Government workers turn to sport to stay active, healthy and connected
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Government workers are being encouraged to step away from their desks and take part in sport as the Inter-Ministry Healthy Lifestyle Games continue to promote healthier lifestyles across the public service.
Technical Committee member responsible for volleyball, Andrew Leitaka, said participation in the games has been strong, with workers embracing the opportunity to exercise and socialise with colleagues from other ministries.
“People really look forward to game days. It gets workers away from sitting at their desks all day and encourages regular physical activity,” Leitaka said.
The games, which began on June 12, involves 26 ministries competing across seven sporting codes, with women’s volleyball alone attracting more than 30 teams.
Leitaka said the revival of the games by the Ministry of Health had received positive feedback from government workers, particularly amid growing concerns over non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
“These games encourage government workers to get out of their offices, stay active, and improve their overall health and well-being,” he said.
For Prime Minister’s Office Senior Procurement Officer and volleyball player, Veronica Kealau, the programme provides a welcome break from office work while creating opportunities to build relationships across government.
“We work in the office from the morning until 3:00 PM, and then from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, I come out to play,” Kealau said.
Kealau, who plays both volleyball and netball, said the games allow workers to exercise while strengthening connections with colleagues whose work often overlaps across ministries.
“Beyond the health benefits, it allows us to network with staff from other ministries. Our work is often interconnected, so meeting people on the court builds better working relationships across government departments,” she said.
She said the need for such activities was reinforced by NCD health screenings conducted across ministries earlier this year.
“Sitting at a desk all day creates an unhealthy workforce. A healthy workforce leads to better work outcomes in our offices,” Kealau said.
Despite limited training time and facilities, she said workers remained committed to participating.
“Our goal is to win every match, but if we lose, that’s okay too. As long as we get out here, enjoy ourselves, and take part in the program, we are happy,” she said.
The Inter-Ministry Healthy Lifestyle Games were revived this year after previously being held and later suspended, giving government employees an opportunity to stay active, build workplace relationships and promote healthier lifestyles through sport.
Photo credit: Richard Menanopo
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S-League Round 8 set for two double-headers at Lawson Tama Stadium
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Football supporters are set for another weekend of domestic action, with four S-League Round 8 matches scheduled to be played at Lawson Tama Stadium tomorrow and Sunday.
The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) released the Round 8 fixture schedule on its official social media platform, confirming two matches for each day of the weekend.
Saturday’s action will begin with Marist FC facing Sosa FC at 1pm, before Ghupo FC takes on Green Shield FC in the afternoon fixture at 3pm.
The competition continues on Sunday, with Kossa FC meeting Honiara City FC in the opening match at 1pm, followed by Malaita Kingz FC against Southern United FC at 3pm.
All four matches will be staged at Lawson Tama Stadium, with supporters expected to turn out in numbers to back their respective clubs.
The Round 8 programme comes as the S-League campaign continues to build momentum, with clubs looking to strengthen their positions as the competition progresses.
SIFF encourages football fans to come out and cheer for their teams, with the two-day programme offering supporters a full weekend of local football.
The four fixtures are part of Matchweek 5, Round 8 of the 2026 S-League season, with the first two matches scheduled for Saturday, August 15, and the remaining two on Sunday, August 16.
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BY RODRICK DESURI
Auki
As questions and concerns continue to be raised over how the GREAT Government will implement its proposed free education policy from 2027, a young female from Langalanga Lagoon has voiced her suggestion for consideration.
Christina Gelisa said while more work needs to be done before the full implementation of the policy, the Government should focus on supporting university students who have been unable to complete their studies because of financial difficulties.
She said such support will allow students to complete their courses while giving the Government more time to assess and gather the necessary information before rolling out the free education policy nationwide.
“We have many university students who did not complete their courses due to a lack of financial support from their parents, and they are now staying at home and doing other things,” Gelisa said.
“Why didn’t the Government shift its focus and support these students so they can complete their studies?” she asked.
“For a start, we should concentrate on these students while giving the implementers of the free education policy more time to carry out assessments in schools across the country to gather necessary information,” she added.
Gelisa also calls on the Government to create more employment opportunities as it moves forward with its proposed free education policy.
She said many university graduates are currently staying at home because they cannot find jobs related to their qualifications, while others have sought employment overseas, including in Australia.
“We need more jobs in administration, engineering, medicine, accounting and finance, agriculture and other fields,” she said.
Gelisa urges the Government to focus on policies that directly benefit the people.
She said education and employment should remain key areas of focus if the Government wants to improve opportunities for young people and strengthen the country’s future generations.
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Life Imprisonment for deadly
revenge over viral nude photos
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
A dispute over nude photographs circulated through a village has ended in murder, with the High Court sentencing Hopeman Manuhanei to life imprisonment for killing his cousin brother.
The case raises broader concerns about the consequences of mobile phones and digital media, particularly where intimate photographs are taken and circulated without the person's consent.
The case was heard before Judge John Keniapisia in the High Court at Kirakira.
The fatal stabbing took place at Mantaraibia village in Arosi 1, Makira-Ulawa Province, on 2 April 2025.
“I find this case is in the moderate range of murder, bordering between murder and manslaughter, due to grave provocation: taking nude pictures of an adult married person and circulating them for public viewing in the village, Judge Keniapisia said.
“I noted that HM (deceased) was provoked in a novel manner with the use mobile phones and digital media,” he added.
“And I would rate this provocation at the highest scale, because the defendant's nude pictures were taken and circulated for public viewing by the deceased in their village and the harm will be ongoing.”
