★ Fri, 16 Oct 2026 ·HONIARA ·Updated daily

All Updates · Environment & Climate

All collected updates from verified Solomon Islands sources.

Pacific scholars press for faster climate action as pre-COP31 opens in Fiji

Pacific leaders and academics meeting at the University of the South Pacific called for faster climate action, better access to climate finance and recognition of island realities as pre-COP31 began in Fiji on 5 October.

Solomon Times Environment & Climate · 2026-10-05 Original ↗

Pacific Takes Climate Fight to the Frontline

by Charley Piringi Prime Minister Mathew Wale departed Saturday for Fiji’s Pre-COP31 talks and a Tuvalu visit to observe rising sea levels alongside global leaders. “We want to take them (international leaders) to Tuvalu to see direct evidence of sea-level rise and its impact on low-lying islands,” Wale told reporters... The post Pacific Takes Climate Fight to the Frontline appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Environment & Climate · 2026-10-05 Original ↗

PM Wale to push for stronger climate finance ahead of COP31

BY JOSES SAREN Prime Minister Matthew Wale will push for stronger climate finance and greater recognition of Pacific concerns as he joins regional and international leaders in Nadi, Fiji, ahead of the 2026 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31). Wale is expected to highlight climate finance, blue and green capital and key signals for COP31 during the Pre-COP31 High-Level Meeting, a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office said. For Solomon Islands and other Pacific island states, the meeting is an opportunity to press for stronger international action to address the impacts of climate change. Following his arrival in Nadi, Wale and Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology Wayne Ghemu held a briefing with Solomon Islands officials. Wale’s first bilateral engagement is with Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown, PMO said. The programme continues tomorrow with Wale’s address to the High-Level Political Session, where he is expected to call for the region’s concerns to be reflected in global climate action. PMO said Wale will then hold further bilateral meetings with fellow leaders and partners before attending a traditional welcome ceremony hosted by Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. On Tuesday, Wale will travel with other leaders to Tuvalu as part of the Pre-COP31 Leaders’ programme before returning to Nadi for the Leaders’ Plenary, it said. The plenary will bring together Pacific and partner leaders, including the prime ministers of Australia, Fiji, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, Palau and Vanuatu, for high-level discussions on shared regional issues ahead of COP31. Wale is scheduled to depart Fiji and return to Honiara on Wednesday. [Prime Minister Matthew Wale and delegates brief in Fiji ahead of bilateral engagement with Cook Islands PM Mark Brown. Photo- OPMC.]

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-10-04 Original ↗

Grouper fish species ban now effective

BY CHARLES STENTNETT The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), has announced a four-month ban on the harvesting, selling, purchasing and in possession of the Grouper fish species. This is a few days after it announced another ban on sea cucumber or Bech de mer to be effective as of October 31st 2026. An announcement from the Ministry said that the ban is effective as of October 1st 2026 to January 31st 2027. It said that during the 4-month ban, people are urged to comply with the ban and support efforts to protect the Grouper stock and ensure sustainable fisheries for future generations. The announcement said that during that period, people are expected not to catch, sell, buy or trade the Grouper species anywhere in the country.

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-10-04 Original ↗

“This is our moment”: Pacific Leaders demands Pacific lead global climate agenda as Tuvalu sea levels double global average

by Charley Piringi Solomon Islands Prime Minister Mathew Wale departed yesterday for Fiji’s Pre-COP31 talks and a Tuvalu visit to observe rising sea levels alongside global leaders. Prime Minister Wale said, “We want to take them to Tuvalu for them to see direct evidence of sea-level rise and its impact... The post “This is our moment”: Pacific Leaders demands Pacific lead global climate agenda as Tuvalu sea levels double global average appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Environment & Climate · 2026-10-04 Original ↗

Authorities crack down on unauthorised fishing in Marau

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU The Guadalcanal Provincial Fisheries Division has reminded communities, fishers, and operators in Marau Sound and Birao Ward in East Guadalcanal, to comply with key requirements governing fishing activities. An official statement issued yesterday from the division said that anyone engaging persons from outside Guadalcanal Province must ensure customary fishing rights and permissions are properly documented and submitted to fisheries authorities for verification. The Division also said commercial operators are required to obtain a valid Guadalcanal Provincial business licence before commencing fishing operations. The statement further adds that all activities must comply with national fisheries laws, provincial ordinances, and customary community rules. This comes after concerns were raised about the use of underwater fishing equipment by outsiders in Marau Sound. The Guadalcanal Provincial Fisheries Division warn that unauthorised activities may constitute offences and could lead to enforcement action. The Division in its statement urges customary rights holders, community leaders, and fishers to follow proper processes before allowing fishing in their grounds. “Cooperation is vital to ensure the sustainable management and protection of marine resources in Marau Sound,” the Division said. For feedback, contact: jhouanihau24@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-10-02 Original ↗

