BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
For East Fataleka copra farmer Rose, supporting the right local institution is important for the future of her family’s coconut plantation.
Rose, as she prefers to be called, has recently started selling her copra produce to the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) after years of selling to another buyer.
She inherited the responsibility of maintaining her grandfather’s coconut plantation, a family tradition and obligation that she is determined to uphold.
The plantation has provided a livelihood for the family for generations, and Rose expects other members of her family to continue looking after it in the future.
Rose operates a copra dryer at her village, where she processes coconuts from her plantation into copra.
However, with her plantation producing high yields of coconuts, she said she needs another dryer to keep up with production.
For many years, Rose and her family sold their copra to IKEMA, another buyer. But this year, she decided to switch to CEMA.
Rose said she was encouraged to sell to CEMA after recognising its role as a government agency that she believes will remain committed to supporting local farmers.
She said other buyers tended to purchase copra when market prices were favourable, while she did not receive the support she needed to maintain and improve her plantation.
Since turning to CEMA, Rose said she has been pleased with the assistance provided, including nets and bags.
“I have regretted overlooking CEMA in the past. This is the institution that farmers should and must support because it is ours,” she said.
Despite her commitment to copra farming, Rose continues to face challenges, particularly the lack of basic tools and equipment needed to improve production.
“I need bags, nets, drums, copra knives and other necessary tools to boost the productivity of my coconut plantation,” she said.
Another major challenge is the high cost of transportation and freight, which she said remains a common problem for farmers in her area.
Rose is calling on the Government, through CEMA, to prioritise addressing transportation costs and other challenges affecting copra farmers.
She also urged the Government to help stabilise copra buying prices and ensure farmers receive better returns from their produce.
For Rose, stronger support for farmers and fairer returns are essential to encourage rural producers to continue investing in their plantations and livelihoods.
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BY RODRICK DESURI
Auki
Three feeder roads in Central Kwara’ae, Malaita Province, are currently undergoing maintenance and regravelling works to improve access and connectivity for rural communities.
The roads include the Talakali, Kwaimanafu and Arabala feeder roads, which had deteriorated over the years, making it difficult for rural communities to access markets, schools and essential social services in Auki.
A statement from the contractor, Exodus Trade Development Ltd, over the weekend said work on the roads is progressing well.
“Talakali road maintenance is going well. Thank you to landowners from Augiria/Baybay for supporting this project through coronas and gravel,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, maintenance and regravelling works on the Arabala and Kwaimanafu feeder roads have reached the regravelling stage and have been completed.
The completion of the roadworks is expected to greatly improve transportation for rural farmers and communities, allowing them to travel more easily to markets to sell their produce.
In West Kwaio, rural community leaders have also called for the maintenance and regravelling of feeder roads in their areas.
They said maintaining and improving roads in rural communities demonstrates that the national and provincial governments, as well as Members of Parliament, care about the livelihoods and wellbeing of people in rural areas.
Photo credit: Exodus Trade Development Ltd page
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作者:罗德里克·德苏里(RODRICK DESURI)
奥基
马莱塔省中央克瓦拉艾的三条支路目前正在进行维护和重新铺设工作,以改善农村社区的通行和连接。
这些道路包括塔拉卡利(Talakali)、夸伊马纳夫(Kwaimanafu)和阿拉巴拉(Arabala)支路,这些道路多年来已经恶化,使得农村社区难以进入市场、学校和奥基的基本社会服务。
承包商Exodus Trade Development Ltd在周末发布的声明中表示,道路的工作进展良好。
“塔拉卡利道路的维护进展顺利。感谢Augiria/Baybay的土地所有者通过提供沙石支持该项目,”声明中提到。
与此同时,阿拉巴拉和夸伊马纳夫支路的维护和重新铺设工作已达到重新铺设阶段,并已完成。
道路工程的完成预计将大大改善农村农民和社区的交通,使他们更容易前往市场销售产品。
在西克瓦伊奥,农村社区领导者也呼吁对他们地区的支路进行维护和重新铺设。
他们表示,维护和改善农村社区的道路表明国家和省政府以及国会议员关心农村地区人民的生计和福祉。
照片来源:Exodus Trade Development Ltd页面
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Members of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and the Australian Defence Force (ADF) have completed a Drone Pilot Course as part of Exercise Coastwatchers, the premier annual training...
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Honiara, 14 September 2026 – The GREAT Coalition has set an ambitious target to create 25,000 new jobs over the next four years, with Minister of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration Hon. Harry Kuma warning that economic growth is no longer optional.
Officially opening the National Business Forum 2026 today in Honiara, Minister Kuma said jobs are the foundation for national peace and identity, especially for Solomon Islands’ rapidly growing young population.
“Every single year, tens of thousands of our young people exit primary, secondary and tertiary education looking for opportunity. To absorb them, economic growth is not optional – it is mandatory,” Minister Kuma told business leaders.
Minister Kuma said the Government is determined to improve the country’s investment climate, revealing that Solomon Islands still ranks low at 136 out of 190 countries on the Ease of Doing Business Index with a score of 55 out of 100.
He said the GREAT Coalition’s priority is to raise this ranking by reforming laws, streamlining processes, and removing bureaucratic roadblocks.
