Solomon Islands health workers strengthen diabetic foot care skills to improve early treatment and help prevent amputations How do you react to a small blister or a cut on your foot? You’ll probably ignore it or even see it as a minor inconvenience. But if you’re a person living with diabetes, that small blister or [...]
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Progress continues at pace on the landmark Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Expansion Partnership, with both Governments driving the initiative forward.
In the last month, Hon John Tuhaika Jr, Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services and Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach signed the foundational Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the brand new Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Academy, while Solomon Islands and Australian officials agreed to a design for the building, and progressed a plan for a package of support for provincial policing infrastructure across all nine of Solomon Islands’ provinces.
“The new Police Academy is a strategic investment in Solomon Islands’ future generations,” Minister Tuhaika said at the MOU signing ceremony, “and will promote improved professional standards, institutional excellence, governance and systems in the RSIPF.”
Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services Hon John Tuhaika Jr and Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach joined senior Solomon Islands and Australian officials to further their joint talks on the RSIPF expansion project.
“These projects are strategic investments that will further strengthen policing services for generations to come,” he said.
Jeff Roach, Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, thanked Minister Tuhaika for his strong backing for the Partnership, and reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to supporting the RSIPF through a multi‐year program underpinned by strong foundations.
“The RSIPF Expansion Partnership is built on decades of uniformed and non-uniformed engagement between Australia and Solomon Islands,” High Commissioner Roach said. “It is a testament to Minister Tuhaika and his team’s energy and enthusiasm that many of the Partnership’s key initiatives are now beginning to take shape.”
Minister Tuhaika and High Commissioner Roach with the signed agreement.
“The MOU signing in particular represents another step in the journey Solomon Islands has been on to develop its sovereign policing capabilities – both for its own national security, and as a key contributor to regional security in the Pacific,” High Commissioner Roach said.
The new Police Academy, to be constructed on a site chosen by the Solomon Islands Government in February 2026 at Rove Police Headquarters Precinct, is the flagship project and major investment of the RSIPF Expansion Partnership. The
Partnership is a joint initiative supporting Solomon Islands’ vision for a strong, self-reliant and enduring security capability, and improved police performance in its service of the Solomon Islands community.
This Academy complements the two countries’ shared determination to make the Blue Pacific secure and prosperous. Guided by Solomon Islands’ priorities, the partnership combines Australian investment with the expertise of officials from both countries to deliver lasting improvements in policing infrastructure and capability.
Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) has reaffirmed its commitment to the people of Guadalcanal by supporting the successful staging of the province’s 42nd Second Appointed Day celebrations held from July 31 to August 3.
The annual provincial celebration commemorates the establishment of local government in Guadalcanal Province on August 1, 1984, marking a significant milestone in the province’s history and for the people of Guadalcanal.
As a longstanding corporate partner of Gua...
WELSI graduates 18 women from its eighth leadership cohort, strengthening skills for executive and board-level roles Monday 10 August, Honiara – Through its flagship leadership program, the Women in Executive Leadership Solomon Islands (WELSI) continues to build a community of highly competent women who can effectively participate in higher decision-making positions including Chief Executive Officer [...]
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BY JOY OFASIA
The Makira-Ulawa Province 43rd Second Appointed Day, Host Committee Chairman, Mr Wale Watson Bana, has called on the people of Makira-Ulawa to renew their commitment to unity, self-reliance and prosperity as the province celebrates its 43rd Second Appointed Day.
Delivering the welcome address at the celebration over the weekend, Mr Bana expressed his appreciation to sponsors, donors, business owners, church groups, individuals and volunteers whose financial, material and other forms of support contributed to the success of the event.
He also acknowledged the Premier of Makira-Ulawa Province and other supporters for their contributions towards the celebration, saying their support was sincerely appreciated.
As the province marks its 43rd Second Appointed Day, Mr Bana urged the people of Makira-Ulawa to embrace the theme of the celebration and work together to build a stronger and more prosperous province.
He called on the people to be self-reliant by creating opportunities, remain united despite their differences, and work collectively towards prosperity that benefits families and communities across the province.
Mr Bana stressed that the future of Makira-Ulawa cannot be built by government alone, but requires the collective efforts of families, churches, communities, elected leaders, businesses and young people.
He said all sons and daughters of Makira-Ulawa have an important role to play in the province’s development and encouraged them to work together with a shared sense of purpose.
The Host Committee Chairman also paid tribute to the forefathers of Makira-Ulawa, acknowledging their resilience, courage and sacrifices in laying the foundation for the generations that followed.
He called on the people to remember and honour their legacy as they look towards building a united, self-reliant and prosperous future for Makira-Ulawa.
Guadalcanal Province is set to pilot a mobile revenue collection system using the M-SELEN platform. The initiative aims to modernise...
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"No More Excuses: Time To Act": PM Wale
PRIME Minister Hon.
Matthew Wale has delivered a firm and unequivocal message in Parliament: ‘the era of excuses and inaction must end.’ Speaking on the closing debate on the Motion of Thanks to the Speech from the Throne, the Prime Minister declared that the familiar barriers cited over decades such as cost, capacity, risk, and timing can no longer justify delay.
