Siosi strike seals opening victory over PNG in Apia
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
SOLOMON ISLANDS have opened their OFC U-19 Men’s Championship campaign on a winning note after edging Papua New Guinea 1-0 in their Group A opener in Apia, Samoa, yesterday.
Wilkenson Siosi’s first-half strike proved enough for the young Bonitos to secure all three points in a tense tournament opener at the Samoa Football HQ – Field 1.
Siosi striking the ball in an attacking duel. Picture OFC Media.
The official OFC match report confirmed that Siosi broke the deadlock in the 16th minute, with Solomon Islands holding on to their narrow advantage through the remainder of the match.
Solomon Islands started brightly and applied early pressure on the PNG defence, with captain Jayroll Patty coming close to opening the scoring from a free-kick in the third minute when his effort struck the post.
The pressure eventually paid off as Siosi found the breakthrough, with Patty playing an important role in the build-up before Siosi finished to give Solomon Islands a 1-0 lead.
PNG responded and gradually began to threaten, particularly towards the end of the first half, but the Solomon Islands defence stood firm to take the lead into the break.
Captain Jayroll Patty in action. Picture OFC Media.
The second half saw PNG increase the pressure in search of an equaliser, forcing the Solomon Islands defence and goalkeeper Jaron Faiga to work hard to protect the advantage.
Faiga produced a composed performance between the posts as PNG threatened around the Solomon Islands penalty area, while the backline repeatedly cleared the danger.
Solomon Islands were also dealt a setback when captain Patty was withdrawn in the 70th minute, with George Ray coming on as his replacement.
Solomon Islands U-19 players celebrate after Wilkenson Siosi’s opening goal against Papua New Guinea during their OFC U-19 Championship Group A match in Apia, Samoa, yesterday. Photo OFC Media.
Two minutes later, PNG were reduced to 10 men when centre-back Bomecge Basananuc was shown a red card for unsporting behaviour.
Despite the numerical advantage, Solomon Islands still had to remain disciplined as PNG continued to search for a way back into the match.
The Bonitos survived the late pressure, including a dangerous PNG effort in the closing stages, before holding on for the final whistle and a valuable opening victory.
The result gives Solomon Islands a perfect start to their Group A campaign and early momentum as they continue their bid for a strong finish at the OFC U-19 Championship.
Head coach Franco Ne’e and his young squad will now turn their attention to their next Group A assignment, with the opening win providing an important foundation for the campaign.
Solomon Islands U-19 head coach Franco Ne gives instructions from the sideline during yesterday’s OFC U-19 Championship Group A opener against Papua New Guinea in Apia, Samoa. Photo OFC Media.
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By Agnes Menanopo
The Ministry of Finance and Treasury, through its Inland Revenue Division, is holding a Tax Policy Work Programme Consultation this week at the Heritage Park Hotel.
The consultation provides the Government with an opportunity to outline its tax policy priorities and planned reforms, while giving stakeholders a clearer understanding of the process and direction of its tax policy work.
Speaking at the opening of the consultation today, Minister of Finance Gordon Darcy Lilo said the programme is aimed at providing greater transparency around the GREAT Government’s tax policy priorities and planned reforms.
He said the consultation would also allow stakeholders to better understand the Government’s tax policy direction and the work involved in implementing reforms.
“This is important because tax policy does not sit within one part of the Government.
“The policy work needs to consider both the revenue objectives of the Government and the wider economic environment. Inland Revenue also has an important role in ensuring that policies can be administered effectively and that taxpayers receive the information and support they need,” Lilo said.
Minister Lilo said one of the most significant reforms under the Government’s tax reform programme is the introduction of Value Added Tax, or VAT.
“The Government has made its policy decision on VAT. The fundamental design of the VAT regime has been settled.
“Today is therefore not about reopening that decision or asking stakeholders whether Solomon Islands should introduce VAT,” he said.