“Retreat is Not an Option”: Pacific Stands Firm on Climate Frontlines for Our Survival

by Charley Piringi Ahead of next month’s major UN climate summit (COP31) in Turkiye, the Pacific region is sending a resolute message to global leaders: “Retreating is not an option.” Speaking during a pre-COP31 virtual meeting today, Tagaloa Cooper, Director for Climate Change Resilience at the Secretariat of the Pacific... The post “Retreat is Not an Option”: Pacific Stands Firm on Climate Frontlines for Our Survival appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Environment & Climate · 2026-10-01 Original ↗

UK and MMERE step up energy reforms

BY TONY IROGA THE Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) and the UK Government yesterday agreed on the next stage of an energy programme to establish a new independent energy regulator in Solomon Islands. The new regulator will allow independent power providers to operate, reducing reliance on imported diesel and lowering electricity costs through renewable options such as solar, a statement by the UK High Commission yesterday said. It is advancing the necessary reforms, with the UK providing technical and legal expertise to draft secondary legislation covering economic licensing and technical certification for electrical workers. British High Commissioner Paul Turner met MMERE Permanent Secretary Chris Vehe yesterday to sign the agreement. UK-contracted legal expert William Kadi, a former Chevening scholar, is drafting the legislation under MMERE supervision before submission to the Attorney General’s Chambers. With Prime Minister Matthew Wale aiming for lower tariffs, MMERE and the UK plan to complete the draft legislation by early 2027. MMERE emphasised that establishing an independent regulator is a critical step towards diversifying the nation’s energy sector and making power more affordable for local communities. “This legal work will be important for advancing the wider energy programme that the World Bank is taking forward, including on tariff and institutional reforms,” Mr Turner said. He added that the UK will continue working with the World Bank and ADB, while maintaining support for major projects such as the Tina River Hydro Project through the Global Environment Facility and multilateral funding. Photo: Supplied For feedback, contact: tonyiroga8@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-09-30 Original ↗

SIMS hosts training workshop to improve services

BY TONY IROGA THE Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) kicked off a four-day training workshop on Monday this week. A statement from SIMS today said the Environmental Scan Program Training Workshop aims to build staff capacity and align operations with international Quality Management System (QMS) ISO 9001 standards. “The training is facilitated by international advisors Ms Helen Tseros and Mr Bryan Boase, alongside the Director of SIMS,’’ the statement said. Participants will analyse SIMS’s operational environment using SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis to mitigate risks and improve service delivery. Key areas of focus include evaluating SIMS’s national and international role, prioritising strategic needs, building long-term operational plans, and updating QMS documentation. “This practical exercise allows SIMS to look critically at their strengths and vulnerabilities while mapping out clear, actionable strategies for the future. “By meeting international ISO standards, SIMS continues its commitment to protecting lives, property, and livelihoods across the Solomon Islands through reliable meteorological services,” SIMS said. The workshop will conclude tomorrow, with outcomes integrated into core agency frameworks to ensure compliance with World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. The workshop is supported by the Australian Government through the SIMS/Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) Twinning Arrangement Project. Photo credit: SIMS For feedback, contact: tonyiroga8@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-09-30 Original ↗

From Malaita’s Climate Frontlines to Venice: The Story of Solwata

Solwata takes stories of climate displacement from Malaita communities to Venice, highlighting relocation and human rights. A story rooted in three Malaita communities has travelled beyond Solomon Islands through Solwata, a 25-minute mixed-reality documentary about climate displacement, planned relocation and human rights. Solwata made its world premiere in competition at Venice Immersive, the extended-reality section [...] The post From Malaita’s Climate Frontlines to Venice: The Story of Solwata appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Environment & Climate · 2026-09-28 Original ↗

PM Wale calls on international community to support small island states meet climate change challenges.