“For too long, these obstacles have been used to defend the status quo,” he said.
“They arrive dressed as prudence, but leave nothing behind.” Prime Minister Wale made it clear that the Government will not accept “business as usual,” emphasizing that the country must now move forward with purpose and determination.
“This country has heard these excuses decade after decade.
With respect, but without apology, we say: get used to it, the status quo is no longer,” he said.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to a transformational national vision.
He said a vision that seeks to fully harness the nation’s natural resources for the benefit of its people and deliver genuine freedom from long-standing economic and social constraints.
The Prime Minister described this as a “paradigm shift,” aimed at building a middle-income Solomon Islands within a generation.
He said the robust debate in Parliament had not weakened this vision, but instead reinforced confidence in the nation’s ability to rise to the challenge.
“The debate has proven that this House, when it argues hard and honestly is equal to the size of the task before us,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the national motto is clear, “To lead is to serve,” emphasizing that both Government and Opposition will be judged by their commitment to this principle.
He called for a renewed sense of unity and responsibility across all leaders, as Solomon Islands approaches its Golden Jubilee of Independence in 2028.
“Let it be said of this Parliament that it not only spoke well but worked faithfully for the people,” he adds.
The Prime Minister said the government’s message is clear and the time for caution without progress has passed.
“The time for action is now,” Prime Minister Wale said.
Ends//
Officer Acquitted of Bribery Charges
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
Suspended police officer Allen Noni has been acquitted of two bribery charges.
This came after a magistrate found that the Crown had failed to prove the allegations against him beyond reasonable doubt.
Principal Magistrate Emily Zazariko Vagibule Pakoa found Noni not guilty after a trial on both counts of bribery under section 122(a) of the Penal Code.
“Having evaluated the whole of the evidence presented concerning both charges against Mr Noni, I conclude that the Crown has failed to discharge its burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
“I therefore find the Defendant, Mr Allen Noni, not guilty on both charges and hereby direct an acquittal on his part, Magistrate Pakoa said in her judgement.
Another police officer Gravis Afuga was also charged alongside Noni in connection with the bribery allegations.
However, he was acquitted last year after the Crown withdrew the charge due to insufficient evidence and later testified as a defence witness in Noni’s trial.
The charges relate to allegations that Noni gave a police investigator $10,000 on November 8, 2024, and a further $20,000 on November 12, 2024, allegedly to interfere with an investigation into a stolen gold ashes case.
The court heard that complainant was the lead investigator in a separate case involving stolen gold ashes and alleged that Noni had asked him to stop investigating suspect Max Gura and instead focus on another suspect, Peter Olobeni.
The investigator told the court that Noni first allegedly handed him $10,000 at Town Ground on November 8, 2024.
He said a further $20,000 was handed over four days later at Henderson.
The lead investigator maintained that the money was intended to persuade him to withdraw from investigating Gura.
The Crown called three witnesses: the lead investigator and two other police officers.
The two police officers confirmed accompanying the lead investigator during the alleged encounters, but both accepted under cross-examination that they were not present for the conversations that allegedly resulted in the exchange of money.
The magistrate noted that their knowledge of the alleged purpose of the money came from what the lead investigator had told them.
The court also considered the Crown’s failure to tender several documents and exhibits identified during the opening of the case, including statements, the record of interview involving Noni and the lead investigator, photographs of the purported money and other material.
Noni, in his defence, denied bribing the lead investigator or having any intention of obstructing justice.
He told the court that the lead investigator had repeatedly contacted him seeking $100,000 from Gura and that he acted as an intermediary without knowing the purpose of the money.
Noni said Gura eventually gave him $10,000, followed by another $20,000, which he delivered to the lead investigator.
He maintained that he believed he was assisting the investigator, a senior officer and lead investigator, and did not know the money was allegedly connected to an attempt to obstruct the investigation.
Gura also testified that he gave the $30,000 to Noni because he feared his family would be sent to prison if he did not comply with the demand for money.
He denied that the money was intended to bribe the lead investigator to stop investigating him.
The court closely considered the defence argument that the prosecution had failed to establish the specific criminal intent required under section 122(a).
Defence counsel Donation Houa of Public Solicitor’s office argued that Noni’s knowledge that he was delivering money did not, by itself, establish that he intended to obstruct, defeat or pervert the course of justice.
The magistrate also considered the discrepancy concerning the date of the first charge.
She said while the charge alleged that the first offence occurred on November 7, 2024, the Crown evidence consistently placed the alleged $10,000 payment on November 8.
The defence argued that the discrepancy was significant and had prejudiced Noni because his defence had been prepared around the date specified in the charge.
Magistrate Pakoa further found that the absence of important physical evidence created a significant weakness in the prosecution case.
In particular, the alleged $30,000 was not produced in court and there were no physical records from the telecommunications provider to substantiate the alleged text messages and calls.
“The case against Mr Noni, as highlighted by Counsel Houa, is undermined by a combination of weak evidence, that being, the Complainant's unreliable testimony, the second-hand accounts of Officers Madeo and Paru (who admitted they never saw the text messages or the alleged cash exchange), the lack of physical exhibits, and the inconsistent dates of the first encounter.
