BY JOSES SAREN
The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), through the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP), is is constructing new bus shelters at Tandai in West Honiara.
A statement from LMCP this morning said this is part of ongoing efforts to improve public transport facilities and enhance road safety for commuters and pedestrians.
This initiative is part of the road upgrade being undertaken by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) under LMCP.
The statement also said that the facilities are being developed along the Tandai corridor, a busy section of the West Honiara road network used daily by public buses, private vehicles, pedestrians and surrounding communities.
Posts already installed ahead of roof construction, photo credit- LMCP
“The new shelters will provide safer and more convenient waiting areas for passengers, particularly during periods of heavy rain and strong sunlight. They will also provide designated locations for passengers to wait and allow public buses to safely pick up and drop off passengers,” said LMCP.
MID’s Permanent Secretary, Mike Qaqara, said the construction of the bus shelters demonstrates the Government’s commitment to deliver practical infrastructure that respond to the everyday needs of communities.
“Road infrastructure is not only about the road itself. We also need to consider the people who use our roads every day, including passengers, pedestrians and public transport users. Proper bus shelters provide safer and more comfortable places for people to wait for buses and are an important part of improving the overall road environment,” he said.
Qaqara said the Tandai bus shelters are among the practical improvements that are being delivered through LMCP to support safer and more accessible transport infrastructure in the capital.
“These are the types of small but important investments that can make a real difference to people’s daily lives. We want our infrastructure to be functional, safe and responsive to the needs of our communities,”.
The construction of the bus shelters is part of LMCP’s broader programme to improve road-related facilities and address practical needs identified along Honiara’s major transport corridors.
LMCP said in addition to road maintenance and improvement works, the project is supporting complementary infrastructure that contribute to safer and more accessible urban mobility.
Also stated is that the Tandai bus shelters are expected to benefit residents, workers, students and other community members who rely on public transport for their daily journeys.
LMCP said by providing dedicated passenger waiting areas, the facilities will also reduce the need for commuters to wait directly along the roadside.
This construction of bus shelters is an ongoing initiative with the target to reach completion by the end of November this year.
The statement furthered that MID through LMCP will continue to work with contractors, communities and other stakeholders to deliver practical infrastructure improvements that contribute to safer roads, better public transport facilities and improved mobility for the people of Honiara.
LMCP said the road improvement works are being implemented by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development through the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP), with financial support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Solomon Islands.
Photo credit: LMCP Press
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has issued an Orange Alert for strong winds today, October 1, 2026, warning mariners and sea travellers that small boats are at high risk of capsizing in hazardous conditions.
According to SIMS, the Impact-Based Warning Number 236, was released at 7:00 am this morning following a persistent strong southeast wind flow across the region.
The Met Service has placed the following waters under an active Orange Alert; Temotu Province, Makira-Ulawa Province, Rennell and Bellona Province, Malaita Province, Southern waters of Western, Russell, and Guadalcanal Province.
From national meteorological hazard assessments, the likelihood of severe weather is “High” and the potential impact is “Significant”, placing the overall threat level at “High” (Take Action).
Coastal communities and sea travellers should anticipate the following hazards:
-Rough Seas-Ocean conditions will escalate to moderate-to-rough with moderate swells.
-Capsizing Risk- High swells present severe danger to small craft and OBMs (Outboard Motors), which are likely to capsize if operating in open waters.
-Reduced Visibility- Heavy rain showers and localised thunderstorms will severely limit sea visibility.
Members of the public, particularly banana-boat operators, fishermen, and inter-island travelers, are strongly advised to delay unnecessary sea voyages and take precautionary safety measures immediately.
Residents across affected provinces are urged to remain alert, monitor updates via the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC), and consult local media for ongoing emergency announcements.
The next impact-based weather warning from the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service is scheduled for release at 4:00pm this afternoon.
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The National Consumer Price Index stood at 136.6 in August 2026 after a 1.3 percent increase, according to a statement published on the Solomon Islands Government portal.
by Ofani Eremae The Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) is selling Tavanipupu Island Resort, one of its most high-profile tourism assets in East Guadalcanal. Dr Philip Tagini, the recently appointed chairman of the SINPF Board, said the decision was made because Tavanipupu had become a liability rather than a...
The post From $15m Loan to Liability: Why SINPF is Selling Tavanipupu appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
作者:Ofani Eremae 所罗门国家公积金(SINPF)正在出售塔瓦尼普普岛度假村,这是其在东瓜达尔卡纳尔最具知名度的旅游资产之一。新任SINPF董事会主席菲利普·塔吉尼(Dr Philip Tagini)表示,做出这一决定是因为塔瓦尼普普已成为一种负担,而不是......