Lilo said businesses would need to prepare for VAT registration, invoicing, record keeping, and the charging and reporting of VAT, as well as claiming legitimate input tax credits.
He stressed that education and awareness would be critical to a successful transition to VAT.
“We do not want businesses to reach implementation day and discover that they do not understand their obligations.
“We want businesses to have time to prepare, time to make changes to their accounting and invoicing systems, time to train their staff, and time to ask questions,” he said.
The Minister said the Government is committed to starting the education and communication process early, with the current consultation forming part of that process.
He added that further information, guidance, workshops and stakeholder consultations would be provided as the Government moves towards VAT implementation.
Lilo encouraged businesses and other stakeholders to participate in the upcoming activities and begin preparing for the transition.
[end]
The post Government outlines Tax Reform priorities, VAT preparation first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
By Agnes Menanopo
Minister of Finance and Treasury and Central Honiara MP, Hon. Gordon Darcy Lilo has defended Solomon Islands’ democratic system, calling on citizens and the media to exercise freedom of expression responsibly and respect the rule of law.
Lilo told the media today that Solomon Islands has a robust political system and that democracy continues to operate openly and fairly.
“But at the same time, you have that freedom of expression that you have, but express it in a very responsible way,” he said.
Lilo was also asked about reports linking him to the resignations of three ministers, but rejected suggestions that he was a key player behind the developments.
He criticised what he described as irresponsible reporting by sections of the media.
“I want to say to the media that it is so irresponsible. That bit of that article and how you generate an issue out of it is absolutely irresponsible,” he said.
“I want to say to you, go and correct yourself and then get things right.”
Lilo said the country’s democratic system remains strong and urged the media to respect the political process.
Asked what the GREAT Coalition Government would do following the resignation of the three ministers, he said the process should be allowed to take its course.
He described political change as part of a fluid democracy and said Solomon Islands’ developing political party system would continue to evolve.
Lilo also stressed the importance of responsibility among politicians, the media and the public.
“I think that’s the key message: responsibility, irresponsibility and shared responsibility,” he said.
[end]
The post Lilo defends Solomon Islands democracy, urges responsible use of free speech first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Two new books exploring Christian faith, spiritual experience and the search for a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ were officially launched at Qaleli Zelepade, Kindu, Munda, on Sunday, August 23.
According to a press release by J. D. Tausinga, the books Souls in the Desert of Hopelessness and Notebook to Heaven were officially launched by the author and publisher, J. D. Tausinga, Head of the Christian Fellowship Church (CFC), during a combined gathering of the United Church and the Christian Fellowship Church.
The homily and dedication for the books were conducted by United Church ministers Reverend Hillary Bero and Reverend Wilson Agiri.
The launch brought together members and supporters of both church communities for a time of fellowship, prayer and celebration.
The two publications share a central message focused on the Christian journey as a search for Jesus Christ and a deeper experience of His presence through the Holy Spirit.
Souls in the Desert of Hopelessness challenges Christian teachers, preachers, pastors, scholars and spiritual leaders to go beyond simply imparting knowledge about Jesus.
The book encourages Christian leaders to guide people towards a personal encounter and experience with Christ.
It poses a central question to readers: “Are we teaching about Jesus, or are we leading people to experience Him?”
Meanwhile, Notebook to Heaven documents the life and spiritual journey of the late Silas Eto, who was known spiritually as Holy Mama, and his search to know Jesus.
The book explores Eto’s spiritual and theological reflections while preserving what the author describes as an important part of Christian history and spiritual experience in Solomon Islands.
Together, the two books encourage readers to move from knowledge to encounter, and from encounter to transformation, with Jesus at the centre of the Christian journey.
Tausinga said the publications were written to strengthen faith, preserve spiritual history and encourage people to seek Jesus more deeply.
The books are also available to readers outside Solomon Islands through major international online bookstore platforms, allowing their messages and the spiritual history they preserve to reach an international audience.
Royalties from the two books, together with royalties from Tausinga’s other published works, will support the J. D. Tausinga Charity Foundation Trust.
