BY NED GAGAHE
ACTING Prime Minister Francis Sade has congratulated the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China on its 77th anniversary, praising the country’s transformation, development and growing global role.
Mr Sade conveyed the congratulations on behalf of the Solomon Islands Government and people during a reception at Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara yesterday to mark the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
He also acknowledged the 7th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Solomon Islands and China, describing the relationship as a progressive partnership built on mutual respect, sovereignty and shared development aspirations.
“On behalf of the government and people of the Solomon Islands, I wish to extend our warmest and heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency President Xi Jinping for his leadership and the government and people of the People’s Republic of China as the nation celebrates its 77th year of remarkable progress and prosperity,” Mr Sade said.
He said China had undergone remarkable transformation, resilience and progress over the past 77 years, becoming one of the world’s leading economies and an important player in global affairs.
Mr Sade said Solomon Islands valued constructive partnerships that supported its national development priorities and contributed to regional and global prosperity.
He reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ continued commitment to the One China Principle, describing it as a foundation of the bilateral relationship.
The Acting Prime Minister said cooperation between the two countries had expanded across governance, trade and economic development, infrastructure, agriculture, climate action, disaster response, health, sports, education, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges.
He highlighted Chinese-supported infrastructure projects, including the National Stadium, infrastructure support to Solomon Islands National University, the National Referral Hospital Comprehensive Medical Centre and the National Broadband Network Project.
Mr Sade also pointed to the Auki Road project in Malaita Province as another example of the cooperation between the two countries.
“These are all testament to the friendship and cooperation that we have progressed in the past seven years,” he said.
He said the Solomon Islands Government recognise the tangible benefits the projects had delivered through sports, education, health, digital connectivity and improved access to development.
Mr Sade also highlighted the signing of the Framework Agreement on Enhanced Economic Partnership between Solomon Islands and China earlier this year, saying it reflected a shared commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation and advancing the comprehensive strategic partnership.
He said the Government would continue engaging with China to ensure tangible and mutually beneficial outcomes for Solomon Islands and its people.
Looking ahead, Mr Sade said he was confident the partnership would continue to grow through mutual respect, shared interests and a common commitment to sustainable development.
He also acknowledged the contribution of the Chinese community to the social and economic development of Solomon Islands.
The Acting Prime Minister concluded by proposing a toast to continued progress, prosperity, friendship and cooperation between the two countries.
“May God bless the people of the Republic of China and may God bless Solomon Islands from shore to shore,” he said.
Photo credit: Ned Gagahe
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BY LORETTA B MANELE
Police in Auki, Malaita province have arrested a 30-year-old male suspect for stabbing a 45-year-old male victim with a kitchen knife at Lalana Island in Malaita Province.
A statement from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) this morning said the stabbing incident happened on Thursday, September 24, 2026 and the arrest on Monday, September 28.
RSIPF said from initial reports, the suspect was heavily under the influence of liquor at the time of the stabbing incident.
Supervising Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Malaita Province Superintendent Michaeal Ramosaea said Auki police are currently investigating the alleged horrific stabbing incident.
He said the victim was playing ludo under his house when the suspect had violently attacked him with a kitchen knife.
Superintendent Ramosaea said the suspect allegedly cut the victim and stabbed him in the belly, causing him severe wounds.
He said when relatives assisted the victim to the hospital, the suspect had escaped and hid.
The victim is said to be in critical condition.
Superintendent Ramosaea said police officers had attended to the victim at the hospital but were unable to obtain a formal statement due to the severity of his medical condition.
He strongly appeals to relatives of the victim to remain calm and maintain the peace while police actively investigate the matter.
“Community members are urged not to take the law into their own hands,” said RSIPF.
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Australia is supporting skills training and development by strengthening workforce readiness and improving technical and vocational education and training (TVET).
Under Pacific Australia Skills, Solomon Islanders were supported to participate as observers at the Samoa National Skills Competition in June and the Timor-Leste 2 nd International Friendly Skills Competition in July.
Solomon Islands Government officials, TVET practitioners and education stakeholders had the opportunity to observe regional best practices, share experiences, and explore approaches to strengthening skills systems that are responsive to industry needs and labour market demands.
Solomon Islanders attending the Samoa National Skills Competition, including (L-R) Mathias Kutai (MEHRD) Starling Konainao (MNPAC), Philemon Ruia (Pacific Australia Skills), Goldie Lusi (SITESA), and Atenasi Ata (Pacific Australia Skills).
Following the competitions, Australia hosted a knowledge-sharing session bringing together TVET leaders, educators and development partners to reflect on lessons learned and consider how regional experiences can inform ongoing efforts to strengthen skills training in Solomon Islands.
The activity reflects the shared commitment of Solomon Islands and Australia to building a more inclusive, industry-relevant and responsive skills system that creates practical pathways to employment and supports national development priorities.
“These skills competitions help strengthen training quality, build confidence among educators and institutions, and ensure graduates are equipped with skills that meet industry needs.”
Representing the Solomon Islands Tertiary Education and Skills Authority (SITESA), Goldie John Lusi, said his experience in Samoa provided valuable insights into strengthening training delivery and assessment practices.
Solomon Islanders who attended the skills competitions in Samoa and Timor-Leste gathering for a knowledge-sharing session after returning to Solomon Islands.
“What we observed in Samoa highlighted the value of strong partnerships between government, training providers and industry,” Mr Lusi said.
“Aligning training with industry standards and investing in trainer capability will help improve the quality and relevance of TVET in Solomon Islands.”
Patrick Nokali of Solomon Islands National University (SINU) said his experience in Timor-Leste reinforced the importance of practical skills development and collaboration across the sector.
“Observing an international-level competition strengthened our understanding of how skills development contributes to national growth,” Mr Nokali said.