The Minister placed 10 key recommendations from last year’s inaugural Business Forum squarely before this year’s participants, including addressing high energy costs that are driving up the cost of doing business, the urgent need to protect and empower Indigenous entrepreneurs, encouraging small businesses in the massive informal sector to transition into the formal sector, strengthening the lending capacity of state-owned financial institutions, urging commercial banks to understand SMEs as unique customers, questioning digital financial cost structures including platforms like M-Selen, empowering youth, delivering targeted support for women entrepreneurs, deepening the three-way partnership between the business community, the Government and academic institutions such as SINU, and solidifying the National Business Forum as an annual or bi-annual event.
“My charge to this room is simple: Do not leave this forum with a list of complaints. Leave this forum with practical, executable solutions,” Minister Kuma challenged.
“The Ministry is listening. The GREAT Coalition and Government are ready. The solutions you design today will directly influence the policies and regulations we deploy moving forward.”
The National Business Forum was established under Cabinet approval on 9 July 2025 in partnership with the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI). Last year’s theme was “Partnership and Innovation for Resilience: Adapting to a Changing Economy”.
While the 2026 NBF has no specific theme, Minister Kuma said it continues the 2025 momentum, focusing on partnerships and solving the issues already raised.
He concluded with a quote from Mahatma Gandhi: “The future depends on what we do in the present.”
by Georgina Makaa & A formal Marine Inquiry into the devastating fire, sinking, and total loss of the cargo-passenger vessel MV ANJEANETTE, as well as the presumed loss of life...
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For generations, women across the Pacific have stood as the unsung architects of food security. Through traditional gardening, reef gleaning, fishing, and food preservation, their inherited ecological wisdom has sustained households through shifting weather patterns, climate-related issues, and socio-economic pressures.
This philosophy forms the bedrock of Alice Clara Aluta-Rore’s academic mission as a Doctor of Philosophy candidate in Pacific Studies at The University of the South Pacific (USP). Under the prestigious Norway-Pacific Ocean-Climate Scholarship Programme (NPOC), a bi-institutional initiative between USP and the University of Bergen, Norway, Rore is documenting how rural Solomon Islands women utilise local knowledge systems to build climate-resilient futures.
Raised as the eldest of five siblings and originally from Sulagwalu, in the northern region of Malaita Province in the Solomon Islands, she experienced firsthand the financial and social challenges of growing up in a peri-urban community.
“From an early age I realised we were a struggling family. But my parents did not show it; they kept trying their best to provide what was necessary for our livelihood. Their priority was for us to be fed sufficiently, clothed decently, well-mannered, get an education, and remain in church. They were very protective about these values for our family.”
“Despite all the challenges faced, I overcame these by leaning on my parents and siblings’ support, personal faith, and staying determined with education.”
Her educational journey began at Burnscreek Adventist Primary School and Betikama Adventist High School, Solomon Islands, before taking her to USP’s Laucala Campus in Fiji.
Over two decades, Rore balanced high school and tertiary teaching with postgraduate studies, earning her Bachelor of Secondary Education (1999), Postgraduate Diploma in Linguistics (2005), and Master of Arts in Linguistics (2017). Adapting to life in a new country brought cultural differences and academic demands, but her family’s vision kept her anchored.
“It is not easy, but drawing from my upbringing gave me the strength and resolve to face these difficulties and remain focused in my studies. I also acknowledge my close friends who have quietly supported and cheered me on throughout this journey. They all contributed to making this journey worthwhile.”
Now in the final writing phase of her doctorate, Rore’s research examines how rural women navigate environmental degradation, unpredictable climate shifts, and socio-economic pressures to ensure food secure households. By centering women’s daily routines, from subsistence farming to food preservation, her work provides empirical evidence that ancestral wisdom yields sustainable, place-based solutions.
Crucially, the study advocates for a seats-at-the-table approach, calling for women’s inclusion in policy discourse, village planning, and the co-design of adaptation initiatives.
“My research assists food resilience in the Solomon Islands and the Pacific by centering women’s Indigenous knowledge as a valuable heritage for adaptation to the socio-economic and environmental pressures they face in their respective contexts,” she stressed.
“By documenting the lived realities of these women in subsistence gardening and fishing, and the traditions of the food production systems in place, the study provides evidence of how local knowledge can yield locally grounded and sustainable responses to the challenges women face.”
“Reframing women’s contributions to local food security means recognising their lived experiences of resilience and elevating the value of local knowledge as a critical resource for food security and adaptation initiatives across Oceania.”
The inspiration to pursue this research topic came from observing the different women in her life whilst growing up, who had the confidence and strength to keep going and always ensured their families had enough to eat every day despite the many difficulties experienced.
“I have always been intrigued by women’s creativity in doing things and interested in listening to stories about culture, indigenous heritage, and life,” she highlighted.
“Most of the women around me had very limited formal education but did not see this as a barrier to fulfilling their responsibilities and livelihoods. They always rose whenever life tested them.” This reality resonates with many other women in the communities, therefore, for this study, Rore is truly grateful to the women who shared their stories and reflections about life, and talked about their future aspirations. The conversations were meaningful and genuine relationships were formed.