该文章最初发布于 In-depth Solomons。
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
For families in Qalovoke village on Moli mainland in northwest Choiseul, the search for water and the struggle for health care define daily life.
With a population of about 3,000, residents rely on boreholes and rainwater tanks for drinking, cooking, and washing.
A solar-powered water pump that supplies water to the two storage tanks, photo credit- John Houanihau.
The two water storage tanks that supply water to the Qalovoke community, photo credit- John Houanihau.
The local rural health centre, too, depends on rainwater, while a single nurse works tirelessly to serve thousands.
For Mary Jane, a mother of four who has lived on Moli mainland for nearly a decade, water shortages shape her mornings.
Mary Jane, a mother of four, speaks about the challenges facing her family and community during an interview with Island Sun, photo credit- John Houanihau.
“Access to water is very difficult for us. For cooking, drinking and washing, it is very hard,” she said.
When tanks run dry, families walk long distances to streams or ask neighbours for help.
“If it does not rain then we have to ask for water from someone who has tank water. Otherwise, that is the end of the story,” she explained.
The lack of water also affects children’s education. Moli Primary School sometimes closes early because there is not enough water.
“Access to water is my greatest concern. We really need water because water is life,” Ms Jane said.
Her mornings often begin with long walks to fetch water. By the time she returns, her children have already left for school, sometimes without breakfast.
“Sometimes they eat in the morning, sometimes no,” she admitted.
For mothers like her, water scarcity is not just an inconvenience; it is a daily burden that affects the health and future of their children.
The challenges extend beyond households. At the Moli Rural Health Centre, the strain is visible. Elder Linus Meloto, 57, worries about the facility’s capacity.
Linus Meloto, an elder on Moli mainland, photo credit- John Houanihau.
“With a population of 3,000, we don’t have a good clinic building and we have only one nurse serving us,” he said.
The clinic’s limited space means patients are often sent home without proper care. Meloto recalled a recent case where a pregnant woman had to give birth in the village after being referred to Honiara.
“If there are two nurses, it will be okay for us. But the clinic itself is really small,” he added.
His appeal is clear: “Any government of the day that has concern for its people should improve these clinics. Because that is life.”
Registered nurse Anthony Saru, posted at Moli for two years, sees the same struggles from inside the clinic.
Moli Registered Nurse Anthoney Saru poses in front of the Moli Clinic, photo credit- John Houanihau.
“The clinic is small and cannot accommodate the big population,” he said.
With only one nurse, the workload is heavy, especially during disease outbreaks. Limited space forces staff to treat patients quickly and send them home.
Water shortages compound the problem. The clinic has no direct supply and relies entirely on a tank. During dry periods, staff fetch water from streams for deliveries and patient care.
“The more patients coming in, the more water we need,” Saru explained.
Medicines also run short when bad weather prevents travel to Taro for supplies.
His appeal is simple: “The clinic is too small. I call for the development of this clinic, just like many other clinics that have been improved over the years.”
For the people of Moli mainland, water and health are inseparable struggles.
Without reliable water, families cannot cook, wash, or send children to school.
Without adequate staff and space, the clinic cannot provide the care thousands depend on.
For Mary Jane, Meloto, and Saru, the message is urgent: improving these basic services is not just about development, but about dignity.
As Meloto puts it: “Those are important things. If these are addressed, people will have a healthy living and live a better life.”
*Reporting for this story was supported by Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS)
Photo credit: John Houanihau
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Fiji win sends Solomon Islands out as Bonitos settle for draw with PNG
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands’ hopes of reaching the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup final ended in Suva yesterday after the Bonitos were held to a 1-1 draw by Papua New Guinea before Fiji defeated New Caledonia 2-1 in the night’s second match.
The results left Vanuatu and Fiji on seven points each, with Solomon Islands finishing third on six points. Papua New Guinea ended on four, while New Caledonia finished on three.
According to the competition format confirmed by the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC), the top two teams after the round-robin stage qualify for the October 3 final.
The Bonitos went into the final round knowing that victory over PNG would guarantee their place in the decider, while a draw would leave their fate dependent on the result of Fiji’s later encounter with New Caledonia.
They could only manage a share of the points against the Kapuls.
The 1-1 result lifted Solomon Islands to six points from four matches, leaving them needing New Caledonia to deny the hosts in the second match.
That hope, however, vanished when Fiji secured a 2-1 victory to collect three valuable points and move level with Vanuatu at the top of the standings.
Fiji had entered the final day on four points after their 2-0 victory over PNG on Sunday, while New Caledonia came into the match on three points. The Fijians’ win therefore took them to seven points and secured their place in Saturday’s final alongside defending champions Vanuatu.
The result was particularly disappointing for Solomon Islands after an unbeaten opening three matches had put Ben Cahn’s side in a strong position.