Manuhanei stabbed the deceased once in the upper back with a kitchen knife measuring about 20 to 30 centimetres.
The court heard that the deceased had just returned from Honiara aboard MV Pelican Express after spending about three weeks there.
At the beachfront, he was helping pull a boat ashore and had bent down to unplug the fuel hose from the engine.
Manuhanei approached him from behind and delivered the fatal stab wound.
The deceased screamed and fell on the beach.
He was taken to a nearby clinic but was pronounced dead on arrival.
A medical report found that the knife wound caused massive internal bleeding, penetrating vital organs and blood vessels.
The court heard that the killing followed an earlier dispute between the two men.
Before the deceased travelled to Honiara, he had taken nude photographs of Manuhanei while he was asleep using a mobile phone.
The photographs were then circulated and viewed by people in the village.
The incident deeply angered Manuhanei.
According to the judgment, he planned to kill the deceased when he returned from Honiara.
Manuhanei armed himself with a kitchen knife and went to the beachfront when the deceased arrived.
The court found several aggravating features, including the fact that Manuhanei had obtained the knife in advance, waited for the deceased to return, approached him from behind and attacked while he was unarmed and unable to anticipate the danger.
Manuhanei pleaded guilty at the first available opportunity.
The court also considered that he was a first-time offender, had participated in reconciliation and paid compensation according to custom, and had demonstrated remorse.
The court initially set the non-parole period at 18 years after taking the aggravating circumstances into account.
The early guilty plea resulted in a 30 percent reduction, followed by a further reduction for the mitigating circumstances.
The final sentence was life imprisonment with a minimum non-parole period of 12 years, beginning from the date Manuhanei was first brought into remand.
John Resley Brook of Public Solicitor’s Office represented the defendant while Public Prosecutors Hellen Naqu and Steward Beto appeared for the Crown.
///End////
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Prime Minister Matthew Wale had discussions with an SPC delegation led by the Director-General Dr. Paula Vivili of Tonga on Wednesday.
A statement from the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) this afternoon said discussions centred on strengthening technical cooperation across key Solomon Islands development priorities, including ocean management, maritime boundaries, fisheries, climate change, renewable energy, agriculture and natural resources.
Mr Vivili briefed the Prime Minister on current programmes SPC is implementing with various government ministries in the country.
He also committed to ensuring that SPC’s programs and technical assistance are aligned with Government priorities.
Maritime boundaries also served part of the discussions.
Tony Kabasim, SPC’s Ocean Management and Literacy Team Leader update PM Wale on SPC’s work on maritime boundaries.
“He noted that, working with Solomon Islands ministry officials, SPC hopes to have the final maritime boundary between Solomon Islands and PNG ready for signing by the two Prime Ministers at this year’s Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau,” the statement said.
SPC is also supporting the country’s submission to the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf to secure sovereign rights over seabed areas beyond its territorial waters.
Vivili along with his team which comprised mostly of Solomon Island staff of the organisation and Director of SPC’s Melanesian Sub-regional Office in Vanuatu, also briefed the Prime Minister on the scope of SPC’s work in Solomon Islands.
Mr Wale welcomed the support and stressed on the importance of building national capacity to sustainably manage and benefit from the country’s ocean resources.
Other topics of discussion were scientific and technical support for sea-bed minerals, terrestrial mining, geology and natural resource management.
The Prime Minister also emphasised on the importance of institutions such as the SPC to build a pool of expertise to provide members with independent technical advice and strong scientific evidence to ensure that resource development and utilisation in member countries is responsible and delivers long-term national benefits.
SPC agreed to government’s suggestion that it works with government to produce a revolving three-year joint country strategy to better coordinate its support with the Prime Minister welcoming the proposal and expressing his wish to see more Solomon Islanders joining organisations such as the SPC to provide services to the wider Pacific region.
Mr Vivili observed that the distribution of Pacific Islander staffing at SPC’s is still in working progress and noted that larger populated countries such as Solomon Islands and PNG are under-represented.
Mr Wale hailed SPC as an important regional partner for Solomon Islands and expressed the aim to ensure that technical expertise and resources are on the same page with national priorities.
“SPC is an important regional partner for Solomon Islands. We want to ensure its technical expertise and resources are aligned with our national priorities and help us make better-informed decisions for our people,” Prime Minister Wale said.
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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Secretary-General of the g7+, Dr Helder da Costa, has praised the Solomon Islands for its leadership of the organisation when he met Prime Minister Matthew Wale and other senior government leaders during the g7+ delegation’s current visit to Honiara.
Dr. da Costa made the remarks during a press conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) today, following a series of meetings with the Solomon Islands Government.
The g7+ delegation is in Honiara from August 9 to 15 to brief the Government on the organisation’s progress over the past year and seek strategic guidance on its future direction.
Solomon Islands was elected Chair of the g7+ at the organisation’s sixth Ministerial Meeting held in Dili, Timor-Leste, in 2025. Liberia and the Democratic Republic of Congo are serving as the two Deputy Chairs.
Dr. da Costa said the delegation held meetings with Prime Minister Wale, Foreign Affairs and External Trade Minister Rick Houenipwela, the Minister of Finance, Minister of Mines and Rural Electrification, Minister for Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs, Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services, and the Speaker of Parliament.
“We are grateful for the strong leadership that Solomon Islands has shown in guiding the organisation at a particularly important moment in international affairs,” Dr. da Costa said.
