Islands,” he said.
Verity added that the ADF personnel participating in the exercise were looking forward to returning to Solomon Islands and training alongside their RSIPF counterparts.
He said the exercise also provided an opportunity for both organisations to share skills and culture.
Exercise Coastwatchers will run from August 31 to September 23.
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Water supply from the Kongulai water source has been restored, Solomon Water has confirmed.
The restoration was completed at about 6pm on Monday following an interruption to the supply.
However, customers in Tasahe, Titinge, Skyline, West Kola Ridge and East Kola Ridge have been advised that it could take up to 48 hours for the water supply system in these areas to fully recover.
Solomon Water said customers who continue to experience no water or low water pressure after 48 hours should contact the utility on 44700.
Customers can also send a message through Solomon Water’s Messenger service, providing their water meter account number and contact details to assist with follow-up.
Meanwhile, the Kombito water source remains closed due to high turbidity.
Solomon Water has apologised for the inconvenience caused and thanked customers for their patience and understanding.
The utility has also issued a boil-water advisory for customers who are receiving water.
Customers are advised to boil all water before using it for drinking, food preparation, cooking and consumption.
The boil-water advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
Solomon Water is urging customers to continue following the advisory until further notice is issued confirming that the water is safe for consumption.
作者:道格拉斯·瓦希亚
孔古莱水源的供水已恢复,所罗门水务公司(Solomon Water)确认。
供水恢复工作于周一下午6点左右完成,此前供水中断。
然而,塔萨赫(Tasahe)、提廷格(Titinge)、天际线(Skyline)、西科拉岭(West Kola Ridge)和东科拉岭(East Kola Ridge)的客户被告知,这些地区的供水系统可能需要长达48小时才能完全恢复。
所罗门水务公司表示,若客户在48小时后仍然没有水或水压低,应拨打44700联系公用事业公司。
客户也可以通过所罗门水务公司的Messenger服务发送消息,提供他们的水表账户号码和联系方式,以便后续跟进。
与此同时,因浊度过高,康比托水源(Kombito)仍然关闭。
所罗门水务公司对造成的不便表示歉意,并感谢客户的耐心和理解。
该公司还向正在接收水的客户发布了煮水建议。
客户被建议在饮用、食品准备、烹饪和消费之前,先将所有水煮沸。
煮水建议将持续有效,直至另行通知。
所罗门水务公司呼吁客户继续遵循该建议,直到另行通知确认水安全可供饮用。
By RODRICK DESURI
Auki
Nurses serving at Sinamauri Rural Health Centre (RHC) in West Kwaio, Malaita Province, have applauded UNICEF and the Australian Government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), for improving facilities at the clinic.
The nurses expressed their appreciation during a short tour of the facility with officials following the handover ceremony yesterday afternoon.
UNICEF supported the successful installation of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system, while the Australian Government supported the construction of a staff house.
The improvements are expected to strengthen primary healthcare services at the rural facility through sustainable and climate-resilient solutions.
One of the nurses, Maxwell Oloisae said the new facilities would greatly support their work, particularly during night operations and emergencies.
“For sure, it really helps and supports our services. For the past few days that we have had the lights, it has helped us attend to patients and carry out our work smoothly and successfully without hindrance,” he said.
“This is much better than before, when we had to use a torch during the night to check patients and attend to emergency cases.”
Mercy Suarana, a female nurse responsible for assisting mothers during deliveries, said the solar power had addressed a long-standing challenge faced by the clinic when mothers arrived for delivery at night.
“This is much better than before. We now have lights if a mother goes into labour at night, and we can also preserve medicines that require power because we now have electricity.
“Even though we still use our old delivery room, essential services are now available and operational. Before, we had to rely on the torch on our mobile phones,” Suarana said.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Health and Medical Services representative and Director of Kilu’ufi Hospital, Dr David Danitofea urged the community and surrounding communities to take ownership of the improved facilities.
He said the facilities should be properly maintained and protected so they could continue serving the people of Sinamauri and surrounding communities for many years and benefit future generations.
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) has raised serious concerns over the recent police questioning of investigative journalist Gina Maka’a and the search of her workplace in Honiara.
MASI in a statement on Sunday said the actions by the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) raised questions about due process, press freedom and the safety of journalists carrying out their work.
MASI acknowledged the police mandate to investigate alleged offences but said such investigations must be conducted in accordance with legal procedures and with respect for the constitutional protections afforded to the media.
The association was particularly concerned about attempts to obtain confidential journalistic information, the seizure of work materials and the search of media premises.