The Bonitos opened the campaign with a 3-3 draw against Fiji before defeating New Caledonia 2-0. They then fought back three times against Vanuatu to earn another 3-3 draw, with captain Javin Wae scoring late to rescue a point. Fiji FA previously reported that result as a six-goal thriller.
Those results had placed Solomon Islands on five points heading into yesterday’s final round, behind Vanuatu but ahead of Fiji, PNG and New Caledonia.
However, the final round produced the two results the Bonitos could not afford — their own draw and a Fiji victory.
For Cahn’s side, the tournament ends without a defeat, but also without the final appearance they had been chasing.
The 2026 MSG Prime Minister’s Cup features Fiji, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and New Caledonia, with each side playing four round-robin matches. OFC confirmed before the tournament that the top two teams would meet in the October 3 final. The competition was revitalised in 2022 and this year marks its fifth successive edition.
Photo credit: Fiji Football Association
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Unsponsored St. Dominic Athletics Club Dominates National Championship with Massive 47-Medal Tally
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
ST. DOMINIC Athletics Club has cemented its position as the premier track and field club in the Solomon Islands, topping the official medal tally to capture the overall title at the conclusion of the three-day Athletics National Championship at the National Stadium yesterday.
Official results released by the National Sports Council (NSC) media confirmed that the young club finished the championship at the top of the standings with an impressive haul of 47 medals—comprising 23 gold, 13 silver, and 11 bronze.
The massive medal collection comes despite the club operating entirely without corporate sponsorship, fielding up to 40 athletes across every single discipline to secure maximum points over the three days of competition.
Speaking following the victory, national middle-distance runner and St. Dominic leader Stephen Rahuasi expressed immense pride in the squad’s performance despite their off-track financial struggles.
“I am very happy and proud of St. Dominic Athletics Club,” Rahuasi said. “Without any sponsors, we have been struggling on our own to manage the club. We have up to 40 athletes now. It was not easy, but we came out on top overall.”
Rahuasi explained that the club entered the national meet with a clear, strategic objective: to ensure no track or field event was left unentered.
“Our mindset coming into this competition was strictly focused on winning the overall title,” he shared. “Our strategy was to ensure we didn’t leave any event unentered. We made sure we had athletes competing in every single event, which allowed us to collect a large tally of medals.”
Highlighting the growth of the young squad, Rahuasi commended the dedication of the up-and-coming athletes who continue to elevate their performance each year.
“I am so proud of our young athletes,” he added. “They gave it their best and have improved significantly since we first started.”
St. Dominic Athletics Club was founded by senior Solomon Islands athletes to address the lack of development structures in local athletics. Operating as a grassroots initiative, the club relies entirely on self-management and community support to train and equip dozens of local athletes for national track and field events.
Photo credit: NSC
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
A veteran copra farmer from West Kwaio, Malaita Province, has highly praised the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) for its newly introduced Farmers First Initiative, describing it as a vital platform for rural producers to voice their challenges and shape better agricultural services.
Enoch Finalae, 50, a lifelong farmer from Malealau Village, shared that his family’s deep roots in the copra industry span generations, beginning with a coconut plantation established by his great-grandfathers.
Mr Finalae has dedicated his life to maintaining the family estate through continuous replanting and rehabilitation.
While Finalae operates his own copra dryer to process his coconuts locally before selling them to buyers, he revealed that infrastructure upkeep remains a severe hurdle.
“Maintaining the dryer is a constant challenge because it frequently breaks down due to the temporary local materials we have to use,” Finalae said.
He stressed that rural farmers urgently need durable materials, such as steel drums and wire netting, to construct permanent, reliable dryers.
In addition to infrastructure needs, the Malaitan farmer urged authorities to look into providing reliable shipping and transport services to help rural farmers efficiently get their heavy commodities to urban markets.
Despite these ongoing struggles, Finalae expressed deep gratitude to CEMA for its active support on the ground, particularly through the provision of copra drying shacks and offering highly competitive prices for local produce.
He highlighted that CEMA’s physical presence and operations in Malaita’s provincial capital, Auki, have significantly boosted accessibility for local farmers.
“The Farmers First Initiative really promotes us as farmers and empowers us to maximise the financial benefits from our hard work,” Finalae said.
According to CEMA, the Farmers First Initiative was launched to bridge the gap between the authority and rural producers. It serves as an open forum where farmers can directly share their firsthand experiences and offer recommendations on improving national agricultural services, fostering a sense of institutional ownership among rural communities.
The strategy heavily complements CEMA’s ongoing rural Agent Programme, which places buying agents directly inside high-yield cocoa and copra villages to streamline trade.
