Auki, 21 August 2026 – The Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD) and the Malaita Provincial Government signed the Agency Agreement and Provincial Education Board Agreement at the Malaita Provincial Chamber in Auki. This is the third signing, after Makira province and Western province.
The ceremony was attended by Hon. Elijah Asilaua, Premier of Malaita Province, Hon. Steve Kumi, Minister of MEHRD, senior officials, donor representatives, education partners, and Honourable Members of the Malaita Provincial Government (MPG). The presence of the MPG members was especially fitting, as they were in Auki for a two-week programme under the Provincial Government Strengthening Programme (PGSP), making the signing ceremony even more memorable.
In his remarks, Hon. Kumi stated that the occasion represented a shared commitment between the National Government and the Malaita Provincial Government to strengthen education services and improve opportunities for children and young people in Malaita Province.
He reaffirmed the Government for Reform, Empowerment, Accountability and Transformation’s vision that education must be accessible to every child, regardless of where they live or their circumstances and emphasized that education is a fundamental right and one of the nation’s most important investments.
MEHRD Minister Hon. Stephen Kumi receiving a traditional gift from the Malaita Premier Elijah Asilaua.
The agreements also signal MEHRD’s continued support to Malaita Province as it takes on education provider responsibilities. Through the Agency Agreement, MEHRD will provide technical and operational support to the Malaita Education Provider Office, including support for school operations, teacher management, capacity strengthening and regular joint reviews to identify challenges early and provide assistance where needed.
Hon. Kumi announced that an additional four positions will be allocated to the Malaita Education Provider Office to help strengthen provincial education services, made possible through MEHRD’s partnership with MFAT under the Waka fo Edukeson programme. He also highlighted planned support for Malaita, including nine new education projects in 2027 and the proposed construction of a new Education Complex in Malaita as a hub for education development.
The establishment of the Malaita Provincial Education Board was also described as an important step forward, bringing together the Provincial Government, churches, traditional leaders, education providers and stakeholders under one platform to advance education priorities that respond to Malaita’s unique needs, including technical and vocational education and training.
Following the signing, the Malaita Provincial Education Office and the Premier of Malaita Province presented several traditional “Tafuliae” red money to all MEHRD managers and guests. The gesture symbolised the sealing of the agreements and affirmed Malaita Province’s strong commitment to quality education, as well as its willingness to work with any government of the day to advance education development for its people.
The signing ceremony marked the first step of MEHRD and the Malaita Provincial Government, moving forward together to deliver better education for the children of Malaita for the future of Malaita.
奥基,2026年8月21日——教育与人力资源发展部(MEHRD)与马莱塔省政府在奥基的马莱塔省议会签署了代理协议和省教育委员会协议。这是继马基拉省和西部省之后的第三次签署。
仪式上出席了马莱塔省省长埃利亚·阿西劳阿(Hon. Elijah Asilaua)、教育与人力资源发展部部长史蒂夫·库米(Hon. Steve Kumi)、高级官员、捐助者代表、教育合作伙伴以及马莱塔省政府的尊敬成员(MPG)。MPG成员的出席尤为合适,因为他们正在奥基参加为期两周的省政府加强计划(PGSP)项目,使得签署仪式更加难忘。
库米部长在讲话中表示,此次活动代表了国家政府与马莱塔省政府之间共同致力于加强教育服务和改善马莱塔省儿童及青少年机会的承诺。
他重申了改革、赋权、问责与转型政府的愿景,即教育必须对每个孩子都可及,无论他们居住在哪里或处于何种境况,并强调教育是一项基本权利,是国家最重要的投资之一。
教育与人力资源发展部部长库米(Hon. Stephen Kumi)接受马莱塔省省长埃利亚·阿西劳阿赠送的传统礼物。
这些协议还标志着MEHRD对马莱塔省持续支持的承诺,因为马莱塔省承担教育提供者的责任。通过代理协议,MEHRD将为马莱塔教育提供者办公室提供技术和运营支持,包括学校运营、教师管理、能力建设和定期联合评审,以便及早识别挑战并在需要时提供帮助。
库米部长宣布,将为马莱塔教育提供者办公室分配额外的四个职位,以帮助加强省级教育服务,这得益于MEHRD与MFAT在Waka fo Edukeson项目下的合作。他还强调了对马莱塔的计划支持,包括2027年的九个新教育项目以及拟建的新教育综合体,作为教育发展的中心。
马莱塔省教育委员会的成立也被描述为向前迈出的重要一步,将省政府、教会、传统领导人、教育提供者和利益相关者聚集在一个平台上,以推进响应马莱塔独特需求的教育优先事项,包括技术和职业教育与培训。
签署后,马莱塔省教育办公室和马莱塔省省长向所有MEHRD经理和嘉宾赠送了几份传统的“Tafuliae”红色钱币。这一举动象征着协议的达成,并确认了马莱塔省对优质教育的坚定承诺,以及与任何在任政府合作以推进其人民教育发展的意愿。
此次签署仪式标志着MEHRD与马莱塔省政府共同向前迈出的第一步,以便为马莱塔的儿童提供更好的教育,展望马莱塔的未来。
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
THE Board and Secretariat of the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) paid a courtesy visit on Wednesday 26 August to the newly appointed Minister for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs, John Maneniaru.
The visit gave YECSI the opportunity to congratulate the new Minister on his appointment, and to formally present an update on the Council’s work, progress and achievements since its establishment in 2018.
YECSI also used the visit to highlight some of the challenges it continues to face in expanding its reach and strengthening support for young entrepreneurs across the Solomon Islands.
Discussions focused on the importance of strengthening the partnership between YECSI and the Ministry, particularly through its Youth Division, to create greater opportunities and support systems for young people already engaged in business, as well as those interested in pursuing entrepreneurship.
Minister Maneniaru expressed his appreciation to the YECSI Board and Secretariat for the courtesy visit and welcomed the updates shared on the organisation’s progress over the years.
The Minister assured YECSI that, under his leadership, the Ministry will work to strengthen its relationship and collaboration with the Council, particularly through the Youth Division, to support and empower young Solomon Islanders interested in entrepreneurship and business.
