BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
A pedestrian crossing signpost at Ranadi in East Honiara was damaged last night, raising concerns over vandalism and pedestrian safety along the busy road.
The signpost, which stood at a pedestrian crossing along the eastbound lane near the Marine School area, was found knocked down and lying beside the road.
The incident was raised by James Pade, an elder in the area, who expressed concern over the damage to the road safety facility.
Pade said the sign was important in alerting motorists to the pedestrian crossing and helping provide a safer point for people crossing the road.
A photograph taken by Island Sun today morning at the scene shows the metal pole lying along the roadside, with its yellow pedestrian crossing sign lying on the ground.
“The pedestrian crossing markings remain visible on the road, but the damaged sign may reduce the warning provided to motorists approaching the crossing,” Pade said.
He called on the relevant authorities to investigate the incident and replace the damaged signpost.
He also urged members of the public to respect public road infrastructure and report any information that could help establish what happened.
“It was not immediately clear whether the signpost was knocked down by a vehicle or deliberately vandalised,” he said.
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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare has warned the Government that failure to properly consult landowners over the proposed Mineral Resources Bill could create an “explosive” situation, urging Prime Minister Matthew Wale to withdraw the Bill from Parliament.
Sogavare made the warning Thursday this week when Gold Ridge landowners met with the Bills and Legislation Committee (BLC) to present their petition calling for the Mineral Resources Bill to be put on hold until wider consultations are conducted.
He backed the landowners’ call, saying the Government should withdraw the Bill, take it back to Cabinet for review and amendments, and only return it to Parliament after proper consultation.
“The process is pretty clear. Any new government coming into place, they should withdraw any Bills that sit in Parliament,” Sogavare said.
“It goes to Cabinet first, amend it, then send the Bill for debate.”
He questioned why the Government was already taking steps that appeared to reflect the intentions of the proposed new legislation while the existing Bill remained before Parliament.
Sogavare pointed to the registration of a company as an example, saying the Government appeared to be acting on the intention of the new Bill even before it had been passed.
“The Government has for example registered a company, it’s looking at the intention of the new Bill which is passing it next year,” he said.
He said the issue reinforced the landowners’ demand that the current Bill be withdrawn rather than pushed through without adequate consultation.
According to Sogavare, recommendations had already called for the withdrawal of the Bill.
“You withdraw the Bill and you come up with a new amendment. Then we will go around for consultations with more people,” he said.
The Opposition Leader also threw his support behind the BLC’s position that the Bill should not proceed until further consultations are carried out.
“That’s the position that the Chair has taken, and I’m loud and clear. We will not proceed with this Bill until it is properly consulted with more people,” Sogavare said.
“You’re preaching to the converted. We are with you in this thing. We’re on the same side of this thing, and we will work together.”
Sogavare warned that continued failure to listen to landowners and other stakeholders could lead to public frustration and confrontation.
“At the end of the day, if the system doesn’t work the way it should work, march on the street, because people don’t hear the talk,” he said.
He called on the Government to use common sense and resolve the issue through consultation.
“I hope common sense will take its course here. Then we may avoid what is clearly going to be a very explosive position, suppose the Government is careless about this,” Sogavare said.
He linked his warning to the country’s experience during the ethnic tensions, saying governments faced serious consequences when they ignored public concerns.
“I’m looking back at the carelessness when it led to the ethnic tension. I was leader of the Opposition when the country collapsed. Because why? The Government did not listen,” he said.
The Gold Ridge landowners’ petition adds to growing calls for greater consultation on the Mineral Resources Bill, particularly over its potential implications for customary landowners and the management of the country’s mineral resources.
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BY BEN BILUA
In Jejevo, Isabel
THE Bishop of the Diocese of Ysabel, Reverend Christopher Hope Fihu, has delivered a powerful Bishop’s Charge calling on clergy and church leaders to remain faithful to Christ and carry forward the legacy of those who established the Anglican Church in Isabel.
Fihu made the call today [yesterday] during the official opening of the Diocese of Ysabel’s 18th Synod at Jejevo, Buala.
The synod is the first conducted by Bishop Fihu since his election and consecration as Bishop of Ysabel on November 2, 2025.
In his address, Fihu said the Diocese stands between memories and hope, strengthened by the faithfulness and sacrifices of generations who came before.
He said the calling of God now placed on the clergy was to continue their duties in the same spirit demonstrated by the pioneers of the Diocese.
“It is therefore with profound thanksgiving that I stand before you for the first time to deliver my Bishop’s Charge as your bishop, having been consecrated on the 2nd of November 2025.
“I thank Almighty God for His sustaining grace, the Anglican Church of Melanesia, my brother bishops, the clergy and the people of this Diocese for your prayers, encouragement and faithful partnership as I begin this sacred ministry,” Vihu said
He said the Diocese was built on a strong foundation laid by faithful bishops, clergy, catechists, missionaries, chiefs and generations of God’s people.
Vihu said their prayers, sacrifices and steadfast devotion helped establish and spread the Gospel throughout the islands.