He said the meetings also focused on the priorities Solomon Islands wants to advance during its tenure as Chair and how the g7+ could strengthen its impact at regional and global levels.
He said the delegation also sought guidance from Solomon Islands’ leadership on priorities for the upcoming g7+ High-Level Summit, which will be co-hosted by Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Liberia and the Democratic Republic of Congo on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, scheduled for September 24, 2026.
Dr. da Costa said the summit will provide an opportunity for member countries to discuss their collective vision amid an evolving global environment.
He said the g7+ is particularly concerned about growing geopolitical tensions, ongoing conflicts, climate-related disasters, economic uncertainty and disruptions to trade and energy markets.
“These challenges provide an opportunity to rethink international cooperation and build systems that are more inclusive, representative, and responsive to the realities of developing and conflict-affected countries,” he said.
Dr. da Costa said countries that had experienced conflict and fragility should not simply be passive recipients of decisions made elsewhere.
He said the g7+ will continue to work to ensure the experiences of its member countries contribute to global discussions on peacebuilding, development, climate resilience and international financial reform.
“We leave Honiara with a renewed sense of purpose and confidence in the leadership of Solomon Islands as Chair of the g7+,” he said.
The g7+ was established in April 2010 as an intergovernmental organisation comprised of 20 countries united by a vision of peace, stability and development in their countries and everywhere in the world.
The g7+ Member States include Afghanistan, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Cote d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Liberia, Papua New Guinea, Sao Tome e Principe, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Sudan, Timor-Leste, Togo, Yemen.
The Chair of the g7+ rotates biannually among the Member States with the possibility of re-appointment. The current Chair is Rick Nelson Houenipwela MP, Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade of the Solomon Islands. The headquarters of the g7+ is located in Timor-Leste, with offices in Portugal and New York.
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BY JOSES SAREN
The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) received the newly upgraded Tactical Training Centre (TTC) from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) this morning.
The handover ceremony was held at TTC Oval at Rove Police Headquarters.
The SBD $5.5 million facility comes from an Australian Government investment delivered through the AFP and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services, (MPNSCS) John Tuhaika Jr, in his keynote address at the ceremony described the handover as an important milestone for the national police service.
“This is an important milestone in the continued development of our national police service and a practical demonstration of the enduring partnership between the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and the Australian Federal Police,” Tuhaika Jnr said.
Tuhaika Jnr said a modern and capable police service must invest not only in infrastructure and equipment, but in its people.
He said the upgraded centre represents an important investment in the professionalisation, preparedness and operational readiness of RSIPF officers.
AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett formally handed over the centre on behalf of the AFP. She said the TTC brings together key capability areas, including close personal protection, operational safety training and the police response team.
“The Tactical Training Center represents a significant investment in the future of the RSIPF and in the development of a capable, professional, and modern police service,” Barrett said.
She said the facility is designed to support the RSIPF’s future growth and will provide training opportunities for around 1,000 officers each year. She said the project created local employment opportunities during construction and used materials sourced from communities across Solomon Islands.
“For me, the heart of that also is keeping our members safe, and that’s what a training facility like this does,” Barrett said.
“It allows us to train our members so that they can go out every day and stay safe, which is the most important thing for police officers.”
Acting RSIPF Commissioner James Aitorea welcomed Barrett back to Solomon Islands, noting her longstanding connection to the country through her earlier service during the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI).
“On behalf of the RSIPF, I thank our Australian partners for their continued support and commitment to Solomon Islands policing priorities,” Aitorea said.
The upgraded centre brings together the RSIPF’s Close Personal Protection, Police Response Department and Operational Safety Training teams in a single location.
Works delivered under the RSIPF-Australia Police Partnership Program (RAPPP) included upgrades to training classrooms, kitchen facilities, ablutions and changing rooms, improvements to the training court and road access, and the construction of a new leaf hut and outdoor facilities including an upgraded training oval.
The project created 59 local jobs during construction and now that it has reached completion, the RSIPF looks forward to using the facility to strengthen operational readiness, leadership and professionalism across the organisation.
The ceremony included the signing of documents by the two commissioners before guests were given a demonstration of defensive tactics and a tour of the TTC facility.
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BY NED GAGAHE
The Government has introduced the Mineral Resources Bill 2025 to modernise Solomon Islands’ mining laws, strengthen environmental protection and ensure landowners and communities benefit more from mining.
Moving the Bill for its second reading in Parliament this morning, Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) Derrick Manuari said it will repeal the Mines and Minerals Act (Cap. 42), which has governed the sector for more than 30 years.
He said the new law will promote transparent and accountable mining while balancing economic development, social equity and environmental protection.
The Bill introduces, for the first time, a statutory Community Development Agreement (CDA) framework requiring large-scale mining companies to formally share benefits with affected communities
Large-scale mining projects will be required to enter into CDAs with affected communities, covering areas such as local employment, infrastructure, education and health.
“This is a landmark step,” Manuari told Parliament.
“For the first time, CDAs will be a statutory requirement, giving communities a guaranteed share in mining benefits.”
The Bill will also strengthen landowner rights by requiring companies to negotiate access agreements before entering land and provide compensation for disturbance, loss of use or damage.
Environmental safeguards will require mining companies to obtain environmental approvals and rehabilitate mining sites during and after operations. Financial assurances, including rehabilitation bonds, will help prevent companies from abandoning damaged sites.
Under the proposed licensing system, the Minister, acting on advice from the Minerals Board, will grant, renew, vary or cancel mineral tenements.