The Trust is currently undergoing incorporation under the Charitable Trusts Act of Solomon Islands and is committed to serving humanity through education, leadership and compassion.
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作者:道格拉斯·瓦希亚
两本探讨基督教信仰、灵性体验以及与耶稣基督建立更深关系的新书于8月23日星期日在蒙达的Qaleli Zelepade正式发布。
根据J. D. Tausinga的新闻稿,这两本书《绝望沙漠中的灵魂》(Souls in the Desert of Hopelessness)和《通往天堂的笔记本》(Notebook to Heaven)由作者兼出版人J. D. Tausinga(基督教联谊教会(CFC)负责人)在联合教会和基督教联谊教会的联合聚会上正式发布。
联合教会的牧师希拉里·贝罗(Reverend Hillary Bero)和威尔逊·阿吉里(Reverend Wilson Agiri)为这两本书进行了讲道和献书仪式。
此次发布会将两个教会社区的成员和支持者聚集在一起,进行联谊、祷告和庆祝。
这两本书传达了一个核心信息,聚焦于基督教旅程作为对耶稣基督的追寻,以及通过圣灵体验到更深的存在。
《绝望沙漠中的灵魂》挑战基督教教师、传道者、牧师、学者和灵性领袖超越单纯传授关于耶稣的知识。
该书鼓励基督教领袖引导人们与基督进行个人的相遇和体验。
它向读者提出一个核心问题:“我们是在教导耶稣,还是在引导人们去体验他?”
与此同时,《通往天堂的笔记本》记录了已故的西拉斯·埃托(Silas Eto)的生活和灵性旅程,他在灵性上被称为“圣母”(Holy Mama),以及他对认识耶稣的追寻。
该书探讨了埃托的灵性和神学反思,同时保留了作者所描述的所罗门群岛基督教历史和灵性体验的重要部分。
这两本书共同鼓励读者从知识走向相遇,从相遇走向转变,以耶稣为基督教旅程的中心。
Tausinga表示,这些出版物旨在增强信仰、保留灵性历史,并鼓励人们更深入地寻求耶稣。
这些书籍也通过主要国际在线书店平台向所罗门群岛以外的读者提供,使其信息和所保留的灵性历史能够传达给国际观众。
这两本书的版税,以及Tausinga其他出版作品的版税,将支持J. D. Tausinga慈善基金会信托。
该信托目前正在根据所罗门群岛的慈善信托法进行注册,致力于通过教育、领导力和同情心服务人类。
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The Official Parliamentary Opposition has firmly rejected rumors suggesting several of its members are planning to defect to the governing...
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NZ Foreign Minister Winston Peters calls PM Wale’s early departure from the Pacific Forum a setback amid Solomon Islands’ crisis. New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters says Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s decision to return to Solomon Islands has been a “setback” for the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau. Speaking to reporters in Koror, [...]
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BY NED GAGAHE
BUSINESSES have been urged to start preparing now for the introduction of Value Added Tax (VAT), with Minister of Finance and Treasury Gordon Darcy Lilo warning that preparation cannot be left until implementation day.
Lilo made the call this morning while opening the formal Tax Policy Work Programme consultation at Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara.
Addressing representatives from the private sector, business community, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), accounting profession and other stakeholders, the Minister said businesses would need sufficient time to understand and meet their new obligations under the VAT system.
The consultation brought together representatives from the private sector, business community, NGOs, accounting profession and other stakeholders to discuss the Government’s tax policy this morning at Heritage Park Hotel. Photo Ned Gagahe.
He said VAT would bring significant changes to the country’s tax system and businesses must begin preparing well ahead of implementation.
“Businesses will need to prepare for requirements relating to VAT registration, invoicing, record keeping, the charging and reporting of VAT, and the claiming of legitimate input tax credits,” Lilo said.
He stressed that businesses should not wait until the last minute before taking action.
“This preparation cannot be left until the last minute,” he warned.