Photo: Supplied
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BY TONY IROGA
Five staff members from the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) have gained valuable insights following their participation in a three-week capacity-building seminar in China this month.
In an official press release issued today, SINU said the program provided crucial professional development and cross-cultural learning for its personnel.
The Seminar on Capacity Building for Diplomats from Solomon Islands took place from September 3 to 23, 2026, across Beijing and Shandong Province.
Organised by the China Foreign Affairs University (CFAU) and funded by China’s Ministry of Commerce, the program combined lectures, skills workshops, field visits, and cultural learning.
The training covered key areas including diplomacy, diplomatic protocol, negotiation, conflict resolution, governance, economic development, and international engagement.
SINU said the programme provided valuable lessons and experiences that can contribute to professional development and knowledge-sharing within the university.
Participants also joined representatives from various Solomon Islands Government ministries during the trip and engaged in discussions on governance and international cooperation while exploring major landmarks such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City.
“The experience contributed to strengthening people-to-people and professional connections between Solomon Islands and China,” SINU said, acknowledging the support from the Chinese government and CFAU.
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BY JOSES SAREN
The Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) officially opened its new US$5.77 million (about SBD$48 million) Aviation Complex Building today.
The complex, funded through the World Bank-supported Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), was constructed by China Railway Construction Engineering Group (CRCEG) over 652 days, beginning in December 2024.
Guests at the entrance of the new Aviation Complex after the handover ceremony photo credit- Joses Saren
The total contract value was US$5,771,547.68.
Minister for Communication and Aviation Frederick Kologeto said the new facility will end years of reliance on rented offices and allow government funds to be redirected to other services and programmes.
“Yearly, we spend about 2 million dollars on office rental.
“With the completion of this facility, these funds can now be redirected towards other critical services, strengthening our operations, and supporting further programs and projects within our country,” Kologeto said.
He said the investment will improve the use of public resources.
The new complex will bring several government agencies and divisions under one facility, including the Civil Aviation Authority of Solomon Islands (CAASI), National Computer Emergency Response Team, Digital Transformation Division and Communication Policy Division.
One of the new executive offices in the new building, photo credit- Joses Saren
Workstations inside the new complex, photo credit-Joses Saren
It will also provide dedicated space for Immigration, Customs and Biosecurity officers.
Kologeto said bringing the services together will improve coordination and the delivery of services in the aviation and communications sectors.
“Bringing these essential services together will strengthen coordination and improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and responsiveness of services required within the industry.
“The Aviation Complex is more than just a new office building; it is critical national infrastructure, ”he said.
World Bank Country Representative Bernard Harborne said the successful completion of the project demonstrates the government’s ability to deliver major infrastructure projects.
Harborne also said the World Bank is preparing to provide an additional US$40 million under SIRAP2.
“We’re just about to put an additional $40 million into that project given the way in which the Solomon Islands government and the project team are working so well,” he said.
Harborne said the new complex represents part of the country’s future development.
Kologeto also called on other ministries without permanent offices to consider investing in their own facilities to reduce long-term rental costs.
“I would like to take this opportunity to call on ministries that are yet to have permanent homes to seriously consider investment in their own office complexes,” he said.
“Acting Prime Minister... he got his own office complex. So do I. Why not the other ministries?”
The ceremony ended with a prayer, ribbon-cutting and a tour of the new facility for invited guests.
Photo credit: Joses Saren
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
A PROLONGED dry spell is putting increasing pressure on households in Gizo, with residents struggling to find enough clean water for drinking and cooking.
Several household wells have reportedly dried up, leaving only a few sources available for basic domestic activities such as bathing and washing.
Residents say the situation is becoming increasingly difficult as the dry conditions continue.
“This is one of the worst dry seasons yet. There has been no rain for quite a long time,” one resident said.
Some families are now buying cartons of bottled water from shops to meet their drinking and cooking needs, adding extra costs to already stretched household budgets.
Others are relying on remaining wells and walking along roads carrying buckets in search of water to take home.
The sight of residents carrying empty containers and moving from one water source to another has become increasingly common in parts of Gizo.
With the dry spell continuing, residents are concerned that the situation could worsen if there is no significant rainfall soon.
The shortage is placing particular pressure on households that depend on wells as their main source of water.
Residents are now hoping for sustained rainfall and appropriate action to ensure communities have access to safe and reliable water during prolonged dry periods.
Water shortage is not a new thing in Gizo, but this time its getting worse as dry spell continues since last month.
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BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Makira Ulawa Provincial Government, (MUPG) and West Are’are Constituency, (WAC), Shipping have signed an agreement that will alllow West Are’are’s MV Taimareho to serve the people of South Ulawa in Makira Ulawa Province.