“Their story is now our stewardship. The faith they received, they handed on to us; the faith we received, we must now faithfully hand on to those who come after us,” he said.
Fihu said the 18th Synod was more than a constitutional meeting of the church.
He adds that the gathering was not simply about receiving reports, approving programmes or discussing church administration, but represented the beginning of a new chapter in the common life and mission of the Diocese.
Vihu said the synod provided an opportunity for clergy and church leaders to seek the mind of Christ, listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit and discern together the future God was calling the Diocese towards.
He also acknowledged the challenges facing the Diocese and its communities including climate change as a growing threat to low-lying communities and their livelihoods, while economic hardship continues to place pressure on families.
Vihu also pointed to social divisions and moral struggles that are challenging traditional community values.
Despite these challenges, Fihu acknowledged the continued commitment of clergy and parishes serving communities across vast distances with limited resources.
“Yet, these realities do not define us. Neither fear nor uncertainty shall shape our future.
“The church has never placed her confidence in favourable circumstances, but in the risen Lord. DOY will continue this new chapter with God’s help,” he said.
Fihu said the theme of the 18th Synod, “The Diocese of Isabel is a Resilience Diocese of God,” was both a declaration of identity and a call to faithful discipleship.
He said a resilient Diocese must be deeply rooted in Christ, steadfast in prayer, nourished by the Word and Sacrament, united in love, faithful in stewardship, courageous in mission and confident in God’s promises.
“It must be formed in us through a deliberate return to God, through repentance, worship, reconciliation and renewed surrender to Christ,” Fihu said.
He urged the clergy and people of the Diocese to embrace the new chapter with faith and courage, drawing strength from Christ and remaining committed to the mission entrusted to them by God.
More than 100 clergies and church leaders are currently at Jejevo to be part of the synod. The delegation arrived last week on board M.V Uta Prince 1 and M.V Southern Coast.
Special session will be conducted throughout the week until Friday.
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BY TONY IROGA
Solomon Islands Water Authority (SIWA) has temporarily shut down its Kongulai water source following heavy rainfall that has caused high turbidity in the catchment area.
In a statement issued today, Solomon Water said the Kongulai source will remain closed until further notice as it monitors the water quality.
“Turbidity is a measurement of how cloudy the water is in surface water sources and can be caused by silt, mud, algae, or other particles in the water,” SIWA said.
The state-owned utility explained that the shutdown is necessary to prevent unsafe water from being supplied to customers.
Solomon Water said its normal disinfection process cannot effectively kill bacteria when turbidity levels are too high.
“This makes it unsafe and poses health risks to customers,” the statement said.
High turbidity can also cause problems in the water distribution system, including clogging pipes and customers’ water facilities.
Solomon Water warned that most customers supplied by the Kongulai source may experience low water pressure or no water at all during the shutdown.
Customers who are still receiving water from the system have been advised to boil all water before drinking or consuming it.
The water authority said it is continuing to monitor turbidity levels at the Kongulai source and will provide further updates to customers.
Solomon Water thanked customers for their patience and understanding while the situation is being monitored.
BY BEN BILUA
In Jejevo
THE Diocese of Isabel has completed construction of its new diocesan hall with support from the Australian Government and Maringe/Kokota Constituency.
Clergies, church leaders and delegates attending the Diocese of Isabel’s 18th Synod witnessed the blessing of the newly completed hall in Buala yesterday.
The new facility is expected to play an important role in supporting the Diocese’s programs, meetings and other church activities.
The completion of the hall marks another significant development for the Diocese as it continues to strengthen its facilities and provide better spaces for church programs and community activities.
Church leaders attending the 18th Synod welcomed the completion of the project, saying the hall would provide an important venue for future diocesan events.
The official opening of the hall is scheduled for Friday this week.
A delegation from Honiara is expected to travel to Buala to officially hand over the completed building to the Diocese of Isabel.
The handover will formally mark the completion of the project and the beginning of the hall’s use for diocesan programs and activities.
BY TONY IROGA
Homes have been demolished at Lungga, east of Honiara following enforcement of a High Court order over a disputed parcel of land.
The demolition exercise began on Tuesday at Fixed Estate Parcel No. 192-004-671, covering about four hectares and occupied by more than 30 houses.
An application for stay on the order has been given to court, but enforcement action is reportedly continuing.
Affected families say they have been left devastated and uncertain about where they will live after their homes were demolished.
A house being dismantled. Photo credit – Tony Iroga
One concerned resident, who asked not to be named, said her family has been without proper accommodation since the demolition began.
“The High Court acted without notice and what is happening at the moment is unexpected,” she said.
She said some of the affected families have lived on the land for more than 20 years after moving there during the ethnic tension period.
She described the demolition as “inhuman”, saying families are now struggling to find somewhere to stay.
As of Friday, families from 10 households are reportedly homeless, with affected residents calling on the Government to urgently provide assistance with shelter and other basic needs.
The residents have also appealed to their Member of Parliament, Chachabule Amoi, to intervene and assist the affected families.