The Bill covers reconnaissance, prospecting, feasibility and mining licences, as well as artisanal and community permits.
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BY NED GAGAHE
People who mine without lawful authority could face up to 15 years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to 15 million penalty units under the proposed Mineral Resources Bill 2025.
Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) Derrick Manuari outlined the provision in Parliament this morning when he introduced the Bill for its second reading.
The Bill states that mining without lawful authority will constitute an offence, with the penalties intended to deter illegal mining activities.
Applicants for mineral tenements will also be required to undergo a “fit and proper person” assessment, covering financial capacity, technical expertise, environmental approvals and community agreements.
The proposed legislation will establish prohibited, protected and restricted areas, including national parks, World Heritage sites, biodiversity areas, cemeteries and state forests.
A public Mining Register will also be established to record applications, grants, renewals, cancellations and transfers of mineral tenements.
Stricter controls on the transfer of mining rights and disclosure of beneficial ownership will be introduced to prevent hidden interests and ensure only qualified operators hold mining rights.
The Bill will also formalise artisanal and small-scale mining through registration, environmental safeguards and support for cooperatives.
Stronger workplace health and safety requirements are proposed, including accident reporting and emergency response plans.
The proposed legislation also provides for royalties to be calculated based on the market value of minerals, with revenues shared among the Government, landowners and provincial governments.
Manuari said the Bill will promote sustainable mining, protect landowner and community rights, and support national economic development.
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Guadalcanal welcomes Water,
Sanitation Projects
GUADALCANAL Province has welcomed water and sanitation projects implemented with support from development partners.
This follows the selection of two communities in Guadalcanal, along with communities in Makira and Central Islands, as recipients of a new climate adaptation initiative aimed at strengthening freshwater security, improving Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) services, and building resilience to the growing impacts of climate change.
UNICEF has supported three wards in North East Guadalcanal.
UNDP has also constructed seven WASH facilities in Guadalcanal, five of which are located in schools and benefit 1,800 students.
The partnership has been implemented since 2024 and continues through 2025.
Through the Provincial Government Strengthening Programme, UNDP has further supported WASH interventions in two schools, which are expected to benefit more than 1,000 students, as well as health clinics that serve more than 2,000 people.
Speaking at the launch of the Protecting Freshwater Resources for Increased Climate Resilience in the Pacific Islands (PacFresH2O) programme at Pacific Crown Hotel on Thursday, Premier Atu said the sanitation projects would ensure hygiene practices are improved in schools, consequently reducing the spread of diseases that may affect pupils’ wellbeing and education.
“As we all know, girls need greater toilet privacy and adequate facilities for their monthly hygiene management.
“Lack of such facilities may deter parents from sending their daughters to school or even cause them to drop out,” he said.
Premier Atu said UNICEF assessments had indicated that the student-to-toilet ratio in Guadalcanal was 48 girls to one toilet, while for boys the ratio was 64 to one.
He said the national standard for Solomon Islands should be 30 girls to one toilet and 40 boys to one toilet.
“We sincerely thank you that in your support we will be able to reduce these ratios in our strive to achieve the national ratio standards,” he said.
Premier Atu confirmed that in its last budget, the provincial government allocated 2.46 percent of its Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF) towards water and sanitation.
The launch of PacFresH2O marks the commencement of programme implementation in Solomon Islands.
Led by GIZ Pacific, the programme is being implemented in partnership with the Government of Solomon Islands, the Pacific Community (SPC) and Live & Learn.
Supported by the German Government’s International Climate Initiative (IKI) and funded through the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMUKN), the five-year regional programme supports Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea to strengthen climate resilience through sustainable freshwater resource management and climate-resilient WASH services.
According to the 2019 Population Census, Guadalcanal has a population of 154,022, making it the second-largest province in the country.
Honiara International Port works advance with temporary structures being installed ahead of the 30-metre berth extension Construction works at Honiara International Port are progressing well, with the project entering an important stage towards the planned extension and upgrading of the International Berth 1 Wharf. Current construction activities include the fabrication and installation of temporary works [...]
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Guadalcanal Cup Kicks-Off September
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Star Sports, Honiara
The stage is being set for the return of the much awaited Guadalcanal Cup Championship, with the 2026 edition scheduled to kick off in September.
The Guadalcanal Football Association (GFA) is preparing for another exciting edition, bringing together teams from the eight constituencies of Guadalcanal.
Official dates, venue, competition format and the registration deadline are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
In a statement released by the GFA, this year’s championship will be particularly significant with the introduction of a Women’s competition, marking the first time female players will compete as part of the Guadalcanal Cup.
"A significant milestone for the 2026 edition is the introduction of a Women's Division, marking an important step forward in promoting gender inclusion and expanding opportunities for female footballers throughout Guadalcanal," the statement reads.
Under this year's competition requirements, all eight constituencies must register both a men’s and women’s team.
Registration is set at SBD $3,500 for the men’s category and SBD $1,500 for the women’s category.
The GFA is appealing to all constituency leaders, football administrators and communities to begin preparations and get their teams ready for the September competition.
"The GFA Executive calls on constituency leaders, football administrators, players, supporters, and communities across Guadalcanal to prepare for what promises to be an exciting and historic championship."
"Together, we can make the Guadalcanal Cup Championship 2026 a successful celebration of football, unity, and provincial pride."
Meanwhile, beyond the competition itself, the Guadalcanal Cup is also expected to play an important role in selecting players for the Guadalcanal Hornets Team, with the 2026 Solomon Cup proposed for December.