According to a statement from the Province’s inland revenue division, the agreement was signed after WAC Shipping met the province’s Business License Ordinance.
“We highly commend your decision to expand your shipping service routes to include West ‘Are’are, Afio, and South Ulawa. This crucial expansion provides a long-awaited, reliable maritime link for the people of Ulawa, demonstrating a commendable spirit of partnership and service to our communities.” the statement said.
It said for too long, the people of Ulawa have struggled with shipping services, leaving local businesses disconnected and copra farmers facing severe hardships in transporting their produce to markets in Honiara.
The statement said with the newly established agreement, it is confident that these logistical challenges will be significantly eased, paving the way for immediate economic relief and sustainable growth.
The people of Ulawa and Ugi have not been properly served with shipping services since the demise of the constituency boat, LC Lokoiola.
Other ships servicing Makira Ulawa Province include, Fair Chief, Fast craft Pelican, MS Charisma, MV Airi and KCB.
Photo credit: MUPG
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Solomon Islands reviews health indicators to simplify reporting, improve data quality and help frontline staff make better decisions. “We need data that helps us see the problem quickly, not reports that take more time to understand,” said Dr Henry Kako, Director, National TB and Leprosy Program. Monthly health summaries should help staff spot when medicines [...]
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by Ofani Eremae& Members of the Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) will receive a 5.5% crediting rate on their balances this year – down from the 8% interest rate awarded last year. Finance minister Rexom Ramofafia announced this at a ceremony held at the Heritage Park Hotel. The event...
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BY SHOREYANN RAGOSO
Panatina Community High School in east Honiara celebrated the graduation of 503 students today, with families, teachers, community members and supporters gathering to mark their achievement.
The graduation ceremony was held at the school hall under the theme, “Perseverance: A Pathway to Success.” It marked an important step for the students as they completed their secondary education and prepared for their next journey.
School principal Mrs Mary Inasimae congratulated the graduates for their commitment and determination throughout their years at Panatina.
“I sincerely thank you for trusting Panatina School to be your institution and for allowing us to be part of your educational journey,” she said.
Panatina Community High School Principal Mary Inasimae delivering her speech.
Inasimae reminded the students that their education was not only about passing exams. She encouraged them to carry the knowledge, skills, values and lessons learned at school into their future lives.
She also reminded the graduates that many people had supported them along the way.
“Always remember that you are not alone,” she said, adding that their parents, families, communities, provinces and the country were all looking to them.
She encouraged the students to give back in the future as a way of recognising the support and sacrifices made for their education.
Guest of honour Davis Pitamama, Education Director of HCC Educational Provider, also encouraged the graduates to remain disciplined and determined as they prepare for further education, employment and other opportunities.
School Principal Mrs Mary Inasimae handing of the Certificate to one of the form 6 graduate
Pitamama said education was important because it gave young people the knowledge and skills needed to work towards their dreams.
He explained that perseverance was more than simply reaching the end of school.
“Perseverance is not about finishing. It is a journey you take in education, learning, gaining strength and building character,” he said.
Pitamama encouraged the graduates not to give up when they face difficulties in life.
“Perseverance helps us to stay focused during tough times, but continue to be positive and keep prospering in your education journey to be a good person,” he said.
The ceremony also featured awards and certificate presentations, recognising students for their achievements.
Parents and guardians thanked the teachers and school administration for their support and guidance throughout the students’ education.
The celebration ended with graduates sharing their special achievement with their families, friends and teachers, creating memories of an important day in their lives.
作者:SHOREYANN RAGOSO
今天,位于霍尼亚拉东部的帕纳蒂纳社区高中庆祝了503名学生的毕业,家庭、教师、社区成员和支持者齐聚一堂,共同庆祝他们的成就。
毕业典礼在学校礼堂举行,主题为“毅力:通往成功的道路”。这标志着学生们完成中学教育,准备迎接下一个旅程的重要一步。
学校校长玛丽·伊纳西梅(Mrs Mary Inasimae)祝贺毕业生们在帕纳蒂纳的学习期间表现出的承诺和决心。
“我真诚地感谢你们信任帕纳蒂纳学校作为你们的教育机构,并让我们成为你们教育旅程的一部分,”她说。
伊纳西梅提醒学生们,教育不仅仅是通过考试。她鼓励他们将学校所学的知识、技能、价值观和经验带入未来的生活中。
她还提醒毕业生们,许多人在他们的成长过程中给予了支持。
“永远记住,你们并不孤单,”她说,并补充道,他们的父母、家庭、社区、省份和国家都在关注他们。
她鼓励学生们在未来回馈社会,以此来认可为他们的教育所做出的支持和牺牲。
嘉宾戴维·皮塔马马(Davis Pitamama),霍尼亚拉市教育局教育主任,也鼓励毕业生们在准备进一步教育、就业和其他机会时保持自律和决心。
校长玛丽·伊纳西梅(Mrs Mary Inasimae)向一名 Year 6毕业生颁发证书。
皮塔马马表示,教育很重要,因为它为年轻人提供了实现梦想所需的知识和技能。
他解释说,毅力不仅仅是完成学业。
“毅力不是关于结束,而是你在教育、学习、获得力量和塑造品格的旅程,”他说。
皮塔马马鼓励毕业生们在生活中遇到困难时不要放弃。
“毅力帮助我们在艰难时期保持专注,但要继续积极向上,努力在教育旅程中成为一个好人,”他说。
典礼还颁发了奖项和证书,以表彰学生们的成就。
家长和监护人感谢教师和学校管理层在学生教育过程中给予的支持和指导。
庆祝活动在毕业生与家人、朋友和教师分享他们的特殊成就中结束,创造了他们生活中重要日子的美好回忆。
BY JOY OFASIA
The Ministry of Communication and Aviation has officially opened and handed over its new Aviation Complex Building at Henderson, marking what Minister for Communication and Aviation Hon. Frederick Kologeto described as an important milestone for the ministry and the country’s aviation and communication sectors.
