B Y DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Development Bank of Solomon Islands (DBSI) and South Pacific Business Development (SPBD) have strengthened their partnership with the launch of a $5 million loan facility that aims to empower women entrepreneurs across Solomon Islands.
The loan facility was officially launched at the DBSI office in Honiara today, with the formal handover of a $5 million cheque to SPBD to expand microfinance opportunities for women, particularly those in rural communities.
Speaking at the launch, DBSI Chief Executive Officer, Mr Aisake Radu, expressed satisfaction with the partnership, highlighting SPBD’s growth and its increasing impact on women entrepreneurs.
Mr Radu said the number of women assisted by SPBD had increased from 2,046 in 2024 to 2,557 by the end of 2025.
He also highlighted an increase in the organisation’s reported net profit from $2.3 million to $3.9 million, while its loan portfolio grew from $9.4 million to $11.5 million over the same period.
“These are positive outcomes of our relationship. We are very happy with the growth of SPBD and the success it has achieved. Its success is also our success, and we are pleased to see this partnership continue to grow,” Mr Radu said.
He described the relationship as a genuine partnership that is producing positive results through increased support for women and small business development.
Meanwhile, SPBD Director, Mr Gregory Francis Casagrande, welcomed the new financing, describing it as a major step forward in the organisation’s efforts to empower women through microloans and small business training.
Mr Casagrande said SPBD provides small loans and business training to help women establish and expand income-generating activities, improve their family living conditions and support their children’s education.
He said the new $5 million financing will enable SPBD to reach an additional 1,250 women micro-entrepreneurs across Solomon Islands.
“We are particularly proud of our relationship with DBSI. This new financing will help us reach more women across the provinces,” Mr Casagrande said.
The initiative is expected to create more opportunities for rural women to access finance, develop small businesses and improve their household incomes.
Through the partnership, DBSI and SPBD aim to strengthen women’s economic participation while supporting grassroots entrepreneurship and sustainable economic development across the country.
Photo credit: Douglas Vahia
For feedback, contact: diivee56@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The Malaita Provincial Youth, in partnership with the Malaita Provincial Government and other stakeholders, launched a clean-up campaign at the Auki Market area this morning.
The campaign comes as Malaita Province prepares to celebrate its Second Appointed Day on November 18, 2026.
The campaign was launched under the theme, “Empowering Youths in Partnership and Transformative Development.”
Speaking at the launch, Malaita Provincial Youth Coordinator Frank Samo said the campaign marked a new chapter in empowering young people and promoting youth development in the province.
Photos taken during the launching at Auki Central Market this morning. Photo supplied.
Samo said Auki was home to people from all corners of Malaita Province, not only those living in the provincial capital. He stressed that everyone had a responsibility to keep the town clean and look after its environment.
He said the theme highlighted three important ideas: youth empowerment, partnership and transformative development.
“The launching of the clean-up campaign today is about inspiring a new attitude, building responsible leadership, strengthening partnerships, and empowering our young people to take ownership of the development and future of Auki town,” he said.
Samo said Auki, as the provincial capital of Malaita Province, was the centre of provincial administration, business activities, public services, education and community life.
Schools also joined the programme to launched the clean-up campaign at the Auki Market area this morning. Photo supplied.
“We cannot expect Auki to become a beautiful, clean, healthy, and attractive town if we continue to throw rubbish carelessly, ignore public spaces, misuse drainage systems, and leave the responsibility of cleaning our town to provincial government workers alone,” he said.
“A clean city begins with a clean attitude. It begins with our character, our behaviour, our discipline, and our willingness to take responsibility for the environment in which we live,” he added.
Samo also called on the Malaita Provincial Government, Auki Town Council, youth organisations, business houses, churches, schools, community leaders and development partners to strengthen their cooperation in keeping Auki clean and promoting environmental responsibility.
He said that by combining their efforts, resources, knowledge and skills, stakeholders could achieve their common goal of maintaining a cleaner and healthier town.
The launching ceremony was attended by representatives of the Malaita Provincial Government, other stakeholders and young people from Auki and surrounding communities.
[Photo Caption: Photos taken during the launching at Auki Central Market this morning. Photo supplied.]