The demolitions are being carried out as part of enforcement proceedings arising from High Court Civil Case No. 121 of 2025, Fairtrade Company Limited v Iko and Others, concerning possession of the disputed property.
Homes demolition in progress. Photo credit – Oe si fi tala
According to the High Court Enforcement Order for Possession filed at the High Court Registry on July 27, 2026, the defendants and other persons occupying the property through or under them were ordered to ‘give vacant possession’ of the land.
The order authorised the Sheriff to enter the property and take the necessary steps to deliver vacant possession of the land to the claimant.
The enforcement order followed an earlier High Court ruling made on May 21, 2026, directing the defendants to vacate and hand over possession of the property.
The Court document said the defendants subsequently failed to comply with that order, resulting in a further order on June 18 and, eventually, the enforcement order issued on July 27.
The enforcement order said it must be personally served on the respondents and prominently displayed at the entrance to the property.
It further said enforcement cannot take place until seven days after the letter of service or display of the order.
Separate eviction notices also required occupants to vacate the premises within seven days of receiving the notices.
The notices warned that if occupants failed to comply, the Sheriff could execute the order and deliver vacant possession of the property to the claimant.
The High Court also warned against obstruction of the enforcement process.
According to the Court order, anyone who ‘resists or obstructs the Sheriff’ while the order is being carried out could face contempt of court proceedings or possible criminal consequences, including imprisonment.
The enforcement order is valid for one year from July 27, 2026, unless otherwise dealt with by the Court.
The proceedings also include a counter-claim by Multi Chartering Shipping Services Limited and other counter-claimants against Fairtrade Company Limited, the Commissioner of Lands and the Registrar of Titles.
A large number of individuals are listed as respondents in the Court proceedings.
However, lawyer Rogers Tovosia, who is representing losing party, occupants, has challenged the timing of the enforcement action, arguing that the matter is still before the Court of Appeal.
Tovosia said an appeal has already been filed and the matter has been listed for hearing on September 4 this year.
He argued that because the appeal remains before the Court of Appeal, the dispute has not reached its final stage.
“The case is still a matter before the Court, as the Court of Appeal is still there to determine the final result of the proceedings,” Tovosia said.
He questioned why the High Court enforcement order was being carried out while the appeal was continuing.
Tovosia also questioned the use of police during the demolition exercise, saying the enforcement of the eviction order should have taken into account the pending appeal.
“The eviction order is fast and it should be taking the time required by the Court,” he said.
He further questioned why State power, including police, was being used to demolish the homes of people affected by the dispute.
“The High Court should put aside the eviction order as the appeal case is continued,” he said.
Tovosia maintained that the Court of Appeal remained the avenue for determining the final outcome of the matter before further enforcement action was taken.
The lawyer also raised concerns over the case numbers involved in the proceedings, referring to Civil Case No. 121 of 2025 and an earlier case numbered 445 of 2013.
The enforcement action is expected to continue affecting families and other occupants living on the disputed parcel.
With their homes already demolished, affected residents are now calling for urgent Government assistance while the legal proceedings continue.
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
PRIME Minister Matthew Wale has left Palau ahead of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting and is expected to arrive in Honiara tomorrow, Monday.
Mr Wale will transit overnight in Brisbane, Australia, before continuing his journey to Solomon Islands, sources told Island Sun.
Only Prime Minister Wale is returning to Honiara at this stage, while members of his government team who travelled with him to Palau are expected to remain for the PIF meeting, sources said.
Wale travelled to Palau on Friday, August 28 with members of his government to attend the PIF Leaders Meeting, where he was set to hand over the PIFLM chairmanship to Palau’s president Surangel Whipps Jr.
Wale’s premature departure from Palau is reportedly connected to the motion of no-confidence that was noticed against him in parliament yesterday by former Home Affairs minister Rev Manasseh Maelanga.
BY IRWIN ANGIKI
A notice for a motion of no-confidence has been submitted to parliament against Prime Minister Matthew Wale by former Home Affairs minister Manasseh Maelanga.
This follows weeks of secretive talks between government MPs and members of the Opposition plotting the regime change.
Insiders have told Island Sun the main reasons are the ongoing investigations into the major scandals – Pacific Games 2023, the missing 33 bauxite shipments and Economic Stimulus (ESP) – which PM Wale and GREAT government are moving.
Some MPs in government, as well as Opposition, are implicated in these scandals and feel threatened when PM Wale is pushing for investigations to go ahead.
The People First Party (PFP) is also behind the move to remove PM Wale, and sources close to the matter say the PFP’s reasons also include petty interests of the party’s leader and not national interests.
Notice of MONC
Clerk to parliament Jefferson Hallu confirmed to Island Sun earlier tonight a notice for the motion of no-confidence against PM Wale submitted to his office at 4pm today, August 29.
The notice is signed by former Homes Affairs Minister Rev Manasseh Maelanga, MP for East Malaita.