Lilo said businesses would need time to make changes to their accounting and invoicing systems, train their staff and seek answers to questions about their VAT responsibilities.
He said the Government was committed to starting the education and communication process early to help businesses understand what would be required of them.
“There will be further information, guidance, workshops and stakeholder engagement as we move towards implementation,” he said.
Lilo encouraged businesses and other stakeholders to actively participate in the Government’s education and consultation activities and to begin their own preparations now.
He said successful VAT implementation would require cooperation between Government agencies, businesses, professional advisers and the wider community.
“VAT will require preparation, and preparation is a shared responsibility,” Lilo said.
The Minister also clarified that the Government had already made its policy decision to introduce VAT, with the fundamental design of the regime settled.
He said the current focus was therefore on education, preparedness and implementation rather than reopening the policy decision on whether Solomon Islands should introduce VAT.
The Inland Revenue Division will be responsible for preparing the administration of the VAT system, including training staff, developing systems and procedures, issuing guidance and registering taxpayers.
Lilo said the Economic Development Division would also assess the broader economic implications of the reform and ensure VAT implementation supports the Government’s economic and fiscal objectives.
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BY NED GAGAHE
THE Government has made its decision to introduce Value Added Tax (VAT), and the policy decision will not be reopened, Minister of Finance and Treasury Gordon Darcy Lilo has declared.
Lilo made the declaration today morning while opening the formal Tax Policy Work Programme consultation at Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara.
The tax policy work programme consultation yesterday. Photo Ned Gagahe.
The consultation brought together representatives from the private sector, business community, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), accounting profession and other stakeholders to discuss the Government’s tax policy programme.
However, Lilo made it clear that the consultation was not an opportunity to debate whether Solomon Islands should introduce VAT.
“The Government has made its policy decision on VAT. The fundamental design of the VAT regime has been settled,” he said.
Lilo said the focus must now shift to understanding the VAT Bill and ensuring businesses and taxpayers are properly prepared for its implementation.
He said VAT would represent a significant change to the country’s tax system and businesses would need to prepare for new requirements covering VAT registration, invoicing, record keeping, charging and reporting of VAT, as well as claiming legitimate input tax credits.
“This preparation cannot be left until the last minute,” Lilo warned.
He said businesses must be given enough time to make necessary changes to their accounting and invoicing systems, train staff and seek clarification on their obligations.
Lilo said the Government was committed to starting the education and communication process early, with further information, guidance, workshops and stakeholder engagement to be provided as implementation approaches.
He also stressed that VAT was not simply an Inland Revenue reform but a whole-of-Government reform requiring cooperation between Government agencies, businesses, professional advisers and the wider community.
The Minister said the Inland Revenue Division would be responsible for preparing the administration of the VAT system, including staff training, systems and procedures, taxpayer registration and issuing guidance.
The Economic Development Division would also play a role in assessing the wider economic implications of the reform and ensuring VAT implementation supports the Government’s economic and fiscal objectives.
Lilo said the wider Tax Policy Work Programme contained reforms at different stages, with some still requiring further policy analysis and consultation.
However, where Government had already made a policy decision, he said the focus should now be on implementation, preparedness and compliance.
He said the GREAT Government’s broader objective was to build a tax system that was more transparent, predictable and understandable while strengthening domestic revenue mobilisation and improving compliance.
“Our objective is not simply to introduce new taxes,” Lilo said.
“Our objective is to build a stronger, fairer and more sustainable tax system that supports domestic revenue mobilisation, improves compliance and provides Government with the resources needed to deliver essential services and pursue our national development priorities.”
He said VAT was an important part of that reform and called on Government, businesses and taxpayers to work together to ensure a successful transition.
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Solomon Islands Opposition rejects rumours of MPs defecting to Government, reaffirming unity, discipline and commitment. The Official Parliamentary Opposition categorically dismisses as baseless and politically motivated the rumours circulating that a number of its Members of Parliament have been won over to support the GREAT Coalition Government.& These rumours are nothing more than political speculation [...]
