Tulagi Solar Power Plant is commissioned, expanding renewable energy and reducing diesel reliance in Central Islands Province. The Tulagi Solar Power Plant has been commissioned in Central Islands Province as part of a multi-provincial project aimed at increasing renewable energy use and reducing reliance on diesel-generated electricity in Solomon Islands. The commissioning ceremony was attended [...]
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
World Bank representatives this week visited four communities in Honiara where sub-project works are currently underway .
The visits are part of the project’s Fourth Implementation Support Mission (ISM).
According to the CAUSE 2 project, the mission brings together the Solomon Islands Government, World Bank, project partners and implementing agencies to review the progress of CAUSE II, identify key priorities and discuss the next phase of activities.
During the visit, the World Bank delegation, accompanied by staff from the CAUSE II Project Management Unit (PMU), visited four communities where sub-project works are currently underway.
The sites included the Antioch Stream Cleaning Project, Bethesda Disability Centre Footpath Project, Lower Jericho Footbridge Project and Grass Valley Footpath Project.
The visits allowed the delegation to see the progress of the projects on the ground and meet with teams responsible for delivering community-level infrastructure and services.
As part of the mission, the World Bank delegation is also scheduled to travel to Western Province over the weekend to visit additional CAUSE II project sites in Gizo and Noro.
The visits will be supported by the Project Implementation Units (PIUs) in both townships.
Meanwhile, CAUSE II is preparing to officially hand over 19 completed sub-projects to the Western Provincial Government and local communities.
The handover ceremonies are scheduled for Gizo on September 22 and Noro on September 23.
The ceremonies will mark the completion of the projects and their handover for use by local communities.
CAUSE II is implemented by the Solomon Islands Government with support from the World Bank and the Australian Government through the Papua New Guinea and Pacific Islands Umbrella Facility Multi-Donor Trust Fund.
Photo credit: CAUSE 2 Project
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
A health team from the Malaita Provincial Health Service conducted a one-day community health awareness program in the streets of Auki Town yesterday.
The program is part of the Malaita Health Service’s five-year program, which aims to promote positive changes in habits, behaviours and attitudes and encourage communities to take action to keep Auki Town clean.
During the awareness, Kemuel Iro reminded members of the public about practices that contribute to making Auki Town dirty, particularly poor waste management.
He encouraged the public to adopt positive practices to help make the town cleaner and more attractive to residents and visitors.
“I want to remind us all that please, try to stop and put an end to unacceptable behaviour and old-fashioned ways of littering, spitting betel nut and throwing waste everywhere in public areas that make our town dirty.
“Even though it is hard, we must try to stop our unwanted habits, behaviours and attitudes that cannot help to make our town clean,” he said.
A source within the awareness team, who requested anonymity, said the program will also be extended to rural communities.
“This program is just for us to try and change the ways in which we contribute to unnecessary littering and find ways that can help keep our town clean.
“It is a five-year action plan aimed at cleaning our town. At the same time, we need to change our mindset and stop littering, which makes our town look bad,” he said.
Photo credit: Rodrick Desuri
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE solar project at Sasamuga Village in Choiseul Province is back on track, with Solomon Power technical teams supporting Guadalcanal Electric Limited [GEL].
Village Chief Charles Tani Kiko said the project was launched last year but was forced to stop earlier this year following the impact of Cyclone Maila.
He said the return of Solomon Power technical staff is supporting GEL Solar project by installing frames for the solar panels.
Kiko said the project is a major milestone for Sasamuga and surrounding communities.
He said the project will provide much-needed benefits to the community, including opportunities for businesses, schools, the hospital and individual households.
“It will really help our village, communities, hospital, school, business houses, even individuals will benefit from this project,” Kiko said.
He said reliable electricity will not only improve living standards but also create opportunities for economic activities and new businesses.
Kiko also welcomed the opportunity for local people to work alongside Solomon Power technical staff during the project.
“Their coming is a milestone to us. It also provides opportunity for our people in working with them as well,” he said.
Kiko said the community is looking forward to the successful completion of the solar farm, describing the development as an important step towards improving services and economic opportunities in Sasamuga.
He said the project will also help improve the community’s road by removing some of the huge debris brought into the shoreline by tropical cyclone Maila.
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
A cocoa and copra farmer from West Kwara’ae, Malaita Province, has praised the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) for recognising farmers’ needs and providing support to improve their farming activities.
Fifty-five-year-old Joseph Maeda, from Kware village, has been involved in cocoa and copra farming for more than 30 years.
Mr Maeda has sold his cocoa and copra produce to CEMA over the years, although there were periods when he stopped selling to the Authority and sold to other buyers.
He has now returned to selling his produce to CEMA and said he intends to continue doing so because of the support the Authority is providing to farmers.
Mr Maeda said farmers still face several challenges, including shortage of labour, limited access to suitable farming tools, unreliable transportation and high freight costs.
Despite these challenges, he thanks CEMA for its assistance, particularly the provision of free copra bags, which he said has been helpful to farmers.
He also calls for more support from CEMA to help farmers increase production and gain greater benefits from their cocoa and copra farms.
Mr Maeda further thanked the Solomon Islands Government for supporting the establishment of the CEMA buying centre in Auki.
He said the continued presence of the buying centre is important because it provides farmers in Malaita with a direct link to CEMA and the market for their produce.
Mr Maeda urges CEMA to maintain its presence in Auki and continue supporting farmers in the province.
His experience highlights the importance of reliable market access, farming equipment, transportation and other support services in helping farmers improve production and earn greater benefits from their agricultural activities.
The Farmers First Initiative, being implemented by CEMA, aims to ensure farmers’ experiences and needs are recognised while creating a more supportive environment for farmers to maximise the benefits of cocoa and copra production.
Photo credit: Supplied
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BY NED GAGAHE
Central Islands Premier Kenneth Sagupari says reliable and affordable electricity will be critical to transform Tulagi into a modern urban centre and unlock the province’s tourism and rural economic potential.
Speaking at the commissioning of a 250-kilowatt solar hybrid plant in Tulagi yesterday, Premier Sagupari said the project is more than the installation of solar panels, describing it as an investment in the future development of Central Province.
He said reliable electricity will support modern infrastructure, tourism, businesses, health services and education across the province.
“This 250-kilowatt solar plant is the result of partnership, hard work and a shared vision to bring affordable, clean and renewable energy power to our people,” Premier Sagupari said.
He said Tulagi’s geographical limitations means the province needs to make better use of its available land, including through high-rise development.
However, he said such development depends on a consistent and reliable electricity supply.