The notice said the grounds for no-confidence include “the Prime Minister has repeatedly made unilateral decisions on matters of national importance without proper consultation with, or the approval of Cabinet thereby undermining the principles of collective Cabinet responsibility, representative democracy, and good governance”.
Maelanga has resigned from the GREAT government as well.
Dissent brewing for weeks
Following PM Wale and GREAT government’s support for investigations into the missing 33 bauxite shipments, the Pacific Games 2023 spending and ESP fund, MPs both in government and opposition who are implicated in these major scandals felt threatened.
Some of these MPs were vocal in cabinet calling for delays to investigations but PM Wale and other like-minded government MPs decided to push for these investigations to be continued and new ones to commence, insiders told Island Sun.
Government MPs against these investigations and others with grudges against PM Wale met, and few weeks ago started meeting with opposition MPs.
The latest meeting before the MONC notice was on Friday night at the Henderson food court, which was attended by MPs from both government and opposition, including main players from government Maelanga, Chacha Amoi MP for Marovo and Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo, MP for Central Honiara.
Following the MONC notice, Maelanga and his group met tonight at the new hotel at the Samlimsan property in Henderson.
Sources say reasons of MP Chacha’s grudge against PM Wale include cronies not being given offices. PM Wale has decided not to reappoint one of Chacha’s close associates to be permanent secretary due to the individual’s implication in a report on $83 million in the Rural Sustainable Development Programme (RSDP).
PFP back at it again
If there is anything the People First Party (PFP) is consistent with, it is being involved with every motion of no-confidence in this 12th parliament.
PFP was there in the failed MONCs of December 2024 and May 2025 against then Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele. PFP was also in the planned motion against Manele in October 2025 that was abandoned when it was exposed in media.
PFP was instrumental in the April 2026 motion which overthrew PM Manele.
Now PFP is back at it again, plotting with government and opposition MPs to overthrow PM Wale after helping him into power four months ago.
However, not all MPs of PFP are onboard with this motion.
A PFP member who spoke to Island Sun on condition of anonymity tonight said this motion could split the party since ‘many do not agree with the leader’s stance’ for the sake of a party official.
“Many do not agree with the leader’s stance in this. This time round Chacha is acting on the party’s ‘leave one behind’ policy but for a party official,” the PFP MP said.
“We see it as too petty and not in the broader interest of the party and also too national interest.
“It could lead to our party breaking up,” the PFP MP said.
Chacha could not be reached for comments, PFP wing leader Fredrick Kologeto has not responded to questions. Lilo has not responded to questions.
By Eliza Kukutu
A notice of a motion of no confidence against Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Wale has been received by the Office of the Clerk of Parliament this afternoon.
The notice of motion.
Clerk of Parliament Jefferson Halu confirmed to SIBC News this evening that the notice was signed by East Malaita MP Hon. Manasseh Maelanga.
He said the notice will be forwarded to the Office of the Speaker of Parliament for further consideration.
“The notice will go before the Speaker to see if it complies with the Standing Orders. If it does, it will be put into the Business Paper.
“It is now undergoing the usual required seven-day notice period, and once it is listed on the Order Paper, it will take precedence over any other government business,” Halu said.
The Clerk also explained that the current rules do not require a seconder for a notice of motion of no confidence to be accepted and put before Parliament.
He said there are no rules restricting the timing for any member to file a motion of no confidence.
SIBC News understands that the notice of motion of no confidence comes just three months after Wale was elected Prime Minister.
ENDS//
The post Clerk of Parliament receives notice of no-confidence motion against PM Wale first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
Member of Parliament for Ulawa/Ugi, Hon. William Bradford Marau, has joined the GREAT Coalition Government.
Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Wale yesterday visited Hon. Marau at his residence before proceeding to the airport to board his flight to Palau for the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.
During the visit, Hon. Marau congratulated the Prime Minister and formally pledged his support to the GREAT Coalition.
Hon. Marau also shared his personal journey of battling a long-term illness and his ongoing road to recovery.
“I give all glory back to God for His grace that I am able to be here today and on my successful road to recovery,” Hon. Marau said.
Prime Minister Wale warmly welcomed Hon. Marau joined the GREAT Coalition, acknowledging his decision to support the Government and his commitment to serving the people of Ulawa/Ugi.
The addition of Hon. Marau further strengthens the GREAT Coalition as the Government continues to advance its development agenda for Solomon Islands.
[end]
OPMC statement
The post Ulawa/Ugi MP Marau joins GREAT Coalition first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
乌拉瓦/乌吉国会议员威廉·布拉德福德·马劳(Hon. William Bradford Marau)已加入GREAT联盟政府。
总理马修·韦尔(Hon. Matthew Wale)昨日在前往机场搭乘前往帕劳参加太平洋岛国论坛领导人会议的航班之前,拜访了马劳。
在访问期间,马劳祝贺总理,并正式承诺支持GREAT联盟。
马劳还分享了他与长期疾病斗争的个人经历以及他正在进行的康复之路。
“我将所有荣耀归于上帝,感谢祂的恩典让我今天能够在这里,并在我成功的康复之路上,”马劳说道。
韦尔总理热烈欢迎马劳加入GREAT联盟,赞赏他支持政府的决定以及为乌拉瓦/乌吉人民服务的承诺。
马劳的加入进一步增强了GREAT联盟,政府将继续推进所罗门群岛的发展议程。
[end]
OPMC声明
乌拉瓦/乌吉国会议员马劳加入GREAT联盟一文首次出现在所罗门群岛广播公司(SIBC)上。
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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Parliament’s Bills and Legislation Committee (BLC) has told Guadalcanal landowners that proposed amendments to the Mineral Resources Bill would introduce major changes to Solomon Islands’ mining laws.
