BY JOSES SAREN
The Attorney-General’s Conference of Parties (AG-COP) 2026 opened this morning at the National Aquatic Centre, Sports City, bringing together government ministries, provincial governments and state-owned enterprises for two days of talks on law and governance.
The conference runs from September 22 to 23 under the theme “Law at the Centre of Good Governance: Promoting Responsibility, Accountability and Building a GREAT Solomon Islands,” Attorney-General Gabriel Suri said in his welcome address.
Suri opened the conference shortly before 9am.
Minister for Justice and Legal Affairs Alfred Tuasulia delivered the opening keynote address as guest of honour.
A representative of the Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands also addressed participants during the keynote session.
The morning’s main session was led by the Chambers’ Litigation and Advice Division, under the topic “When Government Becomes the Litigant — What does litigation tell us about the quality of Governance?”
Participants took part in an interactive case study session analysing real government decision-making scenarios as part of that presentation.
The International Affairs Unit and the Commercial Law Unit also presented during the day, followed by a question and answer session.
The Legislative Drafting Division rounded out the afternoon program, covering the legislative drafting process, the legislative competence of provincial governments and the Honiara City Council, and the journey of a bill from the Attorney-General’s Chambers to the National Parliament of Solomon Islands (NPSI).
Day One sessions were scheduled to close at 4:30pm, with the conference set to continue into its second and final day on tomorrow September 23.
[Photo: Participants from government ministries, provincial governments and state-owned enterprises attend Day One of the Attorney-General’s Conference of Parties 2026 at the National Aquatic Centre, Sports City, Honiara. Photo: Joses Saren]
British High Commissioner says initiative can benefit Government, communities and mining companies
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) can deliver a “win-win-win” for the Solomon Islands Government, local communities and mining companies, British High Commissioner Paul Turner says.
Mr Turner made the remarks yesterday during the formal launch of the next phase of United Kingdom support for Solomon Islands’ re-entry into the EITI.
He said EITI could help Solomon Islands strengthen revenue collection and exports while improving transparency across the mining sector.
“It is a win-win-win: for Government, local communities and for mining companies who will have greater export markets,” Mr Turner said.
The EITI Board last week approved Solomon Islands’ application to rejoin the initiative, making it the 56th EITI implementing country.
Solomon Islands left the EITI in 2018 after failing to meet its commitments under the initiative.
Under its renewed EITI membership, the country is required to improve disclosure of information relating to its mining sector to strengthen transparency and public management of the industry.
The United Kingdom, working with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has supported efforts to help Solomon Islands rejoin the EITI.
The UK will continue providing support to help the country meet its obligations under the initiative.
Mr Turner said EITI membership had the potential to transform the mining sector and ensure the industry delivers greater benefits to Solomon Islands.
“Membership of EITI has the potential to transform the mining sector in Solomon Islands,” he said.
“It will ensure that mining does not go the same way as logging did in this country.”
Solomon Islands is re-engaging with EITI at a time when its mining sector is expanding, particularly in gold and nickel.
The sector is expected to play an increasing role in economic diversification, with growth driven by the Gold Ridge gold mine and the Kolosori nickel project.
The EITI Board also commended the renewed commitment of the Government, mining companies and civil society to a more equitable and environmentally responsible approach to mining decisions.
A new multi-stakeholder group comprising representatives from central and provincial governments, mining companies, local communities and civil society will monitor activities across the sector.
The next phase of UK support will assist Solomon Islands to develop a national plan for the disclosure of mining information across all provinces.
It will also support capacity building for local stakeholders to monitor and report on mining activities and strengthen the Government’s ability to provide regular reports to the EITI Secretariat.
[Photo Caption: British High Commissioner Paul Turner and Permanent Secretary of Finance David Dennis sign the next phase of UK support for Solomon Islands’ re-entry into the EITI.]
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement II (CAUSE) Project will handover 19 completed community infrastructure projects in Gizo and Noro.
The projects will be formally handed over to the Western Provincial Government, town authorities and community representatives.
According to the CAUSE Project, nine projects have been completed in Gizo, while another 10 projects have been completed in Noro.
An official handover ceremony will be held in Gizo tomorrow, Tuesday 22 September, followed by a second program in Noro on Wednesday.
The ceremonies will include the unveiling of sub-project billboards and the blessing of the completed facilities.
Western Province Premier Billy Veo, along with other provincial government representatives, has been invited to attend the handover ceremonies.
Officials from the CAUSE Project in Honiara and representatives of donor partners are also expected to participate in the programs.
The completion of the projects marks another contribution by CAUSE towards improving community infrastructure and access to essential services.
The project has continued to support communities through infrastructure development aimed at addressing local needs and improving living conditions.
The handover will formally place the completed facilities under the ownership and responsibility of the respective provincial, town and community authorities.
BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Ministry of Infrastructure Development, (MID), is now preparing to redevelop and improve the former Public Works Department (PWD), compound in Kirakira, Makira-Ulawa Province which is now in a deteriorating state.