Premier Sagupari said unstable power supplies could disrupt operations and other essential systems in modern buildings, potentially slowing urban development.
“This solar plant hopefully will eliminate that critical risk, delivering stable power to sustain our infrastructure and enable Tulagi’s orderly urban expansion,” he said.
He also identified tourism as another sector that could benefit from improved electricity supply.
Premier Sagupari said reliable and affordable power is essential for tourism operators, which require electricity for accommodation, air conditioning, lighting, recreational facilities and other services.
He said the solar project could help reduce operating costs for tourism businesses, attract investment and improve services.
“Reliable and affordable energy is the backbone of a growing tourism industry,” he said.
The Premier said the benefits will also extend to rural communities.
He said reliable electricity could allow rural growth centres to operate facilities for milling, drying, preservation, cold storage and packaging of agricultural and fisheries products.
This, he said, could help reduce post-harvest losses and allow local produce to be processed into market-ready products.
“For far too long, our rural economies have been limited by unreliable costly diesel power,” Premier Sagupari said.
He called for similar solar projects to be developed in other parts of Central Province, including the Gela and Russell Islands.
Premier Sagupari said the provincial government’s development agenda is centred on affordable renewable energy and establishing solar-powered growth centres across the province.
The 250-kilowatt solar hybrid plant is one of five projects being implemented by Solomon Power and the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification with support from the Asian Development Bank, Solomon Islands Government and Strategic Climate Fund.
The five projects are part of a $15.2 million Government solar power development project, with $8.4 million in support from ADB.
Premier Sagupari also urged Central Province communities to take ownership of the new infrastructure by protecting it from vandalism, using electricity responsibly and paying bills on time.
“With ownership comes responsibility,” he said.
Photo credit: Loretta B Manele
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作者:内德·加加赫
中部群岛省省长肯尼斯·萨古帕里表示,可靠且负担得起的电力对于将图拉吉(Tulagi)转变为现代城市中心以及释放该省的旅游和农村经济潜力至关重要。
在昨天图拉吉一座250千瓦太阳能混合电站的启用仪式上,萨古帕里省长表示,该项目不仅仅是安装太阳能电池板,而是对中部省未来发展的投资。
他表示,可靠的电力将支持该省的现代基础设施、旅游、商业、医疗服务和教育。
“这座250千瓦的太阳能电站是合作、努力和共同愿景的结果,旨在为我们的人民提供负担得起的、清洁的可再生能源,”萨古帕里省长说。
他指出,图拉吉的地理限制意味着该省需要更好地利用现有土地,包括通过高层开发。
然而,他表示,这种开发依赖于稳定可靠的电力供应。
萨古帕里省长表示,不稳定的电力供应可能会干扰现代建筑中的运营和其他基本系统,从而可能减缓城市发展。
“这座太阳能电站希望能够消除这一关键风险,提供稳定的电力以维持我们的基础设施,并促进图拉吉有序的城市扩展,”他说。
他还指出,旅游业是另一个可以从改善电力供应中受益的行业。
萨古帕里省长表示,可靠且负担得起的电力对旅游运营商至关重要,因为他们需要电力来提供住宿、空调、照明、娱乐设施和其他服务。
他表示,太阳能项目可以帮助降低旅游企业的运营成本,吸引投资并改善服务。
“可靠且负担得起的能源是不断增长的旅游业的支柱,”他说。
省长表示,这些好处也将扩展到农村社区。
他说,可靠的电力可以使农村增长中心运营磨坊、干燥、保鲜、冷藏和包装农业和渔业产品的设施。
他说,这可以帮助减少收获后的损失,并使当地产品加工成市场准备好的产品。
“太长时间以来,我们的农村经济一直受到不可靠且昂贵的柴油电力的限制,”萨古帕里省长说。
他呼吁在中部省的其他地区开发类似的太阳能项目,包括吉拉(Gela)和拉塞尔岛(Russell Islands)。
萨古帕里省长表示,省政府的发展议程以负担得起的可再生能源为中心,并在全省建立太阳能驱动的增长中心。
这座250千瓦的太阳能混合电站是所罗门电力(Solomon Power)和矿业、能源与农村电气化部(Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification)在亚洲开发银行(Asian Development Bank)、所罗门群岛政府和战略气候基金(Strategic Climate Fund)支持下实施的五个项目之一。
这五个项目是价值1520万美元的政府太阳能电力发展项目的一部分,其中840万美元来自亚洲开发银行的支持。
萨古帕里省长还呼吁中部省的社区对新基础设施负责,保护其免受破坏,负责任地使用电力,并按时支付账单。
“拥有责任,”他说。
照片来源:洛雷塔·B·马内莱
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BY NED GAGAHE
The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) has warned Electronic Funds Transfer at Point of Sale (EFTPOS) merchants against imposing additional charges on customers who pay for goods and services by card.
CBSI said card payment surcharges are unauthorised and unfair, and urged merchants imposing such charges to stop the practice immediately.
The central bank said it received growing concerns from consumers and commercial banks that some EFTPOS merchants were passing merchant service fees directly on to customers.
CBSI said merchant service fees were intended to be absorbed by businesses as part of their normal operating costs and should not be passed on to consumers.
It reminded merchants that customers should be able to see and understand the full cost of a purchase before completing a transaction.
CBSI said transparent and consistent pricing is important to maintain consumer confidence in electronic payments.
Electronic payments also play an important role in promoting financial inclusion, reducing reliance on cash and improving the efficiency and security of the country’s payments system.
CBSI has urged EFTPOS merchants to contact their banks if they are unsure about the nature or purpose of any surcharge or fee associated with card payments.
Merchants have also been reminded to maintain the same pricing for cash, debit card, credit card and other accepted payment methods.
CBSI said prices displayed to customers should accurately reflect the amount charged at the point of purchase.
It also urged merchants to treat payment acceptance costs as normal business operating expenses and not impose additional fees at the point of sale that could confuse customers or discourage the use of electronic payment methods.
For customers, CBSI said they should not be charged an additional fee simply because they are using a card to make a payment.
Customers should also expect prices to be clearly disclosed before completing a purchase and can ask merchants to explain any additional fee appearing on a receipt or invoice.
CBSI encourages customers who encounter card payment surcharges or unexplained fees to raise their concerns with their banks or directly with CBSI.
The central bank said it will continue to work with commercial banks to promote fair and consistent payment practices across Solomon Islands and monitor compliance.
“Electronic payments should be safe, transparent, convenient, and fair for everyone,” CBSI said.
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PALM worker John returns to Tulagi after four years in Australia, using his earnings to build a home and start businesses. & four years working at Greenhams in Tongala, Victoria, through the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, John is seeing the results of his hard work transform not only his family’s future, but also [...]