The post OFFICIAL OPPOSITION DISMISSES RUMOURS OF MEMBERS CROSSING OVER TO GREAT COALITION appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
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The Parliamentary Opposition strongly condemns Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s shocking decision to abandon the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting in Palau just hours after arriving, in order to rush back to Solomon Islands to confront a leadership crisis of his own making.
The Prime Minister’s abrupt departure from this important regional meeting is a serious embarrassment for Solomon Islands and raises fundamental questions about the stability, judgment and priorities of the GREAT Coalition Government.
As the outgoing Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, the Prime Minister has a responsibility to provide leadership, represent Solomon Islands with dignity and participate fully in discussions on issues of vital importance to the Pacific region.
Instead, the Prime Minister has been forced to leave the regional leaders’ meeting prematurely because his Government is facing a major political crisis at home.
Home Affairs Minister Fr. Hon. Manasseh Maelanga MP, filed a motion of no confidence against the Prime Minister, over what he described as a fundamental breakdown of confidence in the leadership and decision-making style of Prime Minister Hon. Mathew Wale.
This is not simply a political disagreement. It is a profound leadership failure by Prime Minister Wale.
The Opposition Leader, Hon. Manasseh Sogavare MP, reminds Prime Minister Wale that amid heightened political uncertainty at home in January of this year, Prime Minister Manele travelled to Brisbane, Australia, where he committed himself to the full duration of the Pacific Islands Forum Troika meeting while facing a No Confidence Motion against his leadership at home.
As Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, Manele joined the first in-person Troika meeting of 2026 alongside incoming Forum Chair and President of Palau, His Excellency Surangel Whipps.
The meeting reaffirmed the Forum leaders’ shared commitment to regional unity, solidarity and collective leadership at a time of heightened global uncertainty, with Manele’s participation underscoring his continued engagement in regional affairs despite the political challenge to his leadership at home.
Prime Minister Wale, by contrast, has been compelled to abandon an important regional commitment because his political house is unstable.
The Opposition adds, if a serving senior minister can move a motion of no confidence against his own Prime Minister within three months of the Government taking office, then the Prime Minister must accept that there is a serious breakdown of trust and confidence in his leadership.
The Opposition will continue to stand firmly for accountability, transparency, responsible leadership and the national interest.
At a time when our country should be demonstrating stability, maturity and strong leadership in the Pacific, PM Wale has regrettably presented the Pacific Islands region with a picture of political uncertainty and division.
[end]
Opposition statement
The post Opposition: Prime Minister Wale’s shock departure from PIFLM, a national embarrassment first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) conducted a Gender, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) training for its staff at the Heritage Park Hotel on Monday.
A statement from MFMR said the ministry hopes the training will increase existing GEDSI knowledge and GEDSI application skills for MFMR staff across key divisions.
It said, key GEDSI knowledge will include key issues and findings from recent research, namely the Solomon Islands gender and fisheries fact sheet, published in 2026.
Key GEDSI skills will focus on GEDSI analysis.
Human rights in fisheries content will be included for a broader people-centred and human-rights-based lens.
The workshop also aims to socialise key policy statements, objectives and corresponding outputs, targets and indicators including the implementation plan for the MFMR GEDSI Strategy to ensure MFMR staff are aware and familiar with the strategy and know their roles, responsibilities and timeline to implement the strategy.
BY BEN BILUA
In Jejevo
THE 18th Synod of the Diocese of Ysabel (DOY) has entered its third day with a number of reports, motions, resolutions and proposed changes to the administration and structure of the diocese.
Day three began with a Holy Eucharist led by Reverend Hudson Norman, followed by breakfast before delegates proceeded to the main synod session.
The session is being presided over by the Chair of the 18th Synod, Bishop Christopher Hope Fihu.
Also present during the synod session is a legal team from Whitlam K Togamae Lawyers providing legal advice.