The plan to redevelop the area follows on from a visit by a Makira-Ulawa Provincial delegation to MID last month in Honiara.
A post from the province’s social media said that to progress the initiative, an engineer from MID Engineer visited Kirakira to analyze the condition of the old PWD site with the aim of having it resurrected with staff houses while discussions to have the Eastern Region Machine Fleet to be based in Kirakira, Makira.
That will allow rehabilitation of our current roads and construction of new roads.
It said with the redevelopment of the PWD area and staffed will greatly improve the province’s economy and connectivity to its people.
Discussions were also about the tar sealing of the road between the Kirakira Township to Ngorangora Airport.
[Members of the Makira-Ulawa Provincial Government and MID Engineer after discussions to revive PWD in Kirakira. Photo credit: MUPG]
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Solomon Water has issued a public warning to residents living around the New Titinge Reservoir and surrounding communities not to drink or use water being discharged from the new reservoir.
Solomon Water said its contractor, Pacific Engineering Projects (PEP), has commenced discharging water from the new Titinge Reservoir through the washout pipe outfall as part of essential works.
The water being discharged is not safe for human consumption or domestic use, Solomon Water warned.
According to the utility, the discharged water contains a high concentration of sodium hypochlorite (chlorine), which may be harmful to human health.
Residents in the affected communities have been strongly advised not to drink or use the discharged water for cooking, washing food, bathing or any other domestic purpose.
Parents and guardians have also been urged to ensure that children do not play in or near the washout area.
Solomon Water said the washout process will commence on Monday, 21 September 2026, and is expected to continue for approximately five days, or until the chlorine concentration has reduced to a safe and acceptable level.
Residents are advised to avoid the affected washout location throughout the process and to follow all safety instructions issued by Solomon Water.
Solomon Water said it will issue a further public notice once the washout process is complete and the discharged water is no longer considered a risk.
Solomon Water thanked residents for their patience, understanding and cooperation while the essential works are carried out to support a safe and reliable water supply.
[Photo Caption: Residents are also encouraged to refer to the map provided by Solomon Water to identify the affected washout area.Photo credit: SW]
Tulagi Solar Power Plant is commissioned, expanding renewable energy and reducing diesel reliance in Central Islands Province. The Tulagi Solar Power Plant has been commissioned in Central Islands Province as part of a multi-provincial project aimed at increasing renewable energy use and reducing reliance on diesel-generated electricity in Solomon Islands. The commissioning ceremony was attended [...]
The post Tulagi Solar Power Plant Commissioned as Renewable Energy Project Begins Operations appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
By RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The asphalt application for the China-Aid Auki Road Project was completed yesterday at the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) workers’ base at Aligegeo, Auki.
The completion of the asphalt works marks another significant milestone in the delivery of road infrastructure in Malaita Province, as the project moves closer to completion.
The project is expected to provide a major improvement to road standards in the province.
Asphalt being applied to the China-Aid Auki Road Project at the CCECC workers’ base in Aligegeo, Auki.
According to a press statement issued by CCECC yesterday, the 9.2-kilometre tar-sealed road from Kwaibala to Kilu’ufi, including the Fasitoro and Sikitae feeder roads, has now been completed.
“Asphalting works under the China-Aid Auki Road Project have now been completed, marking another major milestone in the delivery of road infrastructure in Auki and surrounding areas,” the statement said.
The statement said Project Manager Liu Bao Dong and his team would now shift their focus to the remaining works.
These include the installation of street-name signs and speed-limit signs, while road-line and pavement-marking works are already underway.
“These are part of the final works being carried out to ensure the road is properly completed and equipped with the necessary road safety signs and markings,” Project Manager Liu said.
The installation of street-name and speed-limit signs will assist motorists and other road users in navigating the newly improved roads.
Road markings will also improve visibility and contribute to safer road use for motorists, pedestrians and other road users.
The completion of the asphalt application represents a major step towards the final delivery of the China-Aid Auki Road Project, with the remaining works focused on road safety features and other finishing requirements.
Workers applying asphalt during the final stages of the China-Aid Auki Road Project along the Kwaibala–Kilu’ufi road in Auki, Malaita Province.
[Photo Caption: Workers applying asphalt during the final stages of the China-Aid Auki Road Project along the Kwaibala–Kilu’ufi road in Auki, Malaita Province.]
The third Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants (ISIA) Annual Congress officially opened in Honiara today under the theme ‘Beyond Qualifications: Building a Workforce that Thinks, Leads, and Creates.’ The two-day conference brings together financial practitioners, policymakers, and industry leaders to...
The post ISIA Annual Congress 2026 Focuses on Leadership and Ethics appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Bmobile Solomon Islands has clarified that it has not closed its business or ceased operations, saying it is currently undergoing a transition and restructuring process aimed at securing its long-term future.
In a media statement issued today, Bmobile said recent reports suggesting that the telecommunications company had shut down its Solomon Islands operations were incorrect.
The company said it continues to operate while making changes to establish what it described as a more sustainable operating model.