As Rore prepares to submit her thesis soon, her advice to future researchers and women across the region is to embrace our indigenous heritage, be the voice for the unheard, and remain steadfast.
“If you have the opportunity to study, pursue it. Age is not a limit to learning. Embrace life with faith and grit. Learn to navigate each turn of your life’s journey with determination. There will be difficulties encountered and sacrifices made, but you are stronger than you realise, and you are more than enough. Continue to build your legacy, it matters,” she stressed.
The Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) has defended its SBD$208,000-a-month lease for new offices at Lengakiki, west Honiara. The property was owned by the family of Prime...
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Members of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and Australian Defence Force (ADF) have been undertaking a vehicle maintainers course as part of Exercise Coastwatchers, the main training exercise...
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BY TONY IROGA
THE newly elected Members of Provincial Assemblies (MPAs) of Central Islands Province (CIP) have begun a two-week induction programme.
According to the Provincial Government Strengthening Programme (PGSP) statement today, the program is to help strengthen their understanding of provincial governance and leadership responsibilities.
The induction officially kicked off today and is designed to familiarise the new MPAs with their roles and responsibilities, including provincial policies, legislative frameworks, financial management procedures and community development processes.
PGSP said the induction is an important step to ensure that the newly elected provincial leaders understand the functions of government and are better equipped to serve their communities.
The programme is also focused on strengthening leadership, accountability, transparency and inclusive decision-making in the delivery of services and development programmes across Central Islands Province.
“The induction is designed to provide MPAs with the knowledge and practical skills they need to effectively carry out their responsibilities and contribute to the development priorities of Central Islands Province,” the statement said.
The two-week programme brings together officers from the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) and the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) policy team.
Officers from the Office of the Ombudsman, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the National Parliament and the Leadership Code Commission are also expected to join the programme later.
Their participation will provide the MPAs with further knowledge on good governance, public accountability, financial oversight and the standards expected of public leaders.
The induction is expected to help equip the new provincial assembly members with a stronger understanding of their roles as they begin their term and work towards addressing the development priorities and needs of communities throughout Central Islands Province.
Photo credit: PGSP
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BY TONY IROGA
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) issued a strong wind warning number 202 for all waters of Solomon Islands at 7am this morning.
According to SIMS, a trough lies over the eastern parts of the country while a general south-easterly trade wind flow continues across Solomon Islands.
SIMS said south-easterly winds of between 15 and 25 knots are expected over most waters.
“Seas will be moderate too rough with moderate south-east swells of 2.5 to 3.5 metres,” SIMS said.
The weather service also warns of poor visibility in areas experiencing showers and thunderstorms.
SIMS is advising people in affected areas to take precautionary measures, warning that the strong winds could impact lives and property.
Sea travellers are urged to consider safety measures before travelling, particularly operators of small boats.
“Such winds can produce dangerous wave conditions which are hazardous to small boats,” SIMS said.
The weather service also calls on communities to ensure that the warning reaches people with disabilities.
SIMS said a strong wind warning means winds of between 20 and 25 knots, with gusts potentially reaching 33 knots, capable of producing hazardous sea conditions for small crafts.
However, the degree of danger will depend on factors including the experience of the boat operator and the size and type of vessel.
SIMS further cautions that wave forecasts represent average conditions, and individual waves can sometimes reach up to twice the forecasted height.
The next strong wind warning is expected to be issued at 4pm today.
Photo credit: SIMS
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PRIME Minister Matthew Wale has called for stronger families grounded in gospel values, describing a discipled family as the strongest social protection system Solomon Islands can have. Speaking at a...
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Team Solomon departs for international chess showdown
BY NED GAGAHE
SOLOMON Islands’ national chess team has departed Honiara for Uzbekistan to compete in the 46th FIDE Chess Olympiad in Samarkand.
The five-player Team Solomon squad left Honiara yesterday, September 13, and is scheduled to arrive in Tashkent before continuing to Samarkand.
The team comprises of Fred Resture on Board One, Chris Kaitu’u on Board Two, Junior Lui on Board Three, Melanie Chottu on Board Four and Abel Puia on Board Five.
Simon Chottu will serve as head of delegation and FIDE delegate, with Kiki Chen as captain and coach and James Samu as assistant captain.
The Olympiad brings together national teams from more than 200 chess federations around the world, giving the Solomon Islands players an opportunity to test themselves against international competition.
The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) said the team had undergone weeks of preparation ahead of the tournament.
Preparation included training sessions at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS), practice matches, notation exercises and online coaching.
SICF president and head of delegation Simon Chottu said the team’s participation is about more than competing for results.
“We travel to Samarkand carrying the Solomon Islands flag and the hopes of our growing chess community,” Chottu said.
He said the Olympiad will allow the players to gain international experience and bring the knowledge back to help develop the next generation of Solomon Islands chess players.
The federation acknowledged the support of the FIDE, National Sports Council, National Olympic Committee of Solomon Islands, Palm Sugar Café, partners, supporters, families and the wider chess community.
The 46th FIDE Chess Olympiad will be held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, bringing together players from across the world.
Team Solomon will compete under the Solomon Islands flag as it seeks valuable international experience and exposure.