“Together, these gaps create a cumulative doubt that makes a conviction unsafe,” she added.
Magistrate Pakoa also acknowledged that Noni, as a police officer with years of service, could not simply rely on ignorance of police procedures and ethical obligations when handling money or financial exhibits.
However, she found that this did not resolve the central question of whether Noni possessed the specific criminal intent required for bribery.
The magistrate said the failure to produce the direct physical evidence left the court without an objective basis to determine the true intention behind Noni’s conduct.
She said the court was therefore unable to establish whether he had acted as an innocent intermediary or as a deliberate participant in an attempt to obstruct justice.
Having found the crown had failed to prove the two bribery charges against Noni beyond reasonable doubt, she acquitted him on both counts. ////Ends////
BY RODRICK DESURI
Auki
The Malaita Provincial Fisheries Office has successfully conducted a two-day mud crab farming and fattening training for community members at Heruiesi in Small Malaita.
The training, initiated by the Malaita Provincial Fisheries Office and funded by the Malaita Provincial Government, is believed to be the first community-level training of its kind conducted in the province.
The training aims to equip rural community members with practical knowledge and skills in mud crab farming, fattening and monitoring.
Senior Fisheries Officer, Mathew Isihanua said the training is an important first step towards introducing mud crab farming as a potential livelihood activity for rural communities.
He said participants were taught basic techniques for farming and fattening mud crabs, including proper monitoring and management.
“This training program was initiated by the Malaita Fisheries Office and funded by the Malaita Provincial Government. This is the first training of this kind to be implemented,” Mr Isihanua said.
He said the training attracted interest from community members, who showed willingness to learn more about mud crab farming.
Mr Isihanua said participants gained new knowledge and were also provided with mud crab cages to support their farming activities after the training.
He also highlighted the possibility of establishing a mud crab hatchery in the future, but said such a facility will require technical expertise, proper equipment and resources.
“In terms of setting up a hatchery for mud crab, it will need expertise and equipment for such a setup,” he said.
Mr Isihanua encourages the community to demarcate and properly manage areas designated for mud crab farming.
He said proper management of farming areas will be important to ensure the sustainability of the activity and to allow communities to benefit from mud crab farming as a potential source of income.
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BY JOSES SAREN
Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS), John Tuhaika Jr has highlighted progress the Government has made and continues to make through the Ministry of Police.
Speaking in parliament last week, during his response to the Speech from the Throne, he said the speech affirms the Government’s commitment to transform the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) into a modern and professional service.
“I am pleased to inform this Honorable House that progress has been made towards achieving this vision,” he said.
Having stated that, the minister outlined a number of initiatives that have been achieved and those that are in working progress.
Tuhaika Jr said the Government has endorsed the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Expansion and Development Programme 2025-2035, thus, making way for a target of 3,000 police officers by 2035.
He said this year, the Government approved 130 new positions and have completed a comprehensive workforce assessment to identify priority capability areas.
As for initiatives that are in the process, the minister said recruitment policies are currently under review to further strengthen transparency, merit and professionalism in police recruitment.
Meanwhile, he said work is also progressing to modernise and accredit the Police Academy.
“.... with institutional registration well advanced and the review of police training curriculum underway to ensure our officers are equipped with the knowledge, skills and professional standards required for contemporary policing,” he said.
The minister said Government also recognises that a modern and professional police service must be underpinned by fit-for-purpose infrastructure, modern equipment and strong operational capability.
In this regard, he said there is continuous progress under the Police Infrastructure Programme.
“Priority projects include the Burns Creek Integrated Police Station, Mamara Police Station, the Airport Police upgrade, the establishment of eleven new provincial police posts, the redevelopment of the Police Academy, and a nationwide refurbishment programme for existing police and correctional facilities,” said the minister.
To top that off, he said he is pleased to report that the new Police Academy teaching facility which is funding by the Government of Australia has been designed and is ready to commence.
He furthered that the ministry is also strengthening operational capability through investment in modern communications systems, protective equipment, mobility assets and improved asset management systems.
“I am pleased to inform this Honourable House that work is progressing on the implementation of a Ministry-wide Asset Management System and Vehicle Tracking System, supported by the Government of Australia.
“These initiatives will enhance accountability, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen the management of Government assets across the Ministry,” he said.
Photo credit: NPSI
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BY NED GAGAHE
THE Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) is seeking nearly $31 million in supplementary funding, including more than $15 million to settle outstanding costs from the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting held last year.
Appearing before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) inquiry this morning into the 2026 Supplementary Bill, Special Secretary to the Prime Minister Dr Melchoir Mataki said the proposed allocation totals $30,948,969.97.
The supplementary funding consists of an advance warrant of $15,282,273.97 and additional recurrent expenditure of about $15.7 million.
Dr Mataki said the advance warrant is mainly intended to settle outstanding payments and contractual obligations arising from Solomon Islands’ hosting of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting last year.
He said about $3 million came from Indonesia, while approximately $12.3 million was provided by the Australian Government.
“The advance warrant is basically to meet outstanding payments of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting that was held last year,” Dr Mataki told the Committee.