MASI said these concerns were heightened by what it described as incorrect details contained in the search warrant.
“Journalists play an essential role in a democratic society. Their work informs the public, strengthens accountability, and supports transparency in matters of national interest. Any attempt to force a journalist to reveal confidential sources, seize work materials, or search media premises particularly under a warrant containing incorrect details risks undermining these democratic principles and may create an alarming effect on legitimate investigative reporting,” MASI said.
It warned that actions involving journalists, particularly attempts to force disclosure of confidential sources, could have a chilling effect on legitimate investigative reporting.
MASI said protection of confidential sources was a cornerstone of ethical journalism because it allows whistleblowers to come forward with information on matters of public interest.
“Pressuring journalists to disclose sources weakens public trust, discourages transparency, and threatens the integrity of the media sector,” the association said.
However, MASI said it also recognised the responsibility of law enforcement agencies to conduct investigations.
It called for police investigations involving journalists and media organisations to be carried out with greater sensitivity to the role of the media and strict adherence to legal and constitutional protections.
The association said issues involving mistaken identities, incorrect warrants and attempts to seize personal devices without a clear legal basis highlighted the need for stronger coordination between police and media organisations.
MASI is now calling for greater clarity and transparency in how police engage with journalists and media organisations.
It said authorities must ensure investigative actions involving media workers follow proper legal procedures and respect constitutional freedoms.
The association also called for confidential sources to be protected and encouraged greater dialogue between the RSIPF and media stakeholders to prevent similar incidents.
Looking ahead, MASI said it would consider developing a formal police-media engagement framework, advocating for a review of the Whistleblowers Protection Act 2018, and establishing a rapid-response system to provide legal advice and representation to journalists facing legal pressure.
It also plans to promote greater public awareness of press freedom and investigative journalism, while engaging Pacific and international press freedom organisations for additional support and protection for Solomon Islands journalists.
MASI said it stood with journalists and media organisations continuing to report on matters of public interest.
“A strong, independent media is not an obstacle to national development; it is one of its foundations,” the association said.
Meanwhile, the RSIPF, in a statement issued over the weekend said the search warrant served on Ms Maka’a was intended to obtain information relevant to an ongoing investigation and not to force the disclosure of a reporter’s source.
Police acknowledged an administrative error in the name stated on the warrant when it was executed, saying measures would be put in place to prevent a similar occurrence.
The RSIPF said it respects the work of media professionals but noted that search warrants can be used to obtain information for investigations and prosecutions.
The RSIPF said the case file has now been referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions for legal advice.
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Solomon Islands and Japan have reaffirmed their longstanding friendship and commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation across key development and strategic areas.
The commitment was reaffirmed during a bilateral meeting between Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Rick Houenipwela, Minister of National Planning and Development Coordination Peter Kenilorea Jr, and Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs Iwao Horii on the margins of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Koror, Palau, a statement by the PM Press Secretariat today said.
Mr Houenipwela welcomed Japan’s continued support to Solomon Islands, saying the new Government was focused on re-engaging with traditional partners, with Japan remaining an important longstanding friend and development partner.
The meeting covered cooperation in education, infrastructure, aviation and sports, as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest.
Minister Horii reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting Solomon Islands’ development priorities and said Japanese experts would continue working with relevant Solomon Islands authorities, including through the country’s education task force.
Aviation infrastructure was also highlighted, with Japan expressing its willingness to explore areas of support, including airport infrastructure and terminal development.
Mr Kenilorea stressed the importance of airports to Solomon Islands’ long-term economic development, national connectivity and resilience.
He said the Government was looking at developing airport infrastructure capable of meeting the country’s needs over the next 30 years.
This includes improvements to airport terminals, runways and, where required, aircraft parking facilities.
The two sides also welcomed Japan’s support for football development in Solomon Islands, including the recent donation of footballs to the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF).
Discussions also explored opportunities for Japanese technical expertise to support coaching and further develop football in Solomon Islands.
Regional cooperation was another key focus, including Japan’s engagement with the Pacific through the Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM) process.
Horii sought Solomon Islands’ support for Japan’s participation in the evolving regional architecture and highlighted Japan’s interest in being recognised as a Strategic Partner.
The two sides also exchanged views on regional peace and security, including developments affecting the Pacific Ocean.
Japan emphasised the importance of maintaining the Pacific as an “Ocean of Peace” and keeping dialogue and communication open among countries.
Kenilorea reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ longstanding friendship with Japan and said the Government looked forward to deeper engagement and practical cooperation.