The post Tulagi Worker uses PALM Scheme to Build Home, Business and new Future appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
TSI demands answers on Cyclone Maila recovery funds as affected communities in Western and Choiseul await assistance. Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) joins Western Province Premier Hon. Billy Veo in demanding answers: Where are the millions pledged for Cyclone Maila recovery? Five months after the cyclone, families in Western and Choiseul Provinces remain without homes, food [...]
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透明所罗门群岛(TSI)要求对气旋梅拉恢复资金作出解释,因为西部和乔伊斯尔的受影响社区仍在等待援助。西部省省长比利·维奥(Hon. Billy Veo)与TSI共同要求回答:为气旋梅拉恢复承诺的数百万资金在哪里?在气旋过后五个月,西部和乔伊斯尔省的家庭仍然没有家园、食物 [...]
该文章最初发布在Tavuli News(所罗门群岛)上。
HONIARA, SOLOMON ISLANDS – Honiara Senior Secondary School has received modern teaching, administration and student-support facilities funded by the Government of the People’s Republic of China, marking a major step towards easing overcrowding and improving learning conditions at one of the country’s largest secondary schools.
The approximately SBD 9.9 million reconstruction project provides an eight-classroom teaching block, an administration block with office and conference facilities, a two-level library, computer laboratory, and additional water, sanitation and hygiene facilities for students and staff.
Honiara Senior Secondary School currently enrols 1,440 students from Forms 4 to 7 and has 45 teachers. Acting Principal Mr Johnson Mangila said the new facilities bring the school closer to resolving its high enrolment and overcrowding challenges while creating a safer and more conducive environment for teaching and learning.
Minister of Education and Human Resource Development Hon. Stephen Kumi described the handover as an important milestone in restoring the school after its classroom and administration facilities were severely damaged during the social unrest of 2021.
Hon. Stephen Kumi and His Excellency Cai Weiming cut the ribbon to officially open the new classroom facilities.
Minister of Education and Human Resource Development Hon. Stephen Kumi delivers the keynote remarks at the classroom facilities handover ceremony.
Hon. Kumi thanked the Government and people of China for responding positively to the Solomon Islands Government’s request for assistance. He also acknowledged the Ministry of Finance and Treasury, Honiara City Council, the school board and community, and TGB Construction and its workforce for completing the project despite implementation challenges.
The Minister said the investment extends beyond the buildings because it creates better conditions for learning and helps prepare young Solomon Islanders to become the teachers, health professionals, engineers, public servants, business leaders and national leaders of tomorrow. He said the project is also timely as the Government advances its Free Education Policy.
Wider access to education, Hon. Kumi said, must be matched by sufficient classrooms, teachers, learning materials, WASH facilities and safe learning environments if the policy is to be implemented successfully and sustainably. He urged the school community to protect and maintain the new facilities so they can serve future generations.
Minister of Finance and Treasury Hon. Rex Ramofafia said government budgets reflect national choices and values, and investment in education confirms that young people are a priority. A former Honiara High School student, he encouraged students to see the new classrooms as opportunities to learn, think, question, dream and build their futures. He also paid tribute to teachers and staff, noting that while buildings support education, teachers shape minds, build character and give hope.
Minister of Finance and Treasury Hon. Rex Ramofafia delivers his remarks during the official handover of the new facilities at Honiara Senior Secondary School.
Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Cai Weiming, said the project represents partnership, progress and mutual support between the two countries. He noted that it is the first China grant-funded project implemented by local contractors and acknowledged the government agencies, school community, contractors and engineers who contributed to its completion.
Ambassador Cai said China has provided more than SBD 2.4 billion in official assistance to Solomon Islands over the past seven years. The school project joins other major China-supported investments, including the National Stadium, SINU dormitory, National Referral Hospital Comprehensive Medical Centre and National Broadband Infrastructure Project.
Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Cai Weiming, addresses guests during the Capital Public Facilities Reconstruction Project handover ceremony.
Photo credit: [Insert photographer or organisation]
The ceremony was attended by Ambassador Cai; Hon. Stephen Kumi; Hon. Rex Ramofafia; Honiara City Mayor Cr David Siapu and the City Clerk; MEHRD Permanent Secretary Supervising Linda Wate; Clerk to the National Parliament Jefferson Halu; and representatives of Honiara City Council, the school board, contractors, teachers, students, parents and invited guests.
The project reflects the wider cooperation between Solomon Islands and China to restore important public assets and strengthen services that directly benefit communities.
霍尼亚拉,所罗门群岛 – 霍尼亚拉高级中学获得了由中华人民共和国政府资助的现代教学、行政和学生支持设施,这标志着缓解该国最大中学之一的过度拥挤和改善学习条件的重要一步。
这项约为990万所罗门元的重建项目提供了一个八个教室的教学楼、一个配有办公室和会议设施的行政楼、一个两层的图书馆、计算机实验室,以及为学生和教职员工提供的额外水、卫生和卫生设施。
霍尼亚拉高级中学目前招收来自 Year 4到 Year 7的1440名学生,拥有45名教师。代理校长约翰逊·曼吉拉(Mr Johnson Mangila)表示,新设施使学校更接近解决其高入学率和拥挤问题,同时创造了一个更安全、更有利于教学和学习的环境。
教育与人力资源发展部长斯蒂芬·库米(Hon. Stephen Kumi)表示,交接仪式是恢复学校的重要里程碑,因为该校的教室和行政设施在2021年的社会动荡中遭到严重破坏。
斯蒂芬·库米部长和蔡伟明阁下剪彩,正式启用新的教室设施。
教育与人力资源发展部长斯蒂芬·库米在教室设施交接仪式上发表主题讲话。
库米部长感谢中国政府和人民积极响应所罗门群岛政府的援助请求。他还感谢财政与财政部、霍尼亚拉市议会、学校董事会和社区,以及TGB建筑公司及其员工,尽管面临实施挑战,仍完成了该项目。
部长表示,这项投资不仅限于建筑,因为它创造了更好的学习条件,并帮助年轻的所罗门群岛人准备成为未来的教师、卫生专业人员、工程师、公务员、商业领袖和国家领导人。他表示,该项目的时机也恰逢政府推进其免费教育政策。
库米部长表示,教育的更广泛获取必须与足够的教室、教师、学习材料、WASH设施和安全的学习环境相匹配,才能成功和可持续地实施该政策。他呼吁学校社区保护和维护新设施,以便为未来的世代服务。
财政与财政部长雷克斯·拉莫法菲亚(Hon. Rex Ramofafia)表示,政府预算反映了国家的选择和价值观,教育投资确认了年轻人是优先事项。作为霍尼亚拉高级中学的前学生,他鼓励学生将新教室视为学习、思考、提问、梦想和建设未来的机会。他还向教师和员工致敬,指出虽然建筑支持教育,但教师塑造思想、建立品格并给予希望。
财政与财政部长雷克斯·拉莫法菲亚在霍尼亚拉高级中学新设施的正式交接仪式上发表讲话。
