BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Government has admitted that the country’s current franchise shipping system is not working effectively and says it will undertake a broader review of maritime connectivity.
The issue was raised by Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare during Parliament’s Committee of Supply on the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026 on Monday this week.
Sogavare questioned the Government’s policy on shipping services, saying shipping is an important economic infrastructure, but the country has yet to settle on a workable model for delivering services.
He pointed to the country’s different approaches over the years, from government-owned fleets and ships allocated to provincial governments to the current system of direct assistance and franchise shipping.
Sogavare also recalled a proposed national transport initiative that was expected to improve sea connections to 50 constituencies and reach about 70 percent of the population, but said it never materialised.
In response, Infrastructure Development Minister Ricky Fuo’o said the Government is reviewing the franchise shipping system, including whether government-owned shipping fleets should be brought back.
Prime Minister Matthew Wale meanwhile said the Government intends to commission a study looking at the entire maritime connectivity sector.
He said the study will examine gaps in the current system, particularly routes where private operators do not provide services because they are not profitable.
Wale said this creates a “market failure” that needs to be addressed while ensuring the Government does not undermine private-sector competition.
He said the Government also wants to strengthen indigenous ship owners and operators, potentially through access to concessional financing to help them replace older vessels.
“Some existing shipping fleets are more than 25 years old. Affordable and reliable shipping services are important, and the Government wants the study to provide a stronger basis for a long-term maritime connectivity policy,’ he said.
He said the review is intended to move beyond individual measures such as franchise shipping and develop a broader approach to connecting people, communities and markets across the country.
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Malaita Provincial Government is ready to support the development of Bina Habour.
This followed a committment made by the United States Government.
Read More: https://www.solomonstarnews.com/malaita-welcomes-us-intere.../
By RODRICK DESURI
Auki
The Premier of Malaita Province, Elijah Asilau’a, has welcomed the two-week capacity building programme being held in Auki, describing it as an important initiative to strengthen governance and service delivery in the province.
The training began yesterday and aims to strengthen the knowledge and understanding of Malaita Provincial Assembly members, the administration team and public servants on their roles and responsibilities in serving the people.
Premier Asilau’a acknowledged the facilitators and organisers for bringing the training to Malaita, saying it demonstrated the strong partnership between the National and Provincial Governments.
“We warmly welcome the training facilitators from the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening and the National Parliament for your willingness to travel to Malaita and share your knowledge, experience and expertise through this programme,” he said.
“Your presence demonstrates the importance of partnership between the National and Provincial Government,” he added.
Premier Asilau’a said the programme reflected a shared commitment to strengthening governance, leadership and accountability, while improving service delivery to communities across Malaita and the Solomon Islands.
He added that through his government policy direction, their are a vision to raise the people of Malaita from poverty towards a healthy, wealthy and transformed way of life.
“We recognise that this aspiration cannot be achieved by provincial government alone, it requires collaboration, partnership, and meaningful participation of local, national, and international levels,” he added.
He said building the capacity of provincial leaders and public servants was essential to ensuring they were better equipped to carry out their responsibilities and respond effectively to the needs of the people.
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作者:RODRICK DESURI
奥基
马莱塔省省长埃利亚哈·阿西劳阿(Elijah Asilau’a)欢迎在奥基举行的为期两周的能力建设项目,称其为加强省内治理和服务交付的重要举措。
培训于昨天开始,旨在增强马莱塔省议会成员、行政团队和公务员对其服务人民职责和责任的知识和理解。
阿西劳阿省长对培训的组织者和促进者表示感谢,称其将培训带到马莱塔,展示了国家政府与省政府之间的强大合作关系。
“我们热烈欢迎来自省政府和机构强化部(Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening)以及国家议会的培训促进者,感谢你们愿意前往马莱塔分享你们的知识、经验和专业技能,”他说。
“你们的到来展示了国家政府与省政府之间合作的重要性,”他补充道。
阿西劳阿省长表示,该项目反映了共同致力于加强治理、领导力和问责制,同时改善马莱塔及所罗门群岛各社区的服务交付。
他补充说,通过他的政府政策方向,旨在将马莱塔人民从贫困中提升到健康、富裕和转变的生活方式。
“我们认识到,这一愿景不能仅靠省政府实现,它需要地方、国家和国际层面的合作、伙伴关系和有意义的参与,”他补充道。
他说,提升省级领导和公务员的能力对于确保他们更好地履行职责和有效应对人民需求至关重要。
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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) says El Niño is now firmly established across the tropical Pacific, with the country likely to face reduced rainfall, increased drought risk and water shortages.