作者:RODRICK DESURI
奥基
马莱塔省青年与马莱塔省政府及其他利益相关者合作,今天早上在奥基市场区域发起了一项清洁活动。
此次活动是在马莱塔省准备庆祝2026年11月18日的第二个指定日之际发起的。
该活动以“赋能青年,合作与变革发展”为主题。
马莱塔省青年协调员 Frank Samo 在启动仪式上表示,此次活动标志着赋能年轻人和促进省内青年发展的新篇章。
今天早上在奥基中央市场拍摄的启动活动照片。照片提供。
Samo 表示,奥基是来自马莱塔省各个角落的人民的家园,不仅仅是生活在省会的人。他强调,每个人都有责任保持城镇的清洁,照顾环境。
他表示,该主题突出了三个重要理念:青年赋能、合作和变革发展。
“今天清洁活动的启动是为了激励一种新态度,建立负责任的领导力,加强合作,赋能我们的年轻人,让他们对奥基镇的发展和未来负责,”他说。
Samo 还表示,作为马莱塔省的省会,奥基是省级行政、商业活动、公共服务、教育和社区生活的中心。
学校也参与了今天早上在奥基市场区域发起的清洁活动。照片提供。
“如果我们继续随意乱扔垃圾,忽视公共空间,滥用排水系统,并将清洁城镇的责任仅仅留给省政府工作人员,我们不能指望奥基成为一个美丽、干净、健康和吸引人的城镇,”他说。
“一个干净的城市始于一种干净的态度。它始于我们的品格、我们的行为、我们的纪律,以及我们愿意对我们生活的环境负责,”他补充道。
Samo 还呼吁马莱塔省政府、奥基市议会、青年组织、商业机构、教会、学校、社区领导和发展伙伴加强合作,共同保持奥基的清洁,促进环境责任。
他说,通过结合他们的努力、资源、知识和技能,利益相关者可以实现维护一个更清洁、更健康城镇的共同目标。
启动仪式上出席了马莱塔省政府、其他利益相关者和来自奥基及周边社区的年轻人的代表。
[图片说明:今天早上在奥基中央市场拍摄的启动活动照片。照片提供。]
Tahani turns basketball experience into opportunities for young girls
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands basketball representative Loremarose Taeta Tahani is using her experience on the court to help create opportunities for young girls to play, build confidence and develop into future leaders through the sport.
In a feature published on October 8, the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) highlighted Tahani’s growing role in grassroots basketball development, following her journey from national-team representation to coaching, volunteering and leadership development.
Tahani represented Solomon Islands at the 2025 FIBA Women’s Melanesian Cup in Honiara, featuring in all four of the country’s games before turning her attention towards helping develop the next generation of female players.
Her latest step is through FIBA Oceania’s Women in Basketball Leadership (WiLEAD) programme, which selected her alongside fellow Solomon Islander Winnie Laora in 2026.
As part of her leadership project, Tahani has established a grassroots basketball programme for girls in Honiara, providing a supportive environment for young players to learn the game, build confidence and connect with positive female role models.
FIBA reported that the initiative reflects Tahani’s desire to give back to her community and ensure girls can see opportunities beyond playing basketball.
“I want other girls to see someone who genuinely believes in them, is committed to creating opportunities for them, and shows them they can be confident, strong, disciplined and passionate about something they love,” Tahani said.
Her participation in WiLEAD has also broadened her understanding of leadership, particularly the importance of supporting others and helping them believe in their own abilities.
“Being part of the Oceania Women in Basketball Leadership Program has taught me that leadership is not just about having a title or being the person in front. It is about listening, supporting others, having confidence in yourself and helping others find confidence in themselves,” she said.
Tahani’s journey reflects the different pathways basketball can offer women and girls, from representing their country to coaching, volunteering and taking on leadership responsibilities within their communities.
She also recognises that confidence does not always come before opportunity, encouraging young girls to take their first steps rather than wait until they feel completely ready.
“Don’t wait until you feel confident, just take the first step. Your voice, your talent and your dreams matter, so don’t be afraid to put yourself forward,” Tahani said.
Through the WiLEAD programme, FIBA Oceania seeks to strengthen women’s participation and leadership across basketball in the region, helping emerging leaders develop the skills and confidence to contribute to the future of the sport.
[Solomon Islands basketball representative Loremarose Taeta Tahani in action—using her platform to inspire and empower young girls across the nation to play, coach, and lead both on and off the court. Photo: FIBA / Supplied.]
