BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
STUDENTS in Western Province wishing to pursue tertiary education will soon have the opportunity to study closer to home, with plans underway for a Solomon Islands National University (SINU) campus at Poitete, Kolombangara Island.
The proposed campus is part of SINU’s efforts to expand tertiary education and training opportunities beyond Honiara.
The development gained further momentum this week when a Western Provincial Government delegation, led by Deputy Premier Brian Lotikena, met with SINU Pro Vice-Chancellor Corporate Services Willaim Parairato and Acting Manager Council Edward Biku.
The meeting focused on several areas of collaboration, including securing approximately 20 hectares of land in Gizo for a proposed SINU campus, the subdivision and transfer of approximately 18 hectares of land at Poitete, Kolombangara, to SINU, and strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) through Rural Training Centres (RTCs) across the province.
Lotikena reaffirmed the Western Provincial Government’s support for SINU’s proposal to secure land in Gizo, saying the initiative will create opportunities for the university to expand its tertiary education and training services in the province.
He said the proposal is also important to strengthen and expand Rural Training Centres throughout Western Province.
Lotikena said establishing education and training facilities in the province will allow young people to access practical skills and training without having to travel to Honiara.
“This will provide our young people with greater access to practical skills and training closer to their communities,” he said.
Parairato acknowledged and thanked the Western Provincial Government for its continued support of SINU’s efforts to expand tertiary education and training opportunities in Western Province and the country.
He said SINU was established under an Act of Parliament and has a statutory mandate to advance tertiary education and contribute to national development.
Parairato said part of SINU’s ambition is to extend education and training opportunities to the provinces.
He said the university looks forward to completing the necessary arrangements for the proposed Poitete Campus.
Parairato also revealed that refurbishment of facilities at Poitete will be undertaken with support from the Government of India.
He said the refurbishment will enable SINU to further expand its education and training services in Western Province.
The Western Provincial Government delegation included seven Members of the Provincial Assembly (MPAs) and Supervising Provincial Secretary Collin Potakana.
If realised, the Poitete Campus could significantly improve access to tertiary education for students in Western Province, particularly those who cannot afford the cost of travelling and living in Honiara to pursue further studies.
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BY JOSES SAREN
The Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) has accounted for $18.6 million in advanced funds it used last year, including a $17.47 million grant tranche to all nine provinces.
Appearing before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) inquiry into the 2025 Supplementary Bill 2026 Tuesday afternoon, Permanent Secretary Dr Derek Futaiasi said the advanced warrants total $18,585,410.67.
The full amount breaks down into four components: $17,467,954.63 in subventions and grants, about $1 million for climate change officer salaries, $35,000 for ICT equipment, and $9,128 for miscellaneous office costs.
The subventions and grants line represent the additional 2025–2026 tranche for provinces under the Integrated Economic Development and Community Resilience Project (IEDCR).
“This is basically for additional grant for the IEDCR project, due for release in 2025–2026 for the qualifying provinces,” Mr Futaiasi told the Committee.
However, Futaiasi also flagged a discrepancy in the bill itself, noting that the Chart of Accounts breakdown printed in the bill does not match what the ministry submitted, though the bottom-line total remains unchanged.
The Committee ordered the ministry to correct the figures before the bill reaches its committee stage in Parliament.
The IEDCR project is jointly supported by the UNDP’s Government for Resilience Project (Gov4RES) and the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA). Its climate resilience component runs through UNCDF’s Local Climate Adaptive Living Facility (LoCAL). Every province now has a draft climate strategy under that facility, said Permanent Secretary for MPGIS. The salary allocation covers seven officers recruited under LoCAL.
CTA-PGSP/PM-IEDCR Momodou Sawaneh confirmed that the $17.4 million grant was disbursed to all nine provinces under the programme’s standard allocation formula, while the $1,073,000 covered salaries for the seven LoCAL-recruited officers.
During questioning, Manasseh Sogavare, MP for East Choiseul and leader of Opposition, asked whether procurement followed Government process or donor procedures.
Futaiasi confirmed government process applied throughout, explaining that the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF)—the performance-based grant mechanism used to move the funds—now operates entirely within state systems.
Jeremiah Manele, MP for Hograno/Kia/Havulei, pressed for specifics on which provinces currently qualify for funding.
The Chair then asked whether the funds were SIG money or a World Bank concessional loan, and what would happen to a province’s allocation if it fails to qualify in a future year.
Mr Sawaneh clarified that LoCAL funding is 100 percent grant, and that US$6 million of the wider IEDCR pool is a concessional IDA loan, on top of a separate $30 million the SIG contributes annually to the PCDF. He added that while all nine provinces qualified for PCDF funding in the last assessment, only eight of nine have qualified so far this year. The question of what happens to a disqualified province’s money went unanswered as time ran out and the Chair moved on.