“It also reinforced the importance of working together to raise standards and prepare students for real work environments.”
Solomon Islanders attending the Timor-Leste 2nd International Friendly Skills Competition, including (L-R) Patrick Nokali (SINU), Molina Kwato’o (Pacific Australia Skills) and Desmond Waita (Anglican Church of Melanesia).
Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jeff Roach, said regional collaboration plays an important role in strengthening skills systems and workforce development across the Pacific and Timor-Leste.
“Australia is resolutely committed to partnering with Solomon Islands on education and skills, strengthening its sector as the vital ingredient to a prosperous Solomon Islands.,” High Commissioner Roach said.
Participants identified several priorities for strengthening TVET delivery in Solomon Islands, including expanding competency-based training, deepening industry partnerships, enhancing assessment and quality assurance systems, investing in developing trainers, and improving access to modern training facilities and equipment.
Discussions also highlighted the importance of stronger coordination among government agencies, training providers, industry partners and development organisations to support employment-focused skills development opportunities for young people.
澳大利亚通过加强劳动力准备和改善技术与职业教育培训(TVET)来支持技能培训和发展。
在太平洋澳大利亚技能项目下,所罗门群岛居民获得支持,作为观察员参加了6月的萨摩亚国家技能竞赛和7月的东帝汶第二届国际友好技能竞赛。
所罗门群岛政府官员、TVET从业者和教育利益相关者有机会观察区域最佳实践,分享经验,并探索加强响应行业需求和劳动力市场要求的技能体系的方法。
参加萨摩亚国家技能竞赛的所罗门群岛居民,包括(左至右)Mathias Kutai(MEHRD)、Starling Konainao(MNPAC)、Philemon Ruia(Pacific Australia Skills)、Goldie Lusi(SITESA)和Atenasi Ata(Pacific Australia Skills)。
在比赛结束后,澳大利亚举办了一场知识分享会议,汇集了TVET领导者、教育工作者和发展伙伴,反思所学经验,并考虑如何利用区域经验来加强所罗门群岛的技能培训。
该活动反映了所罗门群岛和澳大利亚共同致力于建立一个更具包容性、与行业相关且响应迅速的技能体系,从而创造实际的就业路径并支持国家发展优先事项。
“这些技能竞赛有助于提高培训质量,增强教育工作者和机构的信心,并确保毕业生具备满足行业需求的技能。”
代表所罗门群岛高等教育与技能管理局(SITESA)的Goldie John Lusi表示,他在萨摩亚的经历为加强培训交付和评估实践提供了宝贵的见解。
参加萨摩亚和东帝汶技能竞赛的所罗门群岛居民在返回所罗门群岛后聚集进行知识分享会议。
“我们在萨摩亚观察到的情况突显了政府、培训提供者和行业之间强大合作伙伴关系的价值,”Lusi先生说。
“将培训与行业标准对齐并投资于培训师能力将有助于提高所罗门群岛TVET的质量和相关性。”
所罗门群岛国立大学(SINU)的Patrick Nokali表示,他在东帝汶的经历强化了实践技能发展和跨行业合作的重要性。
“Nokali先生说,观察国际级别的比赛增强了我们对技能发展如何促进国家增长的理解。
“这也强化了共同努力提高标准并为学生准备真实工作环境的重要性。”
参加东帝汶第二届国际友好技能竞赛的所罗门群岛居民,包括(左至右)Patrick Nokali(SINU)、Molina Kwato’o(Pacific Australia Skills)和Desmond Waita(美拉尼西亚圣公会)。
澳大利亚驻所罗门群岛高级专员Jeff Roach表示,区域合作在加强太平洋和东帝汶的技能体系和劳动力发展中发挥着重要作用。
“澳大利亚坚定致力于与所罗门群岛在教育和技能方面合作,加强其作为繁荣所罗门群岛的关键要素的部门。”Roach高级专员说。
与会者确定了加强所罗门群岛TVET交付的几个优先事项,包括扩大基于能力的培训、深化行业合作伙伴关系、增强评估和质量保证体系、投资于培训师发展,以及改善对现代培训设施和设备的访问。
讨论还强调了政府机构、培训提供者、行业伙伴和发展组织之间加强协调的重要性,以支持年轻人的就业导向技能发展机会。
Athletics championship opens pathway to 2027 Pacific Games selection
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
The race for places in the Solomon Islands athletics squad for next year’s Pacific Games has officially begun, with the national athletics championship underway yesterday at the National Stadium in Honiara.
The three-day championship, running from September 28–30, has brought together athletes from Honiara clubs and several provinces, with performances being closely watched as Athletics Solomon begins its selection process for the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti.
According to Athletics Solomon president Michael Kuali, the championship is the first of a series of trials that will help identify athletes who could be developed into the national squad, with further time trials planned later this year and early next year.
“This competition is very important. It is to scout any possible athletes and select them to start training for the upcoming Tahiti Pacific Games,” Kuali said.
Athletes from Western, Malaita, Guadalcanal and Central Islands provinces are competing alongside representatives from Honiara clubs, giving the championship a broad national representation.
Kuali said Athletics Solomon is hoping the three-day competition will produce performances that can help identify athletes with the potential to progress into the national preparation squad.
“We will look forward for some good results, whereby we can pick up athletes,” he said.
Among those chasing a possible place in the national setup is 19-year-old Joseph Kilalo of St Dominic Club, who is competing in the 100m, 200m and high jump.
Kilalo made an early impression yesterday by winning the men’s high jump with a clearance of 1.55 metres.
“I am very excited to compete in this year’s championship and hope to do my best to be selected for the squad to compete in the upcoming Pacific Games next year,” Kilalo said.
Western Province representative Vealila Rolland is another athlete using the championship as an opportunity to test herself against wider competition, with the 10,000m and 1,500m among her events.