The engagement marks an important step toward strengthening cooperation between Government and YECSI, in ensuring young people have greater access to opportunities, support, networks and platforms to develop their businesses and contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic development.
YECSI said it looks forward to building on the discussions and working closely with the Minister and the Ministry to advance opportunities for young entrepreneurs across the Solomon Islands.
Meanwhile, YECSI continues to roll out its monthly programmes for members. Yesterday, the Council hosted an Ignite Session for its members at the Art Gallery, providing another platform for young entrepreneurs to connect, share ideas, learn and strengthen their businesses.
YECSI remains committed to empowering young entrepreneurs, strengthening partnerships, and creating opportunities for young people to contribute meaningfully to the economic future of the Solomon Islands.
The YECSI Board and team wished the Minister well in his leadership, acknowledging the time he took to meet with the team.
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BY NED GAGAHE
Lack of sufficient collateral remains one of the major barriers preventing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from accessing higher loan amounts from financial institutions, according to the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI).
Speaking to the media following the reopening of the SME Credit Guarantee Scheme (SMECGS), CBSI Senior Analyst in the Financial System Development and Payment Department, Junior Faka, said many SMEs struggle to meet banks’ lending requirements because the value of their collateral is often insufficient.
“One of the challenges SMEs face is the issue of collateral security,” Faka said.
He explained that when SMEs seek larger loans, the value and equity of the assets they offer as security may only cover a portion of the amount they want to borrow.
“If the value of the security is low, they may not meet the eligibility requirements for the loan,” he said.
The Government has committed $18 million to the reopened guarantee scheme, which is aimed at helping eligible Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) overcome some of the barriers to accessing finance.
The scheme works by reducing the risk to financial institutions when lending to eligible businesses, allowing SMEs to access loans to start or expand their businesses.
He said the current scheme is open to all financial institutions, including DBSI and Credit Corporation, which have been among the most active users.
Faka said the reopening of the scheme also reaffirms the Government’s funding commitment, while also strengthened the administration and policy oversight of the facility.
Under the revised scheme, the maximum period for loan coverage is five years, while the maximum loan amount covered is $300,000.
The guarantee coverage has also been standardised at 90 percent for both male- and female-owned SMEs.
Under the previous scheme, women-owned SMEs received 95 percent coverage compared with 90 percent for male-owned SMEs.
Faka said the higher coverage for women was intended to encourage their participation in the SME sector, which remains relatively low in Solomon Islands.
The new scheme also establishes an oversight committee, while CBSI will continue to administer the facility.
The scheme was officially reopened on Thursday by the Minister for Commerce, Industries, Labour and Immigration, Harry Kuma, who described it as an investment in jobs, growth and livelihoods.
He said the facility would make it easier for intending and existing businesses to obtain financing to purchase equipment and stock, acquire boats, expand farms, shops and services, and employ more workers.
The Government has identified rural enterprises, women and youth entrepreneurs, cooperatives, and businesses outside Honiara as priority areas under the scheme.
Mr Kuma urged banks to actively promote the facility and encouraged MSMEs to prepare their business plans, maintain proper financial records and submit loan applications.
He said the Government would work with CBSI and other stakeholders to remove remaining barriers to MSME finance and monitor the number of loans approved, businesses supported and jobs created.
“The success of SMECGS will not be measured by paperwork. It will be measured by the businesses that grow, the jobs that are created, and the livelihoods that are strengthened in every community across Solomon Islands,” he said.
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BY NED GAGAHE
Children and young people from across the Solomon Islands will take their climate concerns directly to Government next week as part of efforts to ensure their experiences help shape national climate policy ahead of COP31 in Türkiye.
Twenty child delegates from Makira, Malaita and Honiara will gather in Honiara on September 2 for the Klaemet Tok Stori from Pikinini , an initiative led by World Vision Solomon Islands in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM) and the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCFA).
The initiative aims to bring the lived experiences, indigenous knowledge and solutions of children and young people into national climate decision-making.
A key focus will be the draft National Policy for Loss and Damage, which the children will review and provide feedback on directly with MECDM officials.
The children will also formally present their key messages to the Minister of MECDM, Permanent Secretaries and diplomatic partners, including the New Zealand High Commissioner.
World Vision said the initiative is designed to transform the daily realities of children affected by climate change into concrete policy solutions and child-led resilience actions.
The outcomes and key messages from the forum are expected to be presented alongside the Solomon Islands Government delegation at COP31, highlighting the importance of child participation in climate governance.
World Vision Solomon Islands National Director Asuntha Charles said children must be recognised as important voices in decisions that affect their future.
“Children are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are voices of today whose experiences, hopes, and fears must shape the decisions that determine their future,” Charles said.
She said children were among those most affected by the climate crisis and deserved to be heard and included in national policies and global climate commitments.
Through initiatives such as Klaemet Tok Stori from Pikinini , Charles said World Vision was working to amplify children’s voices, promote their rights and ensure their experiences and solutions influenced climate action from local communities to the global stage.
The initiative forms part of World Vision’s wider climate advocacy, disaster risk reduction and anticipatory action programmes.
It also supports the organisation’s advocacy for greater access to Loss and Damage financing for Small Island Developing States, including Pacific island countries facing increasing climate-related impacts.
Meanwhile, World Vision has officially concluded its emergency response to Severe Tropical Cyclone Maila after reaching 3,553 people from 871 households in Western and Choiseul provinces between April and July this year.
The emergency response was carried out in partnership with the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), provincial governments and partner organisations, including ADRA and Kastom Gaden.
Affected families received emergency shelter, water, sanitation and hygiene assistance, as well as early livelihood recovery kits.
The response was supported by New Zealand Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Australian Humanitarian Partnership, the United States Government, the START Network, TONGS Corporation and Kokonut Pacific Solomon Islands.
Charles said the emergency response demonstrated the importance of strong partnerships in delivering timely assistance to communities affected by disasters.