A key part of the transition is its ongoing network modernisation programme, which includes upgrades and improvements to its telecommunications network.
According to Bmobile, the programme is aimed at strengthening network performance, improving customer experience and positioning the company for future growth.
Bmobile also acknowledged that the transition has involved difficult decisions regarding its workforce and operating structure.
The company said some employees have been affected by the changes and thanked them for their service and commitment.
However, Bmobile stressed that reports claiming it had completely ceased operations were incorrect.
It said a number of employees remain with the company, particularly in critical technical and operational positions needed to support its telecommunications network and ongoing modernisation programme.
Bmobile also highlighted the importance of the telecommunications sector to Solomon Islands, saying continued investment, modern communications infrastructure and healthy competition remain important for consumers, businesses and communities across the country.
The company acknowledged that the current transition has created uncertainty for employees, customers and other stakeholders.
Management said it remains committed to progressing the network modernisation programme and ensuring Bmobile Solomon Islands continues to contribute to the development of telecommunications services in the country.
Bmobile urged media organisations and members of the public to seek clarification from the company about its operational status and ongoing activities to ensure information reported publicly is accurate.
The company said further updates will be provided as the business transition and network modernisation programme progresses.
BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Makira-Ulawa Provincial Government (MUPG) has officially launched its new sea transportation visibility initiative, rolling out official compliance stickers for all local transport vessels operating within the province to ensure they operate and abide by the province’s by laws.
A post from the province’s official social media platform said the initiative was designed to boost transparency and support the provincial Revenue Division.
It said these prominent stickers will serve as visual tools to easily identify legally compliant operators and monitor vessels that have not yet secured their required business licenses.
The post said the initiative marks a significant step forward in streamlining maritime regulations and ensuring that all operators contribute fairly to the province’s economic development.
Local sea transport operator PJM Transport, was the first proud service provider to officially receive and put the MUPG sea transportation sticker to its fleet.
It said by leading the way in compliance, PJM Transport underscores the important partnership between private operators and the provincial government in providing reliable, lawful sea transport to the people of Makira-Ulawa Province.
The post said the province commends PJM Transport for its proactive cooperation and encourages all other boat owners and transport providers to follow suit and finalize their business licenses immediately.
[Photo Caption: PJM Boat with MUPG Sticker. Photo Credit: MUPG]
BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
Malaita’s Premier, Elijah Asilaua, has told the business community and stakeholders in Auki, Malaita Province, that all commercial and residential developments in the town must meet the required planning, engineering, environmental and safety standards.
He made the assurance during the inaugural business forum held in Auki last week.
Asilaua said while the Malaita Provincial Government welcomes and encourages investment and development in the province, such development must be undertaken responsibly and in accordance with approved requirements.
“As Auki continues to expand, we are witnessing an increase in commercial and residential construction projects.
“While development is welcome and encouraged, it must be undertaken responsibly and in accordance with approved planning, engineering, environmental and safety requirements,” he said.
Premier Asilaua said building and development standards exist to protect lives, safeguard investments and ensure orderly urban development.
He warned that poorly designed or non-compliant structures could create serious risks to public safety and undermine the long-term development aspirations of Auki.
Asilaua said his government remains committed to ensuring that all developments in Auki comply with the relevant approvals and regulatory requirements.
“The Provincial Government therefore remains committed to ensuring that all developments comply with the relevant planning approvals, engineering requirements and building regulations,” he said.
Premier Asilaua said the provincial government is preparing to engage constructively with investors and business owners to address their concerns and improve the efficiency of regulatory processes.
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BY LORETTA B MANELE
The Aviation Complex Building at Henderson reaches a major milestone with physical construction works now substantially completed.
The Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA), through the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), with financial and technical support from the World Bank made the announcement in a statement from the SIRAP 2 Project this afternoon.
As stated, remaining architectural finishes, mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) installations, external works, landscaping and approved variation works have reached completion.
“Final inspections and several significant stakeholder visits have also been undertaken as part of the close-out, handover and operational readiness process,” the statement added.
MCA Minister’s room, Photo credit- SIRAP 2 Project
Staff work stations, Photo credit- SIRAP 2 Project
SIRAP 2 said the construction works are being undertaken by China Railway Construction Engineering Group (CRCEG), with Egis Asia providing construction supervision services.
Meanwhile, critical items that remain outstanding are; installation of the transformer by Solomon Power and procurement and integration of the required information technology (IT) hardware by MCA.
SIRAP 2 said these activities must be completed before final testing and commission of the affected building systems can proceed and before the facility can become fully operational and ready for handover.
MCA’s Permanent Secretary, Alwyn Danitofea said they are pleased to see the Aviation Complex Building reach this important stage.
“The completion of the physical works is a significant achievement and reflects the commitment of the Ministry, our project partners and contractors to delivering a modern facility that will strengthen the capacity and efficiency of Solomon Islands’ aviation sector,” he said.