The championship also provides an important platform for younger athletes, with Under-16 competitors taking part under the same programme.
Day One produced several notable performances, including Mirriam Tura’s victory in the women’s 800m. The 14-year-old Guadalcanal athlete clocked 2:48.57 to finish ahead of Western Province’s Rinah Kabolo, 16, who ran 2:50.57.
Guadalcanal’s 11-year-old Julies Kabolo was third in 2:50.58.
In the men’s 800m, St Dominic’s Stephen Rahuasi took first place in 1:59.62, while Namsta Club’s Gabriel Ini, 16, finished second in 2:00.55.
The women’s 100m title went to Namsta Club’s Santy Kako in 13.40 seconds, with Julian Sosimo of St Dominic second in 13.78 and 16-year-old Jian Farobo third in 14.01.
The championship continues today with the 1,500m, long jump, 400m heats, discus, 200m heats, hurdles and 4x100m relays among the events scheduled before Wednesday’s final programme.
The three-day meet is being hosted by Athletics Solomon with support from the National Sports Council and other stakeholders.
It is expected to form an important early step in building the pool of athletes from which Solomon Islands’ 2027 Pacific Games team can eventually be selected.
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Senior side set for international friendlies and futsal partnership talks
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Brilliant Bullets Futsal Club’s senior men’s side has departed Solomon Islands for Vanuatu, where the club will play a series of international friendly matches against top Vanuatu futsal clubs.
The tour is also expected to open the door for greater cooperation between Brilliant Bullets and the Vanuatu futsal community, with the Solomon Islands club planning to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the visit.
According to the club, the proposed MOU will focus on mutual interests between Brilliant Bullets Futsal School of Excellence and its Vanuatu counterparts, including opportunities for player exchanges and participation in international competitions.
The international tour comes after the Brilliant Bullets senior boys completed their final domestic preparations with two convincing friendly-match victories.
They defeated Haura FC 4-2 before beating Kukstaon FC 4-1 in another preparation match, giving the squad a positive boost ahead of its overseas assignment.
The club thanked both Haura FC and Kukstaon FC for providing competitive opposition as the team prepared for the Vanuatu tour.
In a departure message posted on its social media platform yesterday, Brilliant Bullets said the team was leaving the country despite changes to its flight schedule.
The club said the players had worked hard and remained committed throughout their preparations for the tour.
The Vanuatu trip represents another step in Brilliant Bullets’ efforts to expose its players to international competition while building relationships with futsal clubs outside Solomon Islands.
The senior boys are expected to play their international friendlies against Vanuatu clubs during the tour, with the proposed partnership also aimed at creating further opportunities for players from both countries.
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Tura, Rahuasi lead opening athletics results at National Stadium
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Mirriam Tura and Stephen Rahuasi were among the standout performers as the Athletics National Championship produced its first batch of winners at the National Stadium yesterday.
Tura, 14, claimed the women’s 800m title for Guadalcanal Province after stopping the clock at 2:48.57, edging Western Province’s Rinah Kabolo, 16, who finished second in 2:50.57.
According to results released by the National Sports Council (NSC), Guadalcanal’s 11-year-old Julies Kabolo completed the podium in 2:50.58.
The opening day also saw strong performances from St Dominic Athletics Club, with Joseph Kilalo, Stephen Rahuasi and Julian Sosimo all featuring prominently among the day’s medal winners.
Kilalo won the men’s high jump after clearing 1.55m, while his St Dominic teammates George Augustus and Moses Rafera both cleared 1.50m.
Augustus, 17, secured second place by clearing the height on his first attempt, while Rafera, also 17, took third after succeeding on his last attempt.
Rahuasi, 24, added another St Dominic victory in the men’s 800m, winning in 1:59.62.
Namsta Club’s Gabriel Ini, 16, was second in 2:00.55, while St Dominic’s Leslie Silas, 19, finished third in 2:02.83.
In the women’s javelin, Julian Sosimo claimed gold with a throw of 34.67m.
Santy Kako of Namsta Club finished second with 30.85m, while Malaita Province representative Gloria Musuota placed third after recording 23.27m.
Kako later returned to the track to win the women’s 100m final in 13.40 seconds.
Sosimo completed a second podium appearance by taking silver in 13.78 seconds, while St Dominic’s 16-year-old Jian Farobo finished third in 14.01.
The results formed part of the opening day of the three-day national championship, which is being used by Athletics Solomon as an early platform to identify athletes for further training towards the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti.
The championship has attracted athletes from Honiara clubs and provinces including Guadalcanal, Western, Malaita and Central Islands, with Under-16 athletes also competing.
Competition continues today with the 1,500m finals, long jump, 400m heats, discus, 200m heats, hurdles and relay events, before the championship concludes tomorrow.
With further trials planned later this year and early next year, the performances at the National Stadium represent the first opportunity for athletes to put their names forward in the wider Pacific Games selection pathway.
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BY JOSES SAREN
Forty-three students from 24 schools competed in three categories at the SINPF 50th anniversary school speech competition yesterday.
The Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) held the contest at Desmond Probert Hall at St Barnabas Provincial Cathedral.
The programme opened with the arrival and registration of contestants, followed by a prayer led by a school teacher.
Board member and SINPF 50th Anniversary Committee chairman Oscar Vahimana delivered the welcome address on behalf of the board chairman.
He said the contest gave young people an opportunity to express their ideas, build confidence and develop leadership skills.
“Regardless of the final results, your participation today is already an achievement,” he told the contestants.
Vahimana said SINPF had grown from a humble beginning into a national institution, providing members and their families with a foundation for financial security.
“Speak with confidence, speak with purpose, and let your voice be heard and make a difference,” he said.