Speaking at the official handover and opening ceremony today, Minister Kologeto acknowledged the individuals, organisations and stakeholders whose efforts contributed to the completion of the project.
“Today, we are not simply handing over a new building, we are marking an important milestone in the development of the Ministry of Communication and Aviation,” Kologeto said.
He said the project was also part of the government’s continuing efforts to improve the delivery of essential services to the people of Solomon Islands in the aviation and communication sectors.
Kologeto said the construction of the complex was firmly aligned with the Great Coalition Government’s focus on infrastructure and national development.
Minister of Communication & Aviation Hon. Frederick Kologeto and Acting Prime Minister – Hon. Francis Sade with all guests in front of the new Aviation Complex Building.
He said the completion of the building also represented an achievement under the government’s Policy Translation and Implementation Framework, which gives the Ministry of Communication and Aviation responsibility for leading the development of the aviation and communication industries.
The minister said the project had a total value of US$5,771,547.68, or approximately US$5.8 million.
The construction was carried out by China Railway Construction Engineering Group, which signed the contract on 1 November 2024.
According to Kologeto, construction officially began on 17 December 2024 and continued for 652 days before the complex was completed and officially handed over on 30 September 2026.
“Today, after 652 days of construction, we have finally reached this important moment, the completion and officially handing over of this magnificent communication and aviation complex,” he said.
Minister for Communication and Aviation Hon. Frederick Kologeto.
Kologeto described the completion as a testament to the commitment and hard work of the various partners involved in delivering the project.
“Today, we can proudly say that the vision has become a reality,” he said.
The minister also used the occasion to acknowledge everyone who contributed to the project, saying that despite the challenges encountered during its implementation, stakeholders had worked together to turn the ministry’s vision into reality.
He said the ceremony should serve as evidence of successful cooperation between the Government of Solomon Islands and the various stakeholders involved in the project.
“Let this celebration be evidence of the successful cooperation between the various stakeholders and the Government of Solomon Islands,” Kologeto said.
The official opening and handover mark the completion of the new facility and its transition into use by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation.
作者:JOY OFASIA
通信与航空部在亨德森正式开放并移交其新建的航空综合大楼,通信与航空部长弗雷德里克·科洛盖托(Hon. Frederick Kologeto)称这是该部和国家航空与通信领域的重要里程碑。
在今天的正式移交和开幕仪式上,科洛盖托部长感谢了为项目完成作出贡献的个人、组织和利益相关者。
“今天,我们不仅仅是在移交一座新建筑,我们是在标志着通信与航空部发展的重要里程碑,”科洛盖托说。
他说,该项目也是政府持续努力改善所罗门群岛人民在航空和通信领域基本服务交付的一部分。
科洛盖托表示,综合大楼的建设与大联合政府对基础设施和国家发展的关注紧密相连。
通信与航空部长弗雷德里克·科洛盖托(Hon. Frederick Kologeto)与代理总理弗朗西斯·萨德(Hon. Francis Sade)及所有嘉宾在新航空综合大楼前合影。
他说,建筑的完成也代表了在政府政策转化与实施框架下的一个成就,该框架赋予通信与航空部领导航空和通信产业发展的责任。
该项目的总价值为5,771,547.68美元,约合580万美元。
建设由中国铁路建设工程集团承建,该公司于2024年11月1日签署合同。
根据科洛盖托的说法,建设于2024年12月17日正式开始,持续了652天,直到2026年9月30日完成并正式移交。
“今天,在经过652天的建设后,我们终于迎来了这个重要时刻,完成并正式移交这个宏伟的通信与航空综合体,”他说。
通信与航空部长弗雷德里克·科洛盖托(Hon. Frederick Kologeto)。
科洛盖托称完成这一项目是各方合作伙伴在交付项目过程中承诺和努力的见证。
“今天,我们可以自豪地说,愿景已成为现实,”他说。
部长还借此机会感谢所有为项目作出贡献的人,表示尽管在实施过程中遇到挑战,利益相关者们仍然齐心协力将该部的愿景变为现实。
他说,仪式应作为所罗门群岛政府与参与项目的各方之间成功合作的证据。
“让这次庆祝活动成为各利益相关者与所罗门群岛政府成功合作的证据,”科洛盖托说。
正式开幕和移交标志着新设施的完成及其交由通信与航空部使用。
Solomon Islands face PNG in crucial MSG Cup decider
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands will face Papua New Guinea in a crucial final round-robin clash of the MSG Prime Ministers Cup at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva this afternoon.
