The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Department (EODD) of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) has successfully removed and destroyed 467...
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by Georgina Maka’a Pacific Island leaders have endorsed a five-year regional security roadmap and raised concerns over recent unannounced intercontinental...
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BY LORETTA B MANELE
Vaovao community is one of 10 communities in the Fox Bay area of West Guadalcanal.
The seashore is beautiful, complimented by its green scenery and the picturesque bay that connects these communities.
However, this beauty of a shoreline is at risk, because the sea side is often used as the local space for defaecation as the community lacks sanitation facilities.
Speaking with Chief Ignausius Pukini at Vaovao community, he said this has been a challenge along with the impacts of climate change which is affecting people in the community.
Chief Ignausius Pukini of Vaovao community in Fox Bay, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
Mr Pukini said they only have one toilet located further inland and the majority of people rely on the seaside.
The seaside that is often used as a sanitation spot, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
He said people usually go to the seaside during the night because of privacy matters and during the day, others go inland.
“That’s why in terms of our health, this is very bad because when you need to go, you have to travel further from your community,” he said.
Pukini said the impact of climate change is also contributing to the existing issue because the sea side that has been used is slowly fading as waves continuously wash ashore.
“Since the sea has been coming in closer, it is harder to use the seaside comfortably,” he said.
He said this is why they need sanitation because what is happening is not only unhealthy for them, but is also making the community look bad.
There is only one toilet in the whole community.
The only toilet in Vaovao community- Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
His wife, Camila Pukini also shared her views on the community’s situation saying in today’s world they need sanitation so they can be prevented from having all kinds of sicknesses.
Camila Pukini of Vaovao community in Fox Bay, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
Camila said when Tropical Cyclone Maila hit earlier this year, it ruined the seaside so it’s not safe anymore for them to use that spot.
Speaking on behalf of women of Vaovao community, she said they would really love to have proper sanitation facilities to use in each of their homes.
She said this would lessen health risks, ensure women and girls have privacy and they would be able to use sanitation facilities that are clean and safer for them.
Pukini said this will also be a boost to healthy living for their community.
While this issue has been raised with their Member of Parliament who had assured them that they would receive support, Pukini said they are yet to see that assurance bear fruit.
“We really need sanitation and this is something that we must have in our community.
“We would be grateful to receive any support for sanitation in our community or to be a part of any program to assist us to improve our sanitation,” she said.
Cathy Galasa, the community’s vice chairlady for a women’s association called Kusumana Women’s Association, also spoke about the need for sanitation.
Cathy Galasa of Vaovao community in Fox Bay, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
She said it is very sad that the community lacks proper toilets and that they have to use the seaside to relieve themselves.
Ms Galasa said what’s even worse is that they also have to travel far when they feel the need to go to the toilet.
“This is very bad for us and for our community because we are polluting our community and contributing to health risks,” she said.
Galasa said it also gives them a bad look using the sea side because it is the first place visitors or people who come over see when they arrive at the community.
She said having proper toilets will not only improve their standard of living and health in their community but also make their community cleaner for them and for people who come to their community.
“The lack of proper sanitation causes us to use wherever we want and this is very unhygienic for our community.
“We are not only polluting our surroundings but are creating unhygienic conditions that affect our health,” said Galasa.
She said it would be great if their community would be provided with support of sanitation facilities to help them address this issue.
*Reporting for this story was supported by Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS).
Photo credit: Loretta B Manele
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Physical Education (PE) teachers in Makira-Ulawa are being introduced to a different way of teaching sport, with greater emphasis being placed on students’ understanding, decision-making and active participation.
The approach formed part of a four-day professional development workshop in Kirakira involving PE teachers from 12 schools across the province.
The National Sports Council (NSC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) and Solomon Islands National University (SINU), introduced teachers to the Teaching Games for Understanding (TGFU) approach during the training.
TGFU moves away from relying solely on repetitive skills training and encourages students to learn through the situations and challenges presented during games.
That means a PE lesson can become more than simply teaching a child how to pass, kick, throw or move. Students are also encouraged to think about when and why a particular skill should be used.
The approach places greater responsibility on students to read situations, make decisions and find solutions while remaining physically active.
For school sport, such methods can help children develop technical abilities alongside game awareness and confidence in making decisions.
Teachers were also introduced to learner-centred teaching and progressive skills development, giving them additional tools to adapt lessons to different ages and abilities.
The workshop linked PE teaching with Outcome-Based Education and the Solomon Islands National Curriculum Statement and also covered assessment, safety and inclusion.
SINU PE lecturer and researcher David Houpere led the core sessions, supported by NSC’s Carlson Hagemana and Education Manager Atu Balekana.
The training also allowed teachers to practise what they had learned through demonstrations, group activities, lesson planning and mock teaching sessions.