SINPF Chief Operations Officer Areau Hivu then gave the opening remarks as guest of honour and declared the contest open.
Hivu said the contest was part of SINPF’s inclusiveness strategy to reach and engage its future members.
She thanked the participating schools, teachers and students for accepting the invitation, as well as the Church of Melanesia for providing the venue.
“Public speaking is a skill that shapes leaders, influences change, and connects communities,” Hivu said.
She told contestants the day was about having the courage to stand before an audience and the discipline to prepare, as much as it was about winning.
“Every word you speak today has the potential to leave a lasting impact,” she said.
Hivu said some speeches will inspire the audience while others will challenge their thinking.
She encouraged everyone to listen with open minds and applauded the efforts of every speaker.
Primary pupils from Grades 4 to 6 competed in the first category, followed by intermediate students from Forms 1 to 3 and senior secondary students from Forms 4 to 6.
The three categories focused on saving for the future, the importance of trust in building a stronger nation, and the role of trust, stability and growth in national development.
The competition continued throughout the day, with the senior secondary category ending in the early evening.
SINPF board chairman Dr Phil Tagini presented the prizes to the winners in the two secondary categories.
The top five contestants in the intermediate category received certificates, merchandise and cash prizes.
Heritage Park Hotel also added a bonus to the first and second-place prizes in the senior secondary category.
The competition gave students an opportunity to develop their public speaking skills while presenting their ideas before an audience.
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Honiara, Solomon Islands – 28 September 2026: The National Youth and Children’s Parliament 2026 begins today at the Paul Tovua Complex at the National Parliament Office in Honiara, bringing together approximately 50 children and young people from across Solomon Islands to learn about parliamentary processes, discuss issues affecting their communities, and present their views and recommendations.
Held from 28 September to 1 October, the programme is organised by the National Parliament of Solomon Islands, with support from UNICEF and funding from the European Union (EU), in partnership with the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs and the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening.
This year’s Parliament is held under the theme, “Our Voices, Our Future: Decentralization of Inclusive and Accessible Social Services for All.”
“Your presence here today demonstrates your commitment to leadership, civic responsibility, and the future development of our nation,” Speaker of the National Parliament, Honourable Patterson Oti, told participants when he officially opened the event today.
“This year’s theme recognizes that the voice of children and young people matters. You will learn about the foundation of our democratic system and the important role played by Parliament, as well as the distinct roles of the Executive and the Judiciary. You will gain a deep appreciation of parliamentary democracy, public policy development, electoral processes, national development priorities, and the delivery of essential services to our people,” the Hon. Speaker said.
The National Youth and Children’s Parliament 2026 kicks off today at the Paul Tovua Complex in Honiara, uniting around 50 children and young people from the Solomon Islands to explore parliamentary processes, address community issues, and share their perspectives and recommendations.
The theme provides an opportunity for children and young people to explore how decision-making and social service delivery can better respond to community needs, including through stronger provincial and local governance.
Discussions will focus on issues affecting children, young people, and their communities, including education, health, water, sanitation and hygiene, the environment, child protection, and social protection.
The programme builds on the National Youth Parliament, first organised in 2009. Similar programmes were also held in 2012, 2014, 2016, and 2017.
For 2026, the programme is particularly significant as it has expanded to include both children and youth, with participants from Honiara and the provinces. It aims to provide a more inclusive and representative platform for young people from diverse backgrounds.
Over four days, participants will learn about children’s rights, the Sustainable Development Goals, governance systems, parliamentary procedures, and the roles and responsibilities of Parliament. They will also take part in committee discussions, prepare speeches, and participate in a parliamentary simulation.
The programme will conclude with a mock parliamentary sitting on Thursday, 1 October, where participants will debate motions and present resolutions following parliamentary procedures. Their recommendations will then be presented to the Speaker of the National Parliament.
The programme also recognises children’s right to express their views on matters affecting them, consistent with Article 12 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Participants, aged 10 to 35, are drawn from schools, youth networks, and provincial communities, with efforts made to promote gender balance, provincial diversity, and the representation of persons with disabilities.
The National Parliament acknowledges the support of UNICEF and the EU in making the initiative possible. The Parliament sees the Children and Youth Parliament as an important platform for participation and learning, giving young people an opportunity to build confidence, strengthen their public speaking and leadership skills, and contribute their views on issues that are important to their communities and the nation.
BY JOSES SAREN
Bishop Epalle Catholic School, Selwyn College and Betikama Adventist College took the three category titles at the SINPF 50th anniversary school speech competition yesterday.
Hazel Arelovana, 11, of Bishop Epalle won the primary category with a speech on “Saving Today for a Better Tomorrow”.
Ghaseteo Baragamu of Selwyn College won the intermediate category with a speech on “The Importance of Trust in Building a Stronger Nation”.
McAurthur Bird of Betikama Adventist College took the senior secondary title with a speech on “Trust, Stability and Growth: The Pillars of National Development”.
In the primary category, Ruth Trishna Francis of St Nicholas Anglican College placed second, followed by Rose Mary Tewakeni of Ngovia Primary School in third.
Junior Saimago of White River placed fourth, while Newlyn Tutuo of Palm Drive International finished fifth.
In the intermediate category, Coronation School placed second, Florence Young School third, Betikama Adventist College fourth and Chung Wah School fifth.
In the senior secondary category, Benny Hovell of Selwyn College placed second, followed by Ravin Ofata of King George VI School in third.
Mercy Alafa of Woodford International School placed fourth, while Katisha Poloso of Coronation School finished fifth.
SINPF board chairman Dr Phil Tagini presented the prizes to the winners in the two secondary categories.
The top five contestants in the intermediate category received certificates, merchandise and cash prizes.
Heritage Park Hotel also added a bonus to the first and second-place prizes in the senior secondary category.