“With the unwavering dedication of our local partners, staff, communities and the NDMO, we were able to deliver life-saving assistance rapidly to those who needed it most,” she said.
With operational assets now being transferred to local disaster management structures, World Vision said it would transition back to its development programmes while continuing to support affected children, youth and communities.
The organisation said it would also continue advocating for urgent climate action and stronger resilience measures to help Solomon Islands communities prepare for future climate-related shocks.
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作者:内德·加加赫
来自所罗门群岛各地的儿童和年轻人将于下周直接向政府表达他们的气候关切,作为确保他们的经历有助于塑造国家气候政策的努力的一部分,目的是在土耳其举行的COP31之前。
来自马基拉、马莱塔和霍尼亚拉的20名儿童代表将于9月2日在霍尼亚拉聚集,参加由所罗门群岛世界宣明会与环境、气候变化、灾害管理和气象部(MECDM)以及妇女、青年、儿童和家庭事务部(MWYCFA)合作主办的“Klaemet Tok Stori from Pikinini”倡议。
该倡议旨在将儿童和年轻人的生活经历、土著知识和解决方案纳入国家气候决策中。
一个关键的关注点将是《损失与损害国家政策草案》,儿童将直接与MECDM官员进行审查和反馈。
儿童们还将正式向MECDM部长、常务秘书和包括新西兰高级专员在内的外交伙伴呈现他们的关键信息。
世界宣明会表示,该倡议旨在将受气候变化影响的儿童的日常现实转化为具体的政策解决方案和儿童主导的韧性行动。
论坛的结果和关键信息预计将在COP31上与所罗门群岛政府代表团一起呈现,强调儿童在气候治理中的参与重要性。
世界宣明会所罗门群岛国家主任阿苏莎·查尔斯表示,儿童必须被视为影响他们未来的重要声音。
“儿童不仅是明天的领导者;他们是今天的声音,他们的经历、希望和恐惧必须塑造决定他们未来的决策,”查尔斯说。
她表示,儿童是气候危机中受影响最严重的群体之一,应该被倾听并纳入国家政策和全球气候承诺中。
通过“Klaemet Tok Stori from Pikinini”等倡议,查尔斯表示,世界宣明会正在努力放大儿童的声音,促进他们的权利,并确保他们的经历和解决方案影响从地方社区到全球舞台的气候行动。
该倡议是世界宣明会更广泛的气候倡导、灾害风险减少和预期行动项目的一部分。
它还支持该组织倡导为小岛屿发展中国家,包括面临日益严重气候影响的太平洋岛国,提供更大规模的损失与损害融资。
与此同时,世界宣明会已正式结束对严重热带气旋迈拉的紧急响应,在今年4月至7月期间,惠及了西部和乔伊瑟尔省的3,553人,来自871个家庭。
此次紧急响应是与国家灾害管理办公室(NDMO)、省政府和合作组织(包括ADRA和Kastom Gaden)合作进行的。
受影响的家庭获得了紧急避难所、水、卫生和卫生援助,以及早期生计恢复工具包。
此次响应得到了新西兰外交和贸易部、澳大利亚人道主义伙伴关系、美国政府、START网络、TONGS公司和Kokonut Pacific Solomon Islands的支持。
查尔斯表示,紧急响应展示了在向受灾社区提供及时援助方面强大合作伙伴关系的重要性。
“在我们当地合作伙伴、员工、社区和NDMO的不懈努力下,我们能够迅速向最需要帮助的人提供救生援助,”她说。
随着运营资产现在转移到地方灾害管理结构,世界宣明会表示将过渡回其发展项目,同时继续支持受影响的儿童、青年和社区。
该组织还表示将继续倡导紧急气候行动和更强的韧性措施,以帮助所罗门群岛社区为未来的气候相关冲击做好准备。
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Island SunEnvironment & Climate环境气候·2026-08-28Original ↗原文 ↗
Pacific security report urges stronger regional cooperation, practical action and inclusive responses to emerging challenges. 28 August 2026 – Stronger regional cooperation will be critical as the Pacific shifts from decision-making to implementation to address the region’s security challenges, the Pacific Peace and Security Dialogue 2026 Report highlights. Drawing on insights from the Pacific’s largest [...]
The post PACIFIC REPORT CALLS FOR STRONGER REGIONAL COOPERATION appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
SIART supports Gold Ridge women farmers with 300 broilers, improved housing and training to increase poultry production. Friday 28 August, Honiara – The Gold Ridge Women Farmers’ Poultry Project has acknowledged the Solomon Islands Rural Agriculture Transformation (SIART) Project for supporting local farmers in our rural communities especially women. Chairlady, Mrs. Joyce Pohungke said with [...]
The post SIART SUPPORTS WOMEN’S POULTRY TO INCREASE PRODUCTION appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
– Eels stand between Naha and maiden SWPL title
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Naha FC are just one point away from making history, but defending champions Henderson Eels FC will have the chance to delay their coronation when the Solrais Women’s Premier League reaches a dramatic climax at East End Stadium this weekend.
Naha head into Saturday’s decisive clash sitting top of the standings on 46 points, three clear of second-placed Frigates United FC and six ahead of Henderson Eels.
With only the final weekend fixtures remaining, the title is now firmly in Naha’s hands — but not yet secured.
The SWPL said Naha need “just ONE POINT” against Henderson Eels to secure their first-ever league title, setting up a high-stakes encounter at East End Stadium, KG.
“Naha FC are on the verge of making history,” the league said, adding that the leaders require only a single point to secure their maiden championship.
Standing in their way are the defending champions, Henderson Eels, who will be determined to spoil Naha’s celebrations.
The Eels currently sit third on 40 points after 17 matches and will be looking to finish their campaign on a high while preventing Naha from completing their title charge.
However, second-placed Frigates United remain within touching distance and could still snatch the championship should Naha falter.
Frigates, on 43 points, must beat Ghupo Wantoks FC in their final fixture on Sunday and hope Henderson Eels defeat Naha. A Naha loss would leave the leaders on 46 points, while a Frigates victory would also take them to 46.