In its August 2026 El Niño Update, SIMS said the developing climate conditions could have wider impacts on food security, livelihoods and the socio-economic wellbeing of communities.
SIMS said El Niño does not mean the Solomon Islands will experience a complete absence of rainfall.
However, occasional rainfall may still occur, but this may not be enough to offset the impacts of El Niño as conditions become more severe.
The weather service is therefore urging sectors across the country to strengthen preparedness and resilience as the El Niño conditions continue.
The potential impacts are expected to require greater planning, particularly in areas such as water supply, agriculture, food security and other sectors that are vulnerable to changes in rainfall.
SIMS said sectoral preparedness will be essential to support informed planning and decision-making across Solomon Islands.
With rainfall potentially reduced, communities could face pressure on water sources, while farmers and food producers may also experience challenges if dry conditions persist.
The Meteorological Service said strengthening resilience and taking timely preparedness measures will be important in helping communities and sectors manage the potential impacts of the climate event.
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) September-November 2026 Ocean Bulletin also indicates that El Niño is sustained and is expected to persist through January 2027.
Sea surface temperatures are expected to be normal to warmer than normal across Solomon Islands waters.
The bulletin also shows a No Stress level for coral bleaching across most coastal waters surrounding the main islands.
Sea levels are most likely to be normal across Solomon Islands waters.
The bulletin also forecasts that the fishing hotspot convergence zone will be positioned within Solomon Islands waters, which SIMS describes as good news to fishers.
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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Cybersecurity Bill remains at the drafting stage, while several airport upgrade projects across the country are either completed or ongoing, Minister for Communication and Aviation, Frederick Kologeto,told parliament yesterday.
Mr Kologeto made the update when he responds to Independent Leader and MP for Central Guadalcanal, Peter Shanel Agovaka, asked the Minister for Communication and Aviation, to update Parliament on the status of the Cybersecurity Bill.
Mr Agovaka also asked how many airport terminals had been constructed as part of the government’s airport upgrade programme, given that funding had already been spent on the projects.
In response, Minister Kologeto said the Cybersecurity Bill is currently at the draft stage, with funding allocated to support the work required to progress the legislation.
On the airport upgrades, Kologeto said refurbishment of the Atoifi Airport terminal and airport facilities in Malaita province had been completed and was ready for handover.
He said upgrade works at Seghe and Taro airports were ongoing under the Solomon Islands Road and Aviation Project Phase 2 (SIRAP2), while the upgrade of Lata Airport had been completed.
The Minister also told Parliament that the ministry was negotiating with the Premier of Western Province to resolve a land issue affecting the planned upgrade of Gizo Airport.
He said the government’s policy direction on airport development had been changing, with improvements now focusing not only on airport infrastructure but also on upgrading terminal facilities.
“As we improve the airports, we also improve the terminals,” Mr Kologeto said.
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
PRIME Minister, Matthew Wale, has pointed to the Solomon Islands National Infrastructure Investment Plan (SINIIP) Dossier 2026 as the guiding document behind the Government’s infrastructure spending, telling development partners the plan would shape investment in the roads, ports, airports, telecommunications, energy and water systems needed to connect the country.
Speaking at the Solomon Islands Development Partnership Summit, held at the Heritage Park Hotel yesterday, Prime Minister Wale said essential infrastructure should not be viewed simply as physical assets, but as the foundation upon which the country’s economic transformation and social development depend.
PM wale reference to SINIIP gives development partners, and the public, a specific, named policy document against which the Government’s infrastructure commitments can be measured going forward.
The remarks come as the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) continues to draw significant supplementary funding this year.
Under the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill, MID’s advance warrant allocation alone totals more than $102 million, largely tied to the World Bank, Australian and Pacific Islands Umbrella Facility-funded CORE project covering road and bridge maintenance, consultants and wharves across Honiara, Western and Malaita provinces.
MID’s development budget also received a further $88.35 million supplementary increase this year, covering ships and craft, plant and machinery, roads and bridges, and structures and fencing.