Australia has welcomed the transition to full 24/7 health service delivery at the recently opened Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre. On Tuesday, just six weeks after initial opening, the 24/7 Birthing Centre commenced operation, and the Urban Health Centre extended its hours of operation to round-the-clock primary medical care....
The post Aust Welcomes Naha Birthing Centre’s Round-The-Clock Health Services appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
Australia is supporting TVET students from the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) to gain hands-on experience through Australian-supported infrastructure projects across Solomon Islands. Egah Kapaqole, Priscillar Fakai’a and Delmah Motui recently completed a six-week internship with local contractor Hatanga, which is constructing the new Seghe Market. Australian High Commissioner Jeff...
The post Aust Support Helps Women Gain Construction Experience appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
A newly established women’s financial initiative is seeking to address what it identifies as a major barrier to women’s economic participation in Solomon Islands — limited access to finance.
Our Family Investment (OFI) outlined its vision during an equipment handover ceremony on Tuesday October 6, supported by the Ministry of Commerce, Industries, Labour and Immigration (MCILI), with the initiative aiming to bring women together through savings, lending and other financial services.
Equipment Presentation: OFI Board Member Carlos Saliga (left) accepts equipment from MCILI Director Donnalyn Vozoto and a ministry official (right) during the event.Photo supplied.
Speaking during the programme, OFI founder Ellen Maruarofa said the initiative was developed from research, including her Master’s research, which identified women as one of the country’s underutilised resources and highlighted access to finance as a major challenge.
“In that research, we come to find out that one big thing that we women lack is having access to finance,” Maruarofa said.
She said OFI would be different from a conventional savings arrangement because its aim was not simply for women to save money and withdraw it at the end of the year.
Commemorative Group Photo: OFI members, board representatives, and MCILI officials gather for a group photo following the completion of the handover ceremony at the OFI office space. Photo supplied.
Instead, OFI intends to establish a platform where women can save and access lending opportunities while gradually developing the organisation into a broader financial institution.
Maruarofa said OFI’s long-term plan includes establishing Our Family Microfinance after about two years and working towards establishing a bank for women within five years.
She said the initiative also intends to create a physical access point where women can obtain services and support that add value to their businesses, families and communities.
The initiative’s vision is for Solomon Islands women and girls to attain financial independence and lead transformative economic change, while its mission is to unite women through an inclusive financial system that harnesses their untapped resources, skills and potential.
Resource Support Pr. Garry Manele (right) presents a laptop to Our Family Investment (OFI) member during the handover ceremony. Photo supplied.
The equipment support from MCILI is expected to help OFI establish and expand its operations.
Jacob Gala of MCILI’s Industrial Development Division (IDD) said the ministry’s support was aimed at helping the initiative get off the ground.
Gala said access to finance remained a significant challenge for micro, small and medium enterprises, particularly women-owned businesses, not only in Solomon Islands but also across developing countries.
OFI Founder Hellen Maruarofa speaks during the official handover of the official equipments at the OFI Office. Photo supplied.
He also encouraged OFI to look at opportunities to use technology as it develops its services.
Meanwhile, MCILI’s Marketing and Export Promotion Director Donnalee Vozoto said her division was supporting OFI after recognising the potential of promoting the initiative and increasing awareness of the services it intends to provide to women.
Maruarofa said the equipment provided through the ministry’s support included desktop computers, laptops, tablets, card-printing equipment, printers, speakers, tables, chairs and digital screens.
The display of the OFI equipment with Computers, laptops, Tablets, mobile phones, tables and chairs in the OFI Office where the hand over was conducted. Photo supplied.
She said the equipment would support registration, internet services, savings and lending activities and community awareness.
OFI is currently being developed by a team of volunteers who believe in the initiative and its potential to support women.
OFI is guided by the values of stewardship, inclusivity, security, accessibility and financial freedom for women and their families. Its stated vision is to see Solomon Islands women and girls achieve financial independence and contribute to transformative economic change.
Keynote Address: Jacob Gala of MCILI’s Industrial Development Division speaks during the equipment handover ceremony, highlighting the ministry’s support for women-led financial access initiatives.
[Photo caption: Official Transfer OFI board members formally accept donated IT equipment and office assets presented by MCILI representatives. Photo supplied]
Girls and young women are among the hardest hit by climate change-induced loss and damage in the Solomon Islands, according to Kastom Keepers founder Millicent Barty. Loss and damage refers to the unavoidable, irreversible economic and social impacts that occur when climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts are no longer...