The SIRAP 2 Project, apart from the Aviation Complex Building is also supporting other major aviation and transport infrastructure improvements across Solomon Islands.
“These include the upgrading of Santa Cruz and Suavanao Airfields, air traffic control towers at Honiara and Munda International Airports, air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, regional airport maintenance, the rehabilitation of 21 kilometres of East Road between Baratolo and Atori, and the sealing of 12 kilometres of North Road between the Auki-Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction,” the statement said.
Photo credit: SIRAP 2 Project
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The China-aid Auki Road Project is nearing completion, marking another major milestone in the rehabilitation of the road network in Malaita Province.
Following almost two weeks of asphalt application on the Fasitoro feeder roads and nearly three weeks of work on the Auki town main roads, the project is now progressing towards its final section at Kilu’ufi.
A source within the China-Aid Auki Road Project, who requested anonymity, said the project could be completed within the next two to three weeks.
The source also said local workers were expected to be laid off within the next two weeks as the project approaches completion.
“Currently, we are nearing the completion of the project.
“We are now continuing with the asphalt application on the main road towards Kilu’ufi. After this, we are expecting to carry out the final touches, which will include pavement marking,” the source said.
The source confirmed that local workers are expected to finish their work within the next two weeks as the project winds down.
“Yes, local workers should be laid off within the next two weeks,” the source said.
Completion of the Auki Road Project is expected to provide a smoother, safer and higher-standard road network for communities in Malaita Province.
The improved road infrastructure is also expected to strengthen connectivity for rural communities, providing better access to government services, education, markets and other essential services.
The road infrastructure will be officially handed over to Malaita Province on their Second Appointed Day which is planned to be held on November 18, this year.
The China-Aid Auki Road Network Rehabilitation Project is estimated to cost approximately SBD 200 million.
Photo credit: Rodrick Desuri
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BY LORETTA B MANELE
Water is the essence of daily living and sometimes where it is supplied unconditionally, it can be taken for granted.
Meanwhile, in other places, it is a need.
This is the case for people of Vaovao community, in Fox Bay in West Guadalcanal.
The community has about 10 households and only two standpipes.
Chief Ignausius Pukini said the existing water supply needs maintenance or even, the community might need a new water source.
Chief Ignasius Pukini of Vaovao community in Fox Bay. Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
The weather also plays a role in determing how often water is supplied to the community.
Pukini said they are only supplied with water when it rains and this doesn’t mean the water is clean.
“Our water supply at the moment, comes from ontop of the hill, so when it rains, water floats to the dam, fills it up before it is supplied to us through the standpipes.
“The water that comes through these standpipes does not mean its good because it comes from rain,” he said.
The chief said the community only has one tank, which was given to them by their member of parliament (MP).
It is understood that the community has also already submitted a proposal to their MP for a water supply project.
The only tank in the community. Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
Camila Pukini, the chief’s wife also shared the hardship they face when the water supply runs dry.
She said their water supply is not that good because water only flows through the two standpipes when it rains while on a sunny day, it runs dry.
Pukini said no water supply means a stop to daily household activities.
“Sometimes when we need to carry out tasks, but available water supply is a major challenge for us and this has costs us.
“So, at times, when we want to do our washing or make sure our kids have showered, we cannot do so because of lack of water supply.
“This has also affected us daily. Like on Sundays, if the water supply is not providing water through our stand pipes we often delay in preparing to go to church,” she said.
Pukini then points towards a tank, saying it is the only tank in the community and because there are many of them in the community, the tank is restricted to use for cooking and drinking only.
“This one tank is not enough for our whole community. We need one or two more tanks to cater to us all.
The lack of water being pumped into the two standpipes to Vaovao community is one issue, the other part of the issue is how clean this water actually is.
Cathy Galasa from Vaovao community said the two standpipes are not enough to provide water for the whole community.
The road that leads inwards to the stream women and girls travel to carry water back to their villages. Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
She said when rain pours own, the water supplied to them is sometimes dirty because pigs move around near the dam and their wastes run through the water supply along with plastics.
Galasa said they have experienced diarrhoea because of this.
“A proper water system would be good to ensure that we receive clean water supply from the water source,” she said.
Galasa said because women and girls use water the most for cooking, cleaning, washing the dishes and clothes, it is a huge issue for them when the standpipes don’t supply water at any given day.
When this situation hits, she said they have to make a 30 minute walk or travel by boat to collect water from a stream that runs near cocoa trees in a nearby community.
The stream that women and girls travel to fetch water from. Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
She said they also do this when they host big events in the community and it is very frustrating because they have to get water to cook, prepare food and for other uses because they have guests during such times.
Galasa said it is even worse for women and girls because they also travel this far to access water especially when it gets to that time of the month, saying it affects their health and well-being that they have to go far to get water just so they can be able to bathe.
The two women voiced that if the community had clean water supplied through more standpipes with more tanks available, only would it put an end to them having to travel just to get water so they could cook a meal, wash their clothes or bathe their children.
*Reporting for this story was supported by Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS).