Hagemana said the workshop is only the beginning of the process, with continued support needed to ensure teachers can apply the methods effectively.
“Continued collaboration, follow-up support and mentoring will be important to help teachers apply what they have learned,” said Hagemana.
The new approach is being tested alongside age-appropriate PE activities developed by Shandong Foreign Trade Vocational College with support from China Aid and the Chinese Ministry of Commerce.
The initiative could give PE teachers another practical tool to help children become not only more physically active, but also more confident and thoughtful participants in sport.
Photo credit: NSC
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Hosts eye first points against Cook Islands
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands’ young women return to the National Stadium tonight with a crucial Group A encounter against Cook Islands in the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship, knowing that victory could put their campaign back on track.
The match kicks off at 7pm, following the afternoon meeting between early group leaders New Zealand and Fiji at 4pm.
Both Solomon Islands and Cook Islands go into tonight’s encounter without a point after suffering defeats in their opening matches. Solomon Islands is currently third in Group A on goal difference, while Cook Islands sit fourth.
The hosts opened their campaign against defending champions New Zealand on Monday, going down 5-0 after the Young Football Ferns produced a strong first-half performance. However, Solomon Islands showed greater defensive resilience after the break and managed to keep the defending champions scoreless for more than 45 minutes.
Cook Islands, meanwhile, endured a difficult introduction to the championship, suffering an 11-0 defeat to Fiji in the opening match. Fiji’s Adi Reva scored five goals in the emphatic victory, while Cook Islands struggled to contain the Fijians’ attacking pressure.
That result leaves both sides with plenty to play for tonight, with three points potentially keeping their hopes of progressing from the group alive.
Earlier today, New Zealand and Fiji meet in what promises to be an important top-of-the-table clash. Both sides have three points from their opening matches, with Fiji currently occupying first place on goal difference after their 11-0 win over Cook Islands, ahead of New Zealand following their 5-0 victory over Solomon Islands.
For the Solomon Islands youngsters, tonight provides an opportunity to respond in front of their home crowd and put their first points on the board.
With the tournament offering two qualification places for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2027, every point will be valuable as the hosts look to keep their campaign alive.
Group A standings before today’s matches:
Fiji – 3 points
New Zealand – 3 points
Solomon Islands – 0 points
Cook Islands – 0 points
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The people of Guadalcanal and Solomon Islands are still suffering the deadly consequences of World War II, with unexploded bombs and other war remnants continuing to threaten lives and hamper development more than eight decades after the Guadalcanal Campaign.
Guadalcanal Province Premier Willie Atu, speaking during the Battle of Bloody Ridge Commemoration said Solomon Islanders are still living with the dangerous ‘remnants’ or ‘leftovers’ of the war fought on the island more than 80 years ago.
“80 years on the people of Guadalcanal and Solomon Islands for that matter, are still suffering from your remnants,” he said.
The Premier pointed to the tragic Mother’s Day barbecue incident in May 2021, when an unexploded wartime ordnance caused the deaths of two young Solomon Islands professionals, both university graduates.
A young woman also lost a limb in the incident and has since had to depend on daily support from relatives and friends.
Following the tragedy, she established the local association Bomb Free Solomon Islands to raise awareness of the continuing dangers posed by unexploded ordnance (UXO).
Atu said the UXO problem is also placing a heavy financial burden on Guadalcanal Province and affecting the implementation of infrastructure projects.
He explained that infrastructure development, particularly in areas close to Honiara, require UXO assessment surveys before construction can proceed.
“These have costed us millions of dollars,” he said, arguing that the money could otherwise be used to build another clinic or classroom for rural communities in Guadalcanal.
Atu further warned that the danger is not diminishing with time.
He referred to a study conducted by the University of Queensland in Australia and funded by the Government of Japan through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which found that the danger is increasing as unexploded bombs continue to decay.
Communities have also reported illnesses that may be linked to exposure to toxins from deteriorating wartime ordnance.
According to figures cited in the speech, Solomon Islands Police recorded 7,773 unexploded-bomb callouts between 2011 and 2025, highlighting the scale of the problem that continues to confront communities.
Atu also warned that climate change is adding another layer of danger.
Flooding, storms and coastal erosion can expose buried bombs, accelerate their corrosion and potentially spread contaminated sediments into wells, rivers and coastal reefs.
He said increasingly acidic seas could also accelerate the release of chemicals from the deteriorating explosives.
The environmental and health consequences of the war are therefore continuing to unfold, with heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, cadmium and mercury found at sites where bombs and explosives are located.
As Solomon Islands continues to commemorate the sacrifices and battles of the Guadalcanal Campaign, the Premier stressed that the war’s legacy is not confined to history.