Selwyn College and Betikama Adventist College each finished in the top five in both secondary categories. Coronation School also featured in the top five in both categories.
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BY NED GAGAHE
SOLOMON Islands and China have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen bilateral relations, with both sides highlighting seven years of diplomatic ties, major development projects and expanding economic and people-to-people cooperation.
Acting Prime Minister Francis Sade made the remarks yesterday while representing the Solomon Islands Government at a reception marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the 7th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Solomon Islands and China.
Mr. Sade said China remains an important development partner to Solomon Islands and highlighted the broad areas of cooperation between the two countries.
Acting Prime Minister Francis Sade making his remarks, photo credit- Ned Gagahe.
These include governance, trade and economic development, infrastructure, agriculture, climate action, disaster response, health, sports, education, digital connectivity and people-to-people exchanges.
“China remains an important development partner to Solomon Islands,” Mr. Sade said.
He acknowledged China’s support for major infrastructure projects, including the National Stadium, Solomon Islands National University infrastructure, the National Referral Hospital Comprehensive Medical Centre and the National Broadband Network Project.
Mr. Sade said the projects delivered tangible benefits to Solomon Islanders through sports, education, health, digital connectivity and improved access to development services.
He also highlighted the Framework Agreement on Enhanced Economic Partnership signed by the two countries’ foreign ministers in August, describing it as a reflection of their shared commitment to further strengthen bilateral cooperation.
The Acting Prime Minister reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ commitment to the One China Principle, saying it remains a foundation of the two countries’ bilateral relationship.
He said the partnership is guided by mutual respect for sovereignty, dialogue and shared development aspirations.
Chinese Embassy Chargé d’Affaires H.E. Yang Jie also highlighted the progress made since Solomon Islands and China established diplomatic relations in 2019.
Chinese Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Yang Jie delivers his remarks, photo credit- Ned Gagahe.
Mr. Yang said the two countries have developed political mutual trust and practical cooperation over the past seven years.
He said China remains Solomon Islands’ largest trading partner for several consecutive years, with bilateral trade reaching about US$4.3 billion.
He said Solomon Islands exported about US$2.7 billion worth of goods to China, contributing to what he described as a trade surplus of about US$1.2 billion for Solomon Islands.
Mr Yang also pointed to completed Chinese-supported projects, including the National Stadium, SINU dormitory, the National Referral Hospital Comprehensive Medical Centre and the National Broadband Network project.
He said the Auki Road project in Malaita Province is scheduled for handover in November.
The Chinese diplomat also highlighted the work of the China Medical Team, saying it had treated more than 80,000 local patients and performed specialised medical operations.
He said the China Police Special Team had provided professional training to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and conducted community outreach programmes.
Mr Yang also pointed to China-supported rural development projects and small-scale community projects implemented across the country.
On education, he said nearly 300 Solomon Islands students had received full scholarships to study in China, while more than 1,700 alumni and mentors from various sectors had participated in training programmes in China.
He said provincial and city-level exchanges had also expanded, with Chinese provinces providing materials and development opportunities to their sister provinces and Honiara.
Mr Yang said the visa exemption agreement between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Solomon Islands, which took effect on August 26, had further facilitated people-to-people exchanges.
He also acknowledged the contribution of the Chinese community in Solomon Islands to the country’s development and urged Chinese nationals living and working in the country to respect Solomon Islands laws, local culture and traditions and contribute to the communities in which they operate.
Mr Yang reaffirmed that the One China Principle remains the political foundation of China’s relations with Solomon Islands.
Guests and officials attending the reception at Heritage Park Hotel yesterday, photo credit- Ned Gagahe.
Entertainment during the ceremony, photo credit- Ned Gagahe.
He said China is ready to share further development opportunities with Solomon Islands and work towards what he described as a China-Solomon Islands community with a shared future.
Both speakers looked ahead to continued cooperation, with Mr Sade saying the Government will continue engaging China to ensure tangible and mutually beneficial outcomes for Solomon Islands and its people.
The reception concluded with a toast to the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, seven years of Solomon Islands-China diplomatic relations and the continued friendship between the two countries.
Photo credit: Ned Gagahe
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Minister of Health and Medical Services Hon. Morris Toiraena has called for predictable, multi-year international financing to help Small Island Developing States (SIDS) strengthen pandemic prevention, preparedness and response.
Speaking at the High-Level Meeting on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response at the 81st United Nations General Assembly, the Minister highlighted the particular challenges facing Solomon Islands as a dispersed island nation with a limited health workforce and increasing climate-related health risks.
The Minister said Solomon Islands has strengthened its national preparedness since 2023 by institutionalising its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre, establishing national medical assistance teams and expanding disease surveillance into remote provinces.
“These systems were tested during Tropical Cyclone Maila earlier this year, when the Solomon Islands Medical Assistance Team (SolMAT) was rapidly deployed and surveillance systems monitored potential disease risks in displacement sites,” he said.
The Minister also highlighted efforts to integrate climate and health preparedness through the Health-National Adaptation Plan, including digital surveillance, vulnerability assessments and workforce training.
“Solomon Islands welcomed the WHO Pandemic Agreement, amended International Health Regulations and the establishment of the Pandemic Fund, while calling for the swift conclusion of negotiations on Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing,” he said.
Minister Toiraena urged international partners to provide predictable, pre-positioned support for SIDS.
He stressed that pandemic preparedness cannot depend solely on emergency financing once a crisis has already begun.
The Minister further called for stronger alignment between climate and health financing.
He said pacific countries increasingly face both health emergencies and climate-related disasters simultaneously.
“Health security infrastructure, much like climate infrastructure, cannot be built through fragmented, one-off emergency response cycles,” the Minister said.