BY RODRICK DESURI
Auki
Three feeder roads in Central Kwara’ae, Malaita Province, are currently undergoing maintenance and regravelling works to improve access and connectivity for rural communities.
The roads include the Talakali, Kwaimanafu and Arabala feeder roads, which had deteriorated over the years, making it difficult for rural communities to access markets, schools and essential social services in Auki.
A statement from the contractor, Exodus Trade Development Ltd, over the weekend said work on the roads is progressing well.
“Talakali road maintenance is going well. Thank you to landowners from Augiria/Baybay for supporting this project through coronas and gravel,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, maintenance and regravelling works on the Arabala and Kwaimanafu feeder roads have reached the regravelling stage and have been completed.
The completion of the roadworks is expected to greatly improve transportation for rural farmers and communities, allowing them to travel more easily to markets to sell their produce.
In West Kwaio, rural community leaders have also called for the maintenance and regravelling of feeder roads in their areas.
They said maintaining and improving roads in rural communities demonstrates that the national and provincial governments, as well as Members of Parliament, care about the livelihoods and wellbeing of people in rural areas.
Photo credit: Exodus Trade Development Ltd page
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作者:罗德里克·德苏里(RODRICK DESURI)
奥基
马莱塔省中央克瓦拉艾的三条支路目前正在进行维护和重新铺设工作,以改善农村社区的通行和连接。
这些道路包括塔拉卡利(Talakali)、夸伊马纳夫(Kwaimanafu)和阿拉巴拉(Arabala)支路,这些道路多年来已经恶化,使得农村社区难以进入市场、学校和奥基的基本社会服务。
承包商Exodus Trade Development Ltd在周末发布的声明中表示,道路的工作进展良好。
“塔拉卡利道路的维护进展顺利。感谢Augiria/Baybay的土地所有者通过提供沙石支持该项目,”声明中提到。
与此同时,阿拉巴拉和夸伊马纳夫支路的维护和重新铺设工作已达到重新铺设阶段,并已完成。
道路工程的完成预计将大大改善农村农民和社区的交通,使他们更容易前往市场销售产品。
在西克瓦伊奥,农村社区领导者也呼吁对他们地区的支路进行维护和重新铺设。
他们表示,维护和改善农村社区的道路表明国家和省政府以及国会议员关心农村地区人民的生计和福祉。
照片来源:Exodus Trade Development Ltd页面
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Shortland Islands Constituency has delivered a major boost to local transportation and economic empowerment, handing over 57 boats and 57 outboard motor (OBM) engines to successful applicants across the constituency.
The handover ceremony was held on 11 September 2026 at Nila Mission Station on Poporang, with recipients from villages across the Shortland Islands gathering to receive the development assistance.
The projects were distributed following a screening process conducted by village Sub-Committees, with applications later reviewed and approved by the Constituency Development Committee (CDC).
Outboard motors engines prepared for distribution. Photo Credit by Shortlands Islands Constituency of the Solomon Islands
According to the Shortland Islands Constituency Office, every village in the constituency has had a Sub-Committee established since 2024 to oversee project applications.
The handover was facilitated by CDC Secretary Killian Pule and Projects Officer Jonathan Levo, together with CDC members Caroline Laore and Calisto Illaha and representatives of the various village Sub-Committees.
Member of Parliament for Shortland Islands, Junior Isikeli Vave, congratulated the successful recipients and reaffirmed his commitment to delivering further development projects across the constituency.
He assured people who were unsuccessful in the latest rollout that more projects were in the pipeline and would be made available in future distributions.
Outboard motors engines prepared for distribution. Photo Credit by Shortlands Islands Constituency of the Solomon Islands.
The Constituency Office also reminded recipients that they have signed legally binding agreements with the office, acting on behalf of the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD).
The agreements prohibit recipients from selling items provided through the Rural Constituency Development Fund (RCDF).
Meanwhile, further development projects are being prepared for rollout across the Shortland Islands.
These include water tanks, cement bags, steel rods, sanitation pipes, borehole drills, cool rooms and sewing machines, among other essential items.
The Constituency Office has thanked communities across the Shortland Islands for their continued patience and partnership as it prepares to deliver the next round of projects.
Boats lined up along the shoreline. Photo Credit by Shortlands Islands Constituency of the Solomon Islands.
Friday 11 September, Honiara – Alexander Dite’e is a high school teacher at Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School in Malaita Province. He lives with his family in the provincial capital, Auki. Before pursuing a degree in Fiji, he had a keen interest in agricultural activities and has experience in poultry farming.
“The livelihoods of our people in the village depends heavily on agriculture to support our families,” he said.
With this in mind, upon his return, Mr. Dite’e formed the ADA Alliance and Farmers Association, one of 45 Agribusiness Producer Organizations (ABPOs) in Malaita Province, supported by the Solomon Islands Agriculture Rural Transformation (SIART) Project, a World Bank funded initiative implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL).
The ADA Alliance and Farmers Association is made up of an extended family of 20 household farmers, including women and children, in Analolo Village, in the mountains of Central Kwara’ae.