Citing time pressure, the Chair closed the hearing and said outstanding technical and compliance questions would be sent to the ministry in writing for its report.
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
PREMIER of Western Province Billy Veo has presented the province’s development aspirations to Prime Minister Matthew Wale during their meeting this week.
Veo said Western Province stands ready to work closely with the national government to unlock development opportunities in key sectors including fisheries, energy, agriculture, mining and education.
He said the province has the resources and potential to drive economic growth but needs stronger government support and consideration to fully realise those opportunities.
Veo said Western Province is keen to see stability, economic development and tangible improvements in the lives of its people.
He said the province’s key focus is to continue advancing development and improving services that directly respond to the needs of communities.
In response, Prime Minister Wale said provinces must increasingly become active participants in commercial and economic development.
“We want all provinces to go into commercial activity. That is the way of the future,” he said.
Wale said the government wants to see stronger provincial governments, greater local decision-making and more resources reaching communities.
He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to decentralising powers, resources and services to provincial governments.
Wale said provinces should have greater responsibility and resources to drive development, create employment opportunities and improve essential services.
“More power must be given to the provincial governments, and more resources must go down. That is the future,” he said.
He said the national discussion should not focus solely on whether the country adopts a federal or state government system, but on ensuring provinces receive real powers and adequate resources to drive development.
The Prime Minister’s comments signal a greater role for provincial governments in driving economic activity and delivering development at the community level.
For Western Province, the focus remains on turning its substantial natural resources into sustainable economic opportunities and developing its human capital to provide better services.
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By Ednal Palmer The handover of two new NAIAD vessels to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) has sent...
The post ‘These Criminals Are Not Untouchable’: New Pacific Warning to Drug Cartels appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
Central Coast FC beat AS Venus 3-0 to revive their OFC Men’s Champions League semi-final hopes in Lautoka Having narrowly lost to defending champions Auckland City FC on Monday, the Solomon Islands side were keen to bounce back and did so in style, dominating from the off. It was AS Venus however who had the [...]
The post CENTRAL COAST FC BEAT AS VENUS IN LAUTOKA appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
China Provides SBD$100,000 Grant for Small Malaita Boat Projects
The Small Malaita Constituency Office has welcomed continued support from the Government of the People’s Republic of China following the receipt of SBD$100,000 in grant assistance for community development projects.
The funding was provided through the Chinese Embassy’s Small and Sustainable Development Project Fund and will support the purchase of two boats and one engine for the AIAU Association in Tawaro Village and a family of seven sisters from Fanalei Village.
The initiative is aimed at improving sea transportation for rural communities, providing safer and more reliable access to markets, health services, schools and other essential services.
Constituency Development Officer Brown Honimae expressed appreciation to the Chinese Government for its continued support of community development in Small Malaita and Solomon Islands.
Honimae said the assistance reflected the strong partnership and enduring friendship between Solomon Islands and China, while delivering practical benefits to rural communities.
He said reliable boats are essential for many remote communities, where sea transportation is a necessity rather than a luxury.
The Small Malaita Constituency Office also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring development assistance is managed through a fair and transparent process and directed towards projects that deliver lasting benefits to local communities.
The office said it would continue working with development partners to support practical and sustainable projects aimed at improving livelihoods and the quality of life for people in Small Malaita.
[ENDS]//////
By Ednal Palmer The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) has strengthened its maritime policing capability after receiving two Naiad...
The post Australia Strengthens RSIPF Maritime Capability with Two Naiad Boats appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
The significant economic potential of kava farming in Faifatala’a in West Kwara’ae, Malaita Province was highlighted during a meeting between the Productive Sector of the Prime Minister’s Office Policy Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation Unit [PIMEU], the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration [MCILI], the Faifatala’a Kava Association, and Serenco Labs, a New Zealand-based kava buyer.
The meeting, held at the MCILI conference room, was attended by Faifatala’a farmers’ representative Mr Lazarus Maetoloa and a Serenco Labs representative.
Discussions focused on growing international demand for Solomon Islands kava and the potential to expand the industry.
Serenco Labs is already purchasing commercially suitable Faifatala’a kava, but farmers are currently unable to meet demand consistently.
A major constraint is transporting harvested kava from the mountainous terrain of Faifatala’a to the buying point in Auki.
Other challenges include poor road access, harvesting difficulties, post-harvest processing, reliable energy, quality control, and capacity to operate commercially.