According to FFA, Oceania Football Association and OFC, the match kicks off at 4pm Fiji time (3pm Solomon Islands time), with the Solomon Islands needing a strong result to keep their place in Saturday’s final within reach.
The latest standings have Vanuatu leading on seven points, followed by Solomon Islands on five, Fiji on four, and Papua New Guinea and New Caledonia on three points each. Vanuatu moved to the top after beating New Caledonia 4-1 on Sunday.
That leaves the Solomon Islands with a clear but demanding task. A win over PNG would take them to eight points and guarantee a place in the October 3 final. A draw would take them to six points, but they would then need Fiji to drop points against New Caledonia later today to finish inside the top two.
PNG, meanwhile, are also fighting for survival in the final race after suffering defeats to New Caledonia and Fiji following their opening 2-1 comeback win over defending champions Vanuatu. Fiji beat PNG 2-0 on Sunday, leaving the Kapuls on three points heading into their final match.
Solomon Islands remain unbeaten after three matches, having drawn 3-3 with Fiji, defeated New Caledonia 2-0 and then shared another 3-3 thriller with Vanuatu.
Against Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands came from behind three times, with Don Keana, Raphael Lea’i and captain Javin Wae finding the net. Wae’s 86th-minute equaliser secured another valuable point for Ben Cahn’s side. Fiji FA described the encounter as a six-goal thriller.
The Solomon Islands have scored eight goals in three matches but have also conceded six, making defensive discipline an important focus against a PNG side that will be desperate to keep its final hopes alive.
For PNG, the match represents one last opportunity to climb the standings, while Solomon Islands know victory would remove the uncertainty and book their place in the decider.
The MSG Prime Ministers Cup features Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Fiji and New Caledonia, with each team playing the others once before the top two meet in the final. OFC confirmed the competition is the fifth edition since the tournament was revived in 2022.
Solomon Islands are chasing a place in the October 3 final after an unbeaten opening three matches. Vanuatu have already completed their four round-robin games and sit top on seven points, leaving the Bonitos, PNG and Fiji to battle for the remaining final position in today’s decisive fixtures.
Photo credit: Fiji Football Association
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SINPF members will receive a 5.5% crediting rate for 2026, with more than SBD200 million to be credited to member accounts. Members of the Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) will receive a 5.5 percent crediting rate for the financial year ending 30 June 2026. Minister of Finance and Treasury Rexon Ramofafia announced the rate [...]
The post SINPF Members to Receive 5.5% Crediting Rate appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY TONY IROGA
THE Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) and the UK Government yesterday agreed on the next stage of an energy programme to establish a new independent energy regulator in Solomon Islands.
The new regulator will allow independent power providers to operate, reducing reliance on imported diesel and lowering electricity costs through renewable options such as solar, a statement by the UK High Commission yesterday said.
It is advancing the necessary reforms, with the UK providing technical and legal expertise to draft secondary legislation covering economic licensing and technical certification for electrical workers.
British High Commissioner Paul Turner met MMERE Permanent Secretary Chris Vehe yesterday to sign the agreement.
UK-contracted legal expert William Kadi, a former Chevening scholar, is drafting the legislation under MMERE supervision before submission to the Attorney General’s Chambers.
With Prime Minister Matthew Wale aiming for lower tariffs, MMERE and the UK plan to complete the draft legislation by early 2027.
MMERE emphasised that establishing an independent regulator is a critical step towards diversifying the nation’s energy sector and making power more affordable for local communities.
“This legal work will be important for advancing the wider energy programme that the World Bank is taking forward, including on tariff and institutional reforms,” Mr Turner said.