Chairman of the ADA Alliance and Farmers Association, Alex Dite’e (second from right), SIART Finance Officer for Malaita Province (middle) and some of the farmers in Analolo village.
Through the Association, Mr. Dite’e as Chairman and members will receive 1,000 day-old-chicks from the SIART Project.
The Project has also supported them with a poultry house, equipment, starter feed, and a revolving fund to manage their agribusiness.
“Thank you to the SIART Project for this opportunity and for assisting our struggling farmers in the rural communities,” Mr. Dite’e, said.
“This support has put us in a position where we have the opportunity to start our village poultry farm and an organized agribusiness as a group,” he added.
The first bunch of 500 day-old-chicks arrived in Analolo village in late August 2026 with a second bunch expected to be delivered soon.
The first bunch of 500 day-old-chicks arrived in Analolo village in late August 2026 with a second bunch expected to be delivered soon.
After 6 weeks of feeding, the farmers at Analolo village will go to the market at $120 per bird and can easily earn up to SBD$100,000 for their 1,000 birds provided by the SIART Project.
Central hub for feeding
Every fortnight, Mr. Dite’e travels to the village to meet with members of the association. And they have agreed on a system on how to operate their agribusiness in these early stages as they look to grow and become self-subsistent going into the future.
“The facility or poultry house constructed as part of the support from SIART will be our central hub where all the birds will be raised,” Mr. Dite’e, said.
“When the birds are strong enough, we can give to our farmers as they also have their own poultry houses that can cater for 50 to 100 birds,” he said.
The aim of the Chairman and his farmers is to build the cash base of the association in the first two years by using a central hub to raise their birds before taking the next step in enhancing the capacity of their farmers to cater for more birds at their individual poultry houses.
While SIART has also supported the association with a generator, solar set and freezer, their long-term goal is to build a storage facility in the village.
“This will allow us to store our birds after slaughter before transporting them to our buyers,” Mr. Dite’e said.
“As our cash base grows, we will look at using the money earned to build our storage facility which is very important for us,” he added.
Relishing the benefits and mitigating the challenges
The farmers at Analolo village are grateful to the SIART Project for putting them in a position to start somewhere.
“The funding support SIART in itself is already a benefit for us,” Chairman, Mr. Dite’e, said.
“It provided us the opportunity to have 1,000 birds and feed without spending any money. For us, this is a big help which we really value. That is why we will ensure that the implementation of this project is done properly to ensure that everyone, all our farmers benefit,” he added.
Apart from the financial aspect, the farmers are also recipient of capacity building trainings delivered by the SIART Project.
Like any other project been implemented, there will always be challenges. For the ADA Alliance and Farmers Association, their geographical location is a major challenge.
For the ADA Alliance and Farmers Association, their geographical location is a major challenge but the farmers there are working together to mitigate the challenges.
To get to Analolo village, you go by truck from the provincial capital Auki and then walk a distance from the main road crossing at the head of the Fiu River on the way.
“To ensure we successfully implement our project, we have to work together to mitigate the challenges,” Mr. Dite’e, said.
“Farmers must have a sense of ownership of this project, so that everyone works. We are not expecting immediate benefits, but overtime we will reap the rewards of our hard work,” he added.
Since their association is made of all closely related family members, Mr. Dite’e said solving issues and concerns amongst members is easy with everyone committed to mitigating any challenges faced.
Sustainability of their ABPO
With the SIART Project coming to an end at the end of 2026, the ADA Alliance and Farmers Association are already mapping out their plans to ensure the sustainability of their agribusiness going into the future.
They will be using their SIART funded poultry house as a central feeding hub for two years or so with the aim of building the cash base of the association. During this time, they plan to enhance the capacity of their farmers to raise 50 to 100 birds at their individual poultry houses.
“When the time comes for our member farmers to raise birds at their own poultry houses, they will then sell them when ready to the association.
“The association is currently working on securing markets for our birds in Auki and also to Honiara,” Chairman, Mr. Dite’e, said.
As part of the support to ABPOs, SIART has also provided revolving funds to enable them to operate their agribusiness.
And a key aspect to managing and operating their agribusiness is undergoing relevant training.
Mr. Dite’e said the trainings SIART delivered have been very helpful both on farm management and on the financial side.
“The financial literacy training is an important aspect to ensure our farmers are capable of properly keeping and managing their records,” he said.
While they are focused at making their association a success, the farmers are happy to also continue with normal village activities to earn incomes for immediate needs.
“Most our members are piggery farmers before we started this association.
“So as our poultry agribusiness grows going into the future, the association can also support our members to enhance their piggery farms if they wish to,” Mr. Dite’e said.
For now, with the first bunch of 500 chicks already in their central poultry house, and 500 more to come, the local farmers at Analolo village have a bright future in sight.
ENDS//
-SIART
The post In Analolo Village, SIART is building better rural livelihoods through Poultry Farming first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has raised concern over the continued damage to road signs and other public infrastructure...