Whether these allocations align with SINIIP’s stated priorities, and how spending is distributed across provinces, remains to be independently verified against the plan itself.
In his address, PM Wale linked infrastructure investment to the Government’s broader push for development to be felt beyond Honiara, telling partners that growth must create opportunities not only in the capital, but in the country’s provinces, communities and villages.
He said the Government’s flagship infrastructure and productive sector reforms, spanning agriculture, fisheries, forestry, tourism, mining, energy and commerce, are aimed at expanding the country’s manufacturing base and creating job opportunities for Solomon Islanders, particularly the country’s youth.
The PM Wale called on development partners to align and coordinate their support with the Government’s national priorities, including infrastructure investment guided by SINIIP, rather than pursuing isolated, uncoordinated projects.
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MLHS explores new digital system toimprove land services, revenueHONIARA, Solomon Islands – THE Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey (MLHS) is exploring a proposed digital system that could improve the management of government land, streamline services and strengthen the collection of land revenue.Senior MLHS officials were briefed on the proposed Integrated Land Information System (ILIS) by Neil Pullar, Land Administration Consultant with the CAUSE II Project.The proposed ILIS would provide the Ministry with a single, reliable record of government land, bringing together information on parcels, holdings, uses, values, leases and land transactions.It would build on SOLA, an open-source land administration platform developed with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and work alongside the Ministry’s existing cadastre and registration records.The system is intended to bring key land administration functions into one place, including the management and mapping of government land, leases and licences, land transactions, and claims and objections.It would also provide a clearer and more transparent way of recording and managing these processes.Land revenue was a key focus of the briefing.Land rent and other property-related charges are an important source of revenue for the Ministry, but outdated valuations, missed properties and manual processes can make it difficult to identify what is owed and follow up on outstanding payments.The proposed system would help keep land information up to date, giving the Ministry a clearer picture of properties, rents, arrears and collections.This could help ensure that revenue owed to government is identified and collected more consistently and fairly.Mr Pullar emphasised that the proposed ILIS would not change how land rent or premium payments are calculated.The Ministry would continue to control billing and collection, while the system would provide better information to support those processes.“This is about giving the Ministry one reliable picture of government land, so staff spend less time chasing paper, and the country collects the revenue it is genuinely owed,” Mr Pullar said.“Nothing here changes how land rent is determined – it simply helps the Ministry apply the existing rules fairly and completely.”The briefing was an opportunity for discussion rather than a decision. Feedback from Ministry leaders and staff will help shape the system’s requirements before any development begins.Implemented by the Solomon Islands Government, the CAUSE II Project is supported by the World Bank and the Australian Government through the PNG and Pacific Islands Umbrella Facility Multi-Donor Trust Fund.//End///
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Tina Hydro Power Project is progressing well and remains on schedule for completion and commissioning in February 2028, Derrick Manu’ari, Minister for the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) has told Parliament.
Mr Manu’ari update parliament during the Committee of Supply debate on the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill today, after Dr Paul Bosawai, Chair of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) asked for an update on the progress of the major hydro project.
Manu’ari said the Government is working closely with the project office and contractors to ensure the February 2028 deadline is met.
“So far, every work is progressing well. We are on schedule,” he said.
However, he acknowledged a slight delay in moving some of the heavy machinery needed for the project.
“Discussions are continuing with the drillers, with drilling activities now being prepared,” Manu’ari said.
He said road works and other preparations had been completed, while work is now moving into key construction areas.
“These include the dam, generator house and drilling works required for the main project,” he said.
He also said some sites are undergoing road works and preparations under Solomon Power.
Manu’ari said the project will undergo a four-to-six-month trial run before its planned commissioning in February 2028.
He said he will provide Parliament with a more detailed progress report on the project.
“The Tina Hydro project is expected to play an important role in reducing Solomon Islands’ reliance on expensive electricity generation and lowering electricity costs. The Government is reviewing the Electricity Act as part of efforts to reduce electricity tariffs. The Government is also working on renewable energy programmes, including solar power projects in Honiara and other areas,” he said.
The Minister said these initiatives, together with Tina Hydro, aim to reduce electricity costs and help the country move towards a target electricity tariff of around US$0.15 per kilowatt-hour.
He said the Government is working with the Asian Development Bank and Solomon Power on renewable energy initiatives, including solar plants around Honiara.