The proposed Faifatala’a Pilot Production Community and Auki Provincial Kava Hub 2026–2031 aims to address these constraints through a plantation-to-market model linking production, transport, processing, quality assurance, value addition, and export.
Faifatala’a currently has approximately 45 households, 19 hectares of established kava, and 102,000 plants in the ground.
Based on a planning assumption of one kilogram of saleable dried kava per mature plant at SBD $300 per kilogram, these existing plants represent a theoretical production potential of 102 tonnes, with an indicative gross farm-gate value of approximately SBD $30.6 million.
Approximately 12,950 three-year-old plants are expected to provide the first significant commercial harvest from January 2027.
The programme also targets 225,000 new plants annually, equivalent to about 45 hectares. At full production, each annual planting cohort could eventually generate approximately SBD $67.5 million in gross farm-gate value.
The Serenco Labs representative highlighted the quality of Solomon Islands kava, particularly its high kavalactone content — the key compounds associated with kava’s calming and relaxing effects.
He said strong interest from overseas buyers shows the main challenge is no longer market demand, but the ability of local farmers to produce, aggregate, process and reliably supply commercial quantities.
Serenco Labs also noted the potential for Solomon Islanders to generate income in their own communities through kava farming.
He added that some PALM workers could potentially earn more by remaining in their villages and investing their labour in commercial kava production, provided reliable markets and supporting infrastructure are available.
Improving access between Faifatala’a and Auki is critical. The challenges highlight the relevance of the GREAT Coalition’s Strategic Corridors policy, which seeks to develop infrastructure and economic corridors to connect production areas with markets.
For Faifatala’a, improved road connectivity could reduce transport costs and post-harvest losses, increase volumes reaching Auki, and strengthen the link between farmers, the proposed Auki Provincial Kava Hub, and export markets.
This places the Ministry of Infrastructure Development [MID] in a key position to support emerging productive-sector opportunities like kava.
The initiative also aligns with the GREAT Coalition’s focus on indigenous SME development, local content, and value addition.
The proposed Auki Kava Hub would support aggregation, quality assurance, drying, grinding, packaging, value-added products, and export preparation. Renewable energy is also proposed to support processing operations.
For the Productive Sector of PIMEU, the initiative demonstrates the Iumi Tugeda approach — bringing together indigenous producers, government, infrastructure, private-sector investment, and international markets.
If key constraints are addressed, Faifatala’a could transform the substantial value of kava already growing in its highlands into sustained household incomes, rural employment, indigenous businesses, and export earnings.
The longer-term ambition is to establish Faifatala’a as a pilot model for a commercially viable kava industry that can be replicated in other kava-growing communities throughout the Solomon Islands.
[end]
GCU statement
The post Faifatala’a kava farmers poised to unlock major economic opportunity first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
Permanent traffic signs are being installed on upgraded roads to improve road safety, traffic flow and guidance. The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), through the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP), has commenced the installation of permanent traffic signs along completed sections of the upgraded road network. Initial activities are focused along the Henderson to [...]
The post TRAFFIC SIGN INSTALLATION UNDERWAY ON UPGRADED ROADS appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
为了提高道路安全、交通流量和指引,永久交通标志正在升级道路上安装。基础设施发展部(Ministry of Infrastructure Development,MID)通过陆地和海洋连接项目(Land and Maritime Connectivity Project,LMCP)已开始在已完成的升级道路网络的各个路段安装永久交通标志。初步活动集中在亨德森到......
该文章的标题为《升级道路上的交通标志安装工作正在进行中》,首次出现在Tavuli News(所罗门群岛)上。
Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Wale has discussed strengthening economic ties and deepening cooperation in agriculture and education with Indonesia.
These were key areas of discussion with Indonesia’s Ambassador to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Octo Dorimus Manik when he made a courtesy visit to the Prime Minister yesterday.
Prime Minister Wale welcomed Ambassador Manik and reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ strong appreciation for its relationship with Indonesia.
“Indonesia is an important regional partner and an important development partner,” he said.
The meeting also discussed the development and rehabilitation of Solomon Islands’ coconut industry.
Prime Minister Wale said the Government wants to move beyond exporting raw copra and develop greater value-added processing to create jobs, increase foreign exchange earnings and maximise the economic potential of the country’s coconut resources.
Ambassador Manik said Indonesia has significant expertise in coconut production, including hybrid varieties and processing and offered to facilitate engagement between Solomon Islands and Indonesian coconut experts and businesses.
He said Indonesia is prepared to help Solomon Islands in that endeavour.
Discussions also include opportunities in cocoa, seaweed and broader agricultural development, including processing and technology transfer.