中华人民共和国驻所罗门群岛大使蔡伟明阁下表示,该项目代表了两国之间的合作、进步和相互支持。他指出,这是第一个由当地承包商实施的中国赠款资助项目,并感谢为其完成做出贡献的政府机构、学校社区、承包商和工程师。
蔡大使表示,中国在过去七年中已向所罗门群岛提供超过24亿所罗门元的官方援助。该学校项目与其他主要的中国支持投资项目相结合,包括国家体育场、所罗门群岛国立大学宿舍、国家转诊医院综合医疗中心和国家宽带基础设施项目。
中华人民共和国驻所罗门群岛大使蔡伟明阁下在公共设施重建项目交接仪式上致辞。
照片来源:[插入摄影师或组织]
仪式出席者包括蔡大使;斯蒂芬·库米部长;雷克斯·拉莫法菲亚部长;霍尼亚拉市市长大卫·西亚普(Cr David Siapu)和市书记;教育与人力资源发展部常务秘书林达·瓦特(Linda Wate);国会书记杰弗逊·哈卢(Jefferson Halu);以及霍尼亚拉市议会、学校董事会、承包商、教师、学生、家长和受邀嘉宾的代表。
该项目反映了所罗门群岛与中国之间更广泛的合作,以恢复重要的公共资产并加强直接惠及社区的服务。
Honiara nurses strengthen NCD care through early screening, careful follow-up and quality improvement to protect patients. A woman visited Mataniko Area Health Center seeking to be checked for malaria. She had no idea she was also living with diabetes and hypertension. Because the clinic had strengthened its approach to quality improvement, her visit became more [...]
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National side opens MSG Cup campaign in Suva
BY RICHARD MANENOPO
SOLOMON Islands men’s national team will open it’s 2026 MSG Prime Ministers Cup campaign against hosts Fiji at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva this evening.
The match kicks off at 7pm Fiji time, 6pm Solomon Islands time, with the Solomon Islands men’s side beginning its campaign in the five-team round-robin competition, according to the Fiji Football Association fixture schedule.
Solomon Islands head into the tournament under head coach Ben Cahn, with the national side looking to make an impact in the regional competition after winning the title in 2023.
Fiji, meanwhile, will have home support behind them as they begin their campaign against Solomon Islands. The hosts are among the five participating nations, alongside defending champions Vanuatu, New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea.
The opening round gets underway earlier today with Papua New Guinea taking on Vanuatu at 2pm Fiji time, before the Solomon Islands-Fiji clash at 7pm.
For Solomon Islands, the campaign continues on Monday, September 21, when they meet New Caledonia at 4pm Fiji time, before facing Vanuatu on Thursday, September 24, at 4pm.
The national side will then play Papua New Guinea on Wednesday, September 30, in its final round-robin fixture.
The tournament follows a single round-robin format, with each of the five teams playing one another once. The two highest-placed teams at the end of the round-robin will meet in the final on October 3 for the MSG Prime Ministers Cup title.
The 2026 edition is being hosted by Fiji and also features the women’s national teams, continuing the inclusion of women’s football in the tournament.
[PHOTO CAPTION: Solomon Islands players during a recent international assignment ahead of their 2026 MSG Prime Minister’s Cup campaign. Photo: OFC File]
BY CAMPION OHASIO – DIGITAL CREATOR
Digital creator, Campion Ohasio.
When the GREAT Coalition Government launched its policy statement, one big word that stood out right at the top is; ‘Solomonisation.’
On paper, the government defines ‘Solomonisation’ as placing local leadership, customary knowledge, and indigenous institutions right at the center of national development. It promises that every policy, project, and dollar spent must reflect the real values, traditions, and hopes of Solomon Islanders.
To make this even stronger, the government paired it with the “First Bite – Better Bite” principle. This means indigenous citizens get priority access, exclusive rights, better financial terms, and direct advantages in business and resource development.
For a very long time, everyday decisions about our land, our forests, our ocean, and our local businesses felt like they were being made by outsiders. We watched our raw round logs, un-canned tuna, and unrefined gold leave our islands on foreign ships or planes, while local people and families struggled to pay for school fees and livelihoods.
But what does this fancy term actually look like on the ground in our rural villages? The truth on the ground is that this sector ‘local leadership, customary knowledge, and indigenous institutions like our tribes, houses of chiefs etc. has always remained an ‘informal sector’ in the governance system of the country. Government must first work to align this sector if it is to achieve this noble goal.
By RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The asphalt application for the China-Aid Auki Road Project was completed yesterday at the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) workers’ base at Aligegeo, Auki.
The completion of the asphalt works marks another significant milestone in the delivery of road infrastructure in Malaita Province, as the project moves closer to completion.
The project is expected to provide a major improvement to road standards in the province.
Asphalt being applied to the China-Aid Auki Road Project at the CCECC workers’ base in Aligegeo, Auki.
According to a press statement issued by CCECC yesterday, the 9.2-kilometre tar-sealed road from Kwaibala to Kilu’ufi, including the Fasitoro and Sikitae feeder roads, has now been completed.
“Asphalting works under the China-Aid Auki Road Project have now been completed, marking another major milestone in the delivery of road infrastructure in Auki and surrounding areas,” the statement said.
The statement said Project Manager Liu Bao Dong and his team would now shift their focus to the remaining works.
These include the installation of street-name signs and speed-limit signs, while road-line and pavement-marking works are already underway.
“These are part of the final works being carried out to ensure the road is properly completed and equipped with the necessary road safety signs and markings,” Project Manager Liu said.
The installation of street-name and speed-limit signs will assist motorists and other road users in navigating the newly improved roads.
Road markings will also improve visibility and contribute to safer road use for motorists, pedestrians and other road users.
The completion of the asphalt application represents a major step towards the final delivery of the China-Aid Auki Road Project, with the remaining works focused on road safety features and other finishing requirements.
Workers applying asphalt during the final stages of the China-Aid Auki Road Project along the Kwaibala–Kilu’ufi road in Auki, Malaita Province.