The goal difference could then become decisive, with Frigates currently holding a superior +104 compared to Naha’s +98.
The weekend programme gets underway on Saturday (tomorrow) with Marist FC facing Haura FC at 11am, followed by Geniagu United FC against West Honiara FC at 1pm, before the much-anticipated Henderson Eels-Naha FC clash at 3pm.
Sunday will see Koloale FC meet RSIPF Royals FC at 1pm, before Frigates United take on Ghupo Wantoks at 3pm.
With Naha requiring only a draw to seal the championship, the pressure is firmly on the league leaders — but Frigates will be waiting for any slip-up.
The SWPL has urged supporters to turn out at East End Stadium for what promises to be a dramatic finish to the 2026 season.
Naha have enjoyed a remarkable campaign, winning 15 of their 17 matches with just one draw and one defeat. Their 104 goals scored is also among the strongest attacking records in the competition, putting the club on the brink of its first SWPL championship.
– 鳗鱼队阻挡了 Naha 夺得首个 SWPL 冠军的机会
作者:理查德·梅纳诺波
Naha FC 只差一分就能创造历史,但卫冕冠军亨德森鳗鱼 FC 将有机会推迟他们的加冕,所罗门女子超级联赛将在本周末于东区体育场迎来戏剧性的高潮。
Naha 在周六的决战中以 46 分高居积分榜首,领先第二名的 Frigates United FC 三分,领先亨德森鳗鱼六分。
随着最后一个周末的比赛即将到来,冠军现在牢牢掌握在 Naha 手中——但尚未锁定。
SWPL 表示,Naha 只需在与亨德森鳗鱼的比赛中“获得一分”即可确保他们的首个联赛冠军,这为东区体育场的高风险对决奠定了基础。
“ Naha FC 即将创造历史,”联赛表示,补充道领先者只需一分即可确保他们的首个冠军。
阻挡他们的是卫冕冠军亨德森鳗鱼,他们将决心破坏 Naha 的庆祝活动。
鳗鱼目前在 17 场比赛中以 40 分排名第三,他们希望在结束赛季时取得佳绩,同时阻止 Naha 完成夺冠之路。
然而,第二名的 Frigates United 仍在触手可及的范围内,如果 Naha 失误,他们仍有机会夺冠。
Frigates 以 43 分的成绩必须在周日的最后一场比赛中击败 Ghupo Wantoks FC,并希望亨德森鳗鱼战胜 Naha。Naha 的失利将使领先者停留在 46 分,而 Frigates 的胜利也将使他们达到 46 分。
此时,净胜球可能成为决定性因素,Frigates 目前的净胜球为 +104,优于 Naha 的 +98。
周末的比赛将于周六(明天)开始,马里斯特 FC 将于上午 11 点迎战 Haura FC,随后是 Geniagu United FC 对阵西霍尼亚拉 FC 的比赛,最后是备受期待的亨德森鳗鱼与 Naha FC 的对决,时间为下午 3 点。
周日,Koloale FC 将于下午 1 点迎战 RSIPF Royals FC,随后 Frigates United 将于下午 3 点对阵 Ghupo Wantoks。
由于 Naha 只需平局即可锁定冠军,压力完全在于联赛领头羊——但 Frigates 将在等待任何失误。
SWPL 呼吁支持者前往东区体育场,期待 2026 赛季的戏剧性收官。
Naha 在本赛季表现出色,17 场比赛中赢得 15 场,仅有一场平局和一场失利。他们打入的 104 球也是比赛中最强的进攻记录之一,使俱乐部即将迎来首个 SWPL 冠军。
BY DOOUGLAS VAHIA
The Biosecurity (SI) Strategy 2026-2036 will undergo its validation workshop next week ahead of the establishment of this important 10-year plan.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL), in collaboration with Biosecurity Solomon Islands (BSI) and development partners, will hold the opening of the Biosecurity (SI) Strategy 2026 – 2036 Validation Workshop on Monday, August 31, at the Heritage Park.
The workshop will bring together government agencies, development partners, provincial representatives, private sector stakeholders and other key partners, basically to validate the strategic priorities of the Solomon Islands’ national Biosecurity for the next ten years.
Key areas of discussion are mainly the Biosecurity (SI) Strategy 2026 – 2036 Validation and include sustainable financing, strengthening partnerships, a capacitated workforce, public engagement and support, expanded safeguarding coverage, and strengthened risk assessment and risk reduction.
The workshop will also provide an opportunity for partners and stakeholders to discuss investment alignment and strengthen collaboration in protecting Solomon Islands’ agriculture, environment, economy and communities from biosecurity risks.
The workshop is scheduled to begin at 8.30am at Heritage Park.
By RODRICK DESURI
Auki
Ecological Solutions Solomon Islands (ESSI), a local environmental consulting and research organisation, has handed cartons of conservation books to the Malaita Provincial Government.
The books were presented on Friday, August 21 to support conservation efforts and provide communities with valuable information about Malaita’s biodiversity and natural resources.
ESSI works to protect nature, conduct research on local wildlife and promote sustainable resource management across the Solomon Islands.
The materials include photographic books containing images and information on plants and animals from Malaita and other provinces, as well as biological survey data that could assist tribes and community groups interested in establishing conservation areas.
Ednah Wasiraro of ESSI said the information would provide communities with essential biological data that it was difficult and costly to collect.
“These books contain biological survey information relating to conservation and can be helpful to any group that wants to conserve or protect their land and surrounding areas,” she said.
Wasiraro said the information could also assist communities during the application process for establishing conservation areas, depending on the location and resources they intended to protect.
Receiving the books on behalf of the Malaita Provincial Government, Deputy Permanent Secretary Peter Herehura expressed appreciation to ESSI, saying the materials would be valuable to the province’s conservation efforts.
“On behalf of the Malaita Provincial Government, I am really glad to receive these books. They are very important aspects for the development of conservation in the province,” Mr Herehura said.
He said Malaita currently has only a small number of recognized conservation areas and believed the information could encourage more tribes and community groups to consider conservation in the future.