The recurrent component includes funding for 21 new positions in the political office, two new special duty positions for the Ministries of Fisheries and Education, and four upgraded positions, including the position of the new Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Finance.
Other proposed expenditure includes medical assessments, telephone and fax accounts, funding related to the tribunal established to look into the case involving the Commissioner of Police, and maintenance of the OPMC building.
The supplementary budget also includes an additional $2.5 million allocation for the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) and about $1.8 million for maintenance of the OPMC building.
PAC Chairman Dr Paul Bosawai questioned the increase in the number of political appointments, noting the significant impact on the supplementary budget.
In response, Dr Mataki confirmed that the Government had created 21 additional political office positions, bringing the total number of political appointee positions to 54.
Dr Bosawai also sought clarification on a $1.3 million medical assessment allocation, questioning whether the funds were intended for Prime Minister’s Office officials or Members of Parliament.
Dr Mataki said the allocation was a standing budget head under OPMC and was intended for Members of Parliament.
The Committee is continuing its examination of the 2026 Supplementary Bill and budget allocations presented by government ministries and agencies.
Photo: Parliament Media
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BY TONY IROGA
THE Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) faced detailed scrutiny from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) over its $76.89 million supplementary budget request for 2026.
MEHRD appeared before the PAC in Parliament yesterday to explain the additional funding sought under the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill, including a $3.3 million advance warrant.
PAC Chairman Paul Bosawai welcomed the ministry’s delegation and commended MEHRD for providing a detailed explanatory note on its supplementary budget.
“Thank you, Acting Secretary. I really commend the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development for this explanatory note,” Bosawai said.
“It would be really nice if you could present this to us before this sitting. I would encourage every other ministry to come with such a document or send us before the proceeding or before the hearing. It would be really, really easy for us to read and understand the numbers with the policy.”
The MEHRD delegation was led by Deputy Secretary for Teaching and Learning, Linda Wate, who is currently the acting Permanent Secretary.
Wate told the committee that the ministry’s supplementary request was driven by several major pressures, including increasing student enrolment, growth in schools and early childhood education centres, increased demand for scholarships, disaster-related costs and the implementation of government reforms.
“The ministry is not seeking this supplementary funding to expand activities, but to respond to pressures and requirements that have emerged from this new policy that we are implementing at the moment,” Wate said.
She said the additional funding is also required to respond to new obligations and the effects of disasters, including Tropical Cyclone Maila, as well as teacher annual leave passages and continuing school operations.
According to Wate, the ministry’s 2026 budget was initially heavily focused on the 7 percent salary back-pay and new salary structure adjustments, including the introduction of the new TVET salary pay structure and classification.
That component amounted to $129.3 million, she said.
The ministry is now seeking about $76.89 million to address other financial pressures and ongoing commitments.
Free education questioned
A major part of yesterday’s PAC discussion focused on the Government’s free education policy, with members questioning whether the funding allocated for its preparation will be sufficient.
Bosawai questioned whether about $1 million allocated for preparatory work will be enough to prepare the country for the implementation of the policy.
Wate said the free education policy is not a completely new concept for MEHRD, as increasing access and inclusion in education had already been part of the country’s long-term education planning.
She said the Government’s free education policy provides an opportunity to increase support to communities and children across Solomon Islands.
“There has been some work that has been done previously that could add to some of the work that needs to be done,” Wate said.
However, she acknowledged that there is still considerable work to be done, particularly in ensuring that children in remote and rural communities have equal access to education.
She stressed that free education is a 20-year policy, hence, implementation will have to be carefully planned over time.
Bosawai said the committee supports the policy but questions whether the current budget is realistic enough to achieve it.
“For some of us, we’re really supportive of the policy,” he said.
Bosawai also encouraged them to keep pushing for their budget to achieve the free education policy.
He encouraged MEHRD to use international and UNESCO-related formulas to determine the country’s capacity to finance free education.
“I think you need to go and look up the formula best for our economy,” he said.
Bosawai also raised the need to ensure the policy has a clear legal basis under the Education Act 2023, suggesting that amendments may be required if necessary.
Teacher distribution, curriculum concerns
Wate told the committee that MEHRD’s preparations for free education includes work on equity, inclusion, quality learning, teacher workforce planning and the distribution of teachers.
She said one of the key tasks is defining exactly what the Government will cover under free education.
“One of the key things as part of this policy is having a very clear definition of what non-free education can mean, opposed to fee-free education or universal education or compulsory education,” Wate said.
She said the ministry is also looking at teacher quality and distribution, noting that many teachers are concentrated in urban centres while remote communities continued to experience shortages.
MEHRD Deputy Secretary for Corporate Services Coldrine Colae said improving the ministry’s data management system is also important for planning and budgeting.
He said the ministry needs accurate and up-to-date information from schools to support decision-making.
Wate also told the committee that MEHRD was reviewing the senior secondary curriculum.
She said by 2027, there will be new scopes for what senior secondary students should learn, with support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The number of senior secondary subjects is expected to increase from the current 13 to about 21 subjects, she said.
Honiara High rehabilitation questioned
PAC member Manasseh Sogavare questioned MEHRD over the $3.3 million allocated for the rehabilitation and completion of Honiara High School.