BY TONY IROGA
A young copra farmer from East Fataleka, Malaita Province, has called for a nationwide campaign to rehabilitate aging coconut plantations, saying that such an initiative will help rural farmers unlock the full potential of their farms while boosting copra export volumes.
Thirty-two-year-old Henry Kwaifi, from Ofkwasi Village, has been actively engaged in copra farming for the past 10 years and more recently with boost from the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA).
Mr Kwaifi highlighted the direct socio-economic benefits of copra production at the rural level.
Operating a copra dryer within his farm, Kwaifi shared how the industry continues to serve as a vital lifeline for his household.
“Copra farming has played a very important role in supporting my family,” Kwaifi said. “Income from copra has helped me pay school fees, build my house, and meet basic family needs over the years.”
However, despite these achievements, he said that logistical bottlenecks continue to hinder local producers.
He said transportation remains one of the primary obstacles faced by copra farmers across his region.
Kwaifi called on the National Government to step in and provide reliable transportation support for CEMA.
He emphasised that adequate logistical backing will allow CEMA to effectively purchase and collect farmers’ produce directly from remote rural communities.
While acknowledging the logistical constraints, Kwaifi commended CEMA for its ongoing assistance to grassroots producers.
“I want to acknowledge CEMA for assisting me with copra bags and drums,” he said.
“This support has been very helpful to my farming activities, but the Government must appropriately resource CEMA so that it can remain fully operational in Auki over the long term.”
With many productive years ahead of him, Kwaifi expressed a desire to expand his farm’s output.
However, he cautioned that aging coconut trees across the country pose a major threat to future production levels if left unaddressed.
“The challenge of aging coconut plantations is common among farmers across the country and requires greater attention,” he said. “Our coconut trees are aging, and the plantations urgently require rehabilitation.”
He said that the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD) is collaborating closely with local farmers to launch a structured nationwide campaign that aims to replant and revive old coconut groves.
According to Kwaifi, such a programme will focus on restoring productive capacity, ensuring high-quality copra, and creating a win-win scenario for both local growers and international export markets.
“Improving the condition of coconut plantations would benefit both farmers and the wider commodity sector,” Kwaifi said.
He said farmers will be able to earn better incomes from their farms, while increased production will help ensure sufficient volumes of copra to consistently meet the demands of overseas buyers.
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
WESTERN Province Premier Billy Veo has called on the Prime Minister to transfer a portion of the SBD75 million recovery allocation directly to the Western Provincial Government for immediate implementation.
In a letter to Prime Minister dated September 23, Veo said the Western Provincial Government (WPG) is the constitutionally established authority representing the people and communities of Western Province and with the capacity to deliver needed support.
He said the provincial government is also an important implementing partner of the National Government and has direct responsibility for the welfare and development of people in the province.
Veo said the SBD75 million recovery allocation should not be transferred to non-government organisations, private companies or other external implementing agencies without the direct involvement and oversight of the provincial government.
“External organisations may have an important supporting role where specialised technical expertise is requested and not to displace the role of the Provincial Government in planning, coordination, prioritising and overseeing recovery activities within its jurisdiction,” he said.
Veo said WPG has established administrative and financial systems necessary to receive, manage, implement and account for public funds.
He also pointed to the province’s Provincial Disaster Operations Management Committee and related provincial disaster management structures as existing mechanisms to coordinate recovery activities among affected communities, national agencies, development partners and other stakeholders.
Veo said direct provincial implementation will allow recovery activities to be coordinated more closely with the needs identified by affected communities.
He stressed that WPG is not seeking to bypass the National Government’s accountability requirements.
“On the contrary, the province is prepared to provide full financial and programme accountability for all funds received,” Veo said.
He said accountability measures could include detailed recovery implementation plans, approved budgets and work programmes, regular financial acquittals, procurement documentation, progress reports, monitoring and evaluation reports, and reports to the National Government and other relevant authorities.
Veo said people of Western Province should have clear information on who is responsible for the recovery programme, how much funding is available, where the funds are being spent and whether the intended results are being achieved.
The SBD75 million recovery allocation follows the impacts of recent disasters in Western Province and is intended to support recovery activities in affected communities.
Veo’s call now places emphasis on greater provincial involvement in the planning, coordination, implementation and oversight of the recovery programme.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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Indonesian lawmakers criticise PM Wale over West Papua remarks at UN general assembly
BY JOSES SAREN
Indonesian lawmakers have criticised Prime Minister Matthew Wale over his remarks on reported human rights violations in West Papua during the 81st United Nations General Assembly.
The criticism came from members of the Indonesian House of Representatives Commission I, which oversees foreign affairs, defence and security.
Indonesian media SINDOnews reported on Saturday that Commission I member Abraham Sridjaja criticised Wale for raising the Papua issue at the UN General Assembly.
Sridjaja questioned the sources and verification of the reports referred to by Wale, saying the Prime Minister had made allegations against Indonesia without explaining how the information had been verified.
His comments were also reported separately by Indonesia’s ANTARA news agency.
Sridjaja also accused Wale of overlooking violence allegedly carried out by armed separatist groups in Papua.
He referred to several incidents involving civilians and government workers, including the reported killing of three civil servants in Jayawijaya on September 9.
The incidents and figures cited by Sridjaja are claims made by the Indonesian lawmaker and are not independently established in the reports.
Deputy Chair of Commission I Sukamta also criticised Wale’s remarks.
In a statement reported by ANTARA on Sunday, Sukamta described Wale’s position as a biased narrative and said the Indonesian parliament’s Commission I rejected what he regarded as one-sided allegations concerning Papua.
Sukamta called on Solomon Islands to respect Indonesia’s sovereignty and international law.
He also said differences over Papua should be addressed through dialogue and cooperation between Indonesia and Pacific countries.