Ambassador Manik noted that Indonesian companies were already exploring opportunities in Solomon Islands and expressed interest in expanding these engagements.
Education and skills development were other key areas of discussion.
Ambassador Manik highlighted Indonesia’s scholarship programme, stating that 22 Solomon Islands students will be studying at Indonesian universities, compared with nine in the previous year.
Opportunities for vocational and technical training in areas including agriculture, fisheries, automotive, electrical work, welding, plumbing and mechanics were also discussed.
Prime Minister Wale said skills development is essential to the Government’s efforts to transition Solomon Islands from an extractive economy towards processing and manufacturing.
The meeting further covered regional and cultural cooperation, including possible high-level visits and participation in upcoming events in Indonesia.
Ambassador Manik also highlighted Indonesia’s intention to establish a permanent embassy in Solomon Islands to further strengthen diplomatic and economic engagement.
He said Indonesia works with relevant ministries to advance practical cooperation, including pending agreements in education and visa arrangements.
[end]
OPMC statement
The post PM Wale, Indonesia Envoy discuss deeper economic cooperation first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
SIBC Public Service Announcement
SIBC wishes to advise all listeners that our 5020 kHz Shortwave service is currently operating at reduced transmission capacity due to reduced power output from the transmitter at the Henderson Transmission Station.
As a result, listeners in some parts of the country may experience weak reception or intermittent signal quality.
Alternative ways to listen:
AM: 1035 kHz
FM: 96.3 MHz, where available
Online: Listeners with internet access can continue to listen through the SIBC online radio streaming service.
Our Engineering team is actively working to resolve the issue and restore the transmitter to full operating capacity as soon as possible.
We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience, understanding and continued support.
SIBC – The Voice of the Nation.
SIBC Public Service Announcement
所罗门广播公司(SIBC)希望通知所有听众,我们的5020 kHz短波服务目前因亨德森发射站的发射功率降低而以降低的发射能力运行。
因此,部分地区的听众可能会遇到信号接收弱或信号质量间歇性的问题。
替代收听方式:
AM:1035 kHz
FM:96.3 MHz(视情况而定)
在线:有互联网接入的听众可以通过SIBC在线广播流媒体服务继续收听。
我们的工程团队正在积极工作,以解决问题并尽快恢复发射机的全功率运行。
我们对造成的任何不便表示诚挚的歉意,并感谢您的耐心、理解和持续支持。
SIBC – 国家之声。
Opposition disputes Peter Kenilorea’s claim that the Solomon Islands-US DFC agreement matches India’s “word for word”. Honiara, Solomon Islands – The Parliamentary Opposition Group has responded to comments by Hon. Peter Kenilorea Jnr during last week’s Motion of Thanks debate, disputing his claim that the Solomon Islands–United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) Investment Incentive [...]
The post OPPOSITION RESPONDS TO KENILOREA’S “WORD FOR WORD” CLAIM ON DFC AGREEMENT appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
PM Wale meets Thailand’s ambassador to discuss trade, investment, agriculture, tourism, education and bilateral cooperation Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Wale has held a courtesy meeting with Thailand’s Ambassador to Solomon Islands, Her Excellency Arjaree Sriratanaban in Honiara yesterday. Discussions were based on opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, tourism, education and skills [...]
The post PM WALE SEEKS STRONGER THAILAND PARTNERSHIP IN TRADE, AGRICULTURE AND TOURISM appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Australia to hand over Lofung Border and Patrol Boat Outpost to Solomon Islands
Honiara, 13 July 2026: The Government of Australia will hand over the new Lofung Border and Patrol Boat Outpost in the Shortland Islands, Western Province, to the Government and people of the Solomon Islands on Monday, 17 August 2026.
The handover ceremony will be attended by senior officials from both Governments.
Preparations are underway through a joint ministerial committee overseeing logistics and on-site arrangements, with support from Australian counterparts.
The new Outpost marks a major step forward for border security in the Solomon Islands. It will bring together police, customs, bio-security and immigration officials in one location to strengthen management of the country’s western border and support safe, orderly cross-border movement.
Built to withstand regional conditions, the facility will enhance Solomon Islands’ capacity to:
• Strengthen Border Security: Coordinate maritime, police and law enforcement operations
• Respond to Disasters: Support rapid response to natural disasters in the western border area
• Deliver Services: Enable health and government programs for communities in the Shortlands
• Support Economic Growth: Provide a foundation for social and economic development in the region
The Outpost includes new facilities for operations coordination, staff accommodation, and a wharf capable of supporting RSIPV Taro and Gizo, Solomon Islands’ Guardian-class Patrol Boats, as well as Australian-gifted fast boats.