BY CHARLES STENNETT Prime Minister Matthew Wale used his address at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), to call on the international community to match the courage of Pacific communities with collective international resolve to scale up adaptation and resilience finance, and to support communities facing climate mobility needs. In his speech at the 81 st session of UNGA in New York last week, Wale urged the international community to put into action what they promised to reduce climate change as Pacific Island leaders have used the podium many times in the past raising issues relating to climate change but have seen little achieved. “Year after year, Pacific leaders have stood at this podium and urged the world to act on climate change. And yet, global action continues to fall short of what the science demands. For every passing COP, the impacts grow more severe. Our islands are being lost to the sea. Disasters are more frequent and more devastating” he said. The Prime Minister said small countries like Solomon Islands are using much needed money that should have been used for development for disaster response, recovery and rebuilding. He said Solomon Islanders are well aware of this as they’ve lived through disasters caused by climate change. “Food and water security is under threat and communities are being forced from their ancestral lands. Solomon Islands knows this reality firsthand. This year, Tropical Cyclone Maila, a category five storm, tore through our communities, destroying homes, schools, infrastructure and livelihoods. “That is money our essential services urgently need, now diverted to deal with the impacts of this climate extreme. Like many Pacific Island countries, we are trapped in a relentless cycle of response, recovery and rebuilding. This is not sustainable, nor is it just,” Wale said. He informed the assembly that Solomon Islands did the least to cause this crisis, yet they pay its earliest and heaviest price. Wale called on the international community that each state has a legal obligation to protect the climate system. “Major emitters must make deep emission cuts and transition away from fossil fuels. Climate finance, including support for loss and damage, must be grant based and channeled through our national budget systems. Project based financing of climate action is unsustainable and out of step with the scale of a crisis we did the least to cause. Vulnerable countries should not have to choose between climate action and educating our children, caring for the sick or securing food and water,” Wale said. He also called for the full capitalisation of the Pacific Resilience Facility, and an ambitious and timely third replenishment of the Green Climate Fund. Wale encouraged parties and partners to attend the Pre-COP31 meeting which will be held soon to see and feel for themselves the effects of climate change. “The Pre-COP31 meeting, to be hosted in the Pacific by Australia in partnership with Fiji and Tuvalu, will bring the reality of climate change directly into the heart of the global process. I call on all parties and partners to come to that meeting and to COP31 with stronger commitments and concrete action. The communities on the frontline of the climate crisis deserve nothing less” he said. He also called on the international community to support efforts addressing sea level rise which is affecting shorelines of the islands in Solomon Islands. “Every day our people are defending their coastlines, strengthening their resilience, protecting their food and water security and their cultural heritage, and, where there is no other choice, relocating. But we cannot do this alone. “I call on this assembly to match the courage of our Pacific communities with collective international resolve to scale up adaptation and resilience finance, and to support communities facing climate mobility needs,” Prime Minister Wale said. Photo credit: OPMC For feeback, contact: charsstennett@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-09-28 Original ↗

Wale Calls for Changes to Climate Finance for Vulnerable Pacific States

PM Wale calls for accessible, predictable and grant-based climate finance to help Pacific states respond to climate impacts. By: Steven Kamoa Prime Minister Matthew Cooper Wale is calling for changes to the international climate finance system, saying vulnerable Pacific island states need more accessible, predictable and grant-based funding to respond to climate impacts. Speaking at [...] The post Wale Calls for Changes to Climate Finance for Vulnerable Pacific States appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Environment & Climate · 2026-09-24 Original ↗

PM Wale Calls For Climate Commitments To Deliver On The Ground

Prime Minister Matthew Wale says climate commitments must move beyond promises and translate into tangible support for climate-vulnerable countries. Wale made the call for grant-based, predictable and accessible finance at the UN Secretary-General’s Climate Action Summit on ‘Just Transition’ at the Trusteeship Council in New York. Solomon Islands contributes less... The post PM Wale Calls For Climate Commitments To Deliver On The Ground appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Environment & Climate · 2026-09-24 Original ↗

MINISTER GHEMU CALLS FOR ACTION ON CLIMATE MOBILITY

Minister Wayne Ghemu calls for practical climate mobility action that protects Pacific communities, dignity and choice. Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology Wayne Ghemu has called for the international community to move beyond climate mobility principles. The Solomon Islands Climate Change Minister urged the need to deliver practical action that protects the [...] The post MINISTER GHEMU CALLS FOR ACTION ON CLIMATE MOBILITY appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Environment & Climate · 2026-09-24 Original ↗