The post Kastom Keepers Founder Exposes The Human Cost of Climate Change on Pacific Girls at Pre-COP31 appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
Solomon Islands Mothers’ Union joins global members in marking 150 years of faith, service and support for families. The Provincial Mothers’ Union Office in Honiara has joined more than four million members worldwide to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Mothers’ Union—a pioneering Christian movement supporting families, strengthening communities, and transforming lives since 1876. Guided [...]
The post Solomon Islands Mothers’ Union Marks 150 Years of Service appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
by Charley Piringi & Extreme heat fueled by the climate crisis is rapidly transforming pregnancy and birth into a “fatal faultline,” exposing mothers and newborns to unprecedented, life-threatening risks. & That was the alarming warning delivered to climate decision-makers gathered in Fiji this week for a critical Pre-COP summit. &
The post “No Cool Place to Go”: Extreme Heat Threatens Pacific Mothers and Babies as Global Climate Talks Open appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
Women account for 63% of SINU’s latest graduates, with 742 students completing studies across five faculties. By Steven Kamoa Solomon Islands National University has graduated its second cohort for 2026, with 742 students receiving their certificates, bringing the university’s total number of graduates this year to 1,749. The latest cohort follows the first graduation in [...]
The post “Women Make Up 63% of SINU Graduates”. appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Minister for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs Hon. John Maneniaru has advocated for stronger cooperation with UN Women.
The Minister has urged the need to advance the protection, empowerment and participation of women and girls in Solomon Islands.
Minister Maneniaru made the remarks during a meeting with UN Women Deputy Executive Director Ms. Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda on the margins of the 81 st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The Minister acknowledged UN Women as a longstanding partner of the Ministry.
He acknowledged UN Women for providing technical and financial support across key areas including ending violence against women and girls, women’s economic empowerment, leadership, Women, Peace and Security and climate and disaster resilience.
A key priority is the country’s first National Prevention Strategy to End Violence Against Women and Girls 2026–2038.
The strategy is undergoing final validation and is expected to be submitted to Cabinet in October ahead of its planned launch during the 16 Days of Activism in November.
Ms. Nyaradzayi briefed the minister on the Golkipa initiative which uses sport, faith leadership and community dialogue to promote positive social norms.
The meeting further highlighted the Markets for Change programme, which supports women market vendors and market governance in seven Solomon Islands markets.
This initiative will increase women’s participation and leadership in local decision-making.
The Minister also highlighted the Women, Peace and Security National Action Plan 2026–2030, which is at the post-validation stage.
He welcomed UN Women’s support for its development and implementation.
Discussions also explored expanding cooperation on gender-responsive disaster preparedness and resilience.
This includes strengthening existing mechanisms and capacity to better address the needs of women, children, youth, older persons and people with disabilities during emergencies.
Potential areas of future cooperation including support for a proposed nationwide sanitation programme were also discussed.
Minister Maneniaru thanked UN Women for its longstanding partnership and expressed his commitment to deepening cooperation to strengthen opportunities, protection and leadership for women and girls across Solomon Islands.
[end]
OPMC statement
The post Minister Maneniaru advocates stronger UN Women-partnership first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
MORE women and young people are benefiting from employment opportunities created through the Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement (CAUSE) II Project in Western Province.
CAUSE II Project Manager Chris Afable highlighted the growing participation of women during the handover of completed projects in Noro on Wednesday September 23 .
Mr. Afable said the CAUSE Project was also contributing to addressing unemployment in Solomon Islands by generating about 370,000 labour days through its activities.
He said the project had created about 8,400 short-term jobs across the country, with women and young people making up a significant proportion of those employed.
“Here in Noro, 1,752 people woke up to somewhere to go and something to build,” Afable said.
He explained that 686 people were engaged in infrastructure-related work, while another 1,066 people were involved in waste collection activities.
Afable said CAUSE had also delivered a significant number of community infrastructure projects in Noro.
He said 59 projects had been completed in Noro under CAUSE I, including Jacob’s ladders, footpaths and jetties.
Afable said another 10 projects have been completed under CAUSE II in Noro.
He said the project remained open to partnerships with local institutions that could provide technical support to help communities complete much-needed infrastructure projects.
Afable said such partnerships could further strengthen the ability of communities and local institutions to respond to development needs.