Construction at Lofung South in the Shortland Islands began in 2022.
Australia and the Solomon Islands continue to work in partnership to ensure a secure, stable and prosperous Blue Pacific.
[ENDS]
MID Installs Permanent Traffic Signs Along Upgraded Roads
HONIARA, Solomon Islands – The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has commenced the installation of permanent traffic signs along completed sections of the upgraded road network under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP).
The initial installation is taking place along the Henderson to Mberande Road in Guadalcanal Province, with work expected to extend to Honiara along Mendana Avenue and Tandai Highway.
The new signs include regulatory, warning and directional signs designed to provide clear guidance to motorists, pedestrians and other road users, while improving traffic flow and reducing the risk of road accidents.
The installation complements other road safety improvements being delivered under the project, including road line markings, bus bays, footpaths, drainage improvements, street lighting, guardrails and guide-posts.
Acting Permanent Secretary of MID, Mike Qaqara, described the installation as another significant milestone in the Government’s efforts to improve road safety and deliver modern transport infrastructure.
He urged motorists and other road users to familiarise themselves with the new signs, obey speed limits and exercise caution when using the upgraded roads.
Mr Qaqara also appealed to the public to protect the newly installed signs from vandalism and theft, warning that damaging or removing the signs could place the lives of motorists, pedestrians and other road users at risk.
The LMCP is jointly funded by the Asian Development Bank and the Solomon Islands Government.
[ENDS]////////
By Agnes Menanopo
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has handed over two new NAIAD vessels to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Marine Division to strengthen its maritime policing and operational capabilities.
The vessels were handed over today at the RSIPF Marine Division Aola base and are expected to enhance the RSIPF’s ability to respond to maritime security threats, including transnational serious and organized crime.
Group Photo.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, AFP Commissioner, Krissy Barrett said the NAIAD vessels would improve operational flexibility and ensure the most appropriate RSIPF asset is deployed for each task.
“Australia’s insatiable appetite for these illicit drugs is appalling, especially given our trusted friends and partners have become the collateral damage.
“With that in mind, a great partner knows when to step up and when to take its share of responsibility,” Commissioner Barrett said.
She said the vessels were one way Australia and Solomon Islands could work together to combat criminal networks involved in illicit drug trafficking.
“These criminals are not untouchable. The Pacific Chiefs all have great resolve, skill and capability to target those who target us.
“This new capability will allow the RSIPF to seize illicit drugs and prove to the cartels that it is too expensive and too much of a risk to test our resolve,” Commissioner Barrett said.
One of the vessel.
Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Hon. John Tuhaika Jnr, said the provision of the vessels would make a practical and meaningful contribution to the operational capability of the RSIPF Marine Division.
“These assets will strengthen our capability in law enforcement, maritime safety, search and rescue emergency response, and efforts to prevent and respond to transnational serious and organized crime.
“The significance of the occasion extends beyond the vessels. It represents an investment in the capability, confidence and resilience of our national institutions,” Minister Tuhaika said.
He thanked the Australian Government and the AFP for their continued support to the RSIPF and Solomon Islands’ maritime security efforts.
ENDS//
The post AFP hands over two NAIAD vessels to strengthen RSIPF Maritime operations first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
BY JOSES SAREN
Work on the National Youth Justice Bill has stalled as competing legislative priorities take precedence; the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs has told the Public Accounts Committee (PAC).
The Ministry appeared before the PAC Tuesday this week on the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026, where it accounted for a $175,800 Advance Warrant funded by UNICEF under its Child Protection Programme.
Permanent Secretary Pauline McNeil told the committee that the funds supported nationwide consultations on the National Youth Justice Bill, reaching 450 participants across five provinces so far.
“The consultations were conducted in five provinces, including Malaita, Western, Guadalcanal, Temotu, and Makira provinces, where Correctional Services are established,” Mrs McNeil said.
McNeil said the funds were fully spent in 2025, with $63,580 going to travel airfares, $63,000 to catering, $15,200 to transport hire, $12,000 to venue hire, $7,000 to consultation materials, $3,000 to stakeholder allowances, and the remaining $12,020 to stationery.
The Youth Justice Bill is being developed under the Ministry’s Legal Policy Unit in partnership with the Correctional Services of Solomon Islands and UNICEF.
McNeil said the reform was prompted by rising juvenile crime, with around 30 percent of reported crimes committed by people aged 16 to 20.
She said the existing law, the 1972 Juvenile Offenders Act, no longer reflects current realities or international standards.
PAC member and MP for Central Guadalcanal, Peter Shanel Agovaka, asked whether UNICEF funding for the bill would continue, or whether Government would need to step in.