The explanation was given during a meeting between the BLC and Gold Ridge mining landowners at the Paul Tovua complex on Thursday 27.
Former Attorney General John Muria Jnr told the landowners that the proposed amendments were not ordinary or minor changes to the existing law.
He said the amendments would introduce major changes in five key areas, including State participation in mining, existing mining interests, mining licences, customary land and royalties.
“One of the biggest changes would allow the State to take a minimum 30 percent interest in a mining project after a commercial discovery is made. The State could take more than 30 percent depending on the type of mineral and regulations made under the proposed law,” he said.
Mr Muria said this was a major change from the 2025 version of the Bill, which did not provide for direct State ownership or financial involvement in mining projects.
He also explained that some of the proposed changes could affect mining applications already in the system.
“Under the proposed amendments, applications for feasibility or mining licences that have not been finally decided before the new law comes into force could be affected by the new requirements. This means an applicant could be required to meet the new State participation requirements before receiving a licence,” he said.
He said this could have implications for existing investors and mining projects.
Mr Muria also questioned the establishment of a proposed mineral holding company before the legal provisions creating its role had become law.
“Another major change concerns mining rights,” he said.
He explained that the proposed amendments could allow some mining rights to be renewed repeatedly, potentially allowing an area to remain under mining tenure for a much longer period.
The BLC also told the landowners about proposed changes to alluvial mining, saying the Bill would replace the existing permit system with a licensing system and allow mechanised alluvial mining under certain conditions.
On customary land, applicants would need to be nominated or endorsed by customary landowners through a process prescribed under the law.
The proposed royalty system was also highlighted as an area requiring further clarification, particularly how royalty funds would be controlled, spent, audited and distributed, including the share or entitlements of provinces and customary landowners.
Mr Muria said these matters needed to be properly considered because the proposed amendments would significantly change the current mining framework.
The BLC told the Guadalcanal landowners that their concerns over consultation were important and that the committee supported their call for proper consultation on the proposed Bill.
The committee said it would continue discussions with the landowners and was expected to meet with them again to go through the issues raised next week.
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BY NED GAGAHE
Police are investigating an armed robbery in White River after masked men allegedly broke into a shop, assaulted a Chinese national and fled with a large amount of cash on August 22.
A press statement from Police media today confirmed that several masked suspects gained entry to the shop through a rear door before attacking the victim.
One of the suspects allegedly struck the victim on the forehead with a weapon before the group fled the scene with the cash.
The victim sustained injuries during the incident and was rushed to the National Referral Hospital (NRH) for medical treatment.
Police said two male suspects have since been arrested as investigations continue.
Investigators also recovered SBD$18,000, which police believe may be connected to the robbery.
Police are treating the case as an attempted murder and robbery investigation and are continuing efforts to identify and arrest other suspects who remain at large.
Police said one person of interest is believed to be a Papua New Guinean national who is known to police in connection with previous alleged offences.
Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or noticed suspicious activity around XX Store at White River on August 22 to come forward with information.
Members of the public can contact White River Police on 21363.
Police have assured the public that investigations are continuing and that information provided by members of the public will be handled appropriately as part of the investigation.
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Auki, 21 August 2026 – The Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD) and the Malaita Provincial Government signed the Agency Agreement and Provincial Education Board Agreement at the Malaita Provincial Chamber in Auki. This is the third signing, after Makira province and Western province.
The ceremony was attended by Hon. Elijah Asilaua, Premier of Malaita Province, Hon. Steve Kumi, Minister of MEHRD, senior officials, donor representatives, education partners, and Honourable Members of the Malaita Provincial Government (MPG). The presence of the MPG members was especially fitting, as they were in Auki for a two-week programme under the Provincial Government Strengthening Programme (PGSP), making the signing ceremony even more memorable.
In his remarks, Hon. Kumi stated that the occasion represented a shared commitment between the National Government and the Malaita Provincial Government to strengthen education services and improve opportunities for children and young people in Malaita Province.
He reaffirmed the Government for Reform, Empowerment, Accountability and Transformation’s vision that education must be accessible to every child, regardless of where they live or their circumstances and emphasized that education is a fundamental right and one of the nation’s most important investments.
MEHRD Minister Hon. Stephen Kumi receiving a traditional gift from the Malaita Premier Elijah Asilaua.