“Out there, people’s lives are still at risk and danger from that war fought here on our shores eighty years ago,” he said.
His remarks underscored a continuing challenge for Solomon Islands: while the country remembers the historic battles and honours those who fought and died, communities are still confronting the dangerous and costly leftovers of that conflict.
For Guadalcanal, the legacy of World War II remains not only in memorials and historical sites, but also beneath the ground, in the form of unexploded bombs that continue to threaten lives, the environment and development.
Australia, the United States, Japan, New Zealand, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the Republic of Korea (South Korea) have all actively participated in international efforts to remove unexploded ordnance (UXO) in the Solomon Islands.
These countries contribute through multinational military clearance exercises, direct financial grants, and training programs to build local capabilities.
Australia initiated and continues to lead Operation Render Safe, a recurring regional defence force operation dedicated to locating and safely destroying World War II-era remnants.
Australia also co-founded a joint assistance initiative to build up the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit.
United States has invested tens of millions of dollars since 2009 in weapons destruction activities. The US funds specialised technical groups, provides millions in grants to international demining NGOs like The HALO Trust, and supports the training of local EOD personnel.
Japan focuses heavily on capacity building and infrastructure. The Government of Japan provides financial grants to procure specialised machinery, excavators, and landing craft specifically designed to safely transport UXOs across islands. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force also runs regional training and public awareness operations.
New Zealand, Canada, and the United Kingdom have deployed expert military explosive clearance teams and specialised personnel directly to the field during large-scale operations like Operation Render Safe.
Republic of Korea joined as an active participant in major multinational UXO clearance operations alongside the RSIPF.
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
THE 2026 Annual National Trade Fair has officially opened today at FOPA Village, SINU East Honiara, bringing together local businesses, entrepreneurs, producers and other stakeholders to showcase their products, services and innovative ideas.
The week-long event, which runs from September 9 to 16, is being held under the theme, “Innovating Today for a Sustainable Greater Solomon Islands Tomorrow.”
The annual trade fair provides a platform for local businesses and entrepreneurs to promote their products, engage directly with customers and establish connections with other businesses and stakeholders.
It also aims to promote innovation and local production while contributing to the growth and strengthening of the private sector in Solomon Islands.
Organisers expect the event to attract members of the public throughout the week, providing an opportunity for people to explore a wide range of locally produced goods and services and learn more about what local businesses have to offer.
The fair is open to the public daily from 8:00am to 10:30pm, giving businesses an extended opportunity to reach customers and showcase their products.
The National Trade Fair continues to serve as an important platform to support local enterprise and encourage Solomon Islanders to explore opportunities in production, business and innovation.
With this year’s focus on innovation and sustainability, the event also highlights the importance of developing a stronger and more resilient local private sector capable of contributing to the country’s future economic growth.
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BY TONY IROGA
Leader of the Official Opposition Group, Manasseh Sogavare, has warned the Government not to use the constitutional provision for interim spending as a substitute for timely preparation of the national Budget.
Mr Sogavare made the remarks in Parliament on Monday this week during debate before the motion for sine die.
He said Section 103(1) of the Constitution was intended as a temporary safeguard in circumstances where an Appropriation Act had not come into operation at the beginning of a financial year.
According to Mr Sogavare, the provision allows only the expenditure necessary to continue public services at a level not exceeding the previous year’s services.
He said such spending could continue only until the new Appropriation Act comes into force or four months have expired, whichever comes first.
Sogavare said the limitation has important implications for the Government’s plans for 2027.
“If Government chooses to proceed under section 103(1), it must be frank with this House and with the country about what that means,” Sogavare said.
He argued that major new programmes and expanded government services should not be considered fully funded under the interim arrangement simply because they have been announced.
Sogavare’s comments come as Parliament considers the Government’s approach to public spending ahead of the new financial year, with concerns raised over the need for proper Budget preparation and parliamentary approval.
Photo credit: NPSI
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BY RODRICK DESURI
Auki
A trial on mud crab fattening at Heruiesi, Ward 21, Small Malaita, is making progress, according to the Auki Fisheries team.
The team with JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) initiated the project in late April this year.
Speaking to Island Sun this morning, Auki Senior Fisheries Officer Mathew Isihanua said progress has been made with crabs increasing in size as they develop.
Isihanua said the Heruiesi community has completed its first harvest and have introduced a new batch of small mud crabs for fattening.
“The mud crab fattening program commenced in early April this year, with the first harvest successfully completed.
“After a period of one month, the mud crabs seem to grow bigger and shed their first skin. Each day, the new soft body of the crabs becomes stronger and bigger than the first one. They appear to shed their skin two to three times before becoming mature,” he said.