//End//
Guadalcanal Cup Kicks-Off September
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Star Sports, Honiara
为备受期待的瓜达尔卡纳尔杯锦标赛的回归做好了准备,2026年赛事定于九月开赛。
瓜达尔卡纳尔足球协会(GFA)正在为另一届激动人心的赛事做准备,届时将汇聚来自瓜达尔卡纳尔八个选区的球队。
官方日期、场地、比赛形式和注册截止日期预计将在接下来的几周内公布。
在GFA发布的声明中,今年的锦标赛将特别重要,因为将引入女子比赛,这标志着女性球员首次作为瓜达尔卡纳尔杯的一部分参赛。
“2026年赛事的一个重要里程碑是引入女子组,这在促进性别包容和扩大瓜达尔卡纳尔女性足球运动员的机会方面迈出了重要一步,”声明中写道。
根据今年的比赛要求,所有八个选区必须注册男子和女子球队。
男子组的注册费用为3500所罗门元,女子组为1500所罗门元。
GFA呼吁所有选区领导、足球管理者和社区开始准备,做好球队参加九月比赛的准备。
“GFA执行委员会呼吁瓜达尔卡纳尔的选区领导、足球管理者、球员、支持者和社区为这场承诺将是激动人心和历史性的锦标赛做好准备。”
“我们可以共同将2026年瓜达尔卡纳尔杯锦标赛打造成足球、团结和省级自豪感的成功庆典。”
与此同时,除了比赛本身,瓜达尔卡纳尔杯还预计将在选拔瓜达尔卡纳尔黄蜂队的球员方面发挥重要作用,2026年所罗门杯计划于十二月举行。
//End//
Grand-uncle Sentenced to 11yrs in JailBy ASSUMPTA BUCHANANSolomon Star, HoniaraA 56-year-old grand-uncle has been sentenced to 11 years' imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to one count of rape involving his six-year-old grand-niece.The defendant who cannot be named to protect the identity of the child victim had been charged under Section 136F(1)(a) and (b) of the Penal Code (Amendment) (Sexual Offences) Act 2016.In his sentencing remarks, Judge John Keniapisia said the court has a duty to see that sentences it imposed gives out a powerful deterrent factor to prevent the commission of such offences. “Offenders must receive harsher punishments to mark society's outrage and denunciation against sexual abuse of women and girls,” Judge Keniapisia said.The court heard that the defendant lived with the child's family in Honiara.He occupied a small house next to the family home. On a day between May and August 2025, he invited the victim and her younger sister to his house to play, when he committed the sexual offences against the victim.The matter later came to light after the child's behaviour changed. On 15 August 2025, she was reportedly crying and refused to leave school with the defendant, who normally picked her up. Her teachers contacted her father, who collected the children.The child's mother also noticed changes in her behaviour and asked her about them. The matter was then reported to police.In sentencing the defendant, Judge Keniapisia considered the seriousness of the offence and the victim’s age.Referring to the Court of Appeal’s 2023 decision in Sinatau, the court set a starting point of eight years’ imprisonment.Seven aggravating factors, including the victim’s very young age, breach of trust, pre-planning, secluded location, physical harm and psychological harm, increased the starting point by 10 years, bringing the provisional sentence to 18 years.The court then considered mitigating factors, including the defendant’s guilty plea, first-offender status, cooperation with police, rehabilitation prospects and personal circumstances. After those reductions, the final sentence was set at 11 years’ imprisonment.Justice Keniapisia noted that rape carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment and stressed the need for deterrence in cases of sexual offending against women and girls.“The main purpose of the punishment I give here is to condemn your action and to protect the public from the commission of such crimes by making it clear to you and others with similar impulses, that anyone who yields to this kind of crime will meet with severe punishments.”The defendant was convicted on his guilty plea and ordered to serve 11 years’ imprisonment, with credit for time already spent in pre-trial detention.Tracey Aisa of Public Solicitor’s Office represented the defendant, while Public Prosecutors Patricia Waisanau and Grace Chow appeared for the Crown.///Ends///
Temotu Premier Stanley Tehiahua welcomes consultation on federalism, calling for evidence-based reforms and provincial consideration Honiara, 14 August 2026: The Premier of Temotu Province, Hon. Stanley Tehiahua, has welcomed the ongoing consultation on the Comparative Cost-Benefit Analysis [CBA] of the Solomon Islands’ current Unitary System of Government and a proposed Federal System. He described the [...]
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特莫图省省长斯坦利·特希阿华(Stanley Tehiahua)欢迎关于联邦制的咨询,呼吁基于证据的改革和省级考虑。
霍尼亚拉,2026年8月14日:特莫图省省长斯坦利·特希阿华(Hon. Stanley Tehiahua)欢迎对所罗门群岛当前单一制政府与拟议的联邦制进行的比较成本效益分析(CBA)的持续咨询。他描述了 [...]
该文章最初发布于 Tavuli News(所罗门群岛)。
YOUTH VOICES CONCERN OVER LOGGING
OPERATION IN SOUTH MALAITA
By FLOYD TERRY JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
Growing concerns have emerged among young people in South Malaita, particularly in Malou, over a logging operation with some residents saying they were not adequately consulted before the activity took place.
The concerns have surfaced in recent days as young people from the area voiced fears about the potential impacts of logging on their livelihoods, environment and future access to natural resources.