Prime Minister Wale had raised the West Papua issue during his national statement at the UN General Assembly on September 24.
The Prime Minister said reports of human rights violations in West Papua should not be ignored and called for independent verification.
He also urged Indonesia to facilitate the long-awaited visit by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to West Papua.
The Solomon Islands Government had earlier said Wale’s participation at the UN General Assembly would provide a platform to advance Solomon Islands’ interests, reaffirm its commitment to multilateralism and international law, and amplify Pacific concerns.
PM Wale’s UN statement follows an ultimatum given by the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) earlier this year along the sidelines of the PIF Leaders Summit in Koror, Palau, for Indonesia to facilitate a visit by the UN Commissioner to West Papua.
Radio New Zealand reported on September 3 this year that MSG said that if a visit by the Commissioner’s office is not facilitated by Indonesia in order for a report on human rights issues in West Papua to be produced by their next summit in 2027, then Indonesia’s associate member status in the MSG will be reviewed.
Meanwhile, a PACNEWS report on September 7 said Fiji’s head of delegation and Minister for Foreign Affairs Sakiasi Ditoka, whose country is the current Chair of the MSG, said the group had not yet reached a conclusion on whether Indonesia’s Associate Member status should ultimately be reviewed.
Speaking to PACNEWS in Koror, Ditoka said there was still room for dialogue and negotiation with Jakarta over concerns about the welfare of Melanesians in West Papua.
Photo credit: OPMC
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Research by WaterAid and the University of Technology Sydney found Pacific activists rank the exclusion of women from water and climate decision-making as the root cause of other gendered climate impacts.
水援助组织(WaterAid)和悉尼科技大学(University of Technology Sydney)的研究发现,太平洋地区的活动家将女性在水资源和气候决策中的排除视为其他性别气候影响的根本原因。
APFCN brings experts together in Cairns to tackle illegal logging, forestry crime and financial crimes in PNG and Solomon Islands. The third meeting of the Asia Pacific Forestry Crime Network (APFCN) convened on 24-25 September 2026 at James Cook University, Cairns, to work collectively to tackle the drivers of forestry crime including illegal logging in [...]
The post Pacific Network Tackles Illegal Logging Crimes appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Solwata takes stories of climate displacement from Malaita communities to Venice, highlighting relocation and human rights. A story rooted in three Malaita communities has travelled beyond Solomon Islands through Solwata, a 25-minute mixed-reality documentary about climate displacement, planned relocation and human rights. Solwata made its world premiere in competition at Venice Immersive, the extended-reality section [...]
The post From Malaita’s Climate Frontlines to Venice: The Story of Solwata appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY CHARLES STENNETT
Papua New Guinea will host the 2028 Pacific Media Summit following a decision made by the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) at its Annual General Meeting in Savusavu, Fiji, last week.
Newly elected President of PINA as well as the President of the Papua New Guinea’s Media Council, Neville Choi, assured delegates at the summit that PNG was ready to host the regional summit and build on the standard set by Fiji with this year’s event.
“We are ready to host. And we have a very, very tough act to follow,” Choi said.
Choi said PNG had spent several years working with the government to strengthen the media industry and ensure it remained self-regulating.
He said the media industry needed to move while it still had the confidence of regional governments, particularly with elections approaching in several Pacific countries.
“While the iron is hot, while we still have the confidence of regional governments in some of our countries, I think we need to start moving before the next elections,” Choi said.
He explained that PNG was preparing for an election scheduled for April next year and said that the current members of Parliament may not remain after the election.
“What we do know is that the work that we have done over the past three to four years has put the media in PNG on a stronger footing with negotiating with the government, with ensuring that the industry remains self-regulating,” he said.
Choi said the PNG media industry had spent the past five years working to find the right balance of negotiation, understanding and collaboration with national leaders.
“Those things have now put us with legislation that says, or at least sets the foundation, for how we can be not just Papua New Guinea, but the Pacific,” he said.
Choi said PNG’s cultural diversity would also provide an important backdrop for the 2028 summit.
He said the PNG Government was currently supportive of the media sector, but warned that the situation could change.
“There are things that we know that can change overnight,” Choi said.
“Our passion now is to ensure that that doesn’t happen before we can achieve what we want to achieve.”
Choi said the PNG media delegation and PINA members across the country were ready to begin preparations for the 2028 summit.
Choi called on regional media organisations to support PNG as it prepares to host the summit.
“If you are only supportive, then we want you along with us on this journey over the next few years,” he said.
Photo credit: PINA
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SIART expects higher coconut production after rehabilitating 771 hectares and supporting 14 agribusiness groups in three provinces. The Solomon Islands Agriculture Rural Transformation (SIART) Project is expecting an increase in coconut production amongst its Agribusiness Producer Organizations (ABPOs) in Guadalcanal, Malaita and Makira/Ulawa Province. The Project has supported a total of 14 ABPOs across the [...]
The post Increased Coconut Production in Sight for SIART supported ABPOs appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
CAIRNS, Australia& Regional lawmakers, regulators, and advocates have taken a decisive stance against the illegal logging networks harming Melanesia, transitioning from dialogue to direct enforcement. During the third Asia Pacific Forests Crime Network (APFCN) gathering at James Cook University in Cairns from last week, thirty-five specialists gathered to confront the...
The post Collective Action To Curb Forest Crime: Third Meeting of the Asia Pacific Forestry Crime Network appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
YOUNG entrepreneurs from across Western Province are currently gathered in Gizo for a week-long Leadership and Business Training aimed at strengthening their knowledge, skills and capacity to start, manage and grow businesses.
The training brought together 48 young entrepreneurs from Marovo, Rendova, Munda, Noro, Gizo and Vella.
The program officially opened today at the Western Province Youth Centre in the presence of officials from the Western Provincial Government, national government ministries, the private sector and other stakeholders.