“So, going forward, do you anticipate that this funding will continue? If so, that will be good, but will there be an SIG component to assist with the work of the National Youth Bill?” Agovaka asked.
McNeil said UN agencies fund work through annual work plans tied to their own programme priorities, and that support could not be guaranteed indefinitely.
“The agencies will come to a stop in terms of reduced funding, so this is where SIG needs to beef up funding to cater for the gap,” PS McNeil said.
She said the Ministry’s current budget stands at less than $80 to $90 million, and that it hopes to seek an increased allocation next year as Solomon Islands prepares to host a regional working group on child protection and justice.
PAC Chairman and MP for North Guadalcanal, Dr Paul Bosawai, commended the Ministry’s presentation as a model for other ministries appearing before the committee.
“When you report donor-funded financial support to us, you even went as far as explaining it is not off-system, but in-system. I have to encourage that when reporting donor-funded projects, it is important to have this structured presentation,” Bosawai said.
Geniagu FC thrash Ghupo Wantoks 6-0 in SWPL Round 17
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
GENIAGU FC continued their Solrais Women’s Premier League (SWPL) campaign in style yesterday, securing a convincing 6-0 victory over Ghupo Wantoks FC in their Round 17 encounter at East End Stadium.
The afternoon fixture saw Geniagu take control of the match and eventually pull away from Ghupo Wantoks to claim all three points.
Geniagu captain Betty Oriana was pleased with her side’s performance, particularly the way the players followed their game plan and worked together throughout the match.
“I am very proud of the girls today for putting in the hard work and scoring the six goals,” Oriana said after the match.
“We came into this fixture with a clear strategy to control possession and take our chances early. The teamwork and communication out there was good.”
For Ghupo Wantoks, captain Siasia Tangikapia Tepuke admitted that mistakes and a drop in fitness contributed to the heavy defeat.
“In the first half, we tried our best to hold them off, but as the match went on, our fitness levels dropped and communication broke down,” Tepuke said.
“When you make simple mistakes against a quality team like Geniagu, they will punish you. However, I am proud that the girls kept fighting until the final whistle.”
Despite the result, Tepuke said the team will use the defeat as a lesson ahead of its remaining league matches.
“This result is a wake-up call for us to improve our training attendance and build our fitness,” she said.
“We have to stay united, fix our mistakes, and come back stronger in our next match.”
The victory strengthens Geniagu’s position in the upper half of the SWPL standings as the competition enters another important stage.
Before yesterday’s match, Geniagu sat fifth on the 10-team table with 22 points from 13 matches, having recorded seven wins, one draw and five losses.
Ghupo Wantoks, meanwhile, entered the fixture near the bottom of the standings with four points from 12 matches.
The SWPL continues this weekend with another round of fixtures as teams battle for valuable points in the race up the table.
Photo credit: Richard Menanopo
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Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
Naha FC topple Frigates United with 3-1 victory to move top of SWPL standings
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
NAHA FC have moved to the top of the Solrais Women’s Premier League (SWPL) standings after defeating former leaders Frigates United FC 3-1 in their Round 17 clash at East End Stadium yesterday.
The important victory earned Naha all three points and lifted them from 34 to 37 points, moving them above Frigates United, who remain on 34 points after suffering their second defeat of the season.
Frigates United started the contest strongly, finding the opening goal in the first minute to put Naha under early pressure.
However, Naha recovered from the setback and turned the match around to secure a valuable victory over the league leaders.
Naha FC head coach, Lawrence Diau praised his players for maintaining their composure and belief after conceding so early in the match.
“First of all, I want to thank the Almighty above for providing strength, wisdom, and knowledge to my players,” Diau said after the match.
“It was indeed a big game—a clash at the top of the table. I want to praise my girls for the belief they have in themselves, their trust, and their strong desire to work hard.”
Diau said conceding in the opening minute could have affected the team, but his message to the players was to remain focused and continue working towards their game plan.
“Conceding in the first minute is always a challenge, but I just encouraged the girls to refocus, settle down, and keep working,” he said.
“I have prepared my players for such situations. When it happens, we have to step up, and I am very happy the girls stepped up when it was really required.”
The victory also came with contributions from Naha’s two recent Papua New Guinean recruits, attacker Jinny and defensive midfielder Shalom, who joined the squad just days before the important fixture.
Diau said the new additions were brought in to strengthen the squad as the league approaches its final stages.
“My squad is very young, so at this stage of the league, we need a finisher—someone who can dictate play upfront—and that is what Jinny brings to the team,” he said.
“Shalom also put in a solid effort in midfield. Both players fitted in really well, and the rest of the team accepted and supported them to settle in quickly.”