The post MID: Stop Vandalising Our Roads appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY RODRICK DESURI
A dispute that delayed the five-kilometre tar-seal road improvement project from Kwaibala to Oibola in Malaita Province has been resolved, allowing construction to resume.
The issue was settled on Wednesday, September 10, following reports on the dispute, which attracted negative comments from members of the public.
Provincial Deputy Secretary Peter Herehura confirmed that the dispute had been resolved between the Malaita Provincial Government, contractor Trades Transformation Company (TTC) and the landowners.
He said the dispute had delayed construction and slowed progress on the road works.
“Yes, the issue has been settled and resolved between the province, contractor Trades Transformation Company (TTC) and landowners yesterday,” he said.
“So, the road work has resumed and is going smoothly,” he said.
Earlier, the dispute involved two parties over access to gravel, preventing the contractor from obtaining the material needed for the road upgrade.
The dispute affected the progress of the project, particularly the supply of gravel required for the road works.
The Auki-Oibola tar-seal road improvement project is funded by the Australian Government through the Ministry of Infrastructure Development’s National Transport Fund.
The project has one month remaining under its scheduled completion period.
By RODRICK DESURI
Vehicle owners and drivers providing public transport services along East Road in Malaita have raised serious concerns over the deteriorating condition of Falake Bridge.
They are calling on the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) and the Malaita Provincial Government to urgently consider constructing a new bridge when funding becomes available.
The bridge collapsed several years ago, forcing vehicles to use a lower crossing, which drivers say is extremely dangerous, particularly for vehicles that are not four-wheel drives.
This newspaper spoke with several drivers operating public transport services on the eastern side of Malaita, and almost all expressed similar concerns about the condition of the crossing.
The drivers said using the lower crossing could cause mechanical problems to their vehicles. They also claimed that villagers sometimes demand additional payments from vehicle operators for gravel and patching work on the lower crossing.
They said MID and the Malaita Provincial Government had previously indicated that the bridge would be repaired. However, to date, no work has been carried out.
One vehicle owner and driver, who requested anonymity, said the condition of the bridge had been a concern for a long time.
He said a new bridge was urgently needed to replace the old structure and reduce the risk of accidents.
He also said addressing the bridge problem would help transport operators provide safer, more efficient and reliable services along East Road.
“Yes, we need the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and the Malaita Provincial Government to step in now to fix the Falake Bridge. Enough of turning a blind eye to this place, which even your officers have also been travelling through,” he said.
“We don’t know when we will have an accident that could cause loss of life, but this is the only doorway that Fataleka, Atori and Aufasu transport services can use to reach their destinations.”
The driver also called on the Members of Parliament for Fataleka, East Kwara’ae, East Malaita and East Kwaio to help address the urgent need for a permanent solution.
He said repairing or replacing the bridge would ensure safer and more reliable transport services for communities along East Road.
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
West Makira Constituency has received a major boost to its maritime transport services following the handover of a $1.5 million for transportation project, funded by the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
The project, delivered on September 4 through the China-funded Rural Sustainable Development Program (RSDP) and implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), includes 17 fibreglass boats and 18 outboard motor engines.
The engines comprise nine 40-horsepower and nine 30-horsepower units.
MRD in a statement said the support aims to improve transportation for remote communities and strengthen key sectors, including health, education, fisheries and agriculture.
The assets were formally received by West Makira Constituency Development Officer Selwyn Aharo on behalf of the Member of Parliament for West Makira, Minister Derrick Manu’ari, and the constituency beneficiaries.
Mr Aharo said the project is one of the constituency’s significant development milestones and will provide direct benefits to communities.
He said the boats will help health workers conduct emergency referrals, transport patients and carry out medical outreach more effectively.
The boats will also support schools by improving student transportation, administrative activities and the delivery of educational supplies.
For fisheries and agriculture, the new transport assets will help fishermen travel to deeper waters and transport their catch to markets, while farmers will have better access to transport tools and produce.
Beneficiaries include several health clinics and community high schools, as well as families involved in fisheries and agricultural associations in the constituency.
Mr Aharo thanked the Chinese Government and people, as well as the Solomon Islands Government through MRD, for supporting the project.
He also urged all recipient groups to take responsibility for the boats and engines and ensure they are properly maintained as communal assets.
Speaking at the handover, Counsellor Li Qinghua of the Chinese Embassy described the project as another symbol of the friendship and growing cooperation between China and Solomon Islands.
She said the RSDP was designed to support rural communities and ensure that development assistance delivers practical benefits to local people.
MRD Permanent Secretary John Misite’e also acknowledged China’s continued support through the RSDP, describing the handover as an achievement resulting from cooperation between the two governments.
The RSDP has been jointly implemented by MRD and the Chinese Embassy since 2023 and focuses on improving social and economic infrastructure, supporting income-generating activities, food security and climate resilience in rural communities.