The agreements also signal MEHRD’s continued support to Malaita Province as it takes on education provider responsibilities. Through the Agency Agreement, MEHRD will provide technical and operational support to the Malaita Education Provider Office, including support for school operations, teacher management, capacity strengthening and regular joint reviews to identify challenges early and provide assistance where needed.
Hon. Kumi announced that an additional four positions will be allocated to the Malaita Education Provider Office to help strengthen provincial education services, made possible through MEHRD’s partnership with MFAT under the Waka fo Edukeson programme. He also highlighted planned support for Malaita, including nine new education projects in 2027 and the proposed construction of a new Education Complex in Malaita as a hub for education development.
The establishment of the Malaita Provincial Education Board was also described as an important step forward, bringing together the Provincial Government, churches, traditional leaders, education providers and stakeholders under one platform to advance education priorities that respond to Malaita’s unique needs, including technical and vocational education and training.
Following the signing, the Malaita Provincial Education Office and the Premier of Malaita Province presented several traditional “Tafuliae” red money to all MEHRD managers and guests. The gesture symbolised the sealing of the agreements and affirmed Malaita Province’s strong commitment to quality education, as well as its willingness to work with any government of the day to advance education development for its people.
The signing ceremony marked the first step of MEHRD and the Malaita Provincial Government, moving forward together to deliver better education for the children of Malaita for the future of Malaita.
奥基,2026年8月21日——教育与人力资源发展部(MEHRD)与马莱塔省政府在奥基的马莱塔省议会签署了代理协议和省教育委员会协议。这是继马基拉省和西部省之后的第三次签署。
仪式上出席了马莱塔省省长埃利亚·阿西劳阿(Hon. Elijah Asilaua)、教育与人力资源发展部部长史蒂夫·库米(Hon. Steve Kumi)、高级官员、捐助者代表、教育合作伙伴以及马莱塔省政府的尊敬成员(MPG)。MPG成员的出席尤为合适,因为他们正在奥基参加为期两周的省政府加强计划(PGSP)项目,使得签署仪式更加难忘。
库米部长在讲话中表示,此次活动代表了国家政府与马莱塔省政府之间共同致力于加强教育服务和改善马莱塔省儿童及青少年机会的承诺。
他重申了改革、赋权、问责与转型政府的愿景,即教育必须对每个孩子都可及,无论他们居住在哪里或处于何种境况,并强调教育是一项基本权利,是国家最重要的投资之一。
教育与人力资源发展部部长库米(Hon. Stephen Kumi)接受马莱塔省省长埃利亚·阿西劳阿赠送的传统礼物。
这些协议还标志着MEHRD对马莱塔省持续支持的承诺,因为马莱塔省承担教育提供者的责任。通过代理协议,MEHRD将为马莱塔教育提供者办公室提供技术和运营支持,包括学校运营、教师管理、能力建设和定期联合评审,以便及早识别挑战并在需要时提供帮助。
库米部长宣布,将为马莱塔教育提供者办公室分配额外的四个职位,以帮助加强省级教育服务,这得益于MEHRD与MFAT在Waka fo Edukeson项目下的合作。他还强调了对马莱塔的计划支持,包括2027年的九个新教育项目以及拟建的新教育综合体,作为教育发展的中心。
马莱塔省教育委员会的成立也被描述为向前迈出的重要一步,将省政府、教会、传统领导人、教育提供者和利益相关者聚集在一个平台上,以推进响应马莱塔独特需求的教育优先事项,包括技术和职业教育与培训。
签署后,马莱塔省教育办公室和马莱塔省省长向所有MEHRD经理和嘉宾赠送了几份传统的“Tafuliae”红色钱币。这一举动象征着协议的达成,并确认了马莱塔省对优质教育的坚定承诺,以及与任何在任政府合作以推进其人民教育发展的意愿。
此次签署仪式标志着MEHRD与马莱塔省政府共同向前迈出的第一步,以便为马莱塔的儿童提供更好的教育,展望马莱塔的未来。
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
THE Board and Secretariat of the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) paid a courtesy visit on Wednesday 26 August to the newly appointed Minister for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs, John Maneniaru.
The visit gave YECSI the opportunity to congratulate the new Minister on his appointment, and to formally present an update on the Council’s work, progress and achievements since its establishment in 2018.
YECSI also used the visit to highlight some of the challenges it continues to face in expanding its reach and strengthening support for young entrepreneurs across the Solomon Islands.
Discussions focused on the importance of strengthening the partnership between YECSI and the Ministry, particularly through its Youth Division, to create greater opportunities and support systems for young people already engaged in business, as well as those interested in pursuing entrepreneurship.
Minister Maneniaru expressed his appreciation to the YECSI Board and Secretariat for the courtesy visit and welcomed the updates shared on the organisation’s progress over the years.
The Minister assured YECSI that, under his leadership, the Ministry will work to strengthen its relationship and collaboration with the Council, particularly through the Youth Division, to support and empower young Solomon Islanders interested in entrepreneurship and business.
The engagement marks an important step toward strengthening cooperation between Government and YECSI, in ensuring young people have greater access to opportunities, support, networks and platforms to develop their businesses and contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic development.