While acknowledging that the logging company is expected to provide royalties and financial benefits to landowners and communities, some youths questioned whether those benefits would outweigh the long term environmental benefits.
One youth, who asked not to be named, said the community had seen many negative impacts associated with logging and believed the latest operation could create further problems if concerns were not properly addressed.
The youth said the lack of consultation was among the key issues contributing to the concerns, with some young people feeling excluded from decisions that could directly affect their future.
The situation has prompted calls for all parties, including community leaders, responsible authorities, landowners and young people, to engage in dialogue and seek peaceful ways to resolve disagreements.
There are also concerns that frustration over logging could lead some people to take matters into their own hands, potentially creating further conflict within communities.
The concern youth said the call is therefore for young people to use peaceful and lawful avenues to raise their concerns, while leaders are encouraged to come down to the community level and listen directly to the issues being raised.
He said young people are seen as important stakeholders in decisions concerning natural resources, particularly because they will inherit the land and environment in the years ahead.
Leaders have also been urged to provide young people with greater opportunities to participate in decision-making and leadership, rather than overlooking their concerns.
He said the wider message is that development should not only be measured by immediate financial returns, but also by its long-term sustainability and impact on communities.
For communities in South Malaita, the debate highlights the need to find a balance between economic opportunities from natural resource development and the protection of the environment and livelihoods that future generations will depend on.
The call from concerned youths is ultimately for consultation, dialogue and sustainable development, while maintaining peace and unity within the community before the logging operates following their landing in Malou in South Malaita on 8 August 2026.
//End//
YOUTH VOICES CONCERN OVER LOGGING
OPERATION IN SOUTH MALAITA
By FLOYD TERRY JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
在南马莱塔,尤其是马洛(Malou),年轻人对伐木作业的担忧日益加剧,一些居民表示在活动进行之前并没有得到充分的咨询。
这些担忧在最近几天浮出水面,来自该地区的年轻人表达了对伐木可能对他们生计、环境以及未来自然资源获取的影响的担忧。
虽然承认伐木公司预计将向土地所有者和社区提供特许权使用费和经济利益,但一些年轻人质疑这些利益是否会超过长期的环境利益。
一位要求匿名的年轻人表示,社区已经看到许多与伐木相关的负面影响,并认为如果不妥善解决这些担忧,最新的作业可能会带来进一步的问题。
这位年轻人表示,缺乏咨询是导致担忧的关键问题之一,一些年轻人感到被排除在可能直接影响他们未来的决策之外。
这一情况促使各方,包括社区领导、负责当局、土地所有者和年轻人,呼吁进行对话,并寻求和平解决分歧的方式。
还有人担心,对伐木的不满可能导致一些人采取极端措施,从而在社区内引发进一步的冲突。
这位关注的年轻人表示,因此呼吁年轻人通过和平和合法的途径表达他们的担忧,同时鼓励领导者深入社区,直接倾听所提出的问题。
他说,年轻人被视为涉及自然资源决策的重要利益相关者,特别是因为他们将在未来继承土地和环境。
领导者们也被敦促为年轻人提供更多参与决策和领导的机会,而不是忽视他们的担忧。
他说,广泛的信息是,发展不应仅仅通过即时的经济回报来衡量,还应考虑其对社区的长期可持续性和影响。
对于南马莱塔的社区而言,这场辩论突显了在自然资源开发带来的经济机会与保护未来几代人所依赖的环境和生计之间找到平衡的必要性。
关注的年轻人最终呼吁进行咨询、对话和可持续发展,同时在伐木作业于2026年8月8日抵达马洛之前,维护社区内的和平与团结。
//End//
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SOLOMON KINGS FC SET FOR OFC PRO LEAGUE 2027Solomon Islands firstever professional football club - Solomon Kings Football Club [FC] has been given the approval to be part of the second edition of OFC Pro League Competition 2027.The professional league is set to commence once all formalities are sorted out.This came after the OFC Pro League has announced on Friday morning that the league is set for Season 2 as all eight clubs have been approved for 2027 licensing.In a statement this afternoon - Friday 14th August Solomon Kings FC has announced the exciting news.“Ready for 2027! “We're delighted to confirm that we have received confirmation that our application has been an approved to be in OFC Pro League for 2027.”OFC in an issued statement this morning said, the OFC Pro League is getting set for a second season, with all eight clubs from the inaugural 2026 competition receiving approval for their 2027 Club Licence applications from the OFC Executive Committee which met in Fiji this week.This milestone provides a strong base for the continued growth of the OFC Pro League, with all eight clubs demonstrating that they can meet the minimum requirements outlined in the OFC Professional League Club Licensing Regulations.Club licensing is a critical part of the OFC Pro League framework, ensuring participating clubs continue to develop the structures, governance and standards required to compete at the professional level.Following approval of their applications, the eight clubs will now progress through to the next stage of the process to confirm their participation, with additional requirements to be fulfilled before the process is completed ahead of the 2027 season.Head of OFC Pro League, Stuart Larman, said the approval of all eight applications demonstrated the commitment of the clubs to building a stronger professional football environment across Oceania. "Reaching Season 2 is an important moment for the OFC Pro League and for the continued development of professional football in the region," Larman said."Having all eight clubs approved at this stage reflects the commitment they have made to meeting the standards required to operate at this level. “This is about more than simply preparing for another season – it is about building strong, sustainable independent clubs that can contribute to the future of football across Oceania."We now look forward to working closely with the clubs as they complete the remaining participation requirements and prepare for what promises to be another exciting chapter for the league." The second season will build on the foundations established during the competition's inaugural campaign, the title claimed by Auckland FC, providing a platform for clubs and players to compete at the highest level of club football in the Oceania region, meeting the vision of the OFC Exco. Details of Season 2 dates, host countries, and venues will be released shortly. The first edition was played from January to May this year.During the competition Solomon Kings managed to reach the Challengers Stage.//end//
Minister Lilo slams tax exemptions
as “daylight robbery”
By LEILANI OSO
Solomon Star, Honiara
THE Minister for Finance and Treasury Gordon Darcy Lilo has described tax exemptions as a daylight robbery as all the revenue supposed to be received by the state is forfeited.