The CAUSE Project is being implemented to improve access to basic urban services and infrastructure while creating employment opportunities for communities across Solomon Islands.
[Photo: Mr. Chris Afable delivers his speech during the handing over of projects at Noro. Photo credit: Ben Bilua]
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
SOLOMON Islands women will be aiming to move up the standings when they face hosts Fiji in a crucial MSG Prime Minister’s Cup women’s match at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva tonight.
The match is scheduled for 7pm Fiji time or 6pm Solomon Islands time, with both sides looking for their first victory of the tournament after contrasting starts to the competition.
Solomon Islands opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Vanuatu last Thursday, with Lorina Solosaia scoring in the 74th minute to cancel out Jane Alatoa’s early opener for Vanuatu.
According to Fiji Football Association, the draw left Solomon Islands with one point after their opening match, while Papua New Guinea made the early running at the top of the standings following a 4-0 win over Fiji on the opening day.
Fiji then suffered another narrow defeat, going down 1-0 to Vanuatu on Sunday after Elina Aruvuha scored the only goal of the match in the 64th minute.
The results leave Papua New Guinea leading the women’s competition on six points from two matches, followed by Vanuatu on four points. Solomon Islands sit third on one point, while Fiji and New Caledonia are yet to open their accounts.
For Solomon Islands, tonight’s encounter therefore carries significant importance in the race for a place in the tournament final.
A victory would take the Solomon Islands side to four points and put them level with Vanuatu, while a draw would lift them to two points and keep them ahead of the teams yet to register a point.
However, a defeat would leave Solomon Islands on one point and allow Fiji to move to three points, putting the hosts ahead of them on the standings.
The competition is being played in a single round-robin format, with all five teams facing each other once before the top two teams meet in the final on October 3.
Solomon Islands will therefore be looking to build on their opening performance against Vanuatu and turn their one point into a stronger position against the host nation tonight.
The Solomon Islands women finished as semi-finalists in last year’s inaugural women’s MSG Prime Minister’s Cup, while Fiji were runners-up to eventual champions Papua New Guinea.
With the competition now entering its third matchday, tonight’s clash presents another opportunity for Solomon Islands to strengthen their position in the race for the top two.
[Photo: Action from the opening match between Solomon Islands and Vanuatu at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Photo credit: Fiji Football Association.]
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Women in Belaha are positioning themselves to tap into local business, catering, skills development and other opportunities linked to the Tina River Hydropower Development Project’s transmission line works.
The Belaha Women’s Association held its first monthly meeting this month as part of efforts to strengthen women’s participation in project activities.
A statement from the Tina River Hydropower Development Project said a key focus of the meeting was an update from Reeves Envico, the contractor undertaking the transmission line works.
Reeves provided information on planned activities, upcoming works and what communities can expect as the transmission line component progresses.
The update gave members of the Belaha Women’s Association a better understanding of the works and an opportunity to discuss possible areas of involvement.
These include the local supply of goods and services, catering and food supply, skills development and training, and other community-based services that may be required during project implementation.
The meeting also allowed Reeves to learn more about the skills, existing businesses, interests and capabilities of women within the Belaha community.
The statement said the Belaha Women’s Association provides a platform for women to collectively communicate their interests, skills and capacities.
Members also reviewed the progress of their association, including achievements, areas working well and aspects requiring further improvement.
Discussions covered leadership and governance, membership, communication, record keeping, financial management and participation.
The discussions also helped identify priority areas for future training, skills development and organisational support.
The monthly meeting is part of wider work with the three legally established women’s associations in project-affected communities.
Similar meetings will be held with the Malatoha Women’s Association and Mbahomea Women’s Association, with relevant contractors and other stakeholders participating where appropriate.
The statement said the meetings will provide regular platforms for information sharing, dialogue, coordination and identifying practical opportunities for women to participate in related activities.
It said the initiative will also help strengthen the organisational capacity of women’s associations and build links with stakeholders and opportunities within their communities.
[Belaha women association with Tina River Hydropower Development Project team and Reeves Envico.Photo credit: TRHDP.]
A second-half double from captain Bonnie Rice helped New Zealand defeat New Caledonia 4-0 in the OFC U-16 Women's Championship final at the National Stadium in Honiara on 19 September.
By RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
Government funding allocated for youth development must translate into practical opportunities for young people, particularly those in rural communities, says Assistant Youth Coordinator of the Malaita Provincial Youth Desk Timson Talui.