“So far, in Malaita Province we have only two or three conservation areas, and these books can create a way forward for other tribes and groups that want to establish conservation areas in the future,” he said.
ESSI also supports rural and indigenous communities through environmental conservation, sustainable resource management and efforts to protect primary and logged-over forests under the Protected Areas Act.
The organization’s ongoing work focuses on empowering landowners and communities to protect their ecosystems and natural resources for future generations.
By RODRICK DESURI
Auki
The Malaita provincial assembly has acknowledged the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) for bringing the two-week induction training to Malaita province.
Speaking on behalf of the Assembly, non-executive MPA for ward 29 Philip Kwato’o said the training was fundamental to strengthening good governance, particularly transparency and accountability, and would help the province meet performance measures and minimum conditions required to access government funding.
He made the remarks during his speech at the closing ceremony of the two-week induction programme held at the Malaita Provincial Chamber, Green House in Auki yesterday evening.
“Regret that it should have happened at the beginning,” Kwato’o said.
He said the training should be viewed as an important foundation for improving governance and ensuring Malaita Province meets the required performance measures and minimum conditions to secure more funding for development and services.
Kwato’o also encouraged greater openness and dialogue between political leaders and provincial administrators, saying both sides must work together in the interest of the province.
He called on leaders to put political interests aside and focus on development for the people of Malaita.
“Follow instructions to enable us achieve qualified or even disqualified audit status so that our province will get more funds for our development or services to our people,” he said.
The two-week induction and orientation programme concluded yesterday with the presentation of certificates and various ministry portfolio booklets to participants.
The programme focused on strengthening the capacity of Members of the Malaita Provincial Assembly and provincial staff in areas including governance, leadership, financial management, accountability and effective service delivery.
The Permanent Secretary of MPGIS officiated at the closing ceremony on behalf of the Minister, who was unable to attend due to national commitments.
By RODRICK DESURI
Auki
The two-week induction and orientation programme for members of the Malaita Provincial Assembly (MPAs) and staff of the Malaita Provincial Government (MPG) has successfully concluded at the Malaita Provincial Chamber.
The programme concluded yesterday evening with the presentation of certificates and various ministry portfolio booklets to participants.
Held under the theme ‘Capacitating Provincial Governments for Effective Service Delivery’, the programme provided MPAs, administration officials and public servants with an opportunity to strengthen their understanding of provincial governance, leadership, financial management, accountability and effective service delivery.
It also aimed to strengthen participants’ knowledge of their roles and responsibilities in serving the people of Malaita.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, Malaita Provincial Premier Elijah Asilaua expressed his appreciation to the Minister of the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) and its Permanent Secretary, Dr Derrick Futaiasi, for choosing Malaita as the first province to undergo the induction programme.
Premier Asilaua acknowledged that the training had been delayed and was initially expected to take place earlier in the year, but said provincial leaders were grateful that it had finally been delivered.
“On behalf of the provincial leaders, I express my gratitude to the Minister of MPGIS and his PS, Dr Derrick Futaiasi, for choosing Malaita first. Malaitan leaders had been waiting for this induction since they came into the Assembly,” he said.
“I want to thank the national government for prioritising this induction training to start with us here. Although it is delayed until the middle of the term, our MPG leaders see it as not too late.”
The Premier said the training had provided valuable knowledge and understanding to MPAs and MPG staff, while also helping them identify their strengths and weaknesses.
He said the lessons gained should enable provincial leaders and officials to reprioritise, restrategise and strengthen their leadership in order to meet the priorities of the provincial government and the people of Malaita.
Asilaua also urged political leaders and public servants to stop blaming or pointing fingers at one another and instead put the knowledge gained from the training into practice.
He said effective service delivery would require greater cooperation, accountability and commitment from both political leaders and the provincial administration.
“Our people deserve better from us. Let’s make Malaita Province great again,” Asilaua said.
Meanwhile, MPGIS Permanent Secretary Mr Futaiasi, speaking on behalf of the Minister, thanked the Malaita Provincial Government for accepting the offer to host the first induction programme.
Futaiasi said feedback received from the MPGIS training team had impressed the responsible minister, and acknowledged the MPG leadership and staff for their participation and commitment throughout the programme.
He also thanked Premier Asilaua and the Speaker of the Malaita Provincial Assembly for taking responsibility for organising and hosting the training in Malaita.
Futaiasi hope that the knowledge gained would contribute to improving the province’s governance and financial management.
“Hope the knowledge gained will help MPAs move forward to obtain audit status from disclaimer to qualified, or even further,” he said.
The completion of the induction now places responsibility on the provincial leadership and administration to translate the lessons and knowledge gained into improved governance, accountability and service delivery for the people of Malaita.
BY NED GAGAHE
MORE than 200 people in Isabel Province have been screened for tuberculosis (TB) as health authorities step up efforts to detect the disease early and prevent its spread in communities.
The targeted TB contact investigation and preventive treatment mission was conducted from July 24-30 with support from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Programme and Isabel Provincial Health Office, a media statement by World Bank said today.
The mission screened 220 TB contacts, including 189 contacts of rifampicin-resistant TB cases and 31 contacts of drug-susceptible TB cases.
Of those screened, 33 people were diagnosed with latent TB infection, and all eligible contacts were started on tuberculosis preventive treatment (TPT).
The health team also detected three new TB cases, which were linked to treatment to ensure they received timely care and to reduce the risk of further transmission within households and communities.
More than 200 people were also reached through community awareness activities, focusing on TB symptoms, prevention, treatment adherence and the importance of seeking medical care early.
The mission also targeted frontline health workers, with 49 healthcare workers screened and 11 diagnosed with latent TB infection and started on preventive treatment.
Minister of Health and Medical Services Morris Toiraena said the results demonstrated the importance of taking TB services directly to communities.
“These results show the value of bringing TB services closer to communities through active screening, early detection and preventive treatment,” he said.
Mr Toiraena said identifying people at risk early, linking confirmed cases to treatment and strengthening provincial health workers’ skills would help protect families and reduce TB transmission.