Sogavare questioned why the full cost of completing the project had not been captured in the original 2026 budget estimates.
He also asked whether the $3.3 million represented the final payment for the project or whether the committee should expect another supplementary request later this year.
Another issue raised was why the amount was classified as a recurrent advance warrant, despite being related to a capital construction project.
Colae explained that the expenditure was linked to disaster response and the rehabilitation of Honiara High and parliament leaf hut following the 2021 riots.
He said variations and contract management issues had resulted in additional costs, including geotechnical work, internal works, tiling and furniture that had not been properly captured in the original arrangements.
“There was a misunderstanding between the partner and also SIG,” Colae said.
He said the rehabilitation work is now nearing completion and that handover is expected by the end of this month or early next month.
Colae also assured the committee that the expenditure will not appear again in next year’s budget.
$1.4 billion education budget
The committee also questioned how much of the Government’s approximately $1.4 billion education allocation could be regarded as funding the free component of education.
Bosawai said moving to a fully free education system will require substantially more resources.
MEHRD explained that the largest portion of its budget currently goes towards payroll, covering about 11,000 teachers throughout the country.
School grants account for around 3 percent of the ministry’s budget, while other operational charges account for about 1.2 percent, according to Colae.
MEHRD also acknowledged the important role of donor partners in supporting curriculum development, infrastructure and other education reforms.
Bosawai said the discussion highlights the need for increased investment in education.
“It’s really a realisation that we need more money to really educate our people,” he said.
“As I said earlier on, education builds the mind, sends the mind to build this country. So, I think we need to look more into availing more money for education, then slowly achieving free education.”
The PAC continued its scrutiny of the ministry’s supplementary estimates, with members stressing the need for clear financial planning, realistic costing and accountability as the Government moves towards its free education policy.
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Douglas Welcomes Women's Representation Measures
Honiara, Solomon Islands – Ngella MP Hon. Choilyn Yim Douglas has welcomed the Government’s commitment to advancing women’s leadership, including the proposed Temporary Special Measures Bill for Provincial Assemblies.
Speaking in Parliament, Hon. Douglas said women make up half of Solomon Islands’ population but remain seriously underrepresented in political decision- making. “Temporary measures are not unfair advantages; they ...
Hon. Douglas said any legislation must be properly designed and widely consulted upon. She said there must be clarity around the number and nature of reserved positions, the method of election or appointment and the duration of any temporary measures.
However, she stressed that increasing women’s political representation must be accompanied by broader action to address the barriers women face. She pointed to violence, economic inequality, online harassment and barriers to education, employment and business ownership as issues requiring attention.
“Empowering women strengthens democracy and enriches our national development,” she said. Hon. Douglas said she supported measures that create meaningful opportunities for women to participate in decision-making at all levels of government.
USP robbery case adjourned
to Aug 21 for judgement
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
The judgement for two men accused of an armed robbery at the new complex of the University of the South Pacific in East Honiara in 2022 will be delivered on August 21.
Chris Yambeyabbi, 37, a West Papuan national, and Eddie Maki, 30, are jointly charged with one count of armed robbery.
Yambeyabbi also faces an additional charge of possession of firearm and ammunition.
The matter came before Principal Magistrate Elma Veenah Rizzu Hilly last week, who adjourned it to August 21 for judgement.
Magistrate Hilly told the court she would be travelling for a court circuit this week.
Earlier in the proceedings, the court rejected a no-case submission by the defence and ruled that both defendants had a case to answer.
When called upon to present their defence, both men elected to remain silent and did not call any witnesses.
The prosecution later sought permission to make a reply to the defence’s closing submissions, but the application was dismissed by Magistrate Hilly.
She ruled that the law does not permit the prosecution to make a closing address where the defence has not produced evidence.
Defence counsels then proceeded with their closing submissions before the matter was adjourned for judgement.
The prosecution alleges the two men committed the armed robbery on December 23, 2022, at the engineering department office of China Harbour Engineering Company in the KG VI area.
It is alleged Maki was armed with an axe while Yambeyabbi carried a homemade pistol when they entered the office, threatened the managing director and escaped with items valued at $11,000.
Yambeyabbi was later arrested on January 10, 2023, and police allegedly discovered the homemade firearm and materials used to manufacture firearms.
Public Solicitor’s Office lawyers Ron Dicky Pulekera and Alice Silas represent the defendants, while Public Prosecutor Jeremy Oiofa appears for the Crown.
//Ends///
PM Matthew Wale says the Budget, not the Throne Speech, will provide the fiscal test for Government commitments PRIME Minister Matthew Wale says the Government is committed to fiscal responsibility, clarifying that the Speech from the Throne is a policy statement that sets direction and not a budget document. Speaking in Parliament yesterday, Prime Minister [...]
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Opposition MP Tozen Leokana supports free education but urges fiscal, infrastructure and teacher planning for sustainability Honiara, Solomon Islands – South Choiseul MP Hon. Tozen Leokana says the Opposition supports the aspiration of universal access to education but the Government must put in place the machinery needed to make its proposed Free Education Policy sustainable. [...]