Both sides agreed to maintain close communication and continue working together to strengthen the Solomon Islands-Japan partnership and deliver tangible development outcomes for the people of Solomon Islands.
BY TONY IROGA
Solomon Islands and the World Bank have discussed ways to improve energy security and lower the high cost of electricity in the country.
The discussions were held on Sunday, August 30, on the margins of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Koror, Palau.
Foreign Affairs and External Trade Minister Rick Houenipwela and National Planning and Development Coordination Minister Peter Kenilorea Jr met with World Bank Regional Vice President Felipe Jaramillo, a statement by the PM Press Secretariat today said.
The meeting focused on fuel prices, electricity costs and reforms needed to make the country’s energy sector more efficient and affordable.
Lowering electricity costs remains one of Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s key priorities under the GREAT Coalition Government, the statement said.
It said high energy costs are placing pressure on households and businesses and are also holding back economic growth.
Mr Houenipwela told the World Bank that Pacific Island countries need to work together to reduce the costs associated with transporting fuel from Singapore, including freight, transport and insurance costs.
This regional approach would complement efforts being made at the national level to reduce fuel and electricity prices.
Government also outlined its plans to increase the use of renewable energy, particularly through a mix of solar and hydropower.
Another key issue discussed was the possibility of Solomon Islands developing its own fuel storage facility.
The facility could potentially serve not only Solomon Islands but also as a regional fuel storage facility.
The World Bank has indicated that it is willing to undertake analytical work to assess the concept.
Mr Jaramillo welcomed the Government’s initiatives and outlined possible World Bank support ranging from short-term measures to medium- and long-term assistance.
This could include support for fuel storage investment and renewable energy development.
The World Bank also reaffirmed its continued support for the Tina River Hydropower Project.
The project is expected to provide reliable baseload electricity while reducing Solomon Islands’ dependence on imported fuel.
The World Bank has also been working with the Government to advocate for US$35 million in financing from the Green Climate Fund.
The two sides agreed to continue working together on practical measures to reduce electricity costs, strengthen energy security and support the country’s long-term economic development.
By Ben McKay of AAP in Koror, Palau China has promised “consequences” for Taiwan’s presence at the Pacific Islands Forum...
The post China Rages at Taiwan’s Presence at PIF Summit appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Solomon Islands Pijin Bible is being revised, with a new edition expected to be completed and printed in time for the country’s 50 th Anniversary in 2028.
Solomon Islands have had access to the Word of God in Pijin since the nation’s 30th Independence Anniversary in 2028. The Bible has been widely used in churches, homes and literacy classes across the country, a statement by SITAG yesterday said.
It has also supported Bible translators working to translate Scripture into Solomon Islands’ many local languages.
However, Pijin has changed over the past 18 years, with new words and expressions entering common use while some older terms have been less familiar.
The revision aims to ensure the Bible continues to communicate God’s Word clearly, naturally and effectively to Solomon Islands today.
The Solomon Islands Translation Advisory Group (SITAG) is leading the review. The team is checking the Scripture with younger Solomon Islands to ensure the language clear and easily to understood.
Bible translation Consultation and former SITAG Director James Ashley is overseeing the process.
The project received government support on Thursday, August 27, when Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs, Lottie Vaisekavea, signed a grant agreement with SITAG Director David Barton.
The agreement provides government funding for the Pijin Bible revision.
Both officials highlighted the importance of cooperation between the Government and SITAG in supporting Bible translation and Scripture revision.
SITAG said it was honoured to serve Solomon Islanders through Bible translation, literacy and Scripture engagement.
During the ceremony, Mr Barton presented Permanent Secretary Vaisekavea with a copy of the Tikopia New Testament.
The presentation highlighted the importance of making God’s Word available in the languages spoken by Solomon Islanders.
The revised Pijin Bible is expected to help ensure Scripture remains accessible and relevant to future generations.
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
PETER Tangisi, a farmer and cocoa buyer from Tangarare in West Guadalcanal, is demonstrating how the Commodities Export Marketing Authority’s (CEMA) agent network can strengthen local farming communities by linking farmers to markets, supporting quality production, and keeping money circulating within villages.
Mr Tangisi, who is in his late 40s, has been farming since 2012 and became a CEMA agent three years ago.
Today, he combines his own farming activities with buying produce from other farmers in and around his community, while operating a small dryer to support the preparation of quality cocoa.
As part of his role as a CEMA agent, Tangisi has distributed drums and nets, supplied by CEMA for dryer construction, to nearby farmers who sell their produce through him.
He said the equipment has become an incentive for farmers who remain committed to producing and supplying cocoa through his buying network.