Lilo made this remark when presenting the 2026 Supplementary Bill 2026 in Parliament for debate at the Second Reading Stage on Thursday 13 August 2026.
The Government, through the Bill, seeks authorisation of Parliament for additional expenditure to the 2026 Appropriation Act 2025 worth $758,411,407.09.
This includes $10,000,000 Contingency Warrants, $316,404,082.81 Advance Warrants and additional expenditures of $432,007,324.28, which comprises $197,657,324.28 in recurrent expenditures, $159,350,000.00 in development expenditures and 75,000,000.00 in budget support for the services in the year ending 31st December 2026.
Speaking of what MoFT has done to strengthen revenue leakages in the government system, Lilo said: “Mr Speaker Sir, what good does it bring to the government when all the revenue it supposed to be received is forfeited, this is robbery decorated in exemptions.”
He said he is aware that there are some businesses who try to avoid paying taxes.
“Such practices are not only destructive to our revenue collections and service delivery but also raise concern on the national security of this country.
"We want to provide tax relief but at the same time do not tolerate tax abuse,” the MoFT Minister said.
The MoFT Minister said the largest area of progress by the Ministry has been tax reform, and highlighted that a modern tax system is the foundation of domestic revenue.
He said the aim of the Ministry is a system that is fair, simple, broad and even-handed, in which individuals and businesses each carry their proper share.
“The programme is large and is being done in stages, so that each reform is properly designed before it is put into effect,” Lilo said.
“Under the first stage, this House passed the Tax Administration Act. That strengthens how tax is administered and governed, and gives us the foundation for better compliance, better collection, and greater public confidence in the fairness of the system.”
Lilo said MoFT has continued preparing the Value Added Tax legislation, which is expected to come before this House this year.
He said the second stage is also moving, and it involves reform of the Income Tax Act and review of excise and of resource rent taxation so that the tax system keeps pace with an economy whose shape is changing and so that the country captures a proper share of the value taken out of it.
Highlighting the importance of public finance management, Lilo said, “strengthening how we manage public money is what makes all of this possible. It ensures resources are raised and allocated sensibly, that spending follows national priorities, and that public funds are used openly and accountably.”
He said fiscal discipline alongside growth requires careful choices and strong institutions, and also requires political support and political discipline, and I say that to both sides of this Chamber.
“Mr Speaker, this work goes well beyond preparing a Budget once a year. Tax reform builds our revenue.
“Enterprise reform steadies our public companies. Financial sector reform makes our financial system stronger and more inclusive.
“Public finance reform makes sure the money is handled properly. Together they build the ground on which growth stands and give this Government the capacity to answer the next shock when it comes.”
Lilo then commended the leadership and staff of MoFT for their work and reminded line ministries that the priorities of this Government will be reflected in the 2027 Budget, and that they must comply with the budget instructions to be issued shortly.
PM Wale Urges Veo, WP MPs To
Work Together On Land Issues
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Honiara
PRIME Minister Mathew Wale has urged Western Province Premier Billy Veo to work closely with Western Province Members of Parliament (MPs) to address long-standing land issues affecting the province.
Mr Wale made the call during a courtesy meeting with Premier Veo and his executive in Honiara this week, where a range of issues affecting Western Province were discussed.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of cooperation between the Provincial Government and the province’s national MPs, particularly on land matters involving decisions and arrangements made by previous governments.
The discussions included concerns surrounding the ownership, status and administration of land in Western Province, including processes relating to the transfer of land titles.
Mr Wale’s call comes as the Veo-led Western Provincial Government continues to push for greater provincial powers, stronger development opportunities and increased control over matters affecting the province.
Wale said the issues should be approached collectively, with the Premier and MPs working together rather than pursuing separate positions.
Land remains a sensitive issue in Western Province, particularly where historical government decisions, customary interests, registered land and development interests intersect.
Premier Veo has previously called for the return of alienated land in the province, while his government has also linked stronger provincial authority to its wider Statehood agenda.
The latest discussions also come amid renewed efforts by the national and provincial governments to strengthen cooperation and decentralise powers, resources and services to provinces.
Mr Wale has publicly reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to giving provincial governments greater powers and resources, an issue that has featured prominently in discussions with Western Province.
The courtesy meeting also touched on other major development priorities for Western Province, including tourism, township expansion, infrastructure and economic development.
Western Province is also seeking to expand its role in development through proposed projects and greater control over resources.
The meeting provides another opportunity for the national and provincial governments to address outstanding issues through dialogue, particularly land matters that have remained unresolved across successive administrations.
For Western Province, resolving land ownership and title issues is considered important for future development, investment and the province’s broader aspirations for greater autonomy.
The call for closer cooperation between Premier Veo and Western MPs therefore places land at the centre of the national-provincial relationship as both governments work towards resolving historical issues and advancing development in the province.