“The Government believes the combination of Tina Hydro and additional renewable energy projects will help reduce electricity tariffs and support more affordable power for households and businesses,” Manu’ari said.
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BY RODRICK DESURIAUKIMalaita Provincial Assembly members have begun a two-week capacity-building training that aims to strengthen their knowledge and understanding of provincial governance.The training officially started this morning at the Malaita Chambers House and will run until August 28, 2026.The programme is designed to equip elected provincial representatives with essential knowledge in provincial governance, financial management, legislative processes and accountability.It also intends to strengthen members’ ability to perform their roles effectively, understand their responsibilities and contribute to improved governance and service delivery across Malaita Province.Malaita Provincial Assembly member and Minister for Agriculture, John Doubo Tafi’iru, confirmed that the training commenced today and will conclude on August 28.“Yes, it is for assembly members of Malaita Province.“The training commerce today, and will end 28 August, 2026,” he said.The Provincial Government Strengthening Programme reported that key areas will cover Financial Management Ordinances and Financial Instructions, revenue mobilisation, processes and procedures, the Provincial Government Act 1997, participatory planning, public expenditure, audit issues and Standing Orders.It says members will also learn about the Ombudsman, Provincial Public Accounts Committees (PPAC), Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF), Provincial Assembly Members Salary and Allowances Determination (PAMSAD) and the Leadership Code Commission.The training is being conducted under the Provincial Government Strengthening Programme (PGSP), a major institutional development initiative managed by the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS).The programme forms part of Phase II of international development partners’ support to PGSP and the Provincial Capacity Development Fund through the Integrated Economic Development and Community Resilience (IEDCR) programme, which runs from 2022 to 2027.The capacity-building programme is expected to strengthen the effectiveness and accountability of Malaita’s elected representatives as they carry out their responsibilities at the provincial level.For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.comEditor: maetuana777@gmail.com
New Aviation Complex Advances To The EndThe new Aviation Complex Building (ACB) Project at Honiara International Airport has advanced significantly towards completion, with overall physical progress reaching 90 percent. The project is scheduled for completion on 31 August 2026. The ACB is being implemented by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), with financial support from the World Bank. The construction works are being undertaken by China Railway Construction Engineering Group (CRCEG), while Egis Asia is providing construction supervision services.The ACB is a major investment in Solomon Islands’ aviation infrastructure. Once completed, it will provide modern and improved working facilities for key aviation stakeholders, supporting more efficient and effective aviation operations at Honiara International Airport.As the ACB moves into its final stages, CRCEG is continuing to complete the remaining mechanical, electrical, plumbing and external works. These activities are being undertaken alongside testing and commissioning, inspections, quality assurance and the rectification of identified outstanding items.Current activities include completing internal and external finishes, finalising building services and external facilities, testing electrical and mechanical systems, conducting inspections and addressing identified defects. The team is also undertaking systematic quality assurance checks to ensure that completed works meet the required technical, safety and quality standards prior to handover.Permanent Secretary of MCA, Alwyn Danitofea, said, “We are pleased with the significant progress achieved on the Aviation Complex Building. Reaching 90 percent physical completion demonstrates that the project has entered its final phase. “However, there is still important work to be completed, particularly testing and commissioning, inspections and the rectification of outstanding items before the facility can be handed over.” In addition to the new Aviation Complex Building in Honiara, SIRAP2 is delivering a wide range of critical transport investments across the country. These include ongoing construction of the Air Traffic Control Towers in Honiara and Munda, the upgrades of Suavanao Airfield in Isabel Province, investments in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, ongoing maintenance of regional airports, rehabilitation of 21 kilometres of East Road between Baratolo and Atori, sealing of 12 kilometres of North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction and replacement of Fiu River Bridge in Malaita.- SIRAP2//End//
BY NED GAGAHE
The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) has declared its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, welcoming his decision to withdraw the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise undertaking.
In a statement today, SIFF said it viewed the decision as a demonstration of the current FIFA leadership’s commitment to solidarity, mutual respect and constructive engagement among member associations, confederations and other football stakeholders.
SIFF also endorsed President Infantino’s call for member associations to operate within a framework of unity and shared purpose in the collective interest of developing football globally.
The federation said it respected the established institutional frameworks and processes that promote transparency, good governance and sustainable progress across all levels of the sport.