With the victory putting Naha at the top of the standings, Diau said the team must remain focused and avoid being distracted by its latest success.
“It is a very important victory for us because securing these three points puts us right at the top,” he said.
“However, we will not dwell on it. We take the result, keep our heads down, and continue working hard, taking it one game at a time.”
Before yesterday’s fixture, Frigates United and Naha were both sitting on 34 points, with Frigates holding first place on goal difference.
The 3-1 result has now changed the picture at the top, with Naha moving to 37 points while Frigates remain on 34.
The result could prove significant in the title race as Naha now holds the advantage at the summit with the remaining league fixtures becoming increasingly important for both sides.
Photo credit: Richard Menanopo
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Naha FC 以 3-1 战胜 Frigates United,登顶 SWPL 排名
作者:理查德·梅纳诺波
Naha FC 在昨日于东端体育场进行的第 17 轮比赛中以 3-1 击败前领头羊 Frigates United FC,成功登顶所罗门群岛女子超级联赛(SWPL)排名。
这场重要的胜利为 Naha 赢得了三分,使他们的积分从 34 提升至 37 分,超越了仍保持 34 分的 Frigates United,后者遭遇了本赛季的第二场失利。
Frigates United 开局强劲,在比赛的第一分钟就打入首球,给 Naha 施加了早期压力。
然而,Naha 从挫折中恢复过来,扭转了比赛局势,成功战胜了联赛领头羊。
Naha FC 主教练劳伦斯·迪亚乌称赞他的球员在比赛早期失球后保持了冷静和信心。
“首先,我要感谢天上的全能者,给予我的球员力量、智慧和知识,”迪亚乌在赛后说道。
“这确实是一场重要的比赛——顶级球队之间的较量。我想赞扬我的女孩们对自己的信心、信任以及努力工作的强烈愿望。”
迪亚乌表示,开局的失球可能会影响球队,但他给球员们的信息是保持专注,继续朝着比赛计划努力。
“在第一分钟失球总是一个挑战,但我只是鼓励女孩们重新集中注意力,稳定下来,继续努力,”他说。
“我已经为我的球员准备了这样的情况。当它发生时,我们必须挺身而出,我很高兴女孩们在真正需要的时候站了出来。”
这场胜利也得益于 Naha 最近引进的两名巴布亚新几内亚球员,前锋 Jinny 和防守中场 Shalom,他们在重要比赛前几天才加入球队。
迪亚乌表示,引进新球员是为了增强球队实力,因为联赛即将进入最后阶段。
“我的阵容非常年轻,因此在联赛的这个阶段,我们需要一个终结者——能够在前场主导比赛的人——这正是 Jinny 为球队带来的,”他说。
“Shalom 在中场也表现出色。两名球员融入得非常好,其余队员也接受并支持他们迅速适应。”
随着胜利让 Naha 登顶,迪亚乌表示球队必须保持专注,避免被最新的成功分散注意力。
“这对我们来说是非常重要的胜利,因为获得这三分让我们直接登顶,”他说。
“然而,我们不会沉迷于此。我们接受这个结果,保持低调,继续努力,一场比赛一场比赛地进行。”
在昨日的比赛之前,Frigates United 和 Naha 都积 34 分,Frigates 由于净胜球优势占据首位。
3-1 的结果改变了顶端的局势,Naha 积分升至 37 分,而 Frigates 仍保持在 34 分。
这一结果在争夺冠军的过程中可能具有重要意义,因为 Naha 现在在积分榜上占据优势,接下来的联赛比赛对双方来说都变得愈加重要。
照片来源:理查德·梅纳诺波
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By Charley Piringi Pacific Island nations must reject fragmentation and stand firmly united to ensure the region’s future is shaped...
The post Houenipwela: Pacific Must Stand United Against Outside Pressure appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY LORETTA B MANELE
The Great Coalition Government envisions an inclusive agriculture sector that will pave way for employment and prosperity.
Franklyn Wasi, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD) stressed this when he delivered his response to the Speech from the Throne in parliament last week.
The MP for East Makira said agriculture must be attractive to young people and accessible to women, people with special needs and rural entrepreneurs.
“The Government’s vision is an inclusive agricultural sector where mechanisation, innovation and entrepreneurship create pathways to employment and prosperity,” he said.
Wasi said the Government will continue to support farmer cooperatives, provide technical assistance and develop opportunities for youth and women to participate meaningfully in commercial agriculture.
He highlighted that this is more than an agriculture policy.
“This is not simply an agriculture policy. It is a nation-building strategy that empowers communities and creates sustainable livelihoods,” he said.