Talui said while government continues to prioritise youth development through the Ministry of Women, Youth and Children Affairs, many young people were still struggling with unemployment, limited opportunities and social problems.
He said funding allocated for youth programmes could make a significant difference if it was properly directed towards programmes that respond to the actual needs of young people.
“You’ll see that government, through the ministry, still uses the name of youth, talks about them in Parliament and advocates for them,” he said.
“But in reality, they are still the ones facing many issues, such as alcohol and drug abuse, stealing, fighting and other social problems in our communities,” he said.
Talui said more practical programmes were needed to help young people develop skills, earn an income and become productive members of their communities.
“There are many ways that government can change our youths, like farming, private business, labour and education,” he said.
He called for greater access to training, employment, education and funding for youth-led businesses and other income-generating activities.
Talui said rural young people in particular needed opportunities that would allow them to remain in their communities while contributing to local development.
He said investing in practical opportunities for young people could help address some of the social problems affecting communities while creating a stronger future workforce.
[Photo Caption: Malaita Province Youth Office. Photo Rodrick Desuri]
B Y CHARLES STENNETT
Pacific Island Forum (PIF) leaders have once again called on its members to adopt national policies and laws to increase women’s political participation and representation, recognize the leadership roles undertaken by women in their societies and the challenge of Non-Communicable Diseases to health outcomes, public expenditure, productivity and human capital across the region.
In a communique released after the 55 th Forum Island Leaders meeting in Koror, Palau, the leaders recognised the persistently low representation of women in national parliaments across the region and reaffirmed the “Revitalized Pacific Leaders Gender Equality Declaration” and agreed that inclusive leadership and in particular, increasing women’s political participation and representation is needed to achieve progress across the 2050 Strategy.
Leaders urged member states to adopt national policies and laws to increase women’s political participation and representation.
They’ve also welcomed the announcement by Australia on the investment of $195million in the Pacific Women Lead Program, which has supported women’s leadership and entrepreneurship and combatted gender-based violence.
Leaders also endorsed the outcomes of the 5 th Pacific Islands Forum Women Leaders Meeting and reaffirmed that gender equality remains fundamental to achieve the ambitions of the 2050 Strategy.
They’ve further affirmed the need for sustainable financing for National Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Prevention Frameworks as the primary constraint on scaling GBV prevention progress and committed to ensuring that GBV prevention priorities are reflected in national planning, gender-responsive budgeting, and public investment decisions.
Leaders recognised the opportunity to leverage climate and green finance to strengthen GBV prevention efforts and called for the inclusion of gender responsive and inclusive measures in climate finance proposals and resilience planning.
The communique also said that Leaders affirmed the leadership of Pacific women in driving climate action and endorsed the “Pacific Pact on Gender and Climate Action” as the region’s public political commitment to lead and accelerate implementation of the Belém Gender Action Plan in the Pacific.
On Non-Communicable Diseases (NDCs), the leaders acknowledged the continuing burden of NDCs as one of the Pacific’s most significant human development challenges and reaffirmed their commitment to a whole-of-government and whole-of-society response to the Pacific NCD crisis.
Leaders called for accelerated implementation of the Pacific NCD Roadmap, recognising the growing impact of NCDs on health outcomes, public expenditure, productivity and human capital across the region.
With the recognition that NCDs remain a significant development challenge with impacts on health, productivity and economic resilience, Leaders reaffirmed support for strengthened implementation of the Pacific NCD Roadmap, including through investments in prevention, early intervention, health promotion and healthier communities.
Leaders have also expressed concern over the growing prevalence of emerging nicotine products, including e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches, particularly their targeting of young people, and encouraged regional solutions to protect public health and prevent the circumvention of existing safeguards.
For feedback, contact: charsstennett@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
Australia is partnering with Primerise Limited, a local woman-owned business, to increase the supply of high-quality, locally grown flowers in...
The post Australia Backs Solomons Women to Bloom Local Flower Industry appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) conducted a Gender, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) training for its staff at the Heritage Park Hotel on Monday.
A statement from MFMR said the ministry hopes the training will increase existing GEDSI knowledge and GEDSI application skills for MFMR staff across key divisions.
It said, key GEDSI knowledge will include key issues and findings from recent research, namely the Solomon Islands gender and fisheries fact sheet, published in 2026.
Key GEDSI skills will focus on GEDSI analysis.