Photo: Supplied
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BY TONY IROGA
For Nai Taika, tattooing is more than just putting designs on the skin—it is a way of preserving culture, identity and tradition.
Taika is Part-Malaita, Rennell and Bellona. The tattoo artist shared his vision during an interview with Island Sun on day two of the 2026 National Annual Trade Fair at FOPA, East Honiara.
Taika, whose mother is from Langa Langa Lagoon in Malaita, was interviewed while working alongside his team of young tattoo artists at their stall.
He said tattoo artists in Honiara are working towards establishing an association that could bring artists together, promote their skills and create opportunities for young people.
“At the moment, we are working on raising funds to meet some of the requirements for registering the association,” Taika said.
He said his vision is to rebuild and reshape traditional ideas through tattooing, particularly by promoting Malaitan culture and identity.
“I am going to rebuild the idea around Malaita, and everything will be presented through the Malaita way of life, culture and identity.
“Most of the tattoos will be based on our modern tribal and cultural traditions, so we can also create our own custom tattoos,” he said.
Taika believes tattooing can play an important role in identifying where people come from.
He pointed to the different tattoo traditions found among communities in Solomon Islands, including Tikopian people, the Malaita Outer Islands (MOI) and people from Santa Cruz in Temotu Province.
“Tattoo is also used as an identity of people and where they come from,” he said.
“People can choose their own styles and colours. We can have different influences and tribal styles, but the main idea is to keep the identity connected to Malaita, Melanesian identity, Polynesian identity and our own custom in Rennell and Bellona.”
Taika said his interest in cultural development began while he was still in high school, with the journey dating back to 2012.
He said tattooing has long been part of identity and custom in many communities in Rennell and Bellona, and that young people had been encouraged to learn from one another and contribute to their communities.
“It has been a long journey,” he said.
“Many people back in my home in Rennell and Bellona use tattoos in our villages and communities as a customary way of showing identity. We have built partnerships with different people, and we practise and learn from each other.”
According to Taika, the movement is not only about tattooing but also about bringing people together to reconnect with culture and custom.
“We wanted to bring back some important parts of our culture and custom that had been slowly disappearing.
“We believed that creating trade fair where people could come together as one community would be a good idea,” Taika said.
He said such initiatives could motivate people to return to their roots and strengthen their connection to their land, culture and identity.
Taika also highlighted the importance of creating economic opportunities alongside cultural activities.
He said some artists and young people involved already operated small businesses and individual programmes, prompting discussions about bringing them together under a formal association.
“We decided that we had to work together.
“We developed practical programmes and projects where everyone could have a role. We helped one another and shared ideas,” he said.
Taika said the proposed association will also encourage young people to develop their education, skills and careers.
“Whatever skills we have, we can share them with each other. When we work together, our knowledge grows, our relationships become stronger, and the whole community benefits.”
He said the group is also looking towards participating in cultural festivals promoting Melanesian and Polynesian culture, custom and community.
“We want to bring our culture to the wider Solomon Islands and also share it with other Polynesian and Melanesian communities,” he said.
Taika stressed that face-to-face engagement remains important, particularly when working with communities.
He said the initiative is also designed to build confidence, share knowledge and create opportunities for young people rather than simply providing assistance.
For Taika, culture and business can work together.
He said the group wants to use traditional knowledge, skills and creativity as a foundation for sustainable economic development.
“We know that we are Polynesian and Melanesian, and we are proud of that identity.
“At the same time, we have a business mindset because we want to create opportunities that can benefit both individuals and the community,” he said.
He believes tattooing can provide income and employment while keeping cultural identity at the centre of development.
“We want to practise our culture while also creating businesses that can provide income and employment through tattooing.
“Our original culture, custom, skills and knowledge can become part of our development.
“We don’t want to lose our identity while trying to develop economically. Instead, we want to use what we already have—our culture, our skills, our land, our creativity and our relationships—to build something sustainable,” Taika said.
Taika said establishing a proper association will be important to ensure the movement can grow and become sustainable.
“If there is no business growth, eventually our programmes will run out of resources.
“That is why we need to create sustainable businesses and apply for funding where possible,” he said.
He said the proposed association will bring together culture, custom, education, business, community service and development.
“Our vision is to build something that belongs to the people—an association that brings together culture, custom, education, business, community service and development.
“We want our young people to have opportunities. We want our culture to remain strong. We want our communities to work together.
“Most importantly, we want to show that our identity can remain strong while still protecting our culture and custom,” Taika said.
Taika said the journey is still developing, but he remains hopeful that the idea will grow and benefit future generations.
Photo credit: Tony Iroga
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Solomon Islands Government has received a major financial boost to support its response to climate-related impacts, following the activation of its Excess Rainfall (XSR) insurance policy.
According to Pacific Catastrophe Risk Insurance Company (PCRIC), the Minister of Finance, Rexon Ramofafia was formally presented a cheque after the policy was triggered by heavy rainfall events in early August, which mainly affected Malaita and Makira-Ulawa provinces.
The rainfall events met the policy’s parametric thresholds, allowing the insurance payout to be released and providing the Government with timely access to funds to address urgent needs arising from the extreme weather.
The payout highlights the importance of disaster risk financing to help governments respond quickly to climate-related emergencies without having to divert resources from long-term development priorities.