WWF supports Bubupengu conservation efforts

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Pacific will provide direct funding to support the Bubupengu Tribal Land Conservation Association in East Guadalcanal, Marau Sound, as the community works to complete the remaining 25 percent of its Protected Area process towards formal declaration. Association spokesperson Jean Baptist Epalle said WWF Central Solomon Islands Manager Slade Ririmae recently visited the Bubupengu community as part of WWF’s Inter-Community Catalyst Funding initiative. Mr Epalle said during the visit, Mr Ririmae confirmed that WWF Pacific would provide direct funding to help catalyse the remaining 25 percent of the community’s Protected Area process. He said the announcement was warmly welcomed by the community, which has spent more than five years working to conserve and protect its customary land and marine resources. Mr Epalle said the community was deeply moved and excited by the announcement, describing it as the first funding of its kind the community has received after years of hard work, struggles and sacrifices towards conservation. He said the community expressed its sincere appreciation to Mr Ririmae and WWF Pacific for the support and for recognising its long-term commitment to conservation. Mr Epalle said Mr Ririmae also emphasised that the community’s conservation work must continue and encouraged members to remain committed to their efforts. “Community work must go on. Tagio WWF Pacific-SI for making this funding directly accessible to support conservation work,” Mr Epalle said. The Bubupengu Tribal Land Conservation Association now looks forward to using the support to advance the remaining steps in the Protected Area process and strengthen its ongoing conservation efforts. The community’s conservation work focuses on protecting its customary land and marine resources in Marau Sound, East Guadalcanal. [Photo: WWF Central Solomon Islands Manager Slade Ririmae (Left) with the Bubupengu Tribal Land Conservation Association in East Guadalcanal, Marau Sound. Photo credit: Jean Baptist Epalle]

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-09-23 Original ↗

Historical Milestone: Community Fisheries Management Plans launched – Russell Islands

Russell Islands communities launch fisheries plans after a decade of conservation to protect marine resources and livelihoods. The communities of Marulaon and Karumulun in the West Russell Islands celebrated the& launch of their Community Fisheries Management Plans (CFMPs) on 16 and 17 September& 2026, marking a historic achievement after more than a decade of marine [...] The post Historical Milestone: Community Fisheries Management Plans launched – Russell Islands appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Environment & Climate · 2026-09-22 Original ↗

MASI President Ofani calls for Pacific journalists to stand together

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU Media workers across the Pacific must stand together and remain united in addressing challenges facing journalists and newsrooms, Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) President and In-Depth Solomons founder Ofani Eremae says. Mr Eremae made the comments in an interview with the Fijian Media Association today at the 8 th Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) conference currently underway in Fiji. The 8th Pacific Media Summit is being held in Savusavu, Fiji, from September 21 to 25, 2026, under the theme “Reaching the Remote: Media and Digital Innovation for a Connected Blue Pacific.” The summit is jointly hosted by the Fijian Media Association and the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA), bringing together media professionals and stakeholders from across the Pacific to discuss press freedom, media sustainability, digital innovation, climate reporting and the future of journalism in the region Speaking to Fijian Media Association today Eremae said the PINA gathering was an important event for Pacific media as it brought journalists and media workers together to discuss issues and challenges facing their respective newsrooms. “It’s a time that those of us who work in the industry come together, talk about the issues, the challenges that journalists, media workers are facing within our respective newsrooms,” Mr Eremae said. He said the conference also provided an opportunity for media workers to network, interact and build relationships that could help strengthen the media industry. Mr Eremae said journalists had reached a point where they needed to stand together and remain united in carrying out their responsibilities to communities across the Pacific. “I think we have come to a time that we need to, as reporters, as journalists, stand together, be united,” he said. He said journalists must continue doing the work their respective communities expect them to do. Mr Eremae said the PINA gathering was also an opportunity to create stronger connections among Pacific media workers and contribute to a stronger and more vibrant media industry. [Photo: MASI President and In-Depth Solomons founder Ofani Eremae. Photo credit: Fijian Media Association.]