Human rights in fisheries content will be included for a broader people-centred and human-rights-based lens.
The workshop also aims to socialise key policy statements, objectives and corresponding outputs, targets and indicators including the implementation plan for the MFMR GEDSI Strategy to ensure MFMR staff are aware and familiar with the strategy and know their roles, responsibilities and timeline to implement the strategy.
SIART supports Gold Ridge women farmers with 300 broilers, improved housing and training to increase poultry production. Friday 28 August, Honiara – The Gold Ridge Women Farmers’ Poultry Project has acknowledged the Solomon Islands Rural Agriculture Transformation (SIART) Project for supporting local farmers in our rural communities especially women. Chairlady, Mrs. Joyce Pohungke said with [...]
The post SIART SUPPORTS WOMEN’S POULTRY TO INCREASE PRODUCTION appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
By RODRICK DESURI
Auki
The Malaita Provincial Youth Division visited Fanafanae and Border communities in Buma, West Kwara’ae, over the weekend, where youth members took part in a talk-story session focused on leadership, opportunities and the important role of young people in community development.
The session aimed to provide young people with a clearer understanding of their responsibilities as current and future leaders, as well as opportunities and avenues available to help them become productive members of their communities.
Malaita Provincial Youth Coordinator Frank Samo Sari reminded the youth about the importance of their strengths, values and decision-making, saying their actions can have a direct impact on their families and communities.
“I have not come here simply to give you a speech. I come to remind you of the power that is already within you as young people,” he said.
“You are not just the leaders of tomorrow. You are leaders today. Your energy, ideas, strength, creativity and decisions can either build your community or weaken it.
“The future of your community depends greatly on how you choose to use your time and talents,” he said.
Mr. Sari shared eight important points for young people to consider: believing in themselves, taking responsibility, staying away from destructive behaviours, gaining education and skills, engaging in agriculture, becoming responsible leaders, promoting unity among young people, and recognising time as their greatest asset.
He encouraged the youth to make positive decisions and recognise the influence they already have within their communities.
He said their decision make today will determine their future.
“You are powerful and already have a positive viability, not a liability, in the community. You are an asset to the community,” he said.
“You have the power to change your family, community and your province.
“The future is not something we simply wait for, but it is something we build and work hard for through our time, effort and commitment,” Mr Sari added.
For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com
Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
WOMEN from Ranongga, Vella La Vella, Kolombangara and Kongulavata have completed a special training focused on organic waste management and composting.
The training was conducted by Positive Change for Marine Life (PCFML) through its Black Soldier Fly Larvae initiative, with support from the Western Provincial Government.
The programme provided participants with practical environmental solutions aimed at improving waste management, household food production, sustainable livelihoods and community health.
President of the Western Province Women’s Council, Hellen Wilson, said the training provided a unique opportunity for women to gain knowledge and skills that could help support their families and communities.
She said the knowledge gained from the training would also help communities gradually recover from the impacts of Cyclone Maila.
“I really appreciate this training and I acknowledge Positive Change for Marine Life for facilitating the training,” Wilson said.
Western Province Women’s Council Coordinator Naneth Panda said the workshop demonstrated how practical activities, including composting, healthy diets and environmental management, could contribute to the Council’s broader objectives for women and strengthen their participation in community development.
She said the training also fulfilled one of the organisation’s policy outcomes.
PCFML expressed its appreciation to the Western Province Women’s Council, President Hellen Wilson, Coordinator Naneth Panda and the Council team for the invitation and for providing an avenue for the organisation to share its experience with women from across Western Province.
Following the training, gardening tools and seeds were distributed to participating women, providing additional support for them to apply what they had learned when they returned to their communities.
The combination of composting knowledge with gardening tools and seeds gives the women an opportunity to directly connect organic waste management with household food production, while encouraging practical and sustainable environmental practices in their communities.
For feedback, contact: maetuana777@gmail.com
Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com
BY LORETTA B MANELE
For the first time ever, White River community is preparing to turn its rich cultural diversity into a major annual celebration.
A recent statement from TMC Foundation said this involves youth leaders, the foundation and Ngossi Ward Councillor Rex Konofilia in a united effort to hold the White River Diverse Festival in October this year.
The festival aims to bring together the people of White River to celebrate the community’s diverse cultures, talents and traditions and showcase its potential to become a tourism product from 2027 and beyond.