PCRIC said the insurance mechanism provides governments with rapid liquidity when disasters strike, supporting timely and predictable financing for nationally led emergency responses.
Premium financing for the Solomon Islands’ policy was supported by the Global Shield Solution Platform (GSSP) and the World Food Programme (WFP).
Their support has helped the country access critical insurance protection while also strengthening technical capacity for disaster preparedness and operational planning.
Speaking during the formal presentation, PCRIC Chief Executive Officer said the payout was a direct result of the activation of the Excess Rainfall policy triggers.
The CEO said the payout demonstrates the strength of PCRIC’s regional risk-financing framework and the support of international partners, including the Global Shield and WFP, in making the insurance coverage possible.
The Minister of Finance expressed appreciation for the support, saying the funds will provide immediate assistance and strengthen the Government’s capacity to respond to the impacts of extreme rainfall.
He said the support will also contribute to strengthening the country’s resilience to climate-related shocks through the institutionalisation of risk-layering mechanisms.
According to the Minister, such mechanisms will enable the Government to respond to emergencies in a timely and sustainable manner while reducing reliance on humanitarian assistance as the country faces increasingly complex and compounding shocks.
The cheque presentation also highlighted PCRIC’s role as a regional institution providing innovative financial protection solutions to Pacific Island countries facing growing climate and disaster risks.
It further demonstrates the importance of international partnerships in helping Pacific nations strengthen financial preparedness and resilience against the impacts of climate change.
Photo credit: PCRIC
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The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), through its routine disease surveillance system, continues to closely monitor the situation regarding flu-like illness across the country.
Recent surveillance data for last reporting week of August 24-30 indicates an increase of cases with influenza-like illness (ILI) reported from surveillance sites in Honiara and Western province. Routine lab testing data has detected Influenza A in majority of samples tested in August. Influenza A is a highly contagious virus that causes the flu. It attacks your respiratory system, which includes your nose, throat, and lungs. Additional samples have been collected last week and are pending testing.
The Ministry is continuing to monitor the situation through its routine surveillance and laboratory systems to better understand the circulation of respiratory viruses and to guide appropriate public health measures.
Flu-like illnesses can spread easily from person to person, particularly when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Common symptoms may include fever, dry cough, body aches, runny nose, and sore throat.
MHMS advises the public to:
Practise good hand hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
Cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, preferably with a tissue or into the elbow.
Avoid close contact with others when feeling unwell.
Stay home and rest when experiencing flu-like symptoms, where possible.
Drink plenty of water and eat fruits and vegetables
If fever, take Panadol as advise by a nurse or doctor or use sponge to reduce fever
Seek medical attention if symptoms become severe or if there are concerns about illness, particularly for young children, older people, pregnant women, and people with underlying health conditions.
Maintain a clean environment by disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and improving indoor air circulation.
The MHMS encourages members of the public to remain vigilant and continue practising good respiratory hygiene to help reduce the spread of respiratory infections.
The Ministry will continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates to the public as necessary.
END//
– MHMS PRESS RELEASE
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HONIARA, SOLOMON ISLANDS – The Government of Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Wale is moving to take forward development initiatives previously discussed between Solomon Islands and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with a stronger focus on turning those plans into practical outcomes.
The plans were reviewed in a bilateral meeting last week between Foreign Minister Hon. Rick Houenipwela and Omar Shehadeh, Envoy of the UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs to the Caribbean and Pacific States, during the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Koror, Palau.
The discussions build on initial work undertaken between the UAE and the previous GNUT Government, with the GREAT Coalition Government now identifying practical pathways to advance initiatives aligned with Solomon Islands’ development priorities.
“We have a number of areas that were already being discussed, and our task now is to see how we can take those discussions forward and translate them into practical outcomes for Solomon Islands,” Minister Houenipwela said.
Key areas include digital transformation, infrastructure, trade and investment, energy, fisheries, tourism, education and government efficiency.
Foreign Affairs Minister, Hon. Rick Houenipwela.
The UAE has outlined potential support to modernise government services, including digital population and civil registration systems, e-government platforms, e-border systems, biometric passports, customs and taxation systems, and secure national data infrastructure.
Infrastructure and development financing were also discussed, including roads, ports, airport modernisation, renewable energy and tourism facilities. The UAE has indicated its readiness to explore concessional financing and private-sector participation in priority projects identified by Solomon Islands.
Fisheries value addition remains an important economic opportunity, particularly plans to expand tuna processing capacity in the populous province of Malaita. Discussions explored how UAE investment and development finance could support processing, create employment and retain greater economic value from Solomon Islands’ fisheries resources.
Energy was another priority, with discussions focusing on reducing the high cost of electricity and expanding renewable energy and microgrid solutions for communities outside the main grid.
Mr Shehadeh said the UAE’s approach was to respond to Solomon Islands’ own priorities and development needs.
“We want to work with Solomon Islands on what Solomon Islands needs and support the country in delivering those priorities,” he said.
He also proposed a small Solomon Islands technical taskforce to work with UAE counterparts to assess priority projects, develop practical solutions and establish implementation timelines.
Education and scholarships, including opportunities for Solomon Islanders to study in the UAE, were also discussed as part of strengthening people-to-people links.