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South Guadalcanal MP Rollen Seleso urges Government to refine the existing revenue sharing bill and advance decentralisation Honiara, Solomon Islands – South Guadalcanal MP Hon. Rollen Seleso has urged the Government to build on existing work on provincial revenue sharing rather than starting the legislative process again from scratch. Responding to the Government’s plan to [...]
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Team Solomon returns home medal-less but determined to strengthen its high-performance pathway ahead of India 2030
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
TEAM Solomon has returned home from the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games without a medal, but the national team believes the experience has provided valuable lessons for the future development of Solomon Islands sport.
The team’s return brings an end to its campaign in Scotland, where Solomon Islands athletes competed against some of the Commonwealth’s leading competitors across their respective sporting disciplines.
In a statement issued through its official social media platform, Iumi Team Solomon said the Glasgow experience had given the country’s athletes valuable exposure to international competition while also highlighting areas that need further improvement.
“Although Team Solomon did not return with a medal, the Games provided invaluable experience competing against some of the world’s best athletes,” the statement said.
For several members of the team, Glasgow also provided an opportunity to test themselves on the Commonwealth stage for the first time, while others produced personal-best performances during their campaigns.
The performances are being viewed as an encouraging indication of progress, despite the absence of a podium finish.
Team Solomon Manager Simon Chottu said the focus must now turn towards building on what was learnt in Glasgow and creating better preparation for future international competitions.
The team has identified athlete development, coaching, access to quality training and increased opportunities for international competition as key areas requiring greater attention.
The lessons from Glasgow are expected to form part of the country’s preparations for the next Commonwealth Games, which will be hosted by India in 2030.
Rather than viewing the Glasgow campaign solely through the medal tally, Team Solomon said the experience should be regarded as an investment in the long-term development of Solomon Islands athletes.
The Commonwealth Games provided the athletes with an opportunity to measure themselves against a higher level of competition and identify areas they need to improve on as they continue their respective sporting careers.
“While medals remain an important goal, the experience gained in Glasgow is an investment in the future of Solomon Islands sport,” Team Solomon said.
Chottu also expressed appreciation to the Government, the National Olympic Committee of Solomon Islands (NOCSI), National Sports Council (NSC), sponsors, national federations, coaches, officials, families and supporters for their backing throughout the Games.
The manager also thanked the athletes for representing Solomon Islands with “honour”, courage and commitment during their time in Glasgow.
With the 2026 campaign now concluded, Team Solomon’s attention will shift towards building stronger pathways for athletes and improving the level of preparation needed to compete more effectively on the international stage.
The Glasgow experience, Team Solomon said, has laid a foundation for the country’s next phase of preparation as it begins the journey towards the 2030 Commonwealth Games in India.
Team Solomon competed at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, joining athletes from across the Commonwealth in the multi-sport event. The Solomon Islands delegation included athletes competing in different sporting disciplines, with several recording personal-best performances during the Games.
Photo credit: Iumi Team Solomon
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
The Government of Japan has reinforced its support for football development in Solomon Islands by donating 50 footballs to the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF), with the equipment set to boost grassroots programmes and youth participation across the country.
The donation was made during a ceremony at the SIFF Academy in Honiara on Friday, attended by Japan’s Ambassador to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Keiichi Higuchi, SIFF President Donald Marahare, SIFF Chief Executive Officer Leonard Paia, representatives from the Japanese Embassy, JICA officials and members of the local media.
Ambassador Higuchi said the donation reflects Japan’s commitment to help young Solomon Islanders enjoy football while strengthening the longstanding friendship between the two countries.
“We want to support that same focus here in Solomon Islands. We want to help young players grow and bring the joy of football to even more children. These fifty balls add to that vision,” Ambassador Higuchi said.
The Ambassador revealed the donation was inspired by the overwhelming support Solomon Islanders showed towards Japan during the recent FIFA Club World Cup.
“Our Embassy received many phone calls asking for Japanese flags because people wanted to support the Japanese team,” he said.
“Although we did not have any flags to give away, I noticed many handmade Japanese flags displayed on vehicles throughout Honiara. I reported these incidents to Tokyo and soon our state minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Horii, came up with the idea of donating footballs to Solomon Islands.”
He explained that the footballs were donated by the Nara Football Association with the support of Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Horii, following discussions between the governments of Japan and Solomon Islands during Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s recent visit to Japan.
Ambassador Higuchi said Japan’s own football journey had been built on investing heavily in youth development and grassroots football, a pathway his country hopes to encourage in Solomon Islands.
“Through football, our two nations strengthen our friendship. We build mutual ties, and we contribute to the future development of football in both our countries,” he said.
Receiving the donation on behalf of SIFF, President Donald Marahare described the gift as an investment in the future of Solomon Islands football rather than simply sporting equipment.
“This gift is more than equipment. It is indeed an investment in the dreams of our young players, in the growth of our communities and in the future of football in Solomon Islands,” Marahare said.
He said football continues to unite communities while providing opportunities for young people to pursue excellence.
“These soccer balls will be used across our provincial football associations and our grassroots programmes, ensuring that every child—whether in Honiara or in the provinces—has the chance to play, to learn teamwork and to dream of representing our nation on the international stage,” he said.