SIFF further acknowledged what it described as significant strides in football development over the past decade under Infantino’s leadership, including its impact on the region and Solomon Islands’ football community.
“Accordingly, we express our continued confidence in his leadership and in the overarching vision of FIFA to strengthen football infrastructure, capacity, and opportunity worldwide,” SIFF said.
The federation’s position comes as international football governance continues to attract attention, with SIFF stressing the importance of unity and established governance processes in advancing the sport.
SIFF said it would continue to support efforts aimed at strengthening football development, infrastructure and opportunities for players and member associations worldwide.
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
WESTERN Province has reaffirmed its relationship with the People’s Republic of China, paving the way for greater technical assistance, investment and infrastructure development in the province.
Last week, Western Province Premier Billy Veo and his delegation paid a courtesy visit to Chinese Ambassador to Solomon Islands, H.E. Cai Weiming, at the Chinese Embassy in Honiara.
The visit provided an opportunity for the Premier to present the province’s development aspirations and discuss potential areas of cooperation between Western Province and China.
Among the priorities presented by Veo were energy development, water desalination for Gizo Town and potential investment in infrastructure development.
Veo said Western Province was ready to support development initiatives that could deliver long-term benefits for its people and Solomon Islands as a whole.
He said strengthening cooperation with China will provide opportunities for the province to access technical expertise, investment and partnerships needed to advance its development priorities.
As part of efforts to further strengthen the relationship, Veo and his delegation are expected to travel to China to explore potential cooperation in trade and economic activities that could contribute to the province’s growth.
Veo said the delegation will meet with potential partners interested in investing in Western Province and explore opportunities that could translate into tangible economic and development benefits.
He said Western Province is growing and that broadening economic cooperation with like-minded investors is important to delivering practical development outcomes for its people.
Veo described the proposed China visit as the beginning of a broader plan to strengthen cooperation between Western Province and China.
He said Western Province is determined that its relationship with China must moved beyond engagement and translated into practical development projects that would benefit communities and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
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Honiara International Port works advance with temporary structures being installed ahead of the 30-metre berth extension Construction works at Honiara International Port are progressing well, with the project entering an important stage towards the planned extension and upgrading of the International Berth 1 Wharf. Current construction activities include the fabrication and installation of temporary works [...]
The post Honiara Port Wharf Extension Works Progressing Well appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Suafa Bay Growth Centre
Construction Underway
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
CONSTRUCTION has commenced on a warehouse facility at the long-awaited Suafa Bay Growth Centre project in North Malaita, Malaita Province.
Photographs reports showed construction workers carrying out the initial foundation and basement works at the site, marking visible progress on the multimillion-dollar development.
The development has renewed hope among nearby communities, particularly residents living along the northern hinterland and coastal areas of Malaita.
The region is home to an estimated 25,955 people.
A local person involved in the construction work said the project was steadily progressing, with construction of the new warehouse facility now underway.
“The Suafa Bay Growth Centre is progressing steadily. Construction of the new warehouse facility has started,” the local worker said.
The multimillion-dollar growth centre project had remained largely inactive for more than a decade following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on June 7, 2010.
The MOU provided for assessment, surveying and valuation of the demarcated area at Kwatonaere for the proposed development of an economic growth centre.
According to government reports, the Economic Growth Centre is expected to create employment, trade and investment opportunities and serve as a catalyst for industrial and commercial growth in Malaita Province and the Solomon Islands.
A more recent development occurred in 2022, when the National Government, Malaita Provincial Government and the Kwanai Trust Board signed an agreement and held a groundbreaking ceremony for the project.
The ceremony was attended by then-Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and his delegation during a visit to Suafa Bay.
The latest construction activity is being viewed by local communities as a positive step towards finally seeing the long-delayed growth centre become a reality.
Construction at Honiara International Port is progressing well, with the project moving towards the next stage of the International Berth...
The post Honiara Port Upgrade Enters Next Construction Phase appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
Recent fire incidents in Auki prompts urgent call for fire department
Malaita Provincial Police Commander Michael Ramosaea is calling for a fully equipped and properly staffed fire service in Auki after several recent fires exposed serious gaps in firefighting resources.
He warned that Auki’s growing population and development make a permanent fire department an urgent priority to protect residents, businesses and property.