Tangisi said joining CEMA has brought several practical benefits to farmers, including freight subsidies, steady and flexible pricing aimed at financially empowering farmers, and the provision of materials such as drums and nets to help farmers build and improve their dryers.
Beyond the farm gate, Tangisi said these benefits are helping to improve cash flow within rural communities, with farmers better able to meet basic household needs and pay school fees once paid for their produce, creating a direct link between agricultural production and the wellbeing of local families.
Despite these improvements, Tangisi acknowledged that transportation remains one of the major challenges facing farmers in the area, with unreliable transport making it difficult to move produce consistently, while unpredictable weather further disrupts farming activities, drying, and the movement of cocoa and copra.
Tangisi is encouraging farmers to follow the best practices taught by CEMA, particularly in the production, fermentation, drying and handling of cocoa, stressing that quality remains critical if the Solomon Islands is to meet the requirements and demand of overseas buyers.
“Everyone must apply the best practices taught by CEMA if we want to achieve a quality product. Quality is important because our produce must meet the demand and expectations of overseas buyers,” Tangisi said.
He also called on government officials and relevant agricultural authorities to visit farmers in their communities and provide practical awareness on the latest farming techniques, saying regular field-level support would help farmers maximise the full potential of their cocoa and copra plantations.
Tangisi’s experience as both a farmer and CEMA agent highlights the importance of strong links between farmers, local buyers, government support and overseas markets. For rural communities such as Tangarare, these links continue to help improve production, strengthen household incomes, and contribute to the wider development of the country’s agricultural sector.
Child protection training at Mary Mazzarello strengthens safeguarding and reinforces commitment to safe spaces for vulnerable people. The Catholic Archdiocese of Honiara has reinforced its commitment to creating safe environments for vulnerable girls, young mothers and children through a Child Protection and Safeguarding Workshop held at the Mary Mazzarello Development Center in Henderson. The half-day [...]
The post CHILD PROTECTION TRAINING REINFORCES MARY MAZZARELLO’S SAFE-SPACE COMMITMENT appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
By Andrianah Kole
The Solomon Islands Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources will launch its new Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) Strategy on Friday, following a three-day training programme to prepare ministry staff for its implementation.
The strategy was endorsed in April 2026 and is intended to strengthen the integration of gender equality, disability and social inclusion across the ministry’s work.
The Pacific Community (SPC), through the Pacific-European Union Marine Partnership (PEUMP), has provided technical assistance in developing the strategy.
The development process included a policy review, community consultations in two provinces, stakeholder engagement, key informant interviews with selected Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) staff, and a validation workshop.
The three-day training is designed to help ministry officers understand the strategy, its objectives and their roles and responsibilities in putting it into practice.
Ronelle Panda, the ministry’s Gender Focal Point, said the training was aimed at strengthening officers’ understanding of gender and its relevance to fisheries.
“We will go back to the concepts of gender, and how gender relates to fisheries,” she said.
The training brings together officers from different areas of the ministry, including aquaculture, coastal fisheries and offshore tuna fisheries.
Ms Panda said the strategy was intended to ensure different groups were considered in the management and development of the fisheries sector.
“It is men and women, and also including children, youth, people with disabilities,” she said.
“It’s all about including everyone.”
She said this was particularly important when managing fisheries resources.
“When you are managing fisheries resources, you must consider everybody inside,” Ms Panda said.
Natalie Makhoul, a Gender and Human Rights Specialist with SPC, said the organisation had supported MFMR over several years on gender, social inclusion and disability mainstreaming in fisheries.
She said the current training was intended to build the ministry’s capacity to implement the new strategy.
“We will learn about what GEDSI means, how it matters in fisheries, what are the tools that they can apply in their work,” Ms Makhoul said.
The training looks at GEDSI across different areas of fisheries, including inshore fisheries, aquaculture and the tuna industry.
It also considers GEDSI within the ministry’s internal policies, laws and human resources.
The third day of the workshop will focus specifically on the new strategy and its implementation plan.
Ms Makhoul said this would help staff understand the strategy and what was expected of them.
“The training aims to ensure that the staff that are here today are equipped with the tools and the knowledge that they need to go back and to apply GEDSI lenses in their work,” she said.
Ms Makhoul said fisheries were an important part of life in Solomon Islands, providing food, income and income-generating opportunities.
She said women were involved in different activities along the fisheries value chain, although their roles were not always visible.
“Many women do different activities along the value chain but often we don’t see their roles in fishing,” she said.