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-09-22 Original ↗

New Climate-Resilient Fiu River Bridge Set to Transform Connectivity in Malaita Province

The tender for the construction of the new Fiu River Bridge in Malaita Province is closed on 18 September 2026, with the contract award expected by December 2026. The Solomon Islands Government is seeking second Additional Financing from the World Bank for the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), with part of the proceeds to support payments for the Fiu River Bridge Replacement contract. The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), the implementing agency of SIRAP2, will oversee the replacement of the existing 77 metre steel truss Fiu River bridge with a new 84 metre climate-resilient bridge, featuring a two-lane carriageway and a dedicated pedestrian walkway. The Fiu Bridge. MID Permanent Secretary, Mike Qaqara said, “The Fiu River Bridge is a critical piece of infrastructure for the communities and road users who depend on this connection. Replacing the existing bridge with a modern, climate-resilient structure will improve safety and reliability, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall and flooding. We are pleased to see the procurement process progressing, and we remain committed to ensuring that all environmental and social requirements are properly addressed before construction begins .” The Development Consent application together with the Public Environmental Report was submitted to the Environment and Conservation Division (ECD) of the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology for review and pending approval. Major construction works will include upgrading the approach roads, constructing new bridge foundations and superstructure, improving drainage systems, providing scour protection, undertaking embankment and pavement works, installing road safety features, and demolishing the existing bridge. The Fiu River Bridge investment forms part of SIRAP2’s broader efforts to improve the safety, reliability and climate resilience of Solomon Islands’ transport infrastructure and strengthen connectivity for communities across the country. End//// – Second Solomon Islands Roads & Aviation Project (SIRAP2) The post New Climate-Resilient Fiu River Bridge Set to Transform Connectivity in Malaita Province first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .

SIBC Environment & Climate · 2026-09-22 Original ↗

Forestry Ministry and JICA sign forest management project

The Ministry of Forestry and Research and JICA have signed a Record of Discussions for a new technical cooperation project on community-based forest management, according to a Solomon Islands Government statement.

Solomon Times Environment & Climate · 2026-09-21 Original ↗

Priority areas for marine resources protection, livelihoods, and adaption mapped in MUP and Temotu Provinces

BY CHARLES STENNETT The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) and the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster and Meteorology, (MECDM), with support from New Zealand through the Climate and Biodiversity-Smart Marine Spatial Planning (CaB-Smart MSP) Programme, are working with communities and provincial governments in Temotu and Makira-Ulawa Provinces to identify priorities for protecting marine resources, strengthening livelihoods, and adapting to climate change. A post from the MFMR social media said that through community workshops, interviews, mapping, traditional knowledge, and scientific information, communities are sharing their knowledge, identifying local challenges, and helping shape plans for the future of their marine and coastal areas. It said the process ensures that the voices of women and men who depend on marine resources, as well as elders and youth, are reflected in decision-making. It also includes Solomon Islands Integrated Vulnerability Assessment (SIIVA) assessments. It said these activities will help communities map important coastal habitats and fishing grounds, identify environmental threats, and discuss their aspirations for the future. The statement said information gathered will support communities and government to develop practical marine management options and identify suitable marine zones that help protect important habitats, support sustainable fisheries, and build resilience to climate change. The lessons and experiences from this work will help MFMR and MECDM further develop and test community Marine Spatial Planning guidelines, supporting the wider rollout of this approach across Solomon Islands. [Photo: Climate and Biodiversity-Smart Marine Spatial Planning Programme members in one of the communities in West Makira. Photo credit: MFMR]

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-09-21 Original ↗

Solomon Islands fisheries team complete training in Korea

BY CHARLES STENNETT Six Staff from the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), have successfully completed a three week-long capacity-building training program in Busan, South Korea. A statement from the Ministry said the training brought together fisheries officials from the Indo-Pacific and Africa to strengthen knowledge, skills, and cooperation in fisheries observer programs and sustainable fisheries management. Speaking on behalf of the Solomon Islands delegation, Ms Jan Oli Pitu described the training as a highly successful and valuable experience, providing participants with opportunities to learn, share experiences, build networks, and strengthen their technical capacity. The statement said a major highlight was the development and presentation of National Fisheries Observer Action Plans of which Solomon Islands delegation was awarded Best Action Plan following presentations and assessment by professors from Pukyong National University. It said the achievement reflects the strong teamwork, commitment, and capability of Solomon Islands fisheries professionals.The team now returns home with new knowledge, stronger partnerships, and an action plan to further support Solomon Islands’ fisheries observer program. [Six MFMR officers attending the 3-week training in South Korea. Photo credit: MFMR.]