The first business includes confirmation of the minutes from day two, followed by a call for questions, motions, reports, resolutions and bills.
A number of reports are scheduled to be presented during the session.
These include reports from the Senior Priest of Zamako, Senior Priest of the Gaoma Region, Senior Priest of Lawela and Senior Priest of Tuvano.
The Mission Secretary and Evangelist Coordinator are also expected to present their respective reports.
Reports from the Sunday School and Youth and the Mother Union are also part of the day’s agenda.
Among the key matters before the Synod is Motion One, concerning the Strategic Plan of the Diocese of Ysabel.
The Synod is also expected to consider the work of the Strategic Plan Draft Committee established for 2026.
Other matters on the agenda include the proposed establishment of a Reconciliation Office and the re-appointment of the Diocesan Cathedral Working Committee for 2026.
The Synod will also consider the recruitment of an Education Secretary as part of strengthening the diocese’s administrative and education work.
A proposal to establish a Western Region within the Diocese of Ysabel is also before the Synod.
Another significant proposal is for St Peter Church at Noro to become a standalone parish.
The proposals and reports are expected to provide delegates with an opportunity to assess the current work of the diocese and consider priorities for its future ministry.
The 18th Synod brings together clergy, church leaders and representatives to deliberate on matters affecting the Diocese of Ysabel and its ministry.
The deliberations continue as the Synod works through its agenda and considers the proposed motions, reports and resolutions.
BY BEN BILUA
In Jejevo
THE General Secretary of the Church of Melanesia, Andrain Toni, has called on the clergy to take greater responsibility in building a resilient Church for future generations.
Speaking during the 18th Synod of the Diocese of Ysabel, Toni said the diocese appeared to be relatively well resourced for its present ministry demands, but stressed that resilience required responsible stewardship of the Church’s people and resources.
He said a resilient Church was one that used its people and resources wisely while ensuring that its foundation remained firmly rooted in Jesus Christ.
“A resilient diocese is one that remains standing because its foundation is in Jesus Christ,” Toni said.
He challenged clergy and Church leaders to look beyond the present and consider what they were building for generations to come.
“The challenge today is whether we are building something equally strong for the generation coming after us,” he said.
Toni noted that the Diocese of Ysabel became a diocese in 1975 and has now reached its 50-year milestone.
For five decades, he said, the diocese had administered the affairs of the Anglican Church of Melanesia across Isabel, Western and Choiseul provinces, as well as the Russell Islands.
He said the anniversary provided an opportunity for the diocese to reflect on its history while also considering its responsibilities for the future.
According to Toni, the Diocese of Ysabel currently has 72 active priests, eight administrative staff, four zones, 31 parishes and 181 vestries.
The diocese serves more than 33,000 people, based on figures from the 2019 census.
Toni said the size and reach of the diocese demonstrated the importance of responsible leadership and stewardship of its human and material resources.
He also described the Synod as an important time for clergy and Church leaders to come together to seek God’s plan and divine wisdom for the Diocese of Ysabel.
Toni urged participants to use the Synod not only to discuss the challenges facing the diocese, but also to discern ways of strengthening its ministry and ensuring that the Church remained resilient.
He said the future strength of the diocese would depend on the decisions being made by its leaders today and their commitment to building a Church that could continue serving its people for generations to come.