Minister Houenipwela said the focus would be on ensuring that initiatives already identified can move towards implementation and deliver tangible benefits through investment, jobs, economic diversification and improved public services.
[ENDS]
– OPMC PRESS SECRETARIAT
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霍尼亚拉,所罗门群岛 – 总理马修·韦尔(Hon. Matthew Wale)领导的政府正在推进之前所罗门群岛与阿拉伯联合酋长国(UAE)之间讨论的开发倡议,着重于将这些计划转化为实际成果。
这些计划在上周于帕劳科罗尔举行的第55届太平洋岛国论坛领导人会议期间,由外交部长里克·霍恩尼普维拉(Hon. Rick Houenipwela)与阿联酋外交部长加勒比和太平洋国家特使奥马尔·谢哈德(Omar Shehadeh)进行的双边会议中进行了审查。
此次讨论建立在阿联酋与前GNUT政府之间进行的初步工作基础上,伟大的联盟政府现在正在确定实际路径,以推进与所罗门群岛发展优先事项相一致的倡议。
霍恩尼普维拉部长表示:“我们有许多领域已经在讨论中,我们现在的任务是看看如何将这些讨论向前推进,并将其转化为所罗门群岛的实际成果。”
关键领域包括数字化转型、基础设施、贸易和投资、能源、渔业、旅游、教育和政府效率。
外交部长里克·霍恩尼普维拉(Hon. Rick Houenipwela)。
阿联酋已概述了现代化政府服务的潜在支持,包括数字人口和公民登记系统、电子政务平台、电子边境系统、生物识别护照、海关和税务系统,以及安全的国家数据基础设施。
基础设施和发展融资也被讨论,包括道路、港口、机场现代化、可再生能源和旅游设施。阿联酋表示愿意探索优先项目的优惠融资和私营部门参与。
渔业增值仍然是一个重要的经济机会,特别是在马莱塔省扩大金枪鱼加工能力的计划。讨论探讨了阿联酋投资和发展融资如何支持加工、创造就业机会,并从所罗门群岛的渔业资源中保留更大的经济价值。
能源是另一个优先事项,讨论集中在降低电力高成本和扩大可再生能源及微电网解决方案,以服务于主电网以外的社区。
谢哈德表示,阿联酋的做法是响应所罗门群岛自身的优先事项和发展需求。
他说:“我们希望与所罗门群岛合作,关注所罗门群岛所需的支持,帮助该国实现这些优先事项。”
他还提议成立一个小型所罗门群岛技术工作组,与阿联酋同行合作,评估优先项目,制定实际解决方案并建立实施时间表。
教育和奖学金,包括所罗门群岛人到阿联酋学习的机会,也作为加强人际联系的一部分进行了讨论。
霍恩尼普维拉部长表示,重点将放在确保已识别的倡议能够向实施迈进,并通过投资、就业、经济多样化和改善公共服务带来切实利益。
[结束]
– OPMC新闻秘书处
该文章最初发表于所罗门群岛广播公司(SIBC)。
Nine injured, 12-year-old boy in critical condition
BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
NINE people were injured, including a 12-year-old boy who is in critical condition, after a Hilux overturned at Utae Hill along East Road on Friday morning.
The black Hilux, which was operating as a passenger transport vehicle, was carrying more than 10 people who were travelling to the eastern side of Malaita to attend a funeral.
Malaita Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Michael Ramosaea confirmed the accident on Saturday.
He said the vehicle developed mechanical problems while attempting to climb Utae Hill.
“According to information received from our Atori police officers, the incident occurred on Friday morning, September 11, between 10am and 11am,” Ramosaea said.
He said the vehicle was about halfway up the hill when the mechanical fault occurred.
“So, they did not manage to climb the hill, but reversed until the vehicle overturned,” he said.
Ramosaea said nine people were rushed to Kilu’ufi Hospital following the accident, with several sustaining injuries.
He confirmed that the 12-year-old boy is in critical condition.
The driver was arrested and detained at Atori Police Station while police investigations continue.
Ramosaea also appeals to vehicle operators and drivers to avoid overloading their vehicles and put the safety of passengers first.
“That is why the crime prevention outreach launched is strongly emphasised.
“For the safety of everyone, we should follow traffic rules and regulations to avoid such accidents in the future,” he said.
For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s opens in Honiara, bringing teams together for three days of competition from 16 to 18 September. The Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s competition has been officially opened, setting the stage for three days of high-intensity rugby at Town Ground Rugby Stadium from 16 to 18 September. The opening ceremony& brought [...]
The post Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s Officially Opened appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Shortland Islands Constituency has delivered a major boost to local transportation and economic empowerment, handing over 57 boats and 57 outboard motor (OBM) engines to successful applicants across the constituency.
The handover ceremony was held on 11 September 2026 at Nila Mission Station on Poporang, with recipients from villages across the Shortland Islands gathering to receive the development assistance.
The projects were distributed following a screening process conducted by village Sub-Committees, with applications later reviewed and approved by the Constituency Development Committee (CDC).
Outboard motors engines prepared for distribution. Photo Credit by Shortlands Islands Constituency of the Solomon Islands
According to the Shortland Islands Constituency Office, every village in the constituency has had a Sub-Committee established since 2024 to oversee project applications.