The tuna industry was also an important employment sector for Solomon Islanders, with women and men from the provinces able to access jobs in tuna processing facilities.
Ms Makhoul said the ministry wanted its services to be equitable and inclusive, allowing people to participate and benefit from the fisheries sector.
The new GEDSI strategy is broader than the ministry’s previous gender mainstreaming strategy, which Ms Makhoul said had focused on inshore fisheries.
The new strategy covers aquaculture, community-based resource management, internal policies and processes, the tuna industry and coastal livelihoods.
“It has a very comprehensive action plan to make it easy for MFMR to implement it,” Ms Makhoul said.
The strategy includes a mission and vision statement, six objectives and an action plan.
Ms Makhoul said community voices had also informed its development.
She described the strategy as a significant milestone for MFMR, saying it was among very few ministries in the Pacific to have its own comprehensive GEDSI strategy.
Ms Panda said the strategy would be incorporated into the ministry’s annual work plans, with funding allocated to support its implementation.
“We are developing work plans for every year, to make sure that we are including activities, and then also we have a budget for implementing activities,” she said.
The training also covers GEDSI tools and data collection.
Ms Panda said officers would be guided on how to ensure different groups were included when working with communities.
“We are training a lot of gender tools, how we are collecting data to make sure that when we go to communities, we make sure we are including everybody,” she said.
The workshop includes officers who have previously received gender training as well as those attending for the first time.
For some participants, the training is a refresher, while for others it is an introduction to gender concepts.
Ms Makhoul said the overall aim was to ensure ministry staff took ownership of the new strategy.
“GEDSI is everybody’s business and everybody’s responsibility,” she said.
The GEDSI Strategy will be formally launched on Friday.
[end]
The post Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources prepares to launch new GEDSI strategy first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
CBSI keeps its policy rate at 1.5% as inflation rises, warning pressures could reach 5–6% by the end of 2026. The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) has kept its policy rate unchanged at 1.5 per cent for the next six months, while warning that inflationary pressures could strengthen towards the end of 2026. The [...]
The post CBSI MAINTAINS 1.5% POLICY RATE AS INFLATION OUTLOOK TIGHTENS appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
SOLOMON Islands face an early test of their OFC U-19 Men’s Championship campaign when they meet a confident Papua New Guinea side in their opening Group A clash in Samoa tomorrow.
The Young Kapuls arrive in Apia with competitive momentum after successfully negotiating the qualifying stage in the Cook Islands, setting up an intriguing Melanesian battle against the Solomon Islands.
Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Media reported that PNG coach Mathew Witu has opted for continuity, retaining the same squad that secured qualification for the championship.
PNG captain and coach pose alongside the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship trophy during this afternoon’s pre-tournament media session ahead of tomorrow’s opening clash.
“I have kept the same squad that went to the Cook Islands. Their attitude and preparation have been good and we are looking forward to the tournament,” Witu said.
That familiarity could prove valuable when PNG takes on the Solomon Islands at the Samoa Football Headquarters from 11am(9am SBT) tomorrow
PNG booked their place in the eight-team championship after finishing top of the qualifying tournament in the Cook Islands. They opened with a 4-0 victory over Tonga before producing a decisive 5-1 win over the hosts to secure qualification.
For the Solomon Islands, tomorrow’s encounter provides the first opportunity to measure their preparations against a side that has already gone through competitive matches this year.
The two sides will be seeking an important opening result before Group A becomes even more demanding, with New Caledonia and hosts Samoa completing the pool.
New Caledonia, who finished runners-up at the previous OFC U-19 Championship, will meet Samoa in the other Group A fixture tomorrow.
Solomon Islands will then face New Caledonia on September 4 before closing their group campaign against hosts Samoa on September 7.
The top two teams from Group A will advance to the semi-finals, where they will join the two qualifiers from Group B.
Defending champions New Zealand are in Group B alongside Tahiti, Fiji and Vanuatu, with the tournament running in Samoa from September 1 to 14.
While much of the attention will be on the tournament’s ultimate prize, tomorrow’s meeting offers a more immediate challenge for the Solomon Islands — starting strongly against a PNG side that already knows how to win under competitive pressure.
The Young Kapuls have arrived with a settled squad and a recent qualifying campaign behind them.
The Solomon Islands will now look to answer that challenge when the two Melanesian rivals meet in the opening Group A battle tomorrow.
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By RODRICK DESURI
Auki
UNICEF Solomon Islands has officially handed over solar electrification systems to seven rural primary healthcare facilities in Malaita Province.
The official handover ceremony was held today at Sinamauri Rural Health Care Centre in West Kwaio, Malaita Province.