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The Parliamentary Opposition Group has rejected claims that the Solomon Islands-United States Development Finance Corporation (DFC) Investment Incentive Agreement is...
The post Opposition Challenges Kenilorea’s ‘Word-for-Word’ DFC Claim appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) says future airport upgrade projects in Solomon Islands will include passenger terminals to improve services and provide shelter for travellers.
Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry, Alwyn Danitofea, made the clarification when the ministry appeared before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to discuss the 2025 Supplementary Appropriations Bill 2026 on Tuesday, 11 August.
The issue was raised by PAC member Peter Shanel Agovaka, who questioned whether airport upgrade projects under the SIG Provincial Airport Upgrade Project will include terminals.
Agovaka said that current projects under the Economic Recovery Support Program are mainly focused on upgrading airstrips, while passengers at some airports lack proper facilities to shelter from rain and sun.
In response, Mr Danitofea said the ministry recognises the importance of passenger terminals and will ensure they are included in airport upgrade projects.
“The importance of a terminal in the aerodrome is very important. It serves a very important service for the operation of the airport,” he said.
He said terminals that are being considered for airports include; Taro in Choiseul province, Seghe Western province, Lata in Temotu, Suavanao in Isabel, Atoifi and Moi in Malaita province.
“For Taro now, and Sege, and even for the SIG-funded reopening of Avu-Avu, we ensure that we do support a refurbishment and an upgrade for a building there to provide a terminal as well,” Mr Danitofea said.
He added that Lata Airport has a terminal included in its project, while the Suavanao airport will also be provided a terminal.
He said the ministry also plans to attach terminals to privately owned airports such as Atoifi and MOI.
Meanwhile, Mr Danitofea told the committee that the ministry seeks to regularise $1.67 million already spent during the 2025 financial year under Head 22 through the supplementary appropriation.
He said $400,000 was support from the New Zealand Government for Seghe Airport, while $1,271,351.30 was support from APNIC for the National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT).
He said the APNIC funding was targeted at strengthening cyber-security infrastructure and providing consultancy support to the CERT.
The ministry appeared before the PAC as part of Parliament’s consideration of the 2025 Supplementary Appropriations Bill 2026.
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BY RODRICK DESURI
Auki
Teachers serving in Malaita province have expressed frustration over delayed and overdue salary payments, saying the situation is affecting their families and making it difficult for them to meet their daily living expenses.
The teachers said delays in processing their salaries have placed them under financial pressure, forcing some to borrow money to support their families while continuing to carry out their teaching responsibilities.
They also questioned the effectiveness of the Solomon Islands National Teachers Association (SINTA) and provincial education authority in addressing salary-related issues, particularly after some teachers were instructed to travel to Honiara at their own expense to follow up on their payments.
A female teacher, who has been teaching for almost one year and half, who requested anonymity, said the delay reflects poorly on education authorities who are responsible for addressing teachers’ concerns.
She said she submitted all the required documents during the first six months of her employment last year and expected her salary to be processed soon afterward.
“I taught for almost six months after submitting my required documents. I hoped that everything would be okay, but when I checked my balance, there was nothing,” she said.
The teacher said her principal advised her to follow up on the matter, but when she approached the education authority in Auki, she was told to travel to Honiara to find out what had happened to her documents.
She said she had since contacted the education headquarters in Honiara several times, resubmitted her documents and continued checking with the Auki education office, but has yet to receive her salary.
“I just came back from Honiara last week after my third submission of the required documents. The officers told me that my previous submission had been misplaced. So now I hope everything will be okay,” she said.
Another teacher facing a similar situation said she had been following up on her salary for almost six months but has still not received payment.
She said she had to travel to Honiara and also visited the education office in Auki to resubmit her documents, but her salary had not been processed.
“I feel exhausted and have lost hope. When I approached my principal and the Auki education authority, they instructed me to follow it up to Honiara. But how can I travel when I don’t have money?” she said.
The teacher further alleged that some people had advised her to offer money to officers to have her salary processed more quickly.
“The only thing some teachers told me to do was to bribe the officers. They said if I wanted to get my salary without further delay, I should bribe the officers and they would process it quickly,” she alleged.
She said she had not taken the advice because she believes bribery is wrong.
The allegations could not be independently verified.
This paper visited the education authority in Auki earlier this week for comment, but was unsuccessful as no officer was available at the office. Calls made to the office also went unanswered.
The affected teachers are calling on the Ministry of Education and Human Resources (MEHRD) to conduct a thorough assessment of salary-processing procedures and officers at its Honiara headquarters, and to investigate any allegations of bribery or misconduct.
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