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China Provides SBD$100,000 Grant for Small Malaita Boat Projects
The Small Malaita Constituency Office has welcomed continued support from the Government of the People’s Republic of China following the receipt of SBD$100,000 in grant assistance for community development projects.
The funding was provided through the Chinese Embassy’s Small and Sustainable Development Project Fund and will support the purchase of two boats and one engine for the AIAU Association in Tawaro Village and a family of seven sisters from Fanalei Village.
The initiative is aimed at improving sea transportation for rural communities, providing safer and more reliable access to markets, health services, schools and other essential services.
Constituency Development Officer Brown Honimae expressed appreciation to the Chinese Government for its continued support of community development in Small Malaita and Solomon Islands.
Honimae said the assistance reflected the strong partnership and enduring friendship between Solomon Islands and China, while delivering practical benefits to rural communities.
He said reliable boats are essential for many remote communities, where sea transportation is a necessity rather than a luxury.
The Small Malaita Constituency Office also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring development assistance is managed through a fair and transparent process and directed towards projects that deliver lasting benefits to local communities.
The office said it would continue working with development partners to support practical and sustainable projects aimed at improving livelihoods and the quality of life for people in Small Malaita.
[ENDS]//////
MID Installs Permanent Traffic Signs Along Upgraded Roads
HONIARA, Solomon Islands – The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has commenced the installation of permanent traffic signs along completed sections of the upgraded road network under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP).
The initial installation is taking place along the Henderson to Mberande Road in Guadalcanal Province, with work expected to extend to Honiara along Mendana Avenue and Tandai Highway.
The new signs include regulatory, warning and directional signs designed to provide clear guidance to motorists, pedestrians and other road users, while improving traffic flow and reducing the risk of road accidents.
The installation complements other road safety improvements being delivered under the project, including road line markings, bus bays, footpaths, drainage improvements, street lighting, guardrails and guide-posts.
Acting Permanent Secretary of MID, Mike Qaqara, described the installation as another significant milestone in the Government’s efforts to improve road safety and deliver modern transport infrastructure.
He urged motorists and other road users to familiarise themselves with the new signs, obey speed limits and exercise caution when using the upgraded roads.
Mr Qaqara also appealed to the public to protect the newly installed signs from vandalism and theft, warning that damaging or removing the signs could place the lives of motorists, pedestrians and other road users at risk.
The LMCP is jointly funded by the Asian Development Bank and the Solomon Islands Government.
[ENDS]////////
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) says future airport upgrade projects in Solomon Islands will include passenger terminals to improve services and provide shelter for travellers.
Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry, Alwyn Danitofea, made the clarification when the ministry appeared before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to discuss the 2025 Supplementary Appropriations Bill 2026 on Tuesday, 11 August.
The issue was raised by PAC member Peter Shanel Agovaka, who questioned whether airport upgrade projects under the SIG Provincial Airport Upgrade Project will include terminals.
Agovaka said that current projects under the Economic Recovery Support Program are mainly focused on upgrading airstrips, while passengers at some airports lack proper facilities to shelter from rain and sun.
In response, Mr Danitofea said the ministry recognises the importance of passenger terminals and will ensure they are included in airport upgrade projects.
“The importance of a terminal in the aerodrome is very important. It serves a very important service for the operation of the airport,” he said.
He said terminals that are being considered for airports include; Taro in Choiseul province, Seghe Western province, Lata in Temotu, Suavanao in Isabel, Atoifi and Moi in Malaita province.
“For Taro now, and Sege, and even for the SIG-funded reopening of Avu-Avu, we ensure that we do support a refurbishment and an upgrade for a building there to provide a terminal as well,” Mr Danitofea said.
He added that Lata Airport has a terminal included in its project, while the Suavanao airport will also be provided a terminal.
He said the ministry also plans to attach terminals to privately owned airports such as Atoifi and MOI.
Meanwhile, Mr Danitofea told the committee that the ministry seeks to regularise $1.67 million already spent during the 2025 financial year under Head 22 through the supplementary appropriation.
He said $400,000 was support from the New Zealand Government for Seghe Airport, while $1,271,351.30 was support from APNIC for the National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT).
He said the APNIC funding was targeted at strengthening cyber-security infrastructure and providing consultancy support to the CERT.
The ministry appeared before the PAC as part of Parliament’s consideration of the 2025 Supplementary Appropriations Bill 2026.