Isihanua said the second batch of small mud crabs was collected by the community itself for the fattening activity.
He said the mud crab fattening activity will move into full implementation once the team completes monitoring to ensure the crabs are fit and healthy and that the area is suitable for the activity.
The Heruiesi mud crab fattening site was identified by the JICA team and Malaita Fisheries following consultations with the community.
Photos: Supplied
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BY LORETTA B MANELE
For every parent, bringing your child to school on their first day for the first time is always emotional.
While you are content that your little boy or girl has finally reached that age to attend ECE education, there is another side to this story from a teacher’s view.
Audrey Karaha is one of two ECE (Early Childhood Education) teachers at Fox Bay Kindy in West Guadalcanal.
There is a supervisor with Karaha as the classroom teacher.
Audrey Karaha, ECE teacher at Fox Bay Kindy, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
This year marks Karaha’s second year teaching and for this year, they have 56 children enrolled but are poor in resources.
The Kindy was not only poor in resources but also in water supply and fencing.
Karaha said they received grant but it wasn’t enough because this same grant, mainly for stationaries, was also shared with four other Kindy schools in West Guadalcanal.
“At Fox Bay Kindy, we are okay with the supply of stationary. In terms of development we are struggling to build one more staff house,” she said.
Karaha said the classroom also needs maintenance and repair, another toilet and clean and proper water supply.
The school’s only toilet. Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
“We also need proper water supply because it doesn’t come on all the time. When it reaches the point where the water supply is off, it is off,” she said.
Karaha said sadly, when water supply is cut off, they have to end their lessons during break time.
“ECE education is important because it is the first time a child enters education or school and ECE is also called the play base curriculum.
“So, students come to play and start their learning,” she said.
Karaha said ending classes early means lessening the learning time for their students.
Lastly, she said they also need proper fencing.
Current fencing at Fox Bay Kindy, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
She calls on their member of parliament, the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) or NGOs to support them with repair of the classroom, a water tank and proper fencing.
Audrey said a tank would really help when the water goes off so they don’t end classes early for their students.
The sight at Kindy classroom in Fox Bay is saddening.
A place to nurture children during the early stages of their learning journey seemed like to have gone through so much with so little care given.
The only tank available was located just outside the classroom and it was dirty looking, supposedly old and in very poor condition.
The school tank is in very poor condition, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
Outside the classroom walls, brown paper plastered against the walls, which was said to have been put there to cover holes outside the classroom.
A huge hole is visible outside of the classroom building, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
The ceiling was also rotting slowly both outside and inside the class.
The ceiling inside the classroom slowly deteriorating, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
There is one staff house for two teachers while a new one is still in the very early stages of being constructed.
A new staff house, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
Work on the second staff house is still in its early stages, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
The current fencing is also in dire need of repair to keep the compound safe and in front of the class room is what used to be a huge puddle of water now not completely dried up but still susceptible to be filled up again if heavy downpour should fall or salt water by natural means should flow in.
While its location is not too close to the seashore it is still located in a distance one could deem unsafe if cyclones or huge waves sweep in.
And even the posts holding up the classroom building are experiencing old age with evident cracks from cement that is trying to hold the posts in place.
One of the posts of the classroom building slowly deteriorating, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
Apart from the need of resources, stable water supply, sanitation and fencing, the kindy needs a total makeover.
After all, it is where children begin their learning and they deserve as any other child in Solomon Islands to learn in a classroom that is equipped with resources, clean and available water supply and in an environment that is safe, and not one that is dry, thirsty and unsafe.
*Reporting for this story was supported by Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS).
Photo credit: Loretta B Manele
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Government launches a 10-year biosecurity strategy to protect agriculture, food security, trade and the rural economy. The Government through ministry of agriculture and livestock has launched the Solomon Islands National Biosecurity Strategy 2026–2036, a 10-year framework today aimed at strengthening the country’s capacity to prevent, detect and respond to biosecurity threats. The strategy focuses on [...]
The post Solomon Islands Launches 10-Year National Biosecurity Strategy appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
PRC delivers 22 water tanks to West Makira schools and communities to improve access to clean drinking water. The People’s Republic of China (PRC) has delivered 22 water tanks to West Makira Constituency to support access to clean drinking water for schools and communities. The tanks were formally handed over during a brief event at [...]
The post 22 Water Tanks Delivered to Support West Makira Schools and Communities appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Opposition demands answers over claims Australian aid and treaty talks may be linked to Solomon Islands’ domestic politics. The Office of the Leader of the Official Opposition is deeply concerned by communications that appear to reveal an extraordinary attempt to use prospective Australian financial assistance and bilateral treaty negotiations to influence the outcome of Solomon [...]