Marahare assured the Japanese Government that the footballs will be put to good use and thanked the Embassy of Japan for its continued support of football development in Solomon Islands.
Japan has been a longstanding partner in the development of football in Solomon Islands through technical assistance, coaching support and football exchanges.
Japanese midfielder Sota Higashide currently plays for Solomon Kings FC, while JICA volunteer coach Kanto Yamashita is working with SIFF’s women’s youth programme and is involved in grassroots football initiatives.
The latest donation of 50 footballs further strengthens that partnership while supporting SIFF’s ongoing grassroots football development throughout the country.
Photo credit: SIFF
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
After years of exporting cocoa independently, David Kebu Jnr has partnered with the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) as a cocoa agent, a move allowing him to focus on producing premium-quality cocoa while helping farmers in his area access a reliable market.
David’s decision continues a family legacy that began with his late father, David Kebu Senior, who worked closely with CEMA during the early years of the family’s cocoa business.
Through CEMA’s assistance, the elder Kebu was able to market his cocoa and obtain an export licence, laying the foundation for what has become a thriving family enterprise.
Since his father’s passing, David Jnr has taken over the family plantation on the fertile Guadalcanal Plains, where he is rebuilding and expanding the farm while sharing his knowledge with other cocoa growers.
His plantation has grown from 16 hectares to 20 hectares. As a skilled grafter, David has been rejuvenating older cocoa trees to increase production and improve the plantation’s long-term sustainability.
“From January I started working with CEMA, export taxes are too high for me when I export independently, so it is better for me to work as a CEMA agent. CEMA trained me in producing quality cocoa, and I want to give back,” said Mr Kebu Jnr.
Kebu Jnr said partnering with CEMA allows him to spend more time improving the quality of his cocoa instead of managing the challenges associated with exporting.
Maintaining quality standards throughout the supply chain is one issue David feels strongly about. He believes farmers deserve better returns for producing quality beans, which he says can only be achieved through proper grading and handling.
“Bulk mixing reduces quality, so good beans lose their value,” Kebu Jnr explained. “When quality cocoa is mixed with poor-quality beans, everyone loses.”
To maintain consistency, David has introduced a family-based management system on the plantation, with each family member responsible for specific blocks of cocoa. While different sections are managed individually, all harvested cocoa is processed centrally to meet the quality standards expected by CEMA and international buyers.
Many of the trees on his plantation date back to 1978. Rather than replacing them entirely, David is restoring the ageing trees through radical pruning and grafting techniques to boost productivity.
“I neglected the farm for too long,” Kebu Jnr admitted. “Now I’m rebuilding it and letting CEMA handle exports so I can focus on production.”
David expects the plantation to reach peak production around September as the cocoa season progresses.
Looking beyond his own farm, David hopes to become a trusted buying point for growers throughout the Guadalcanal Plains, purchasing cocoa from farmers between Metapona and Koli to give them easier access to CEMA’s marketing network while encouraging higher-quality production.
“I want to support farmers from Metapona to Koli, and we will produce for CEMA,” said Mr Kebu Jnr.
David’s story reflects CEMA’s Farmers First vision, which supports stronger partnerships with producers by improving market access, promoting quality production, and backing the long-term growth of the Solomon Islands’ cocoa industry.
Photo: Supplied
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BY TONY IROGA
The unprecedented good work of CEMA raising the livelihoods of thousands of farmers in the rural areas has been highlighted by government ministers in parliament.
The Commodity of Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) under its Farmers First initiative launched in April this year has touched and supported more than 10,000 copra/cocoa farmers including local buyers to date.
Since April this year, many farmers have taken to media to show their joy, appreciation and relief at CEMA’s Farmers First initiative which they said has brought stability in market and prices, and overall improved livelihoods for them, their families and communities.
The Speech from the Throne last week however had indicated that the new GREAT government was going to kill this momentum by returning CEMA’s functions to when it was defunct – mere regulatory body to facilitate and promote trade.
Speaking in parliament on Friday, August 7, Minister for Commerce (MCILI) Harry Kuma defended CEMA and clarified that CEMA will continue its good work to support local farmers.
“The Speech states that CEMA must not compete with the private sector and that it will deal only with regulatory affairs, trade facilitation, marketing and matters that facilitate and promote trade,” Kuma said.
“However, that principle must be read together with the full GREAT Coalition Policy Statement, the Policy Translation and Implementation Framework, the MCILI Corporate Plan and the practical realities facing indigenous rural producers.
“The GREAT policy does not reduce CEMA to regulation alone. It expressly provides for commodity stabilisation, producer support, quality assurance, price information, trade coordination, and the reform—not the abolition—of existing price and freight support for copra and cocoa. It gives priority to remote island producers facing the highest freight costs and calls for a stronger mechanism to cushion producers from sharp price movements and maintain reliable trade. The implementation framework also provides for CEMA revitalisation and recapitalisation, review of the CEMA Act, a 10-year strategic plan and continued oversight of commodity marketing. MCILI’s Corporate Plan recognises CEMA as a statutory body facilitating commodity trade and exports and operating with commercial autonomy under Government oversight.”
Mr Kuma acknowledged CEMA’s duty to ensure there are thriving markets in remote communities where the private sector fails to serve.