The seven facilities benefiting from the solar electrification project are Ata’a Rural Health Care Centre, Kwainabesi Rural Health Care Centre, Malu’u Rural Health Care Centre, Rafufu Rural Health Care Centre, Sinamauri Rural Health Care Centre, Lesiala Rural Health Care Centre, and Rohinari Rural Health Care Centre.
The ceremony was witnessed by Malaita Provincial Premier Elijah Asilau’a, West Kwaio Constituency Development Officer Bobby Siarani, UNICEF representative Salome Aroma Namohunu, Second Secretary of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) Bridgette Cottrill, and Dr David Danitofea from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
UNICEF nutrition officer, Salome Aroma with representatives of all key partners posed for a photo.
The investment is valued at nearly SBD$1.89 million (approximately USD$236,000) and is expected to benefit thousands of people across Malaita for years to come.
Speaking during the ceremony, UNICEF representative Salome Aroma Namohunu thanked the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, the Australian Government through DFAT, Malaita Provincial Health Services, community leaders, health workers and other partners for their support in making the project possible.
She described the handover as an important achievement that would not only support patients but also improve working conditions for health workers and strengthen the capacity of rural healthcare facilities.
“On behalf of UNICEF, I thank all the key partners who made this achievement possible,” she said.
She said the handover marked the successful completion of the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at seven primary healthcare facilities across Malaita Province.
Community members and leaders attending the handover.
“The event also celebrates the partnership between the Government of Solomon Islands, the Australian Government through DFAT and UNICEF in strengthening primary healthcare services through sustainable and climate-resilient energy solutions,” she said.
Namohunu also recognised the contribution of provincial authorities, health workers and communities in supporting the implementation of the initiative.
She reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to working alongside the Solomon Islands Government and its partners to strengthen primary healthcare services and improve the health and wellbeing of children, women and communities across the country.
The solar systems are expected to provide more reliable and sustainable electricity to the rural facilities, supporting essential healthcare services and improving access to quality healthcare for remote communities.
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Honiara property revaluation moves forward through a CAUSE II workshop focused on accurate data, valuation and urban management. Preparations for the revaluation of properties across Honiara City have taken an important step forward, with the Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement Project Phase II (CAUSE II) convening a valuation workshop to establish the technical and [...]
The post CAUSE II Workshop Advances Preparations for Honiara City Revaluation appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
霍尼亚拉市的财产重新评估通过一个专注于准确数据、评估和城市管理的 CAUSE II 研讨会向前推进。霍尼亚拉市各项财产重新评估的准备工作迈出了重要一步,社区接入与城市服务提升项目第二阶段(CAUSE II)召开了一次评估研讨会,以建立技术和......
该文章最初发布于 Tavuli News(所罗门群岛)。
By RODRICK DESURI
Auki
Vendors and members of the public in Auki, Malaita Province, have applauded the Auki Central Market authority for quickly repairing the market toilets after they were blocked and closed to the public for several weeks.
The closure had caused significant inconvenience to vendors and members of the public, forcing some people to use the seaside to relieve themselves.
Market vendor, Mary Sua expressed her appreciation to the Auki Market Office and the current Malaita Provincial Government for addressing the issue and reopening the toilet facility.
She said the quick response demonstrated a responsible and active market authority committed to serving the people of Malaita.
“On behalf of the general public, I would like to express my gratitude to the market authority for quickly solving this issue, which is very important for us,” Sua said.
She said the closure had particularly affected women, who were forced to use secluded areas along the seaside.
“We are people of culture and custom. When the toilet was closed, women had to use the seaside to relieve themselves, exposing themselves to the public,” she said.
Another market vendor also called on the market management and provincial government to repair and reopen the male section of the toilet and consider constructing an additional public toilet facility in Auki town.
He said proper sanitation facilities were essential infrastructure for public places, schools and urban centres.
“I want to call on the Auki Market management and provincial leaders to look into fixing the male section so that men can also use their designated facility,” he said.
The vendors said maintaining adequate and functioning sanitation facilities at the market would help improve public health, hygiene and the overall environment for both vendors and customers.
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The challenges faced by health workers in rural communities are real, and communities must take ownership of their health facilities to ensure essential services are maintained, Malaita Provincial Premier Elijah Asilau’a has urged.
Premier Asilau’a made the appeal during the official handover of solar electrification to seven Rural Health Care Centres in Malaita Province.
He said the health facilities and solar systems represent important investments made for the benefit of the people, particularly mothers, unborn babies, children, elderly people and future generations.