The post Opposition Demands Answers Over Apparent Foreign Interference in Solomon Islands Politics appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
By Charley Piringi & Peter Shanel Agovaka, the Member of Parliament for Central Guadalcanal and leader of the Independent Group,...
The post Central Guadalcanal MP Warns Against Online Division, Calls for National Unity appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Grassroots sport development in Makira-Ulawa province has received a boost after 60 school and sports representatives completed the province’s first Oceania Sport Education Programme (OSEP) and Physical Education (PE) training in Kirakira.
The five-day programme, held from August 29 to September 2, was delivered by the National Sports Council (NSC) in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) and Solomon Islands National University (SINU).
The training brought together school leaders from seven local schools, alongside representatives from the province’s rugby, netball, volleyball and football associations.
OSEP and PE participants engage in practical training and activities during the first programme delivered in Makira-Ulawa Province.
Rather than focusing solely on sporting skills, the programme targeted the people responsible for developing and managing sport at school and community level.
Participants were introduced to areas including sports governance, coaching, athlete development, event organisation, risk management, child safety and the establishment of sustainable sporting clubs.
The programme combined classroom sessions with practical exercises, allowing participants to test coaching techniques, plan community sporting activities and receive feedback from facilitators and fellow participants.
Makira-Ulawa Provincial Government Minister for Community Governance, Youth and Sports Daniel Dautaha welcomed the initiative, saying grassroots sport remained an important foundation for national sports development.
OSEP and PE participants engage in practical training and activities during the first programme delivered in Makira-Ulawa.
“Grassroots sport is the foundation of sports development in our country,” Dautaha said.
He encouraged participants to take the knowledge gained from the programme back to their schools and communities and use it to create more opportunities for young people to participate in sport.
NSC officials said the training was designed to strengthen the capacity of teachers, coaches, administrators, team managers and community sports leaders.
OSEP Master Educator and NSC Education Manager Atueta Balekana said the response from participants demonstrated the value of taking practical sports education into the provinces.
“The response from the participants shows the importance of bringing practical sports education and capacity building closer to our provinces and communities,” Balekana said.
Participants take part in an outdoor practical session during the first OSEP and PE programme in Makira-Ulawa Province.
The programme also promoted greater coordination between education and sport, with participants exploring ways to organise safe, enjoyable and sustainable activities for their communities.
The group included 48 women and 12 men, while two participants — one male and one female — were persons with disabilities.
NSC Provincial Sports and Recreational Supervisor Carlson Hagemana and Sports and Recreational Development Coordinator for Makira-Ulawa Edward Quiroquiro joined Balekana in facilitating the programme.
The completion of the Makira-Ulawa programme marks the beginning of a wider provincial sports capacity-building rollout by NSC.
Similar programmes are planned for Isabel, Western and Central Islands provinces in the coming weeks as the Council continues efforts to strengthen grassroots sport and physical activity across Solomon Islands.
The initiative is aimed at ensuring provincial teachers, coaches and sports administrators have the practical skills needed to develop sport from the community level upwards.
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More than 180 participants from seven disability organisations take part in inclusive sporting activities at SINIS
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
More than 180 people from seven disability organisations came together at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) on Saturday for an inclusive day of sport and recreation.
The event, organised by the National Sports Council (NSC) in partnership with the National Disability Forum Solomon Islands (NDFSI), used sport to bring people with different abilities together in an environment focused on participation, interaction and enjoyment.
Moments from today’s Play for Equity Open Day at SINIS, where persons with disabilities came together to participate, connect and enjoy sport and recreation in an inclusive environment. Photo credit: NSC
Participants took part in a series of adapted activities, including seated basketball shooting, the Loop Game, Spoon and Tennis Ball Game, Over and Under Ball Game and Rob the Nest.
However, seated volleyball provided the main sporting activity, giving participants an opportunity to experience competitive-style sport in a format suited to their abilities.
NSC Director of Sports and Recreation Development Cameron Ngatulu said the event was an important step towards creating more opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate in sport and recreation.
Sitting volleyball in action during the Play for Equity Open Day at SINIS on Saturday. Photo credit: NSC
“People with disabilities are also members of our communities and our families, and they also need the space to participate in sports and recreation,” Ngatulu said.
He said the activities were adapted to accommodate participants from the seven disability organisations and it was encouraging to see them enjoying themselves, meeting new people and engaging in sport.
The event also placed particular emphasis on increasing the participation of women with disabilities, with elite para-athlete Rose Lydia of the Disability Women Empowerment Association among those taking part.
Lydia welcomed the turnout and said she was encouraged to see more people with disabilities coming forward to participate.
She particularly enjoyed the seated volleyball activity and supported calls for the programme to continue annually.