He added that the UK will continue working with the World Bank and ADB, while maintaining support for major projects such as the Tina River Hydro Project through the Global Environment Facility and multilateral funding.
Photo: Supplied
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BY TONY IROGA
THE Embassy of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) handed over $150,000 to the Solomon Islands National University (SINU).
A statement from SINU yesterday said the funding will support 37 students selected for the Chinese Ambassador’s Scholarship for Semester Two, 2026, the statement yesterday said.
SINU representative Andrew Awa received the cheque on behalf of the university. The handover took place in the presence of Acting Prime Minister Francis Sade and China’s Chargé d’Affaires H.E. Yang Jie.
H.E. Yang Jie congratulated the recipients and said that this is the fourth year the Chinese Embassy provided the awards to SINU outstanding students.
“The scholarship will serve as a beacon of hope for young people in Solomon Islands,” H.E. Yang Jie said.
He said the program is sowing seeds for national development and shows the strong friendship between China and Solomon Islands.
SINU expressed gratitude to the Embassy of China for its ongoing assistance.
SINU congratulated the 37 scholarship recipients and acknowledged the continued support of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China towards education.
Over the last seven years, nearly 300 Solomon Islands students have received full scholarships to study in China.
“The continued support through the Chinese Ambassador’s Scholarship reflects the growing cooperation between China and Solomon Islands in education and human resource development,” SINU said.
The Chinese Embassy remains committed to boosting human resource development and educational cooperation across the country.
Photo credit: SINU
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
TEACHERS from cyclone-affected schools across Western Province are undergoing mental health and psychosocial training in Gizo as part of efforts to support students affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila.
The training is part of the Back-to-School Programme, a cyclone recovery initiative delivered by the Mental Health Division of Western Province Health Services and Save the Children in partnership with the Western Province Education Division.
Coordinator of Mental Health Services for Western Province Health Services, Michael Ilangono, said the training focuses on helping teachers understand mental health and psychosocial issues affecting children following the disaster.
He said the training will equip teachers with the knowledge to identify warning signs among children who may have experienced trauma from Tropical Cyclone Maila and provide appropriate support.
“In any event or disaster, people get traumatised, especially children. When we get traumatised, our wellbeing is not functioning well. For children, they will not learn properly in schools.
“So, this training is to help teachers identify issues that need attention and seek further support,” Ilangono said.
He said teachers will also be introduced to available mental health services and support networks within Western Province so they could refer children and families requiring further assistance.
Ilangono said another component of the training was the Back-to-School Programme, which provides guidance to teachers and communities on when schools should reopen following a disaster.
“Teachers will be introduced to criteria on how to deal with children before reopening schools,” he said.
Ilangono said Tropical Cyclone Maila was one of the major disasters to affect Western Province, making it important for teachers to have basic knowledge and skills in mental health and psychosocial support.
Meanwhile, Willie Etupio said the training is important in building the capacity of teachers to help their schools return to normalcy following the cyclone.
Etupio said the objective is to bring teachers together and establish a baseline understanding of the situation affecting schools and communities after Tropical Cyclone Maila.
He said feedback from teachers will help the technical team to identify areas where additional knowledge and skills in mental health are needed.
“So, the idea is to engage the technical groups, the Mental Health Division, to give the content and deliver training to teachers,” Etupio said.
“In terms of education, we want as soon as possible to get these students back to normal. This can extend to parents and communities as well.”
He said the programme is funded by UNICEF and facilitated by the Western Province Education Division in partnership with the Mental Health Division of Western Province Health Services and Save the Children Western Branch.
Etupio said the training will be extended to teachers from Shortland Islands and Rendova in the coming weeks.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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BY TONY IROGA
THE Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) kicked off a four-day training workshop on Monday this week.
A statement from SIMS today said the Environmental Scan Program Training Workshop aims to build staff capacity and align operations with international Quality Management System (QMS) ISO 9001 standards.
“The training is facilitated by international advisors Ms Helen Tseros and Mr Bryan Boase, alongside the Director of SIMS,’’ the statement said.
Participants will analyse SIMS’s operational environment using SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis to mitigate risks and improve service delivery.
Key areas of focus include evaluating SIMS’s national and international role, prioritising strategic needs, building long-term operational plans, and updating QMS documentation.
“This practical exercise allows SIMS to look critically at their strengths and vulnerabilities while mapping out clear, actionable strategies for the future.
“By meeting international ISO standards, SIMS continues its commitment to protecting lives, property, and livelihoods across the Solomon Islands through reliable meteorological services,” SIMS said.
The workshop will conclude tomorrow, with outcomes integrated into core agency frameworks to ensure compliance with World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.
The workshop is supported by the Australian Government through the SIMS/Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) Twinning Arrangement Project.
Photo credit: SIMS
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