Meanwhile, a total of 2,152 land parcels have been identified in Western Province under a land assessment referred to by Premier Billy Veo in June 2026.
Of these, about 500 parcels were identified as potentially eligible for transfer to the Western Provincial Government under Perpetual Estate (PE) titles.
The remaining parcels are still registered under the Commissioner of Lands.
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Bilikiki's Path to 2027 Beach Soccer World Cup
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Star Sports, Honiara
The Solomon Islands National Beach Soccer Team, Bilikiki, now know their opponents ahead of the 2026 OFC Beach Soccer Men’s Nations Cup, which will be held in Tahiti from October 22 to 31.
This follows the official competition draw held this week at the OFC Home of Football – Te Kahu o Kiwa in Auckland, New Zealand.
The ninth edition of the competition will feature five nations from across the region, with a place at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2027TM up for grabs.
Solomon Islands, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and hosts Tahiti will compete in a round-robin format, with the top two finishers advancing to the grand final and the winner advancing to next year’s FIFA World Cup.
Currently coached by former captain James Naka, Bilikiki will kick off their campaign against Papua New Guinea in the tournament opener on October 22.
Two days later, they will face hosts Tahiti in a highly anticipated rematch of the 2024 final in Honiara.
Bilikiki will then take on New Caledonia in their third match on October 26 before concluding their round-robin fixtures against Vanuatu on October 29.
Meanwhile, the national side has stepped up preparations following the announcement of an extended 20-man training squad earlier this month.
The team continues to train as it works towards the tournament, with the final 12-man squad expected to be announced before the competition.
GREAT COALITION RECORDS STRONG REVENUE PERFORMANCE
THE GREAT Coalition has started with encouraging fiscal results, with strong domestic revenue collections providing a solid foundation for the Government’s reform and development agenda.
Speaking during the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026 in Parliament this week, Minister of Finance and Treasury Hon. Gordon Darcy Lilo highlighted the positive revenue performance recorded during the first half of 2026.
Since the new Government came into office, one of the clearest positive indicators has been the strength of domestic revenue mobilisation.
“By June, SIG revenues had reached $2.147 billion, exceeding the six-month budget target by $56 million,” he said.
He said the strongest contribution came from the Inland Revenue Division, which collected $1.551 billion, exceeding the mid-year budget by an impressive $223.7 million.
Minister Lilo said the result reflected stronger economic activity, improved tax compliance and increased collections across key revenue streams, including company tax, withholding tax and personal income tax.
Importantly, he said the Government has now revised its year-end forecast for Inland Revenue collections upward to $3.151 billion, an increase of $382.9 million.
“The results demonstrate that the Solomon Islands economy has continued to generate strong domestic revenue despite challenging international and domestic conditions,” he said.
The Finance Minister highlighted that another important positive indicator is the $76.1 million surplus in the SIG recurrent balance, meaning domestic revenue was higher than recurrent expenditure during the review period.
“For the new Government, this provides an important platform to strengthen fiscal discipline and ensure public finances are managed responsibly,” he said.
“ This shows SIG domestic revenue receipt is higher than SIG recurrent expenditure.”
Minister Lilo said the Government also recognises that not all revenue areas performed at the same level.
By June, he said 42.3 percent of the annual revenue target had already been collected, while expenditure execution stood at 38.2 percent.
“The Government expects both revenue and expenditure activity to increase during the second half of the year as economic activity strengthens and key government programmes move further into implementation,” he said.
The fiscal performance gives the new GREAT Coalition Government a stronger platform from which to pursue its priorities of strengthening institutions, growing a productive economy, responsibly managing the country’s natural wealth and investing in people.
The Finance Minister said the Government will continue to build on the positive revenue performance while strengthening tax compliance, improving revenue administration, controlling unnecessary expenditure and ensuring public funds are directed towards priority national programmes.
Minister Lilo said early fiscal results show that the new Government has inherited challenges.
However, he said it has also inherited an economy with strong revenue-generating capacit.
“This Government is determined to turn that strength into better services, stronger institutions and tangible development for Solomon Islanders,” he said.
Ends///
Workers' Action could Tarnish
Solomon Islands’ Image in Australia
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
Solomon Islands seasonal workers living and working in Australia have expressed concern over the alleged misconduct of a few workers, saying such behaviour could tarnish the reputation of hardworking Solomon Islanders who are committed to supporting their families back home.
Solomon Islanders living and working in Leeton, Australia, said they were saddened to hear reports about the alleged behaviour of some seasonal workers.
A Leeton-based worker in Australia told the Solomon Star the reported incidents could damage the reputation of other Solomon Islanders working in Australia who strive to be good ambassadors for the country.
The reports were shared on social media over the past few days and attracted criticism from members of the public who said such behaviour was unacceptable, particularly among workers living in a foreign country.
“We feel ashamed when we see such reports,” the Solomon Islander seasonal worker in Leeton said.
It was reported that some Solomon Island seasonal workers in Gatton Queens Land have allegedly been involved in drinking, causing disturbances with loud music, and smashing bottles on the road.
There were also reports alleging the smell of drugs in the area.
The workers said such behaviour could disturb other members of the community and create a negative impression of Solomon Islanders living and working in Australia.
Solomon Islanders working on other farms across Australia have called on the Solomon Islands Government to consider appropriate measures to address misconduct by mis behaviour workers.
They said addressing such incidents was important to protect the reputation of the many Solomon Islanders who work hard, respect local communities and remain focused on supporting their families back home.
//end//