作者:本·比卢亚
在杰杰沃
美拉尼西亚教会(Church of Melanesia)总干事安德雷恩·托尼(Andrain Toni)呼吁神职人员在为未来世代建设有韧性的教会方面承担更大的责任。
托尼在伊萨贝尔教区(Diocese of Ysabel)第18届主教会议上发言时表示,该教区目前在满足现有事工需求方面资源相对充足,但强调韧性需要对教会的人员和资源进行负责任的管理。
他说,一个有韧性的教会是明智地使用其人员和资源,同时确保其基础牢牢扎根于耶稣基督之中。
“一个有韧性的教区是因为其基础在耶稣基督之上而屹立不倒,”托尼说。
他挑战神职人员和教会领导者超越当前,考虑他们为未来世代所建设的内容。
“今天的挑战是我们是否在为后来的世代建设同样强大的东西,”他说。
托尼指出,伊萨贝尔教区于1975年成为教区,现在已迈入50周年里程碑。
他表示,五十年来,该教区管理着美拉尼西亚圣公会(Anglican Church of Melanesia)在伊萨贝尔、西部和乔伊索尔省以及拉塞尔群岛的事务。
他说,周年纪念为教区提供了反思历史的机会,同时也考虑未来的责任。
根据托尼的说法,伊萨贝尔教区目前有72名在职牧师、8名行政人员、4个区域、31个教区和181个教堂。
根据2019年的人口普查数据,该教区服务于超过33,000人。
托尼表示,教区的规模和覆盖面展示了对人力和物质资源进行负责任领导和管理的重要性。
他还将主教会议描述为神职人员和教会领导者共同寻求上帝计划和神圣智慧的重要时刻。
托尼呼吁与会者利用主教会议不仅讨论教区面临的挑战,还要探讨加强其事工和确保教会保持韧性的方法。
他说,教区未来的力量将取决于其领导者今天所做的决定以及他们对建设一个能够继续为其人民服务的教会的承诺。
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Thirty-one members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) have arrived in Solomon Islands to participate in the second iteration of Exercise Coastwatchers for 2026.
The ADF personnel arrived on Saturday, August 29, with the joint exercise between the ADF and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) commencing on Monday, a statement by the Australian High Commission (AHC) yesterday said.
Exercise Coastwatchers is the premier training activity between the two forces and is designed to strengthen the sovereign policing capacity of the RSIPF, AHC said.
The exercise is jointly developed by the ADF and RSIPF and responds directly to the needs of the Solomon Islands Government and the police force.
Training during the latest exercise will be conducted both in Honiara and in several provinces, covering a range of specialised skills aimed at strengthening the RSIPF’s operational capabilities and developing future trainers within the force.
The latest iteration will build on knowledge and skills gained during previous Coastwatchers exercises, with participants undertaking more advanced and complex scenarios.
The training is designed to enable participants to plan, lead and deliver training in support of policing operations across Solomon Islands.
One of the key components is the Advanced Small Boats course, which will cover areas including small-boat maintenance and advanced navigation.
Participants will deploy to several provinces as part of the course, progressively developing the skills required to serve as small-boat handlers, instructors and, eventually, team leaders.
Following the opening of the Western Border Outpost (WBO ) , the ADF will also provide additional training to RSIPF personnel in the use of high-specification Parrot drones.
The drone training will support the RSIPF’s border surveillance activities from the WBO.
Other components of the exercise include advanced medical training, administration, vehicle maintenance and logistics.
The medical training will equip police personnel with skills to respond to emergencies and provide vital first aid, while the administration course will strengthen capabilities in records management and organisational processes.
Vehicle maintenance and logistics training will also focus on improving efficiency, extending the operational lifespan of RSIPF vehicles and ensuring equipment reaches officers where and when it is required.
Australia’s Acting Defence Adviser to Solomon Islands, Brett Verity, said Exercise Coastwatchers demonstrated the strength of the security partnership between Australia and Solomon Islands.
“Exercise Coastwatchers is an important training activity we conduct in Solomon Islands which delivers practical skills that support the RSIPF in its day-to-day operations and long-term capability development,” Mr Verity said.
He said the exercise reflected Australia’s commitment to working with Solomon Islands to build capability and strengthen relationships.
“Most importantly, Exercise Coastwatchers is building the capability of the RSIPF to protect the people, resources, and security of Solomon Islands,” he said.
Verity added that the ADF personnel participating in the exercise were looking forward to returning to Solomon Islands and training alongside their RSIPF counterparts.
He said the exercise also provided an opportunity for both organisations to share skills and culture.
Exercise Coastwatchers will run from August 31 to September 23.