[Photo Caption: Workers applying asphalt during the final stages of the China-Aid Auki Road Project along the Kwaibala–Kilu’ufi road in Auki, Malaita Province.]
More than 280 Solomon Islanders are now better prepared for employment in Australia’s meat processing industry, following the successful delivery of practical, job-focused training in the first half of 2026.
Under the Solomon Islands–Australia partnership, 10 cohorts have completed training delivered through Pacific Australia Skills, as part of a Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme initiative to help Solomon Islanders become work ready.
The training is already translating into real outcomes, with some participants now applying their skills in live workplace environments in Australia.
Pacific Australia Skills Solomon Islands National Trainer, Mr Robert Anita, demonstrates correct arm positioning to participants during a knife sharpening practical session.
Participants of the meat processing training program pictured celebrating the completion of their training.
The training focuses on hands-on learning, including knife handling, workplace safety and core meat processing techniques used by industry. It is being delivered by an experienced trainer from Papua New Guinea alongside a Solomon Islands national trainer, combining international standards with local expertise.
Participant Ms Caroline Gelibaela Deven, who completed the training in March, said the training had strengthened her readiness to work in Australia.
“This training has helped me understand what I will be doing on the job. Learning the basics in meatworks, like what was shared, is giving me insight into what to expect as I prepare to work in Australia,” she said.
Peter Serge Pitia, another participant, said the program provided valuable insight into workplace expectations.
“I now understand the standards, rules and expectations in the meat processing industry. It has prepared me for what lies ahead when I start work in Australia,” he said.
Mr Robert Anita demonstrates the correct direction for moving a knife during sharpening.
Speaking on behalf of participants in July, Mr Owen Anthoney Sautalau acknowledged the Governments of Solomon Islands and Australia for creating pathways to employment.
“The training has equipped us with the right knowledge and skills for the Australian labour market. The hands-on sessions have strengthened our capabilities and prepared us for work,” he said.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Mr Jeff Roach, said the training is delivering tangible outcomes for participants and industry.
“This initiative is preparing Solomon Islanders to work safely, independently and successfully under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme,” High Commissioner Roach said.
“Australia remains committed to supporting skills development initiatives that lead to real employment opportunities and long-term benefits for Solomon Islanders.”
The program highlights the growing impact of skills development initiatives that are directly linked to employment pathways, contributing to a more skilled workforce, stronger economic participation, and increased opportunities for Solomon Islanders both at home and abroad.
超过280名所罗门群岛居民在2026年上半年成功完成了以就业为导向的实用培训,现已更好地为在澳大利亚的肉类加工行业就业做好准备。
在所罗门群岛与澳大利亚的合作下,10个小组完成了通过太平洋澳大利亚技能(Pacific Australia Skills)提供的培训,这是太平洋澳大利亚劳动力流动(PALM)计划的一部分,旨在帮助所罗门群岛人民做好工作准备。
培训已经转化为实际成果,一些参与者现在在澳大利亚的实际工作环境中应用他们的技能。
太平洋澳大利亚技能所罗门群岛国家培训师罗伯特·阿尼塔(Mr Robert Anita)在刀具磨利实操课程中向参与者演示正确的手臂位置。
肉类加工培训项目的参与者庆祝他们培训的完成。
该培训注重实践学习,包括刀具使用、工作场所安全和行业使用的核心肉类加工技术。培训由来自巴布亚新几内亚的经验丰富的培训师与所罗门群岛的国家培训师共同进行,结合了国际标准与本地专业知识。
参与者卡罗琳·盖利贝拉·德文(Ms Caroline Gelibaela Deven)在3月份完成培训时表示,这次培训增强了她在澳大利亚工作的准备。
“这次培训帮助我了解我在工作中将要做的事情。学习肉类加工的基础知识,比如分享的内容,让我对准备在澳大利亚工作时的期望有了更深入的了解,”她说。
另一位参与者彼得·塞尔吉·皮提亚(Peter Serge Pitia)表示,该项目提供了对工作场所期望的宝贵见解。
“我现在理解肉类加工行业的标准、规则和期望。这为我在澳大利亚工作做好了准备,”他说。
罗伯特·阿尼塔(Mr Robert Anita)在磨刀时演示刀具的正确移动方向。
在7月份代表参与者发言时,欧文·安索尼·索塔劳(Mr Owen Anthoney Sautalau)感谢所罗门群岛和澳大利亚政府为创造就业机会所做的努力。
“培训使我们具备了适应澳大利亚劳动力市场所需的知识和技能。实践课程增强了我们的能力,为工作做好了准备,”他说。
澳大利亚驻所罗门群岛高级专员杰夫·罗奇(Mr Jeff Roach)表示,这项培训为参与者和行业带来了切实的成果。
“这一举措正在为所罗门群岛人民在太平洋澳大利亚劳动力流动计划下安全、独立和成功地工作做好准备,”罗奇高级专员说。
“澳大利亚将继续致力于支持技能发展举措,以带来真正的就业机会和长期利益,造福所罗门群岛人民。”
该项目突显了与就业路径直接相关的技能发展举措日益增长的影响,促进了更高技能的劳动力、增强的经济参与以及所罗门群岛人民在国内外的更多机会。
By Lesley Foinagwa [ Freelance Journalist, Malaita province ]
The Malaita Provincial Fisheries Office, in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is trialling a mud crab fattening project at Heruiesi Community in Ward 21, Small Malaita.
Senior Fisheries Officer for Malaita Province, Mathew Isihanu, says the project began in April this year and is being implemented on a trial basis to assess whether mud crab fattening can be successfully expanded to other communities.
Mr Isihanu made the remarks while monitoring mud crab fattening trays at Heruiesi, where the first harvest has already been completed and a second batch of small mud crabs has been placed in the trays for fattening.
He says the project currently involves one community, with 10 fattening trays established during the trial phase.
“This project is only on a trial basis. If it works well and monitoring shows that it is successful, we will carry out full implementation and expand it to other communities,” Mr Isihanu said.
Under the trial system, one mud crab is placed in each tray and monitored as it grows.
Mr Isihanu explains that after about one month, the mud crab grows larger and undergoes a process known as moulting, where it sheds its old shell.
He says the crab initially develops a soft body after shedding its old shell before the new shell gradually becomes stronger.
The project is being implemented on a trial basis to assess whether mud crab fattening can be successfully expanded to other communities
Mud crabs can moult two to three times as they continue growing before reaching maturity, he says.
The project aims to promote sustainable mud crab management while providing communities with an additional source of food and income.
Mr Isihanu says the initiative could contribute to food security and household income generation, particularly if the trial proves successful and the model can be expanded to other communities in Malaita.