Isabel Provincial Health Director Martin Gavira thanked the health teams for their work and technical support, particularly the training conducted on latent and active TB at Buala Hospital.
He said the provincial health team looked forward to continuing the work.
The mission also focused on strengthening the province’s capacity to manage TB cases beyond the outreach period.
Thirteen healthcare workers were trained and mentored in TB contact investigation and preventive treatment.
Their knowledge scores improved from 49 percent before training to 81 percent after training.
The team also provided six days of practical coaching and on-site support to build the confidence and skills of provincial health workers.
Supportive supervision was conducted at Buala Hospital, while outreach activities were carried out in Rifukoti village in Buala Ward and Kolosori village in Hovikoilo Ward.
The activities were aimed at improving TB reporting and monitoring, infection prevention and control, and the implementation of preventive treatment at provincial and community levels.
WHO Representative in Solomon Islands Dr Howard Sobel said contact tracing remained a critical part of TB prevention.
“Contact tracing lies at the heart of tuberculosis prevention,” Mr Sobel said.
He said Isabel Province had demonstrated the importance of ensuring every TB case was followed by a thorough contact investigation to identify people at risk early.
Sobel commended the province for what he described as comprehensive, timely and high-quality contact tracing.
MHMS and its partners also acknowledged the support of the Isabel Provincial Health Office, Buala Hospital staff, community leaders and health workers in making the mission successful.
The mission was funded by the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.
Implementation support was provided by the Burnet Institute and World Vision Solomon Islands.
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Government is committed to supporting broader micro, small and medium businesses, not only through credit schemes, Commerce Minister Harry Kuma has said.
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI), in partnership with the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI), officially reopened the SME Credit Guarantee Scheme (SMECGS) at a ceremony held at the MCILI Conference Room yesterday.
Beyond the credit scheme itself, Minister Kuma said government is committed to continued investment in a wider range of support for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), including business advisory services, financial literacy programmes, entrepreneurship development, and cooperative enterprise development.
Kuma said these initiatives are intended to reassure MSME and partners of the Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the broader support ecosystem around access to finance, suggesting SMECGS forms only one part of a larger strategy to help small businesses grow.
He said access to credit alone is not enough to guarantee business success, noting that many MSMEs also require practical support to build sound business plans, maintain proper financial records, and develop the skills needed to manage growth once financing is secured.
Kuma said strengthening this wider ecosystem is just as important as the credit guarantee facility itself, if businesses are to translate access to finance into real, sustainable growth.
Kuma said the Government intends to work closely with stakeholders across the private sector, financial institutions and development partners to ensure these complementary programmes are delivered alongside SMECGS, rather than treated as separate initiatives.
Whether these complementary programmes materialise alongside the reopened credit scheme remains to be seen, and will be an important measure of whether the Government’s broader MSME strategy translates into practical support on the ground, beyond the credit guarantee facility alone.
For many small business owners, especially those in rural or underserved communities, access to advisory services and financial literacy training may prove just as critical as the credit itself in determining whether they can successfully grow their enterprises.
Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Wale will depart today for Palau to attend the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.
The meeting is scheduled for 31 August to 4 September.
In Palau, Prime Minister Wale will formally hand over the chairmanship of the Pacific Islands Forum to the President of Palau, Surangel Whipps Jr.
Prime Minister Wale is expected to address the Leaders Summit, where he will acknowledge Solomon Islands’ tenure as Forum Chair also acknowledging the leadership of his predecessor former Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele.
Forum Leaders will also engage in strategic discussions on the future governance of the Pacific regional system, with a focus on identifying key regional priorities and strengthening regional cooperation.
The Prime Minister will also participate in a series of regional and bilateral meetings on the margins of the Leaders Meeting.
[end]
OPMC statement
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Officers told Gina Maka’a, a reporter for OCCRP member center In-depth Solomons, her questioning was aimed at uncovering the source...
The post OCCRP Denounces Police Search of Solomon Islands Reporter appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
The Honiara City Darts Association (HCDA) has extended registration for its 2026 league, giving interested clubs and teams an additional week to secure their places in the upcoming season.
HCDA announced the extension, moving the registration deadline from the previously announced August 28 to Friday, September 4, citing strong interest from darts clubs and teams across Honiara.
The association said the extension is intended to give more interested teams time to complete their registration and arrange payment of the applicable fees before the revised deadline.
HCDA also confirmed that the league will now commence on Tuesday, September 15, with teams set to compete across the Premier Division, Division One and Corporate Division.
“Whether you’re competing in the Premier Division, Division 1, or Corporate Division, we look forward to welcoming teams for what promises to be another exciting season of darts,” the association said.
Teams yet to register can collect a registration form from Peli Bottle Shop at Kukum or complete the online registration form provided by HCDA.
The association has also acknowledged clubs and teams that have already completed their registration, saying their support has contributed to the strong momentum building towards the new season.
HCDA has encouraged remaining interested teams to use the extended period to finalise their entries ahead of the new September 4 deadline.
The extension sets the stage for the association to finalise its participating teams before the league gets underway on September 15.
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Opposition leader Sogavare calls on Government to continue supporting Maila-affected communities in Western and Choiseul provinces
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare has called on the GREAT Government to continue supporting communities facing food shortages following Tropical Cyclone Maila.
Mr Sogavare’s call comes amid reports that communities in the Western province are facing serious food security challenges in the aftermath of Cyclone Maila and are pleading for relief supplies.
Government has responded to earlier reports of other communities in the Western province questioning the promised Maila relief supplies, saying that it will take time before relief supplies reached affected communities and called for patience.
Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo in his contribution to the second reading of the 2025 and 2026 supplementary appropriation bills on August 13 in parliament asked Maila-affected communities to be patient. This sentiment was echoed by the National Disaster Council (NDC) and National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) in a press conference on August 19.
Opposition Leader Sogavare however rebuts this saying asking for patience alone does not help the victims of Maila who are calling for help.
“The Government has asked affected communities to be patient. But patience does not put food on the table. Families need clear information, continued assistance and visible progress in their communities,” Sogavare said.