Photo credit: MRD
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BY TONY IROGA
INNOVATION and entrepreneurship must be at the heart of building a resilient and sustainable economy for Solomon Islands, National Annual Trade Fair 2026 chairman Moses Waririu says.
Mr Waririu made the remarks yesterday at the opening of the 2026 National Annual Trade Fair at FOPA, SINU Village.
Speaking at the event, Mr Waririu welcomed government representatives, development partners, sponsors, exhibitors, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to the national trade fair.
He acknowledged the support of government ministries and agencies, development partners, the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry, sponsors, exhibitors, producers, farmers, artisans and other stakeholders who contributed to the event.
Waririu said this year’s theme, “Our team innovating today will create a sustainable island tomorrow,” highlights the important role innovation, entrepreneurship and collaboration play in the country’s economic development.
“This trade fair is a platform for showcasing the ingenuity, creativity and potential of Solomon Islanders,” Waririu said.
He said the event brings together businesses, investors, communities and development partners to share knowledge, build networks and explore new markets.
Waririu encouraged participants and visitors to actively engage with exhibitors and make use of the opportunities provided through the trade fair.
“Together, we can drive innovation, promote local enterprise, and build a strong and more sustainable future for our country,” he said.
He also thanked stakeholders for their support and wished participants a successful and enjoyable 2026 National Annual Trade Fair.
“Come along and experience another exciting day of showcasing local businesses, products, services, innovation, and opportunities,” he said.
The second day of the 2026 National Annual Trade Fair continues today.
Photo credit: Tony Iroga
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Malaita road upgrades move closer to construction after consultations, with works planned for North and East Road corridors. & of Infrastructure Development (MID), through the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), with funding support from the World Bank, has recently concluded community consultations ahead of major road improvement works in Malaita Province. A [...]
The post Malaita Road Upgrades Move Closer to Construction After Community Consultations appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY LORETTA B MANELE
For every parent, bringing your child to school on their first day for the first time is always emotional.
While you are content that your little boy or girl has finally reached that age to attend ECE education, there is another side to this story from a teacher’s view.
Audrey Karaha is one of two ECE (Early Childhood Education) teachers at Fox Bay Kindy in West Guadalcanal.
There is a supervisor with Karaha as the classroom teacher.
Audrey Karaha, ECE teacher at Fox Bay Kindy, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
This year marks Karaha’s second year teaching and for this year, they have 56 children enrolled but are poor in resources.
The Kindy was not only poor in resources but also in water supply and fencing.
Karaha said they received grant but it wasn’t enough because this same grant, mainly for stationaries, was also shared with four other Kindy schools in West Guadalcanal.
“At Fox Bay Kindy, we are okay with the supply of stationary. In terms of development we are struggling to build one more staff house,” she said.
Karaha said the classroom also needs maintenance and repair, another toilet and clean and proper water supply.
The school’s only toilet. Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
“We also need proper water supply because it doesn’t come on all the time. When it reaches the point where the water supply is off, it is off,” she said.
Karaha said sadly, when water supply is cut off, they have to end their lessons during break time.
“ECE education is important because it is the first time a child enters education or school and ECE is also called the play base curriculum.
“So, students come to play and start their learning,” she said.
Karaha said ending classes early means lessening the learning time for their students.
Lastly, she said they also need proper fencing.
Current fencing at Fox Bay Kindy, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
She calls on their member of parliament, the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) or NGOs to support them with repair of the classroom, a water tank and proper fencing.
Audrey said a tank would really help when the water goes off so they don’t end classes early for their students.
The sight at Kindy classroom in Fox Bay is saddening.
A place to nurture children during the early stages of their learning journey seemed like to have gone through so much with so little care given.
The only tank available was located just outside the classroom and it was dirty looking, supposedly old and in very poor condition.
The school tank is in very poor condition, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
Outside the classroom walls, brown paper plastered against the walls, which was said to have been put there to cover holes outside the classroom.
A huge hole is visible outside of the classroom building, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
The ceiling was also rotting slowly both outside and inside the class.
The ceiling inside the classroom slowly deteriorating, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
There is one staff house for two teachers while a new one is still in the very early stages of being constructed.
A new staff house, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
Work on the second staff house is still in its early stages, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
The current fencing is also in dire need of repair to keep the compound safe and in front of the class room is what used to be a huge puddle of water now not completely dried up but still susceptible to be filled up again if heavy downpour should fall or salt water by natural means should flow in.
While its location is not too close to the seashore it is still located in a distance one could deem unsafe if cyclones or huge waves sweep in.
And even the posts holding up the classroom building are experiencing old age with evident cracks from cement that is trying to hold the posts in place.
One of the posts of the classroom building slowly deteriorating, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
Apart from the need of resources, stable water supply, sanitation and fencing, the kindy needs a total makeover.
After all, it is where children begin their learning and they deserve as any other child in Solomon Islands to learn in a classroom that is equipped with resources, clean and available water supply and in an environment that is safe, and not one that is dry, thirsty and unsafe.
*Reporting for this story was supported by Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS).
Photo credit: Loretta B Manele
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