The Malaita Provincial Fisheries Office and JICA will continue monitoring the project to assess the growth and survival of the mud crabs before any decision is made on wider implementation.
The Heruiesi trial is expected to provide valuable information on whether mud crab fattening can become a practical livelihood opportunity for coastal communities across Malaita Province.
[end]
The post Small Malaita trials Mud Crab fattening project to boost food security and household income first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The Scripture Union fellowship program for schools in Malaita Province concluded yesterday at the Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School Hall in Auki.
However, the closing of the program marked the beginning of a new chapter for schools across the province, with the event signalling the birth of a new movement in the education sector of Malaita.
During the closing program, Malaita Provincial Premier Elijah Asilau’a thanked the chairperson and leaders of Scripture Union, school principals, teachers, students, and the people of Malaita for their support.
Premier Asilau’a said he recognised the fellowship as important work because the lessons being shared would help shape the lives of students and people throughout the province.
The Scripture Union school fellowship event, which brought together students, teachers and school leaders for fellowship, teaching and reflection at Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School in Auki.
He said the fellowship would help guide students and contribute to building the future of Malaita.
“It is a great honour for me to stand before you today as your Guest of Honour. I sincerely thank the Scripture Union Executive for this invitation.
“I recognise the important work you are doing in our schools here in Auki and across Malaita. You are not just teaching lessons—you are shaping lives.
“You are not just guiding students—you are building the future of our province,” he said.
Meanwhile, Premier Asilau’a said the Malaita Provincial Government greatly appreciated and fully supported the work of Scripture Union in the province.
“As Premier, and on behalf of the Malaita Provincial Government, I want to clearly say that we fully support this work,” he said.
He also said the fellowship program would be extended to other parts of the province to reach more schools and students.
The theme of the closing program was “Bible Comes Alive.”
Speaking on the theme, Premier Asilau’a said the Bible was not simply a book of the past but a living Word with relevance for today and tomorrow.
“The Bible is not just a book of the past—it is a living Word for today and tomorrow.”
He referred to Hebrews 4:12, which says: “For the word of God is alive and active.”
The Scripture Union fellowship program brought together school leaders, teachers and students for a time of fellowship, teaching and reflection, with organisers hoping the movement will continue to grow across Malaita Province.
[Photo Caption: Photos taken during the Scripture Union fellowship program at Aligegeo.]
Solomon Islands bow out after 2-0 loss to Samoa
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands ended their OFC U-16 Women’s Championship 2026 campaign without a win after going down 2-0 to Samoa at the National Stadium in Honiara yesterday.
The home side, playing their final match of the tournament, struggled to find the back of the net as Samoa scored once in each half to secure fifth place and end their own campaign on a winning note.
According to OFC Media’s post-match report, Samoa captain Taimane Devoux was instrumental in the victory, setting up the opening goal before scoring the second herself.
Solomon Islands stayed in the contest during the opening stages, but Samoa eventually found the breakthrough in the 34th minute.
Devoux created the opening with a cutback into the box for Brooklyn Leaupepe-Nickel, who finished from close range into the top-right corner to give Samoa a 1-0 advantage at halftime.
The Solomon Islands side needed a response after the break, but instead found themselves further behind in the 57th minute.
A delivery into the box was not cleared and Devoux pounced on the loose ball, sending a half-volley into the top-left corner to double Samoa’s lead.
Solomon Islands continued to search for a way back into the match but were unable to convert their opportunities.
Substitute Fred Toro Mau came closest to getting the hosts on the scoresheet in the final 10 minutes, forcing Samoa goalkeeper Susahna Peacock into a close-range save.
The late effort proved to be one of the few clear openings for Solomon Islands as Samoa held on to claim the 2-0 victory.
For the Solomon Islands U-16 women’s team, the defeat brought their home tournament to an end without a victory from four matches.
Samoa, meanwhile, finished fifth and recorded their second successive win over Solomon Islands at this level, having defeated the hosts 5-0 in last year’s semi-final.
Despite the result, the tournament provided another important international experience for the young Solomon Islands players, who now turn their attention to future competitions at age-group level.
The OFC U-16 Women’s Championship also served as the pathway to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2027, with Oceania’s qualifying places determined through the tournament.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Twenty young students from Charles Dausabea Primary School are gradually overcoming their fear of the water as they take part in an eight-week Learn to Swim programme at the National Aquatic Centre.
The students are attending weekly swimming sessions every Wednesday and are now into their second week of training after starting the programme last week.
The National Sports Council (NSC), through its National Aquatic Centre, said the programme is designed to help children develop water confidence, fundamental swimming abilities and greater awareness of water safety.
For some of the Dausabea students, however, simply getting into the pool was initially a challenge.
Dausabea Primary School Deputy Headmistress Mirriam Daoga Panda said many of the participating students had little or no swimming experience before joining the programme and were initially frightened of entering the pool.
With encouragement from the NSC swimming trainers, the students are now beginning to feel more comfortable in the water.
“The children joining the programme are very happy, because most of them do not know how to swim,” said Panda.
The 20 students were selected from different year levels, with most coming from Grades One and Two, while two students are from Grades Four and Five.
Panda said the programme is providing the children with an opportunity to gain knowledge and skills that extend beyond their normal classroom learning.
“Children do not only go to school to learn the curriculum, but also to help them develop important life skills, and swimming is one of those important skills,” she said.
The sessions cover basic areas such as breathing, floating and kicking, while gradually introducing stroke development, basic survival skills and safe behaviour around water.
For the young participants, the programme represents more than simply learning to swim.
It is also helping them to overcome an early fear of the water while developing confidence that could prove valuable both in and outside the pool.
Panda thanked the NSC and staff at the National Aquatic Centre for providing the opportunity and said she hopes more schools will take advantage of similar programmes.
She also believes the initiative could eventually encourage some children to take a greater interest in swimming as a sport.
The Learn to Swim initiative is being delivered as a pilot programme at the National Aquatic Centre, with Dausabea becoming the second school to participate.
The eight-week programme forms part of the NSC’s efforts to give children access to structured swimming activities while developing water confidence and essential safety skills from an early age.