Sogavare in a statement yesterday said news reports from Mondo and Lale communities on Ranongga Island show that some families are still struggling to produce enough food more than four months after the cyclone.
Community leaders have reported that replanted food gardens are not yet producing enough to sustain families.
Continuing bad weather and pest infestations have further hampered recovery, leaving some people dependent on previously distributed rice and wild taro, locally known as kakake.
“These reports are deeply concerning. The communities are working to restore their gardens, but conditions beyond their control are making recovery difficult,” Sogavare said.
“They are not asking for indefinite assistance. They are asking for continued food support until their gardens can once again sustain their families.”
The Government has explained that recovery assistance will take time because funding announced from different sources must go through their respective processes.
Sogavare said affected communities should be kept informed about the recovery process, but calls for patience must also be accompanied by practical assistance for families facing immediate hardship.
“People understand that recovery takes time, but hunger cannot be placed on hold while funding processes are completed.
“Where families are still unable to produce enough food, targeted distributions should continue to help them through this difficult recovery period.”
Sogavare said the significant support announced by the Government and its development partners had understandably raised expectations among affected communities.
“The people of Western and Choiseul provinces have demonstrated tremendous strength and resilience. The Government must stand with them until they can restore their food security and livelihoods,” he said.
Finance minister Lilo in his parliament speech had said $75 million was allocated for the Maila recovery effort.
An estimated $150 million has been raised towards the Maila recovery programme, which includes funds from GREAT government, Solomon Islands’ partners such as Australia, New Zealand, China and UK.
Island Sun earlier this week reported on the dire situation communities of Mondo and Lale in Ranongga island are facing as they wait for government to deliver on the promised relief supplies and recovery programme.
Chief of Mondo community in Ranongga, Silas Reuban told Island Sun most gardens planted after the cyclone have been unable to produce enough food to meet the needs of families.
He said the ongoing bad weather has further contributed to the difficulties faced by communities trying to restore their food gardens.
“Currently, we are surviving on the bags of rice that were distributed after the cyclone. Gardening is quite difficult at the moment due to the ongoing weather and also pest invasion,” Reuban said.
He said people in Mondo are now relying on wild taro, locally known as kakake, to supplement their food supplies.
Reuban said food distributions should continue to support communities and families that are struggling to restore their gardens and achieve food security.
Disaster Chairperson of Lale village, Billy Aqolo shared similar concerns saying some families are still struggling to put enough food on the table.
“We are slowly recovering from the disaster, but we still need food supplies to support our families,” Aqolo said.
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Australia delivers two major infrastructure projects in Solomon Islands, supporting border security, healthcare and communities In the last two weeks, I’ve witnessed something incredible happen in Solomon Islands. On Monday last week, I accompanied Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles, and Deputy Prime Minister Sade to Lofung in the Shortland Islands to open the Solomon [...]
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Honiara, Solomon Islands –Opposition Leader Hon. Manasseh Sogavare MP has welcomed the Pacific Games Special Audit Report and accepted political responsibility as the minister responsible at the time.
Hon. Sogavare said the Pacific Games remain one of Solomon Islands’ proudest national achievements, but the serious failures identified in its financial management, procurement and record-keeping must be acknowledged.
“The Pacific Games were delivered under my leadership. I remain immensely proud of what Solomon Islands achieved, and the audit findings do not erase the historic contribution of our athletes, volunteers, officials and people,” Hon. Sogavare said.
“However, I cannot claim the success of the Games while distancing myself from the serious weaknesses now exposed by the Auditor General. I was Prime Minister and minister responsible, and I accept the political responsibility that comes with that office.”
Hon. Sogavare said Solomon Islands demonstrated its ability to host thousands of athletes and visitors and successfully deliver the largest regional event ever undertaken by the country.
However, he acknowledged that the standard achieved in hosting the Games was not matched in all aspects of its financial administration.
He said the public is entitled to ask how serious failures in procurement, financial controls and record-keeping were allowed to occur under his ministerial leadership.
Hon. Sogavare said delivering a major national event involves different levels of responsibility. Ministers provide political leadership and oversight; advisers provide advice; and public officers and responsible authorities carry out administrative, financial and procurement functions in accordance with the law.
He said these different responsibilities do not remove ministerial accountability, but they are important when establishing how particular decisions were made and where administrative or legal responsibility rests.
“The Games were delivered under my ministerial watch, and I accept political responsibility for the failure of oversight. The appropriate institutions must now examine the decisions, advice and administrative actions involved and establish the full facts through evidence and due process,” he said.
Hon. Sogavare said both OUR Party-led governments, the DCGA and later the GNUT Government, had awaited the completion of the special audit. He welcomed its finalisation and tabling in Parliament.
He said any matters referred for further investigation must now be left to the institutions authorised by law to undertake that work.
He cautioned that the report must neither be buried to protect reputations nor turned into a political weapon to condemn individuals before investigations are completed.
“I will defend the decision to host the Pacific Games and the legacy it created. I will not defend the financial and procurement failures exposed by the Auditor General,” he said.
“The Games showed what Solomon Islands can achieve. This report shows where we fell short. We must confront both, establish how these failures occurred and ensure that the same weaknesses are not repeated in future major national events of this kind.”
ENDS//
– OPPOSITION PRESS
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CBSI warn low youth and women participation in SME finance and urges reforms to improve access to business funding. Honiara — The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) has raised concerns over the low participation of youth- and women-owned businesses in the country’s SME Credit Guarantee Scheme, warning that barriers to finance continue to prevent [...]
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The Education Provider (EP) for the Eastern Region of Malaita Province has clarified that incomplete documents and unreliable internet connectivity are among the reasons for delays in processing newly appointed teachers’ documents.
The clarification was made yesterday following concerns raised by several frustrated teachers who submitted their required documents to the EP office in Auki earlier this year but are still waiting to receive their salaries.
The affected teachers are newly recruited and have already started teaching at schools within the Eastern Region.
One teacher, who asked not to be named said the delay had caused frustration for teachers and their families.
She questioned why her documents had not been forwarded to the Teacher Service Division of the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD) in Honiara after being submitted months ago.