YECSI said it looks forward to building on the discussions and working closely with the Minister and the Ministry to advance opportunities for young entrepreneurs across the Solomon Islands.
Meanwhile, YECSI continues to roll out its monthly programmes for members. Yesterday, the Council hosted an Ignite Session for its members at the Art Gallery, providing another platform for young entrepreneurs to connect, share ideas, learn and strengthen their businesses.
YECSI remains committed to empowering young entrepreneurs, strengthening partnerships, and creating opportunities for young people to contribute meaningfully to the economic future of the Solomon Islands.
The YECSI Board and team wished the Minister well in his leadership, acknowledging the time he took to meet with the team.
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BY NED GAGAHE
Lack of sufficient collateral remains one of the major barriers preventing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from accessing higher loan amounts from financial institutions, according to the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI).
Speaking to the media following the reopening of the SME Credit Guarantee Scheme (SMECGS), CBSI Senior Analyst in the Financial System Development and Payment Department, Junior Faka, said many SMEs struggle to meet banks’ lending requirements because the value of their collateral is often insufficient.
“One of the challenges SMEs face is the issue of collateral security,” Faka said.
He explained that when SMEs seek larger loans, the value and equity of the assets they offer as security may only cover a portion of the amount they want to borrow.
“If the value of the security is low, they may not meet the eligibility requirements for the loan,” he said.
The Government has committed $18 million to the reopened guarantee scheme, which is aimed at helping eligible Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) overcome some of the barriers to accessing finance.
The scheme works by reducing the risk to financial institutions when lending to eligible businesses, allowing SMEs to access loans to start or expand their businesses.
He said the current scheme is open to all financial institutions, including DBSI and Credit Corporation, which have been among the most active users.
Faka said the reopening of the scheme also reaffirms the Government’s funding commitment, while also strengthened the administration and policy oversight of the facility.
Under the revised scheme, the maximum period for loan coverage is five years, while the maximum loan amount covered is $300,000.
The guarantee coverage has also been standardised at 90 percent for both male- and female-owned SMEs.
Under the previous scheme, women-owned SMEs received 95 percent coverage compared with 90 percent for male-owned SMEs.
Faka said the higher coverage for women was intended to encourage their participation in the SME sector, which remains relatively low in Solomon Islands.
The new scheme also establishes an oversight committee, while CBSI will continue to administer the facility.
The scheme was officially reopened on Thursday by the Minister for Commerce, Industries, Labour and Immigration, Harry Kuma, who described it as an investment in jobs, growth and livelihoods.
He said the facility would make it easier for intending and existing businesses to obtain financing to purchase equipment and stock, acquire boats, expand farms, shops and services, and employ more workers.
The Government has identified rural enterprises, women and youth entrepreneurs, cooperatives, and businesses outside Honiara as priority areas under the scheme.
Mr Kuma urged banks to actively promote the facility and encouraged MSMEs to prepare their business plans, maintain proper financial records and submit loan applications.
He said the Government would work with CBSI and other stakeholders to remove remaining barriers to MSME finance and monitor the number of loans approved, businesses supported and jobs created.
“The success of SMECGS will not be measured by paperwork. It will be measured by the businesses that grow, the jobs that are created, and the livelihoods that are strengthened in every community across Solomon Islands,” he said.
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BY NED GAGAHE
Children and young people from across the Solomon Islands will take their climate concerns directly to Government next week as part of efforts to ensure their experiences help shape national climate policy ahead of COP31 in Türkiye.
Twenty child delegates from Makira, Malaita and Honiara will gather in Honiara on September 2 for the Klaemet Tok Stori from Pikinini , an initiative led by World Vision Solomon Islands in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM) and the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCFA).
The initiative aims to bring the lived experiences, indigenous knowledge and solutions of children and young people into national climate decision-making.
A key focus will be the draft National Policy for Loss and Damage, which the children will review and provide feedback on directly with MECDM officials.
The children will also formally present their key messages to the Minister of MECDM, Permanent Secretaries and diplomatic partners, including the New Zealand High Commissioner.
World Vision said the initiative is designed to transform the daily realities of children affected by climate change into concrete policy solutions and child-led resilience actions.
The outcomes and key messages from the forum are expected to be presented alongside the Solomon Islands Government delegation at COP31, highlighting the importance of child participation in climate governance.
World Vision Solomon Islands National Director Asuntha Charles said children must be recognised as important voices in decisions that affect their future.
“Children are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are voices of today whose experiences, hopes, and fears must shape the decisions that determine their future,” Charles said.
She said children were among those most affected by the climate crisis and deserved to be heard and included in national policies and global climate commitments.
Through initiatives such as Klaemet Tok Stori from Pikinini , Charles said World Vision was working to amplify children’s voices, promote their rights and ensure their experiences and solutions influenced climate action from local communities to the global stage.
The initiative forms part of World Vision’s wider climate advocacy, disaster risk reduction and anticipatory action programmes.