Photo credit: NSC
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作者:理查德·梅纳诺波
来自查尔斯·道萨比亚小学的二十名年轻学生正在逐渐克服对水的恐惧,参加为期八周的游泳学习项目,地点在国家水上中心。
学生们每周三参加游泳课程,目前已进入第二周的训练,项目上周刚开始。
国家体育委员会(NSC)通过其国家水上中心表示,该项目旨在帮助儿童培养水中自信、基本游泳能力以及对水安全的更高意识。
然而,对于一些道萨比亚的学生来说,最初进入泳池本身就是一个挑战。
道萨比亚小学副校长米里亚姆·道加·潘达表示,许多参与的学生在加入该项目之前几乎没有游泳经验,最初对进入泳池感到害怕。
在NSC游泳教练的鼓励下,学生们现在开始在水中感到更加舒适。
潘达说:“参加该项目的孩子们非常开心,因为他们中的大多数不会游泳。”
这20名学生来自不同年级,大多数来自 Year 1和 Year 2,另外两名学生来自 Year 4和 Year 5。
潘达表示,该项目为孩子们提供了获取超出正常课堂学习的知识和技能的机会。
“孩子们上学不仅是为了学习课程,还为了帮助他们发展重要的生活技能,而游泳就是其中一项重要技能,”她说。
课程涵盖了基本的呼吸、漂浮和踢腿等内容,同时逐步引入泳姿发展、基本生存技能以及水边安全行为。
对于这些年轻参与者来说,该项目不仅仅是学习游泳。
它还帮助他们克服对水的早期恐惧,同时培养出在泳池内外都可能有价值的自信心。
潘达感谢NSC和国家水上中心的工作人员提供这个机会,并表示希望更多学校能利用类似的项目。
她还相信,该倡议最终可能会鼓励一些孩子对游泳这项运动产生更大的兴趣。
游泳学习倡议作为国家水上中心的试点项目进行,道萨比亚成为第二所参与的学校。
为期八周的项目是NSC努力让儿童接触结构化游泳活动的一部分,同时从小培养水中自信和基本安全技能。
照片来源:NSC
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BY TONY IROGA
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has issued a strong wind warning for all waters of Solomon Islands.
Strong wind warning number 210 was issued at 7:00am this morning, Friday, September 18.
According to SIMS, a trough is lying just east of the Solomon Islands while a general southeasterly trade wind flow continues across the country.
SIMS said southeasterly winds are expected to reach 15 to 25 knots over most waters of Solomon Islands.
“Seas will be moderate too rough with moderate southeast swells of 2.5 to 3.0 metres,” SIMS said.
The weather service also warned of poor visibility in areas affected by showers, with thunderstorms possible.
SIMS is urging people in affected areas to take precautionary measures, warning that the strong winds have the potential to impact lives and property.
Sea travellers are also being urged to take safety precautions as the strong winds could produce dangerous wave conditions, particularly for small boats.
“Such strong winds can produce dangerous wave conditions which are hazardous to small boats,” SIMS said.
SIMS has also called on the public to share the warning with people with disabilities.
The next strong wind warning is expected to be issued at 4:00pm today.
-Opposition MPs decry payout of $900k each to Government MPs only from CDF cash grant
-Rural Development Minister Waneoroa says payments according to acquittals
BY IRWIN ANGIKI
Members of Parliament from the Opposition are calling out Government over what they describe as ‘dirty politics’ over a recent payout of around $30 million of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
Early this week $900,000 was paid to each constituency, but only Government MPs received the payment, Opposition said.
This money is part of the cash-grant component of the CDF.
This payment arrangement is connected to the recent Motion of No Confidence (MoNC) which fulfilled an assurance by Government during the political standoff that only Government MPs would receive the cash grant payment, the Opposition MPs said.
Minister of Rural Development Daniel Waneoroa has brushed this aside as mere ‘speculations’ by the Opposition in trying to score political points.
With funds availability Mr Waneoroa said MPs who have submitted their acquittal reports get to receive payment first, and those who have not to be paid later when they have retired theirs.
Six Opposition MPs, speaking to Island Sun on condition of anonymity this week said during the standoff over the MoNC, the GREAT government had baited MPs from the opposite side with the promise only government MPs would receive the cash grant.
“Government said they would get paid first, and we would wait for an indefinite period before we get ours,” the Opposition MPs said.
“Tuesday this week we proved this GREAT promise when we were notified that GREAT MPs each received $900,000 in their constituency’s account.”
All six Opposition MPs told Island Sun they have already submitted their acquittal reports therefore do not see why they should not receive payment.
“It is clear that GREAT government is paying itself and blocking the Opposition.
“If payment was based on acquittal reports, then we should also have received the $900,000 on Tuesday too,” the Opposition MPs said.
Minister Waneoroa, speaking to Island Sun yesterday said the $2.8 million cash-grant component of the CDF belongs to all 50 MPs and constituencies.
He said the payout was the first tranche worth $900,000 of the cash-grant component of the CDF which is totalled $2.8 million, which all MPs and their constituencies should receive.
“Every MP and their constituency will be paid the $900,000. Each constituency is eligible to receive $2.8 million in total from the CDF cash grant,” Waneoroa said.
He denied the allegations connecting the $900,000 payout to the MoNC saying it was ‘just another political campaign’.
“How can someone be lured for something that he/she absolutely own? Opposition MPs have 100 percent ownership/entitlement for that $900,000 and the whole $2.8 million. Opposition is just playing a miscalculated and deliberate campaign to justify the recent political standoff. Opposition will receive, although late, but they will receive before closure of FY 2026,” Waneoroa said.
The CDF has two components – the cash grant and the preferred supplier – totalling $5 million.
In the 2026 budget the cash grant was $1.8 million and the preferred supplier $3.2 million, totalling $5 million.
In the recent supplementary appropriation 2026, parliament passed an additional $1 million for the cash grant, which brings the total cash-grant to $2.8 million for this year, and the total CDF to $6 million.
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Vura School on Thursday September 17 hosted the National Parliament Civic Education team for a special civic awareness session aimed at helping Form 3 students strengthen their knowledge of Parliament and democratic governance ahead of their examinations.
A statement from Parliament Media said, the session formed part of the school’s Form 3 examination revision programme, giving students an opportunity to revisit key topics covered in their studies while gaining practical insights into how the National Parliament operates.
The engagement focused on important areas including the role and functions of Parliament, the law-making process, representation, parliamentary scrutiny and the importance of citizen participation in a democratic society.
For the students, the session provided an opportunity to connect classroom lessons with real-life understanding of Parliament and its constitutional role within Solomon Islands’ system of government.
Form 3 students at Vura School takes part in a civic education and revision session led by the Parliament Civic Team. Photo Credit: NPSImedia
Students actively participated throughout the programme, listening to presentations, answering questions and engaging in discussions with members of the Parliamentary Civic Education team.
The team also highlighted the importance of young people developing a strong understanding of their civic responsibilities and the institutions that support democracy in Solomon Islands.