“Sir, it may appear that there are many buyers in Honiara. In a remote community, the real question is whether any buyer arrives, whether the freight is affordable, whether scales and grading are fair, whether payment is timely, and whether the farmer has any genuine choice. Where those conditions are absent, there is a market failure. Government cannot call that a functioning private market and then leave the producer alone with it.
“The right reform is therefore not to remove CEMA’s capacity to support trade. It is to discipline that capacity through clear rules.
“Where private buyers are present, competitive and reliable, CEMA should facilitate, regulate standards, provide market intelligence, support certification, coordinate freight and form partnerships rather than duplicate their work. Where private markets are absent, unreliable or unable to serve remote producers; where an abrupt price collapse threatens rural incomes; or where aggregation is necessary to fulfil a credible export order, CEMA should retain the lawful capacity to intervene transparently in the public interest.”
In his speech on Friday, August 7, Communication and Aviation (MCA) Minister Frederick Kologeto praised CEMA for its Farmers First initiative which is continuing to help farmers, especially copra and cocoa.
“I’m happy for the Minister of Commerce, for the CEMA, giving more money to the farmers,” Kologeto said.
Mr Kologeto, who is also president of People First Party (PFP), had appealed to landowners to open up their lands for development in partnership with government.
He lauded hard-working landowners who are reaping benefits by working together with government, which include the farmers who are benefiting a lot through their engagements with CEMA.
The Farmers First initiative began in April this year, which has been CEMA’s major success story since its revitalisation in 2021.
Under Farmers First, nearly 11,000 farmers including local buyers have benefited since April – a space of five months.
Dozens of farmers have shared their success stories in the media about how the Farmers First initiative has helped them thrive in a regulated environment and protect them from the risks of a high competitive field.
Under Farmers First, CEMA is ensuring markets for farmers in remote communities, through landing crafts and buyers, removing the expensive costs of transportation for the farmers.
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BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI), is in support of the government’s plan to establish a Sovereign Wealth Fund as a means to address shocks and for the government to use the fund’s interest to finance portions of the national budget.
Responding to a question raised by the former Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele during the Public Accounts Committee, PAC hearing yesterday on the Supplementary Bill before the committee, Central Bank Governor, Dr. Luke Forau said the Sovereign Wealth Fund is a good concept and it should not only come from one sector, the mining sector, but other sectors as well.
“It must be from all extractable natural resources. We should take some money from them and put it in the Sovereign Wealth Fund. It should not be restricted to only one sector but to all our commodities. We have minerals, forestry, fisheries and other sectors, all of these should be covered under the Sovereign Wealth Fund”
He explained that the Sovereign Wealth Fund should be used during rainy days and to address shocks when they arise.
Governor Forau added that during normal times, the government can use the fund’s interests to finance its budget.
“Basically, the fund is for rainy days so if there’s a shock, that’s the time to use the Sovereign Wealth Fund and also when the days are normal, the government should use the interests of the fund to finance the budget”. Dr Forau said.
He added that there should be a legislation to govern this fund.
The GREAT government is pushing forward to establish a Sovereign Wealth Fund as part of its reforms.
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📰 THE ISLAND SUN FRONT PAGE
ISSUE 5672 | MONDAY 10 AUGUST 2026
‘WE’LL DELIVER’
Prime Minister Matthew Wale remains adamant that the GREAT Government will deliver its ambitious free education plan, saying the Government is committed to ensuring no child is denied an education because of poverty.
Speaking in Parliament, PM Wale reiterated his Government’s optimism and determination to deliver the policy, while defending the principle behind free education.
📰 Also in today’s edition
✔ Gov’t ministers praise and defend CEMA and its successful Farmers First initiative - Page 3 ✔ 50 footballs donated to strengthen grassroots football across Solomon Islands - Japan reinforces its support for football development through a donation to the Solomon Islands Football Federation ✔ Latest national and provincial developments ✔ Community, development, business and sports news from across Solomon Islands ✔ And many more stories inside today’s edition
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Makira‐Ulawa Province Marks 43rd Second Appointed Day in Honiara
Makira‐Ulawa Province today celebrated its 43rd Second Appointed Day at the National Museum in Honiara under the theme “United, Self‐Reliant, Prosperous.” on Saturday the 8th of August
The annual celebration commemorates the establishment of the Makira‐Ulawa Provincial Government in 1983 and is observed on August 3 each year.
The occasion provides an opportunity for the province and its people to reflect on past achievements, strengthen unity, and reaffirm their commitment toward building a more self‐reliant and prosperous future.
📷 Joy Ofasia for Isles Media News desk
Makira-Ulawa省在霍尼亚拉纪念第43个第二任命日
Makira-Ulawa省于8月8日星期六在霍尼亚拉国家博物馆举行第43个第二任命日庆祝活动,主题为“团结、自立、繁荣”。
这一年度庆典纪念Makira-Ulawa省政府于1983年成立,按惯例每年8月3日举行。
庆典为该省及其人民提供机会,回顾过往成就、加强团结,并重申共同建设更加自立和繁荣未来的承诺。
📷 Joy Ofasia,Isles Media新闻部