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-09-20 Original ↗

MFMR acknowledges local Hawksbill turtle conservation worker

BY CHARLES STENNETT The appearance of young Hawksbill turtles from Mbaquin Island in the Russell islands, Central Province is the result of a dedicated worker and the taking into action knowledge gained from the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resource, MFMR training. A statement from MFMR said that Thomas Tami took the initiative to dedicate his work in protection and conservation of Hawksbill turtles at Mbaquin island after gaining knowledge from a training conducted by MFMR. Following the training, Mr Tami applied the knowledge and skills he gained to construct a protective shelter for Hawksbill turtles and their eggs on Mbaquin Island. The statement said although the step is simple, it is an important conservation measure to safeguard the eggs during their incubation period. “The successful hatching of the eggs and the emergence of the little turtles is a wonderful outcome and a testament to the value of community participation in marine conservation” the statement said. MFMR greatly appreciates Mr. Tami’s efforts and recognizes him as an excellent example of how local communities can play a vital role in protecting our marine resources and endangered species. “His initiative demonstrates that, with the right knowledge, training and support, individuals in our island communities can make a meaningful contribution to conservation. The Ministry congratulates Mr. Tami on this achievement and encourages him to continue his important work in protecting Hawksbill turtles and their nesting habitats” the statement said.

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-09-17 Original ↗

CBSI launches nationwide financial services survey

BY NED GAGAHE The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI), in collaboration with Tebbutt Research, will conduct its second National Financial Services Demand Side Survey from September to October this year. The survey will assess access, usage, quality and satisfaction with financial services and products across Solomon Islands. It will cover a nationally representative sample of about 992 adults randomly selected from households in urban, rural and maritime communities. CBSI said the survey is aimed at providing a better understanding of the needs, preferences and financial behaviours of Solomon Islanders. It will also provide updated information to help assess progress under the National Financial Inclusion Strategy 3, which was implemented by CBSI from 2021 to 2025. The survey will examine the extent to which people have access to and use financial services and products currently available in the country, as well as their experiences and level of satisfaction. It will also assess people’s readiness and appetite for climate-related financial products and services. CBSI said the findings would provide an evidence base for policy development and help identify gaps in the provision of financial services across the country. The results are also expected to help policymakers respond to emerging trends and support the development of financial products and services that better meet the needs of consumers. CBSI Governor Dr Luke Forau said one of the key objectives of the 2026 survey was to inform the review and development of financial inclusion targets and action plans. He said the findings would contribute to the formulation of the next Financial Inclusion Strategy for Solomon Islands. The first National Demand Side Survey was conducted by CBSI in 2015 with support from the Pacific Financial Inclusion Programme, now UNCDF, and the Alliance for Financial Inclusion. The 2026 survey is funded by the Asian Development Bank, with the Solomon Islands National Statistics Office and Tebbutt Research providing technical support to CBSI. Tebbutt Research enumerators will conduct the fieldwork and collect the survey data. CBSI expects the findings to be released by the end of 2026. [Tebbutt Research enumerators will conduct the fieldwork and collect the survey data. Photo credit CBSI]

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-09-17 Original ↗

Solomon Power commissions solar hybrid plant in Tulagi

BY LORETTA B MANELE TULAGI Solomon Power commissioned a 250 kilowatt solar hybrid plant project in Tulagi this morning. This is one of five projects being implemented by Solomon Power and the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) with joint funding support from Asian Development Bank (ADB), Solomon Islands Government and Strategic Climate Fund. The project is designed to connect electricity networks to solar grid connected plants integrated with battery storage to reduce reliance on costly imported diesel. $8.4 million support comes from ADB. The five solar projects come under Government’s solar power development project which costs $15.2 million. Present at the programme were representatives from the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC), ADB, Solomon Power executive and technical team and provincial and community members. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Central Islands Premier Kenneth Sagupari formally pledged ownership of the project to the people of Central Islands. He also urged them to be responsible in taking care of the project so that it can benefit them in the long run. Chris Hunupauro, deputy secretary for Corporate Services from MMERE voiced the need for careful balancing in order to reduce costing of energy. Speaking on behalf of ADB, Michael White stressed that the project aims to reduce dependence on diesel, support local businesses and economic activities and contribute to clean environment. Solomon Power Chairman David KC Quan said the project which dates back to 2016, although small is very significant. He stressed that this project and four others that are yet to be commissioned can help drive down dependence on diesel. The remaining four provincial centres yet to have their solar hybrid plant projects commissioned are Munda, Lata, Kirakira and Malu’u. [Photo Caption: MP for Ngella constituency, Choylin Yim Douglas, Central Islands Premier, Kenneth Sagupari, Solomon Power Chairman David KC Quan, ADB rep, Michael White and MMERE Deputy Director Chris Hunupauro cut the ribbon to mark the solar plant commissioning ceremony. Photo credit – Loretta B Manele. ]

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-09-17 Original ↗