The engagement demonstrates the value of collaboration between schools and Parliament in promoting civic education among young people.
By bringing parliamentary education directly into the classroom, such programmes allow students to better understand concepts they encounter in their studies while developing greater awareness of their rights and responsibilities as citizens.
Through its civic education and public awareness programmes, the National Parliament continues to engage schools and communities to promote greater understanding of Parliament, democracy and the constitutional role of the Legislature.
For the Form 3 students at Vura School, the session offered more than examination revision. It provided an opportunity to gain practical knowledge about Parliament and to reflect on their future role as citizens in Solomon Islands’ democratic process.
[Photo Caption: Vura School Form 3 students pose with members of the Parliament Civic Team following their civic education session. Photo Credit by npsimedia]
作者:道格拉斯·瓦希亚
维拉学校于9月17日星期四接待了国家国会公民教育团队,举行了一场特别的公民意识课程,旨在帮助 Year 9学生在考试前加强对国会和民主治理的知识。
国会媒体的声明表示,此次课程是学校 Year 9考试复习计划的一部分,为学生提供了重温学习中涉及的关键主题的机会,同时获得关于国家国会运作的实际见解。
此次活动重点关注了国会的角色和职能、立法过程、代表性、国会监督以及公民参与民主社会的重要性等重要领域。
对于学生而言,这次课程提供了将课堂学习与对国会及其在所罗门群岛政府体系中宪法角色的现实理解相结合的机会。
维拉学校的 Year 9学生参加了由国会公民团队主导的公民教育和复习课程。照片来源:NPSImedia
学生们在整个课程中积极参与,聆听演讲、回答问题,并与国会公民教育团队的成员进行讨论。
该团队还强调了年轻人培养对公民责任及支持所罗门群岛民主的机构的深刻理解的重要性。
此次活动展示了学校与国会之间合作在促进年轻人公民教育方面的价值。
通过将国会教育直接带入课堂,此类项目使学生能够更好地理解他们在学习中遇到的概念,同时增强对作为公民的权利和责任的认识。
通过其公民教育和公众意识项目,国家国会继续与学校和社区互动,以促进对国会、民主及立法机关宪法角色的更大理解。
对于维拉学校的 Year 9学生而言,这次课程不仅仅是考试复习。它提供了获得关于国会的实际知识的机会,并反思他们作为所罗门群岛民主进程中公民的未来角色。
[照片说明:维拉学校 Year 9学生在公民教育课程后与国会公民团队成员合影。照片来源:npsimedia]
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
LANDOWNERS of Kolosori/Suma in Isabel Province have backed the call by the Bills and Legislation Committee (BLC) for further consultation on the Mineral Resources Bill 2025.
Speaking on behalf of the landowners, Mathias Togasania said mining affects natural resources and environments that communities depended on for their livelihoods and should therefore be undertaken with appropriate safeguards and accountability.
“No one opposes mining, but we are calling for a proper and justified mining operations so that the Government, the country, landowners and investors are happy with the outcomes.
“This can be achieved by establishing a law that put more emphasis on standard procedures and compliance – meaning wider consultations on the Mineral and Resource Bill is paramount,” he said.
Togasania said a proper review and passage of the Mineral Resources Bill is important for strengthening governance of the country’s mineral industry.
He said the mineral deposits in Isabel Province should be treated as an opportunity for national development through increased government revenue and employment opportunities for local people.
Togasania adds that mineral resources were located beneath customary land and that landowners, as custodians of the land, had a direct interest in how those resources should be developed.
Environmental damage left behind by mining operations at Suma. Solomon Islands Resource Company Limited has since left Suma and is currently operating at Jaho. Photo supplied.
He said that some mining operations in Isabel provided examples of poor mining practices and the need for stronger safeguards in the country’s mineral sector.
Togasania said there had been no proper rehabilitation work plan to adequately address the environmental impacts of mining, leaving scars from mining activities on the land.
He said these experiences also raised questions about the adequacy and clarity of existing laws and processes governing the granting of mining licences to investors as well as conducting good mining practices.
“We, the landowners of Kolosori/Suma, strongly urge the Government to consider the call made by the BLC chairman.
“We have been victims of bad mining practices, though repeated calls have been made to past governments,” Togasania said.
A passage turned red following mining operations upstream. The surrounding mangroves were traditionally used by women to gather mud-shells and crabs for consumption. Photo credit Ben Bilua.
He also called on the Government, through the responsible authorities, to investigate whether minerals other than nickel had been extracted during mining operations.
Togasania said landowners have received unverified reports that other minerals may have been extracted alongside nickel ore and called for the matter to be investigated.
“We received unverified reports about this, and we are calling on the Government to take this seriously,” he said.
Togasania’s comments follow a statement last week by BLC Chairman Jaimie Lency Vokia, who said the Committee had written to the Prime Minister recommending that the Mineral Resources Bill 2025 be withdrawn to allow further consultation with landowners, mining companies, provincial governments and other stakeholders.
Vokia said a new Bill could then be brought back to Parliament following the consultation process.
He said the Office of the Speaker had received notice of proposed amendments but was considering whether to proceed with them because of their substantial and lengthy nature.
Vokia said the BLC had not yet commenced an inquiry into the proposed amendments.
He said the Committee welcomed the Government’s decision to use the current period for further consultation in the public interest.
Vokia said the BLC remained ready to support the Government through the parliamentary process once a new Bill is presented, including conducting an inquiry and submitting its findings to Parliament.
“BLC’s role is to scrutinise legislation and make recommendations – not to determine Government policy or set revenue targets,” Vokia said.
He said the Committee’s oversight role was intended to complement the Government’s aspirations for the mineral sector and provide Parliament with an opportunity to examine the broader social implications of mineral extraction.
“Taking the necessary time for meaningful consultation is not a barrier to development, but essential to ensuring legislation of national significance is transparent, balanced and informed by those it will affect,” Vokia said.
Vokia also stressed that the BLC recognised the importance of mineral development to national revenue and economic development.
He said the Committee’s recommendation should not be interpreted as opposition to mining or as a decision to forgo government revenue rather the recommendation is aimed at ensuring wider and meaningful consultation before proposed amendments proceeded through Parliament, given their potential implications for landowners, communities, provinces, investors and the national economy.
[Photo Caption: Mud crabs and other edible shell survive in areas affected by mining activities at Pirega. Photo credit: Ben Bilua.]
The third Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants (ISIA) Annual Congress officially opened in Honiara today under the theme ‘Beyond Qualifications: Building a Workforce that Thinks, Leads, and Creates.’ The two-day conference brings together financial practitioners, policymakers, and industry leaders to...
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