The handover was facilitated by CDC Secretary Killian Pule and Projects Officer Jonathan Levo, together with CDC members Caroline Laore and Calisto Illaha and representatives of the various village Sub-Committees.
Member of Parliament for Shortland Islands, Junior Isikeli Vave, congratulated the successful recipients and reaffirmed his commitment to delivering further development projects across the constituency.
He assured people who were unsuccessful in the latest rollout that more projects were in the pipeline and would be made available in future distributions.
Outboard motors engines prepared for distribution. Photo Credit by Shortlands Islands Constituency of the Solomon Islands.
The Constituency Office also reminded recipients that they have signed legally binding agreements with the office, acting on behalf of the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD).
The agreements prohibit recipients from selling items provided through the Rural Constituency Development Fund (RCDF).
Meanwhile, further development projects are being prepared for rollout across the Shortland Islands.
These include water tanks, cement bags, steel rods, sanitation pipes, borehole drills, cool rooms and sewing machines, among other essential items.
The Constituency Office has thanked communities across the Shortland Islands for their continued patience and partnership as it prepares to deliver the next round of projects.
Boats lined up along the shoreline. Photo Credit by Shortlands Islands Constituency of the Solomon Islands.
BY CHARLES STENNETT
Pacific meteorological leaders opened the Eighth Pacific Meteorological Council meeting (PCM-8) in Tonga with calls for stronger early-warning systems, greater regional cooperation and investment in weather, climate, water and ocean services as communities face growing climate-related risks.
Pacnews quoted Levu Antfalo, director of Vanuatu’s Meteorological and Geohazard Division as saying that the council had become an important regional platform since its establishment in 2011, allowing Pacific national meteorological and hydrological services to set shared priorities and strengthen partnerships.
“Since then, the PMC has grown into an important Pacific platform, through which our national hydrological services speak collectively, set our regional priorities, and strengthen partnerships to protect our people and communities,” Antfalo said.
He said the council had made progress since he assumed its chairmanship in 2013 but warned that significant work remained.
“Over the course of this meeting, we will hear those reports, reflect on what has been achieved, identify the remaining gaps, and agree on the actions that we must take forward together,” he said.
The meeting comes as Pacific island countries continue to contend with tropical cyclones, flooding, droughts, sea-level rise and the wider effects of climate variability and change.
Antfalo noted that communities in the Solomon Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia had faced the impacts of tropical cyclones earlier this year, while the region also continued to deal with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“These events remind us that the services we provide are about protecting life, livelihoods, and the future security of our Pacific people,” he said.
Antfalo identified strengthening national services, sustaining observation and warning systems, investing in personnel and adopting innovation as key priorities for the meeting.
He also stressed the need to ensure that warnings and other information reach the most remote communities.
The director of the World Meteorological Organisation’s (WMO) Regional Coordination Office, Ishaam Abader, told delegates that regional cooperation remained central to building resilience in the Pacific.
“The Pacific has consistently demonstrated that regional cooperation is one of the most powerful tools for building resilience in the face of weather, climate and water-related hazards,” Abader said in remarks delivered on behalf of the WMO Secretary-General.
Abader said the Pacific remained on the front line of climate risks, with extreme weather, tropical cyclones, coastal flooding, droughts and sea-level rise continuing to threaten communities, economies and ecosystems.
“The work of the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services has never been more important,” he said.
The meeting is considering the Pacific Island Meteorological Strategy 2027-2036, which is intended to support the region’s long-term vision for a resilient, secure and prosperous Blue Pacific.
The strategy promotes people-centered, impact-based and inclusive meteorological, climate and hydrological services.
Abader said success should not be judged only by scientific advances, but by whether those advances improve outcomes for Pacific communities.
“Our success will be measured not simply by the quality of our science, but by our ability to translate that science into services that deliver tangible benefits for people and communities,” he said.
He called for progress on the Early Warnings for All initiative, stronger hydrological services, digital transformation, greater technical capacity and preparation for emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
But Abader cautioned that international initiatives would matter only if they were converted into practical measures suited to Pacific realities.
He also urged closer cooperation between Pacific regional mechanisms, WMO regional structures and technical experts, saying stronger Pacific participation in regional and global decision-making would help ensure that local priorities were reflected and limited resources were used efficiently.
The two speakers highlighted the importance of sharing data, knowledge and expertise across the region.
Abader said continued investment in observation networks, forecasting, climate monitoring and hydrological services was essential to effective early warnings and climate-informed development.
The meeting’s theme, “Weather Ready for a Secure and Sustainable Pacific,” reflects the council’s focus on turning scientific capability into services that protect people, livelihoods and national development across the Pacific.
BY TONY IROGA
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has issued a strong wind warning for all waters around Solomon Islands, warning sea travellers of hazardous conditions.
Strong Wind Warning Number 200 was issued by SIMS at 7am today, Sunday, September 13, 2026.
SIMS said a trough is lying just northeast of Solomon Islands while a general southeasterly trade wind flow continues across the country.
“Expect southeasterly winds to reach 15 to 25 knots over most waters of Solomon Islands,” SIMS said in its warning.