“I submitted my required documents months ago, hoping that my payment would come soon, but it never happened because my documents had not been received by the Teacher Service Division in Honiara,” she said.
The teacher said she later followed up with the EP office in Auki and was informed that her documents had not yet been sent to Honiara.
She said the office should inform teachers if their documents were incomplete or had not been forwarded.
“Our EP should inform us once our submitted documents do not meet the requirements or when they have not yet been sent to the Teacher Service Division,” she said.
However, Eastern Region Education Provider Andrew Adai said there were two main reasons why teachers’ documents could be delayed.
He said the first was incomplete documentation, which required teachers to return to the office to provide the missing documents.
“Sometimes we have to hold a teacher’s documents if they are incomplete. This is so the teacher can come and collect or provide the remaining documents,” Adai said.
He also identified internet connectivity as another challenge affecting the timely transmission of documents to Honiara.
Adai said the office normally relied on Starlink internet to send documents and emails to Honiara, but connectivity had recently become unreliable after the Starlink equipment was moved to another location.
“Another thing is the current situation we are facing with the internet service. We normally connect to our wireless Starlink, but right now it has been moved a little farther away, so sometimes when we send emails, they cannot go through,” he said.
The explanation highlights the logistical and connectivity challenges faced by the provincial education office in processing and transmitting teachers’ documents.
Meanwhile, affected teachers continue to await the processing of their documents and payment of their salaries.
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By RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
Malaita Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Michael Ramosaea says a police officer will be disciplined for allegedly spreading false information and acting beyond the responsibilities of a normal constable.
Ramosaea made the statement yesterday following a story published by this paper on Tuesday, August 25, which reported allegations that several police officers had been drinking alcohol, playing darts and playing loud music at night inside the old Auki Police Station.
The old police station is currently being renovated for use as accommodation for police officers.
The allegations raised concerns among members of the public, with calls for police officers to maintain discipline and demonstrate responsible behaviour both on and off duty.
Ramosaea said the officer had allegedly exceeded his authority and spread what he described as false information about the normal operations of the Auki Police Station.
“Yes, of course, the officer will definitely be disciplined for his behaviour and attitude in spreading false information about the police,” he said.
He said some of the information circulated by the officer was being used to justify his actions but was not supported by evidence.
Ramosaea also clarified concerns regarding the rental of a building used by the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA), saying the arrangement was approved by previous Provincial Police Commanders.
He further explained that materials, including gravel supplied by Solomon Water, and containers placed within the police compound were being used for the renovation of the old police station.
Ramosaea warned that under his leadership, any police officer found acting outside police protocols, regulations and rules would be dealt with accordingly.
He said police officers must remain accountable, follow proper procedures and maintain discipline while carrying out their duties.
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22 players named to lead Solomon Islands’ home campaign
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
SOLOMON Islands have unveiled their 22-player squad for next month’s OFC U-16 Women’s Championship, with the young side now taking shape ahead of its home campaign.
The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) announced the squad this afternoon, naming three goalkeepers, seven defenders, seven midfielders and five forwards for the September 6-19 tournament in Honiara.
The goalkeeping options are Andy Tahoa, Deborrah Fangoli and Rose Beui.
Defenders named are Junely Lau, Kate Epale, Johelcy Tohe, Lawdrina Tobani, Safiya Bako, Denika Freemen, Beverly Michael and Mulan Oihanua.
The midfield comprises Anne Bobby, Hilda Kuiseu, Zimran Niu, Jiel Saelea, Angie Ragaruma, Selly Kiriau and Lyneva Wagapu-Tuza, while Claudisha Waokea, Rose Aba, Jacinta Riola, Freda Toro Mau and Janita Ereamimae form the forward line.
Kanto Yamashita, Crystal Bakolo, Phillip Mango, Michelle Pilau, Vanessa Kausimae and Takashi Maeda have been named as team officials.
SIFF described the announcement as a proud moment for women’s football and urged local supporters to turn out behind the young players.
The hosts will open their campaign against defending champions New Zealand at the National Stadium on September 6, before facing Cook Islands and Fiji in Group A.
With the top two finishers earning qualification for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2027 in Morocco, the squad now has its opportunity to turn home advantage into a push for a place on the global stage.
The championship brings together eight teams across two groups, with the tournament concluding on September 19.
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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Wayne Ghemu, Minister for the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM) has thanked the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Chinese Embassy for their continued support and partnership with Solomon Islands, particularly in advancing renewable energy.
Mr Ghemu made the remarks on Monday 24 August during the signing ceremony for the second phase of the mini solar power project, which will extend clean energy access to the remaining 25 constituencies across the country.
He said China’s commitment to supporting renewable energy development in Solomon Islands was deeply valued, noting that the partnership would contribute to practical benefits for communities.
“First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Government of the People’s Republic of China, through Your Excellency and the Chinese Embassy, for their continued support and partnership with Solomon Islands,” Ghemu said.
He said access to clean and affordable energy would help communities reduce their reliance on expensive imported fossil fuels while providing more reliable and sustainable power.
Ghemu highlighted the wider benefits of renewable energy, saying improved access to electricity would support community services, small businesses, education, healthcare and economic opportunities.
He also stressed that addressing climate change and achieving sustainable development required collective action and strong partnerships between countries.
“No country can do it alone,” he said.
Ghemu said partnerships such as the cooperation between Solomon Islands and China provided an opportunity for countries to share knowledge, provide mutual support and work together towards building more resilient communities.
He encouraged constituencies involved in the solar project to remain committed to its successful implementation so that the benefits could reach the people it was intended to serve.
The Minister said he looked forward to seeing the positive impact of the mini solar power project on communities and the country as a whole.
Chinese Ambassador to Solomon Islands Cai Waiming also reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Solomon Islands at the ceremony.
He said cooperation between the two countries had continued to deliver tangible benefits since diplomatic relations were established in 2019.
China said it was willing to further align its development cooperation with Solomon Islands’ priorities and deepen cooperation across various fields for the benefit of both countries.
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