Officials from different sectors took turns delivering presentations on business opportunities, partnership techniques, experiences in entrepreneurship and the processes involved in registering businesses at the provincial level.
Sharing his experience as a successful business owner, Managing Director of JOGOS Construction, Joseph Gorae, told the young entrepreneurs that operating a business requires commitment, patience and time.
He said business is like a business baby; it requires proper nurturing before it can become profitable and contribute to the local and national economy.
Gorae also stressed the importance of proper planning and having an achievable vision when starting a business.
“I studied carpentry at the Solomon Islands College of Higher Education, now called Solomon Islands National University.
“During my first year, I registered my construction business. I graduated and started working to gain experience while nurturing my own business.
“Now my little dream has become a reality. I’ve obtained contracts to build houses, including this Youth Centre,” he said.
Gorae said proper planning, commitment and sacrifice were important ingredients for building a successful business.
He encouraged the young entrepreneurs to remain committed to their businesses while continuously seeking knowledge and skills that could improve their operations.
Chief Principal Officer of the Western Province Tourism Division, Meria Paza, said Western Province is known as the tourism hub of Solomon Islands and offers opportunities for young entrepreneurs to participate in the industry.
She said the Tourism Division stands ready to support small and medium-sized tourism operators.
Paza encouraged young entrepreneurs to develop different mindsets and create innovative products and services that could further boost the tourism industry in the province.
Meanwhile, representative of the Western Province License and Revenue Division, Lloyd Tigulu, said the division plays an important role in supporting business activities in the province.
He said the division is responsible for business registration and the collection of business taxes.
Tigulu said entrepreneurship is important not only for individual benefit but also for contributing to provincial revenue.
He encouraged the young entrepreneurs to be innovative and committed to the businesses they undertake.
The training is organised by the Western Province Young Entrepreneurs Council (WPYEC) in partnership with the national and provincial governments.
It is the first major event organised by WPYEC and aims to help young entrepreneurs strengthen their knowledge, skills and capacity to start, manage and grow their businesses.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE newly registered Western Province Youth Entrepreneurs Council (WPYEC) has reached 60 registered members since its establishment.
Speaking during the opening of the Business and Leadership Training in Gizo, WPYEC Secretary Uluta Gina said the organisation has attracted young entrepreneurs from across Western Province, from Marovo to the Shortland Islands.
Gina said WPYEC aims to provide a platform, system and community where young people can access knowledge, develop skills, connect with mentors, explore partnerships, identify business opportunities and build the confidence needed to become entrepreneurs.
He said the week-long Business and Leadership Training is part of WPYEC’s vision to empower young people with the skills, confidence and opportunities required to participate meaningfully in the domestic and national economy.
Gina said unemployment and underemployment remain serious challenges in Western Province, adding that the geographical nature of the province makes the situation more difficult for many young people.
He said the high cost of operating businesses in the province also presents challenges, making it important to support young people to become innovative while creating opportunities for businesses to grow.
“Without opportunities, skills and support, it can be difficult for them to find a pathway into productive employment or entrepreneurship.
“When we help one young entrepreneur build a sustainable business, we can potentially create opportunities for many more people in the very communities where those opportunities are needed the most,” he said.
Gina acknowledged the support of the National Government, Western Provincial Government and other partners in making the training possible.
He said WPYEC will continue working to support young entrepreneurs and remain a beacon of hope for young people pursuing business opportunities across Western Province.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
VISENA Community High School in Isabel province has celebrated the admission of 14 new Mothers’ Union members in a special ceremony held on Sunday.
Chaplain of Visena Community High School, Terence Malo, said the occasion was significant as it marks the first time the school had ordained Mothers’ Union members.
He said most of the newly admitted members are female staff and students from both the primary and secondary levels of the school.
Malo said the women and girls had taken vows to serve the Anglican Church through outreach ministries in their communities and respective villages.
He said the Mothers’ Union plays an important role in building peaceful families and nurturing children to become responsible citizens of the country.
“I render my congratulations with God’s abundant blessings in their mission for the church of God. It is their calling to serve the church and their communities,” Malo said.
He reminded the new Mothers’ Union members to remain committed to the promises they had made and to live a spiritual life while supporting the work of the church.
Meanwhile, Mothers’ Union Leader at Visena School, Maiden Modi, congratulated the newly admitted members on entering the ministry of mothers.
She also encouraged both new and existing Mothers’ Union members to remain faithful to the organisation and uphold its five objectives, including prayer and worship.
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作者:本·比卢亚
吉佐
维塞纳社区高中(Visena Community High School)在伊莎贝尔省于周日举行了一场特别仪式,庆祝14名新母亲联盟(Mothers’ Union)成员的加入。
维塞纳社区高中的牧师特伦斯·马洛(Terence Malo)表示,此次活动具有重要意义,因为这是学校首次任命母亲联盟成员。
他说,大多数新加入的成员是来自学校小学和中学的女性教职员工和学生。
马洛表示,这些女性和女孩已发誓通过在社区和各自村庄的外展事工来服务圣公会(Anglican Church)。
他指出,母亲联盟在建立和谐家庭和培养孩子成为负责任的公民方面发挥着重要作用。
“我祝贺她们,并愿上帝在她们的教会使命中赐予丰盛的祝福。这是她们服务于教会和社区的召唤,”马洛说。
他提醒新加入的母亲联盟成员要始终忠于她们所作的承诺,过上灵性生活,同时支持教会的工作。
与此同时,维塞纳学校的母亲联盟领导人梅登·莫迪(Maiden Modi)祝贺新加入的成员进入母亲事工。
她还鼓励新老母亲联盟成员要忠于组织,并坚持其五个目标,包括祷告和崇拜。
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