It also supports the organisation’s advocacy for greater access to Loss and Damage financing for Small Island Developing States, including Pacific island countries facing increasing climate-related impacts.
Meanwhile, World Vision has officially concluded its emergency response to Severe Tropical Cyclone Maila after reaching 3,553 people from 871 households in Western and Choiseul provinces between April and July this year.
The emergency response was carried out in partnership with the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), provincial governments and partner organisations, including ADRA and Kastom Gaden.
Affected families received emergency shelter, water, sanitation and hygiene assistance, as well as early livelihood recovery kits.
The response was supported by New Zealand Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Australian Humanitarian Partnership, the United States Government, the START Network, TONGS Corporation and Kokonut Pacific Solomon Islands.
Charles said the emergency response demonstrated the importance of strong partnerships in delivering timely assistance to communities affected by disasters.
“With the unwavering dedication of our local partners, staff, communities and the NDMO, we were able to deliver life-saving assistance rapidly to those who needed it most,” she said.
With operational assets now being transferred to local disaster management structures, World Vision said it would transition back to its development programmes while continuing to support affected children, youth and communities.
The organisation said it would also continue advocating for urgent climate action and stronger resilience measures to help Solomon Islands communities prepare for future climate-related shocks.
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作者:内德·加加赫
来自所罗门群岛各地的儿童和年轻人将于下周直接向政府表达他们的气候关切,作为确保他们的经历有助于塑造国家气候政策的努力的一部分,目的是在土耳其举行的COP31之前。
来自马基拉、马莱塔和霍尼亚拉的20名儿童代表将于9月2日在霍尼亚拉聚集,参加由所罗门群岛世界宣明会与环境、气候变化、灾害管理和气象部(MECDM)以及妇女、青年、儿童和家庭事务部(MWYCFA)合作主办的“Klaemet Tok Stori from Pikinini”倡议。
该倡议旨在将儿童和年轻人的生活经历、土著知识和解决方案纳入国家气候决策中。
一个关键的关注点将是《损失与损害国家政策草案》,儿童将直接与MECDM官员进行审查和反馈。
儿童们还将正式向MECDM部长、常务秘书和包括新西兰高级专员在内的外交伙伴呈现他们的关键信息。
世界宣明会表示,该倡议旨在将受气候变化影响的儿童的日常现实转化为具体的政策解决方案和儿童主导的韧性行动。
论坛的结果和关键信息预计将在COP31上与所罗门群岛政府代表团一起呈现,强调儿童在气候治理中的参与重要性。
世界宣明会所罗门群岛国家主任阿苏莎·查尔斯表示,儿童必须被视为影响他们未来的重要声音。
“儿童不仅是明天的领导者;他们是今天的声音,他们的经历、希望和恐惧必须塑造决定他们未来的决策,”查尔斯说。
她表示,儿童是气候危机中受影响最严重的群体之一,应该被倾听并纳入国家政策和全球气候承诺中。
通过“Klaemet Tok Stori from Pikinini”等倡议,查尔斯表示,世界宣明会正在努力放大儿童的声音,促进他们的权利,并确保他们的经历和解决方案影响从地方社区到全球舞台的气候行动。
该倡议是世界宣明会更广泛的气候倡导、灾害风险减少和预期行动项目的一部分。
它还支持该组织倡导为小岛屿发展中国家,包括面临日益严重气候影响的太平洋岛国,提供更大规模的损失与损害融资。
与此同时,世界宣明会已正式结束对严重热带气旋迈拉的紧急响应,在今年4月至7月期间,惠及了西部和乔伊瑟尔省的3,553人,来自871个家庭。
此次紧急响应是与国家灾害管理办公室(NDMO)、省政府和合作组织(包括ADRA和Kastom Gaden)合作进行的。
受影响的家庭获得了紧急避难所、水、卫生和卫生援助,以及早期生计恢复工具包。
此次响应得到了新西兰外交和贸易部、澳大利亚人道主义伙伴关系、美国政府、START网络、TONGS公司和Kokonut Pacific Solomon Islands的支持。
查尔斯表示,紧急响应展示了在向受灾社区提供及时援助方面强大合作伙伴关系的重要性。
“在我们当地合作伙伴、员工、社区和NDMO的不懈努力下,我们能够迅速向最需要帮助的人提供救生援助,”她说。
随着运营资产现在转移到地方灾害管理结构,世界宣明会表示将过渡回其发展项目,同时继续支持受影响的儿童、青年和社区。
该组织还表示将继续倡导紧急气候行动和更强的韧性措施,以帮助所罗门群岛社区为未来的气候相关冲击做好准备。
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Island SunEnvironment & Climate环境气候·2026-08-28Original ↗原文 ↗
Pacific security report urges stronger regional cooperation, practical action and inclusive responses to emerging challenges. 28 August 2026 – Stronger regional cooperation will be critical as the Pacific shifts from decision-making to implementation to address the region’s security challenges, the Pacific Peace and Security Dialogue 2026 Report highlights. Drawing on insights from the Pacific’s largest [...]
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