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Cocoa and copra farmers across Malaita province are urging government to intervene in the rising cost of transporting their produce from rural communities to Auki, warning that high freight charges continue to erode their earnings.
The farmers are appealing to relevant authorities for a freight subsidy that will ease the financial burden of moving cocoa and copra to market.
Ann Lamasi, a cocoa and copra farmer from Langalanga, said transportation remains one of the greatest obstacles facing farmers in the province.
“Using private vehicles is very challenging because we have to pay high freight charges,” she said.
“The responsible authorities should either subsidise our freight costs or provide a dedicated vehicle to transport our produce from rural areas to Auki,” Ms Lamasi added.
Ms Lamasi has worked as a farmer and trader since 2011. After many years of trading with other buyers, she recently began selling her produce to CEMA, drawn by the authority’s stable prices and stronger customer service.
“Other buyers stop purchasing when prices fall, while CEMA continues buying at a stable price,” she explained.
She also pointed to CEMA’s status as a locally owned and operated organisation as a key factor in her decision, noting that revenue generated from cocoa and copra exports stays within the country.
“That is another reason why I decided to trade with CEMA this year,” she said.
Another farmer, who asked to be identified only as Dominic, from West Kwaio, echoed Ms Lamasi’s call for authorities to improve and sustain transportation services for farmers throughout Malaita.
He also urges CEMA to provide additional training to help farmers produce higher-quality cocoa and copra.
A farmer from East Malaita, identified only as Ben, likewise stressed the need for reliable transport services.
“At the moment, we are paying $50 per bag to transport our produce from East Malaita to Auki. That is very expensive for us,” he said.
Ben suggested that CEMA allocate one of its recently acquired fast craft vessels specifically to serve farmers across Malaita Province.
CEMA took delivery of two short-haul fast craft vessels about two months ago, intended to improve inter-island transport services, though the vessels have yet to begin full operations. The authority also plans to acquire seven additional short-haul vessels to extend the service to all nine provinces.
The fast craft initiative forms part of CEMA’s Farmers First programme, which aims to improve market access, ease transportation challenges, and help farmers secure greater returns from their cocoa and copra production.
Photo: Supplied
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East Central Guadalcanal Constituency Gets
$100k for sanitation support from PRC
The East Central Guadalcanal Constituency (ECGC) office has recognized the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Honiara for its generous support of $100,000 to improve sanitation in the constituency.
The funding follows a project endorsed and put forward by the constituency office, under the Member of Parliament and Honourable Minister for Provincial Government Alfred Lazarus Rina, requesting the Embassy to support the Marena Reforestation and Conservation Association (MRCA) Community-led Sanitation Project in ECGC.
It is common knowledge that many rural areas still lack reliable water supply and proper sanitation.
This affects people's health and living standards, damages the environment, and slows down socio-economic progress.
Improving safe and fair access to water and sanitation is a national development priority, in line with UN Sustainable Development Goal 6.
The financial support will go toward the sanitation project aimed at improving community health and the environment.
Speaking for MRCA during a recent formal handover ceremony, Chairman Reuben Masu'u expressed profound gratitude to the Chinese Embassy for its support.
He also thanked Hon. Alfred Rina, MP, and the constituency office for helping secure the funding support.
Mr Masu'u said this support marks an important step for community development, especially for MRCA and its members and the wider constituency.
He highlighted that the project would reduce waterborne and sanitation-related illness, improve living standards, and involve women and youth in community development, adding it would also serve as a model for nearby communities, who could learn from it and apply similar approaches in their respective villages.
He further said that the project would support MRCA's future plans, including its awareness and conservation programs, describing it as one of the first projects of its kind in the community to bring in a proper, structured sanitation system – setting a benchmark for rural infrastructure development.
MP for ECGC, Hon. Alfred Rina, encouraged all communities and stakeholders in the constituency to strengthen their commitment to community development.
He commended MRCA for taking the lead and urged other groups to do the same.
The PRC Embassy in Honiara continues to support water and sanitation projects across rural Solomon Islands, through the Rural Sustainable Development Program, implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development.
- MRD
BY NED GAGAHE
THE Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has questioned the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) over SBD21.69 million in advanced warrants spent on the Tina River Hydropower Development Project in 2025.