NDFSI Chief Executive Officer Casper Joseph Fa’asala described the gathering as an important opportunity for people with disabilities to come together through sport, saying the event demonstrated that sport can provide more than competition.
“This is a moment of grace for us, people with disabilities, having the opportunity provided by the National Sports Council and the Institute itself,” Fa’asala said.
The event brought together participants representing a range of disability groups, including people with hearing, visual, physical and psychosocial disabilities, amputees and para-athletes. Sign-language interpreters were also present to support communication and participation.
The Play for Equity Open Day was supported through the Play for Equity grant, funded by the Australian Government’s Team Up Program in partnership with the International Olympic Committee’s Olympism365 strategy.
The initiative is aimed at reducing barriers to participation and creating more opportunities for people of all abilities to engage in sport, recreation and community activities.
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
MALAITA Provincial Permanent Secretary George Eric has clarified that the waste storage area at Auki Market is intended as a waste-selection point, where suitable organic waste can be collected for gardening and landscaping.
PS Eric made the clarification following concerns and criticism directed at Auki Market management and the provincial administration over the waste storage area.
The area has attracted criticism from members of the public in and around Auki, with some accusing the provincial administration of failing to properly address waste management issues in the town.
Speaking to this paper, PS Eric said market employees had agreed to store suitable organic waste that could be used for gardening and landscaping purposes.
He said the province was also looking for a suitable site for a permanent waste disposal facility, with an environmental and social management plan and study currently underway.
“The market garbage at the Auki Market is a point for material selection. Organic substances can be used for mulching in farming and backyard gardens,” he said.
“Our Auki Town Council officers, workers and citizens have agreed to make use of it as organic nutrients for flower planting, beautification and landscaping of Auki town,” he said.
“In addition, backyard gardens can be used to plant our own vegetables, which also contributes to good health for us,” he added.
Asked about the proposed permanent dump site at Gwaigeo, PS Eric said the province had abandoned plans to establish the facility there following landownership and security concerns raised by tribes and settlers in the area.
“We can’t continue to settle a lease with one tribe. This is because of insecure claims over the landfill site, and it becomes a recurring issue involving multiple tribes,” he said.
PS Eric said the province was now considering an alternative site for the permanent waste disposal facility.
He added that an environmental and social management plan for the proposed new site was currently being prepared.
Construction of the new permanent dump site will be funded through the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF).
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BY CHARLES STENNETT
Pacific Islands Forum Leaders have endorsed new regional measures on kava, fisheries and labour, including the establishment of a dedicated Regional Labour Ministers Meeting to strengthen coordination on workforce and labour mobility issues.
Pacnews reported that leaders have endorsed the Kava Declaration, recognising kava as a unique Pacific cultural and economic asset and calling for stronger protection of its Pacific origins, traditional knowledge, cultural identity and heritage.
It said the declaration is intended to strengthen Pacific ownership of kava, expand value addition and market opportunities, and protect the interests of Pacific producers and communities as the product gains greater international trade exposure.
Pacnews reported that leaders said the declaration was an important step towards safeguarding the long-term interests of Pacific kava producers.
On fisheries, Leaders recognised the sector as a strategic asset of the Blue Pacific and backed a phased, Member-led consideration of the Regional Fisheries Development Fund feasibility assessment.
It said the work will also consider broader activities linked to the East New Britain Initiative(ENBI), informed by the Forum Fisheries Agency(FFA) process.
Leaders stressed the need for greater Pacific participation across the fisheries value chain so that Members can secure more economic benefits from the region’s fisheries resources.
Pacnews reported that any development of the proposed fund and related initiatives must maintain national ownership, economic accountability and equitable access, while ensuring sustainability and consistency with existing fisheries governance arrangements.
It also reported that Forum Leaders have endorsed the establishment of a Regional Labour Ministers Meeting as a dedicated ministerial mechanism within the Forum architecture.
It said the labour and workforce governance had become strategic regional priorities, with growing implications for economic resilience, labour mobility, skills development, workforce sustainability and inclusive growth.
The new meeting is intended to provide dedicated political leadership on labour and workforce issues across the region whichh will complement the existing Forum Economic Ministers Meeting (FEMM) and Forum Trade Ministers Meeting (FTMM) rather than duplicate their roles.
The Labour Ministers Meeting will focus specifically on labour and workforce priorities.
Leaders said the three ministerial mechanisms would strengthen policy coherence, regional coordination and implementation of the Resources and Economic Development priorities under the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
A 120-metre seawall constructed by Exodus Construction has been completed as part of the Malu’u Market project, marking a significant milestone as construction moves into its next phase.
The completion of the seawall is another major achievement for the project, with work now shifting towards other on-ground construction activities.
The Malu’u Market is designed to boost economic activity in North Malaita by providing space for up to 140 vendors, as well as toilet and shower facilities for men, women and people with disabilities.
Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach said the project was another example of Australia’s commitment to delivering high-quality, climate-resilient and locally built infrastructure that could have a lasting impact on communities.
He said the project demonstrated how communities could work together to create spaces that support social activities and economic opportunities.
“Together we’re building a safe, comfortable and accessible place for social and economic activity in North Malaita for years to come,” he said.
Project Director Jeremiah Fonoota said a key feature of the project had been onsite mentoring and training aimed at upskilling the construction team, alongside efforts to strengthen relations with the local community.
“Our daily ‘toolbox sessions’ are one of the most important daily activities to inspire and guide the team about their contribution to nation-building in Solomon Islands,” Mr Fonoota said.
He said working closely with community members had enabled the project to use local quarry materials while also identifying community needs that the project could support.
These included improvements to the community market and playing field.
The contractor also excavated and cleared an access road to a local cemetery following requests from local landowners.
“Exodus contributed machinery and workers for three days to help level the playing field and supply gravel for the community market,” Mr Fonoota said.
The new market will also feature 43,000 litres of rainwater storage, solar lighting, and improved waste management and sanitation facilities.
The project is expected to provide a safer and more accessible space for vendors and the wider community while supporting economic activity in North Malaita.
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The Official Opposition is demanding answers from the Solomon Islands and Australian governments over communications it says appear to link...
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BY NED GAGAHE
JAPAN has provided JPY430 million (about US$3 million) to support electoral and democratic governance programmes in Solomon Islands.
The funding was provided to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for the Solomon Islands Democratic Governance and Electoral Assistance Project (SIDGEAP).
The contribution was formalised at a signing ceremony held at the Embassy of Japan in Honiara today.
It was attended by Japan’s Ambassador to Solomon Islands, Keiichi Higuchi, UNDP Resident Representative for the Pacific Office Munkhtuya Altangerel, and Chief Electoral Officer of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC), Jasper Highwood Anisi.
Japan’s Ambassador to Solomon Islands Keiichi Higuchi, UNDP Resident Representative for the Pacific Office Munkhtuya Altangerel, and SIEC Chief Electoral Officer Jasper Highwood Anisi attended the signing ceremony. Photo by Ned Gagahe.
The project is being implemented in partnership with SIEC and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP).
It is aimed at strengthening electoral institutions and supporting preparations for future elections that are inclusive, transparent and credible.
Ambassador Higuchi said free, inclusive and fair elections were essential to a stable democracy.
He said the successful delivery of the 2024 Joint Elections had earned praise for their transparency and credibility.
“Indispensable to any stable democracy is an election that is free, inclusive, and fair,” he said.
Ambassador Higuchi said Japan would work with UNDP and SIEC to strengthen facilities, provide technical training and expand civic education.
Japan’s Ambassador to Solomon Islands Keiichi Higuchi and UNDP Resident Representative for the Pacific Office Munkhtuya Altangerel sign the agreement, as SIEC Chief Electoral Officer Jasper Highwood Anisi looks on. Photo by Ned Gagahe.
He said the assistance would help ensure future elections, including the 2028 General Elections, were transparent, inclusive and trusted by citizens.
UNDP Resident Representative Munkhtuya Altangerel welcomed Japan’s contribution, saying it would build on lessons learned from the 2024 Joint Elections.
She said the support would help Solomon Islands improve its institutional, legal and operational readiness well before the next general election.
“Together, we are committed to accountable institutions and inclusive participation led and owned by Solomon Islanders,” she said.
Chief Electoral Officer Jasper Highwood Anisi said Japan’s assistance would help build on the credibility of previous elections.
He said the support would position SIEC to conduct future by-elections and the 2028 General Elections with greater transparency and inclusiveness.
Mr Anisi said reforms and innovations were being developed under SIEC’s Strategic Plan.
He said the aim was to ensure women, young people and persons with disabilities were not only participants in the democratic process but also leaders in shaping the country’s democratic future.
The new Japanese contribution also expands the group of development partners supporting the UNDP-led programme.
Japan joins Australia and the United Kingdom in supporting the current programme, while the European Union provided assistance during the previous electoral cycle.
Ambassador Keiichi Higuchi, SIEC CEO Jasper Highwood Anisi and UNDP Resident Representative Munkhtuya Altangerel in discussion before the signing at the Japanese Embassy. Photo by Ned Gagahe.
The partnership reflects Japan’s foreign policy priorities, including human security and a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.
Japan also has a longstanding partnership with UNDP in areas including governance, resilience and community safety.
The partners said cooperation would continue beyond the 2028 elections to support nationally led efforts to strengthen electoral institutions, promote inclusive participation and build public confidence in electoral processes.