“Let us protect the solar equipment, maintain the health facilities and support our health workers in ensuring that these services continue to operate effectively,” Premier Asilau’a said.
“Taking care of them means we protect an investment that will continue to bring better health services, hope and improved lives to our communities for many years to come,” he added.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Health and Medical Services representative and Director of Kilu’ufi Hospital, Dr David Danitofea, also appealed to community leaders and members to take ownership of the rural health facilities and protect the new solar equipment.
Dr Danitofea made the appeal while delivering his key remarks during the official handover ceremony at Sinamauri Rural Health Care Centre.
He said looking after the facilities would not only benefit communities but also provide better working conditions and support for health workers serving in rural areas.
“When we look after these health facilities, it will help us and also support our health workers,” Dr Danitofea said.
He recalled an incident at Rafufu Rural Health Care Centre where health workers had to continue their operations without proper lighting.
“We have used mobile phones and vehicle lights to complete our operations for patients. So, with these facilities, it will transform our rural health care into a more reliable and effective service,” he said.
The new solar electrification is expected to improve the ability of the seven rural health facilities to provide essential health services, particularly during power outages and at night.
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作者:RODRICK DESURI
奥基
马莱塔省首相埃利亚·阿西劳(Elijah Asilau’a)呼吁,农村社区面临的卫生工作者挑战是真实的,社区必须承担起对其卫生设施的责任,以确保基本服务的持续提供。
阿西劳首相在马莱塔省七个农村卫生保健中心的太阳能电气化正式移交仪式上发表了这一呼吁。
他说,卫生设施和太阳能系统代表了为人民,特别是母亲、未出生的婴儿、儿童、老年人和未来几代人所做的重要投资。
“让我们保护太阳能设备,维护卫生设施,并支持我们的卫生工作者,确保这些服务能够有效运作,”阿西劳首相说。
“照顾这些设施意味着我们保护了一项投资,这项投资将继续为我们的社区带来更好的卫生服务、希望和改善的生活,持续多年,”他补充道。
与此同时,卫生与医疗服务部代表、基卢乌菲医院(Kilu’ufi Hospital)院长大卫·达尼托费(Dr David Danitofea)也呼吁社区领导和成员承担起农村卫生设施的责任,并保护新的太阳能设备。
达尼托费医生在西纳毛里农村卫生保健中心的正式移交仪式上发表了重要讲话时提出了这一呼吁。
他说,照顾这些设施不仅会使社区受益,还将为在农村地区服务的卫生工作者提供更好的工作条件和支持。
“当我们照顾这些卫生设施时,这将帮助我们,也支持我们的卫生工作者,”达尼托费医生说。
他回忆起在拉夫夫农村卫生保健中心(Rafufu Rural Health Care Centre)发生的一起事件,当时卫生工作者不得不在没有适当照明的情况下继续工作。
“我们曾使用手机和车辆灯光来完成患者的操作。因此,有了这些设施,我们的农村卫生保健将转变为更可靠和有效的服务,”他说。
新的太阳能电气化预计将提高七个农村卫生设施提供基本卫生服务的能力,特别是在停电和夜间。
BY TONY IROGA
TWO graduates of the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Faculty of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry have departed for China to further their studies at Yangzhou University.
Jimson Maedola and Mark Pitaboe left the country on Thursday, 27 August 2026, after securing Master’s degree scholarships from Yangzhou University.
According to SINU statement today, the scholarships provide an important opportunity for the two graduates to advance their academic qualifications and strengthen their expertise in agriculture.
SINU said their postgraduate studies will also help build advanced knowledge and skills that could contribute to the development of Solomon Islands’ agriculture sector when they return home.
The university congratulated Maedola and Pitaboe on their achievement and wished them every success in their studies in China.
“SINU congratulates Jimson Maedola and Mark Pitaboe on this significant achievement and wishes them every success in their studies in China,” SINU said.
The university said opportunities such as these are important in developing the skills and knowledge needed to support the country’s agricultural sector.
Maedola and Pitaboe are expected to return to Solomon Islands after completing their postgraduate studies and contribute their newly acquired knowledge and expertise to the agriculture sector.
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Solomon Islands begin their U-19 campaign tomorrow with two World Cup spots up for grabs
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
THE Solomon Islands U-19 men’s national team begins its biggest assignment in Samoa tomorrow with a place at next year’s FIFA U-20 World Cup firmly in sight.
The young Solomon Warriors face Papua New Guinea in their opening Group A match of the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship, with the tournament offering two tickets to the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan.
Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Media confirmed today that the two finalists of the championship will secure the region’s qualification spots for next year’s global showpiece, putting significant importance on every match in Samoa.
For Solomon Islands head coach Franco Ne’e, the target is clear — qualify for the World Cup.
“We are looking forward to trying to qualify for the World Cup,” Ne’e said.
The coach believes he has assembled a squad capable of competing, with a strong provincial presence complemented by players who already have senior football experience.
“We have a lot of players from the provinces who are representing our country, and we have experienced players who have played senior football back home,” he said.
Ne’e’s side will have to negotiate a difficult Group A campaign, starting with Papua New Guinea tomorrow before meeting New Caledonia on September 4 and hosts Samoa on September 7.
The Solomon Islands-Papua New Guinea clash is scheduled for 11am at the Samoa Football Headquarters.
PNG arrive with confidence after winning the OFC U-19 qualifying tournament in the Cook Islands in June. They defeated Tonga 4-0 and hosts Cook Islands 5-1 to secure their place in the championship.
PNG coach Mathew Witu said he has retained the same squad from the qualifying campaign.
“I have kept the same squad that went to the Cook Islands. Their attitude and preparation have been good and we are looking forward to the tournament,” Witu said.
New Caledonia and Samoa will contest the other Group A match tomorrow, while defending champions New Zealand headline Group B alongside Tahiti, Fiji and Vanuatu.
The top two teams from each group will progress to the semi-finals, where the race for the two World Cup places will become even more intense.
The championship, which kicks off tomorrow and runs until September 14, is the 25th edition of the OFC U-19 Men’s competition. It was previously staged at U-20 level before being rebranded as the U-19 championship.
For Solomon Islands, however, history and statistics will matter little once the opening whistle sounds tomorrow.
The immediate mission is to start with a positive result against PNG, build momentum through Group A and move one step closer to a World Cup dream.
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BY IRWIN ANGIKI
Solomon Airlines has announced its plan to cut back in its international network and focus on improving its domestic service.
This involves letting go of one airbus and increasing its Twin Otter fleet over the next one to two years.
SolAir said this is improve the domestic arm and support ‘essential public transport and flight connectivity to key tourism destinations’.
The Airline currently operates with two airbuses for its international service, but after the lease of one expires in May next year, it will run with only one. The domestic service runs on two twin otter planes.
This is part of a ‘Board-resolved decision, as part of a broader re-fleeting strategy’, Solomon Airlines announced in a statement today.
The airline will return the second international aircraft, Airbus A320-200 H4-SIB, to its lessor at the conclusion of the current lease in May 2027, Solomon Airlines said.
“The aircraft will be formally withdrawn from service in February 2027.”
CEO Matthew Findlay said Solomon Airlines is responding to factors which will affect the national carrier for some time.
“The decision to reduce by one international aircraft for now, is a disciplined response to factors which are likely to continue impacting us for some time,” Mr Findlay said.
“Many regional carriers, Solomon Airlines included, are heavily impacted by the ongoing global fuel crisis and resulting heightened fuel costs. We are also seeing the impact of forecast softer Australian and New Zealand market conditions.
“A further factor driving this decision is our assessment confirming that structural repairs are required to this aircraft following recent damage sustained. We are working with our insurers to bring the aircraft back into service for the limited time left with us,” Findlay said.
The removal of Airbus A320-200 H4-SIB from the fleet will see Solomon Airlines operate a smaller international network in the short term. Changes will include reduced frequencies between Vanuatu and Auckland, with Vanuatu to Christchurch services being suspended from November. Honiara to Port Moresby services are suspended with scheduled recommencement mid-December 2026 to support peak demand, SolAir said.
SolAir said all existing bookings will be honoured and the airline will be reaching out to contact affected passengers, to make best possible alternative travel arrangements.
As for the ailing domestic service, apart from the plan to increase the number of Twin Otters, SolAir said it is looking at hastening the return of the Dash-8
Findlay said Solomon Airlines is ‘acutely focussed’ on improving domestic air services across Solomon Islands.
“The airline is seeking to expedite the return of the airline’s 32 seat Dash 8 domestic aircraft, currently offshore for maintenance repairs.
“Meeting the vital domestic transport needs of citizens across Solomon Islands and supporting tourism operators is a fundamental responsibility and we are determined to improve the reliability and resilience of our domestic operation,” he said.
SolAir’s announcement comes amid numerous complaints from public over bad service, many citing continuous rescheduling due to flight unavailability, missed flights due to sudden change in schedule without prior notification or passenger listing affected by previous rescheduling.
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