The funds are now being presented for appropriation under the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026, effectively seeking Parliament’s approval to regularise money that has already been spent.
The issue came before the PAC during its hearing with the Ministry, where Deputy Secretary Corporate Services Chris Honu Bauro explained the sources and intended expenditure of the funds.
According to the Ministry’s submission, the advanced warrants total to SBD21,689,513.36.
Of this amount, approximately SBD19.04 million came through the Australia-Pacific Partnership and the World Bank for implementation of the Tina River Hydropower Development Project.
A further SBD2.65 million was provided by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) for implementation of the Tina River Hydro project.
Mr Bauro told the Committee that the larger funding component covered consultancy fees, audit fees and training fees.
The DFAT funding, meanwhile, covered a range of operational and capital expenditure, including office rental, electricity, telephone expenses, consultations, tribal consultations, IT support, office equipment, maintenance, motor vehicles, stationery, computer hardware and software, advertising, printing and photocopying.
The expenditure attracted questions from PAC members, particularly over the significant amount allocated to audit and consultancy-related costs.
Committee member, MP for Hograno/Kia/Havulei, Jeremiah Manele questioned the Ministry on whether it could provide a detailed breakdown of the audit fees paid during 2025.
Mr Bauro said the Tina Office has its own compliance and procurement arrangements.
He further informed the Committee that, according to information received from the Deputy Project Manager, a firm in Papua New Guinea had been engaged for audit purposes.
He said the Ministry will provide the Committee with a breakdown of the costs.
“We can offer that information thereafter,” Mr Bauro told the Committee.
The PAC also sought information on the overall status and cost of the Tina River Hydropower Project, which has been under development for several years.
Mr Bauro told the Committee that the project remains on track for the first quarter of 2028, but acknowledged that its cost had become a concern.
He said he was not in a position to provide detailed information on the project’s costs and suggested that a presentation by the Project Manager and the Minister would be useful for the Committee.
The issue of the audit report also emerged during the hearing.
The Committee asked whether the audit report had been completed and was available.
Mr Bauro confirmed that the report was not available at the time of the hearing.
PAC Chair, Dr Paul Popora Bosawai, said the Committee expected to receive the audit report, particularly given that funding had been appropriated in the 2025 Appropriation Bill for audit work.
The Committee said technical questions will be sent to the Ministry for written responses.
The hearing was held as part of the Committee’s consideration of the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2025, which seeks to regularise expenditure incurred during 2025 before the Bill is taken to Parliament for formal approval.
The Tina River Hydropower Project is a major national infrastructure project intended to increase renewable electricity generation and reduce Solomon Islands’ reliance on diesel-generated power.
The PAC has indicated that it wants further information from the Ministry on the expenditure before completing its consideration of the Bill.
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BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Ministry of Infrastructure Development, MID have once again appeared this morning before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to justify their budgetary requests for additional funding.
The Ministry is requesting nearly SBD$203-million dollars to provide services and meet obligations until the end of the year.
Under the Advance Warrant the Ministry is requesting more than 102 million dollars mainly for the CAUSE project of which more than SBD$15-million will be for payments to full time international and national consultants and another 15 million as consultancy fees.
MID’s Acting Permanent Secretary, Mike Qaqara said they will also need funds to maintain roads and bridges, thus are requesting nearly SBD$45- million dollars.
Under the Ministry’s recurrent budget, the ministry requested an additional SBD$11- million dollars to support its work on staff and executives’ overseas trips fares and to support the franchise shipping scheme.
Mr Qaqara said the ministry identified 7 uneconomical routes which fall under the scheme and contractors have been identified and the increasing price of fuel has resulted in the ministry seeking additional funds.
He said additional funds have been sought to carry out building maintenance to some government buildings and offices of other ministries.
In the development budget, the Ministry requested additional funds to support local ship building, agreements already signed with the Ministry and the construction of a new test lane of which a contractor has been awarded the contract.
Funds were also requested for the road works in Auki Malaita province and initial work to establish a Public Works Department area.
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Solomon Islands is looking to improve the efficiency of maritime transport and strengthen coordination among agencies involved in ship clearance procedures.
This was highlighted at the opening of a national seminar yesterday on the “Needs Assessment on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic.”
The seminar brings together officers from the Solomon Islands Maritime Authority, government agencies and other key maritime stakeholders.
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