The slogan for the event “Experience Solomon Islands in One Community”, will bring together culture, youth, arts, sport, food, music, enterprise and community participation in a celebration designed to reflect the unique character of White River community.
“White River is home to people from different islands, cultures and backgrounds, making its diversity one of its greatest strengths.
“The festival seeks to transform that diversity into an opportunity creating a platform where communities can celebrate who they are while promoting local talent, culture, entrepreneurship and community development,” said TMC Foundation.
The program envisioned to be an annual community event also aims to create a long-term platform for residents, youth groups, cultural organisations, businesses, community leaders and development partners to come together each year.
A dedicated Festival Organising Committee has also been established to drive and coordinate the initiative.
“The committee is working closely with youth leaders, community representatives and other stakeholders, with the full support of the Ngossi Ward Administration to see the inaugural festival successfully delivered,” said TMC Foundation.
The festival will also be an opportunity for businesses, organisations and development partners to become part of a longer-term community vision by not simply just supporting an event, but also by investing in youth, culture, enterprise, community development and the future tourism potential of White River.
Beyond bringing together diverse cultures, sports and community members, this 2026 festival will also mark an important milestone in TMC Foundation’s journey as the organisation begins its next four-year strategic chapter in partnership with the Ngossi Ward Administration, known as the Legacy Era, 2026–2030.
“The Legacy Era will build on the foundation established over the past 16 years and focus on creating greater opportunities for economic growth, tourism development, youth leadership and sustainable community development,” said TMC Foundation.
Three key eras of community transformation which have shaped this journey are as follows;
The Transition Era — 2010–2015
The Transition Era marked the beginning of a period in which young people started taking greater leadership in changing the narrative of White River. Through youth engagement and community activities, young people demonstrated that they could make a meaningful contribution to community development.
The Transformation Era — 2016–2025
The Transformation Era saw young people and community leaders increasingly come together through sports, training, workshops, partnerships and community initiatives.
These efforts helped strengthen relationships among young people, promote positive community participation and contribute to building White River’s identity as a united and diverse community.
The Legacy Era — 2026–2030
The Legacy Era now looks towards the future — building on the achievements of the past while creating sustainable opportunities for the next generation.
It will focus on strengthening youth leadership, supporting economic and enterprise opportunities, developing the community’s tourism potential, promoting culture and creating sustainable pathways for community development.
Ngossi Ward Councilor Rex Konofilia has welcomed the initiative, describing the festival as “timely” and one that recognises the efforts of young people and community leaders in changing the narrative of White River.
“I have seen the tireless effort of TMC Foundation and the effort by young leaders to change the narrative of this community,” he said.
He highlighted diversity as one of White River’s greatest strengths.
“For White River community, diversity is its strength. It accommodates all the different races, and to see a community like White River embrace its diversity is something that our Ngossi Ward administration acknowledges.”
The Councillor is appealing to businesses, organisations and other partners to support the initiative and complement the efforts of the young leaders working behind the festival.
TMC Foundation noted that the White River Diverse Festival 2026 is ultimately about more than entertainment.
“It is about creating a platform where young people can lead, cultures can be celebrated, businesses can participate, local talent can be promoted and communities can build stronger connections.
“The vision is also built on experience. Over the years, the TMC Foundation has already taken steps to open White River to visitors, guests and external partners, demonstrating the community’s potential to host people and activities beyond its immediate neighbourhood,” TMC Foundation said.
The Foundation has facilitated community visits and hosted a range of guests and groups, including the Hekari Football Club from Papua New Guinea, Australian university students on multiple occasions, and a former Miss Pacific in 2023.
To add on, between 2023 and 2025, the Foundation also facilitated opportunities for Pacific musicians visiting Solomon Islands for the Bonfire Festival to engage with the White River community, with support from Jaro Local in helping advance the vision of welcoming visitors into the community.
These experiences have provided an important foundation for the next stage of the vision.
TMC Foundation said with this vision, 2027 is expected to become a new chapter for White River as a host community, with greater emphasis on bringing events, cultural experiences and community activities to the western side of Honiara.
“With the message “Experience Solomon Islands in One Community,” White River is preparing to tell its story through its people, cultures, talents, food, music, arts, sport, enterprise and diversity.
“From transition, to transformation, to legacy – White River is preparing for its next chapter,” said TMC Foundation.
Photo credit: TMC Foundation
For feedback, contact: lorettamanele@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com