The weather service said seas are expected to be moderate to rough, with moderate southeasterly swells of between 2.5 and 3.5 metres.
It also warned of poor visibility in areas affected by showers, with thunderstorms possible.
“People in those areas should take precautionary measures as such strong winds have the potential to impact lives and properties,” SIMS said.
Sea travellers have also been urged to take safety precautions, particularly operators of small boats.
“Such winds can produce dangerous wave conditions which are hazardous to small boats,” SIMS warned.
SIMS said a strong wind warning means winds of between 20 and 25 knots, with gusts potentially reaching 33 knots, are expected to create hazardous sea conditions for small craft.
The weather service said boat operators should assess the level of risk based on their experience, as well as the size and type of their boats.
SIMS also reminded the public that wave forecasts represent average wave heights and that individual waves can be much higher.
“Be aware that these wave forecasts are an average. The height of some individual waves can be expected to be as much as two times greater,” SIMS said.
The public has also been urged to share the warning with people with disabilities.
The next strong wind warning is expected to be issued tomorrow.
Sea travellers are advised to remain alert and consider postponing trips where conditions are considered unsafe.
BY CHARLES STENNETT
A workshop to develop a guide for community fisheries committees was successfully completed last week in Honiara.
The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, (MFMR), in a statement said the workshop was held with the support from the New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s long-term investment in Pacific fisheries delivered by SPC Pacific Fisheries Leadership Program with MFMR officers.
It said the guide is designed to support village-led fisheries management.
In the workshop the team also tested an app that helps officers track community issues, decisions, and progress, making it easier to support committees with governance and fisheries management.
Both tools were developed through close engagement with communities to understand local challenges, including representation, decision-making, and the needs of resource owners and users.
It said MFMR officers will now test the guide and app with communities, refine them based on feedback, and strengthen community-based fisheries management to support food security, livelihoods, and future generations.
BY TONY IROGA
Colourful handicrafts filled Jennifer Alevia’s stall at the 2026 National Annual Trade Fair at FOPA, East Honiara.
Among the bright displays were handmade products carefully woven, stitched and designed from local materials — including items that many people might otherwise see as rubbish.
For Mrs Alevia, however, discarded materials are not simply waste.
They are an opportunity to create something useful, beautiful and meaningful.
A mother, stitcher and embroidery maker originally from Malaita Province, Mrs Alevia has turned her interest in handicrafts into a way of promoting local materials, recycling waste and encouraging other women to discover and share their talents.
Speaking to the Island Sun on day two of the trade fair, Mrs Alevia said she has been showcasing her handicrafts at trade fairs since around 2021 and 2022.
“This is my second time coming out to the trade fair. Last year, I also went to the trade show during the July Independence celebrations,” she said.
Her work is not only about creating handicrafts for sale.
It is also about giving a second life to materials that could otherwise end up as rubbish.
“We collect plastics and other rubbish, then we weave them into baskets and make them into flowers. Every product I make, I try to recycle something that I have collected,” Mrs Alevia said.
For her, recycling has a purpose that goes beyond the finished product.
She believes handicraft-making can help keep the environment clean while providing families with useful items for their homes.
“You don’t look at it as rubbish. You take it, use it and turn it into something that looks good,” she said.
“It helps clean the environment, and at the same time the product becomes useful in your home.”
But recycling is only one part of Mrs Alevia’s work.
She is also passionate about using local materials, particularly pandanus leaves, and believes there is value in promoting traditional and locally made products.
“Mostly I use pandanus leaves. I like using local materials because there are many women in the villages who have skills and ideas, and I want to promote those local products,” she said.
Walking around her stall, the different colours and designs reflect the time and effort that goes into each piece.
The products are sold at different prices depending on their size and type, with some larger handicrafts selling for up to $100.
For Mrs Alevia, every piece represents more than a product.
It represents creativity, skill and the possibility of turning an idea into something that others can appreciate and use.
She believes many women across Solomon Islands have similar talents but may not always have the confidence or opportunity to bring them into the public eye.
Her message to them is simple: do not hide your talent.
“For any mother or anybody who has a hidden talent, please come out and show it. Don’t hide your talent,” she said.
“When you come out and showcase what you can do, other people can see it and learn from you.”
She said events such as the National Annual Trade Fair provide an important opportunity for women and other local producers to step forward, display their skills and connect with customers.
Mrs Alevia was also thankful to the organisers for providing a platform where local vendors could showcase what they produce.
“We are very happy to be here and we are very excited about the programme,” she said.
“We look forward to having more of these programmes every year so that we can come out and showcase the talent we have.”
Originally from Malaita Province, Mrs Alevia now lives at Tuvaruhu in Central Honiara, where she continues her stitching, embroidery and handicraft work.
Her journey is a reminder that creativity can be found in the simplest of materials — even those that others may throw away.
Through her hands, rubbish can become a basket, a flower or another useful creation.
And through her example, she hopes more women will bring their own hidden talents into the light.
Fiji beat Solomon Islands 4-3 in Honiara to reach the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship 2026 semi-finals. A crunch clash on the final matchday in the group, Fiji always held the upper hand on the scoreboard but were kept on their toes by the tournament hosts in a seven-goal thriller at the National Stadium in Honiara.& [...]
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