The signing ceremony was moderated by UNDP Solomon Islands Programme Specialist for Inclusive Governance and Economic Growth, Solomon Kalu.
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by Ednal Palmer Students at Gifu Primary School in the remote Barana highlands of Guadalcanal have welcomed a new water,...
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BY NED GAGAHE
The United States has announced plans to provide four aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicles to Solomon Islands to strengthen safety at Honiara International Airport.
The announcement was made by US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau yesterday as he concluded a three-day visit to Solomon Islands, a media statement from the US Embassy said.
Mr Landau signed an agreement with Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela for the Peace Corps to return to Solomon Islands after a 26-year absence. Photo credit: US Embassy.
Mr Landau made the announcement during a meeting with Solomon Islands Airport Corporation officials at Honiara International Airport.
He said the US Department of State, working with the US Congress, intends to provide the four specialist vehicles to enhance airport safety for American and international travellers.
The announcement comes as Solomon Islands continues to prepare for increased international travel and tourism, with Honiara International Airport serving as the country’s main international gateway.
During his visit, Mr Landau also announced that the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) will assess the cost of rehabilitating the Solomon Islands Parliament building.
The Parliament building was constructed with US support in 1993 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Guadalcanal Campaign during World War II.
A group photo in Parliament building. Photo credit: US Embassy.
Mr Landau made the announcement during a visit to Parliament earlier in the day.
The proposed assessment is expected to determine the cost and scope of rehabilitation required for the building.
The Deputy Secretary of State’s three-day visit focused heavily on the historical relationship between the United States and Solomon Islands, particularly the shared history of World War II.
Mr Landau paid his respects at the Guadalcanal, Red Beach and Bloody Ridge memorials, remembering American, Solomon Islands and other Allied personnel who lost their lives during the Guadalcanal Campaign.
He also announced US support through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation for the preservation of the Bloody Ridge battlefield.
The support is intended to help preserve the historic site as a place of remembrance and continuing education for future generations.
The visit also resulted in a new agreement aimed at strengthening people-to-people links between the two countries.
Mr Landau being led by Clerk of Parliament inside the Parliament building. Photo credit: US Embassy.
Mr Landau signed an agreement with Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela for the Peace Corps to return to Solomon Islands after a 26-year absence.
The return of the Peace Corps is expected to create opportunities for renewed cooperation and exchanges between Solomon Islands communities and the United States.
Throughout the visit, Mr Landau highlighted the historical bonds between the two countries and outlined a vision for mutual progress in what he described as a free and open Pacific.
The latest announcements cover airport safety, infrastructure, cultural preservation and people-to-people cooperation, marking a broadening of US engagement with Solomon Islands.
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BY NED GAGAHE
THE Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants (ISIA) will host its third annual Congress on September 17 and 18 at Heritage Park Hotel, bringing together accounting professionals, Government, business and industry leaders to discuss the future of the profession.
This year’s Congress will be held under the theme, “Beyond Qualifications: Building a Workforce That Thinks, Leads and Creates.”
The theme reflects the changing role of accountants and finance professionals, who are increasingly expected to go beyond financial statements, compliance and reporting.
They are now required to understand technology, interpret data, manage risk, support good governance, communicate with decision-makers and contribute to the strategic direction of their organisations.
ISIA chief executive officer Pamela Naesol has made a direct call to employers and businesses to support the professional development of their accounting staff by allowing them to attend the Congress.
“I am making a direct call to employers and businesses to support the professional development of their accountants by allowing them to be part of the discussions at the Congress,” Ms Naesol said.
She said professional development was a shared responsibility between employers, businesses, Government and professionals themselves.
“When we raise professional standards, every stakeholder stands to benefit,” she said.
Ms Naesol said the Congress remained the flagship event of the Institute and provided an important platform for the accounting profession to meet and network with business and industry leaders, as well as Government.
She said the event would allow stakeholders to discuss key issues affecting the profession and work towards collaborative and sustainable solutions to strengthen Solomon Islands’ financial management systems.
“The finance and accounting function is central to how an organisation plans, manages risk, reports performance and makes decisions,” she said.
“Investing in the professional development of accountants is necessary if we are to build an effective team to lead and strengthen our local organisations and institutions.”
The two-day programme will cover a wide range of issues, including economic development, public financial management, accounting standards, digital transformation, workforce capability, governance, financial reporting and transparency, sustainability and the future of the accounting profession.
The Congress will also feature perspectives from regional professional and standards-setting organisations, including the Australian Accounting Standards Board, Institute of Public Accountants and other regional professional accounting organisations.
ISIA said the event would provide Solomon Islands professionals with access to regional expertise and contemporary thinking without having to travel overseas.
Registration and programme information are available through the ISIA website.