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Water supply from the Kongulai water source has been restored, Solomon Water has confirmed.
The restoration was completed at about 6pm on Monday following an interruption to the supply.
However, customers in Tasahe, Titinge, Skyline, West Kola Ridge and East Kola Ridge have been advised that it could take up to 48 hours for the water supply system in these areas to fully recover.
Solomon Water said customers who continue to experience no water or low water pressure after 48 hours should contact the utility on 44700.
Customers can also send a message through Solomon Water’s Messenger service, providing their water meter account number and contact details to assist with follow-up.
Meanwhile, the Kombito water source remains closed due to high turbidity.
Solomon Water has apologised for the inconvenience caused and thanked customers for their patience and understanding.
The utility has also issued a boil-water advisory for customers who are receiving water.
Customers are advised to boil all water before using it for drinking, food preparation, cooking and consumption.
The boil-water advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
Solomon Water is urging customers to continue following the advisory until further notice is issued confirming that the water is safe for consumption.
作者:道格拉斯·瓦希亚
孔古莱水源的供水已恢复,所罗门水务公司(Solomon Water)确认。
供水恢复工作于周一下午6点左右完成,此前供水中断。
然而,塔萨赫(Tasahe)、提廷格(Titinge)、天际线(Skyline)、西科拉岭(West Kola Ridge)和东科拉岭(East Kola Ridge)的客户被告知,这些地区的供水系统可能需要长达48小时才能完全恢复。
所罗门水务公司表示,若客户在48小时后仍然没有水或水压低,应拨打44700联系公用事业公司。
客户也可以通过所罗门水务公司的Messenger服务发送消息,提供他们的水表账户号码和联系方式,以便后续跟进。
与此同时,因浊度过高,康比托水源(Kombito)仍然关闭。
所罗门水务公司对造成的不便表示歉意,并感谢客户的耐心和理解。
该公司还向正在接收水的客户发布了煮水建议。
客户被建议在饮用、食品准备、烹饪和消费之前,先将所有水煮沸。
煮水建议将持续有效,直至另行通知。
所罗门水务公司呼吁客户继续遵循该建议,直到另行通知确认水安全可供饮用。
By RODRICK DESURI
Auki
Nurses serving at Sinamauri Rural Health Centre (RHC) in West Kwaio, Malaita Province, have applauded UNICEF and the Australian Government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), for improving facilities at the clinic.
The nurses expressed their appreciation during a short tour of the facility with officials following the handover ceremony yesterday afternoon.
UNICEF supported the successful installation of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system, while the Australian Government supported the construction of a staff house.
The improvements are expected to strengthen primary healthcare services at the rural facility through sustainable and climate-resilient solutions.
One of the nurses, Maxwell Oloisae said the new facilities would greatly support their work, particularly during night operations and emergencies.
“For sure, it really helps and supports our services. For the past few days that we have had the lights, it has helped us attend to patients and carry out our work smoothly and successfully without hindrance,” he said.
“This is much better than before, when we had to use a torch during the night to check patients and attend to emergency cases.”
Mercy Suarana, a female nurse responsible for assisting mothers during deliveries, said the solar power had addressed a long-standing challenge faced by the clinic when mothers arrived for delivery at night.
“This is much better than before. We now have lights if a mother goes into labour at night, and we can also preserve medicines that require power because we now have electricity.
“Even though we still use our old delivery room, essential services are now available and operational. Before, we had to rely on the torch on our mobile phones,” Suarana said.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Health and Medical Services representative and Director of Kilu’ufi Hospital, Dr David Danitofea urged the community and surrounding communities to take ownership of the improved facilities.
He said the facilities should be properly maintained and protected so they could continue serving the people of Sinamauri and surrounding communities for many years and benefit future generations.
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) has raised serious concerns over the recent police questioning of investigative journalist Gina Maka’a and the search of her workplace in Honiara.
MASI in a statement on Sunday said the actions by the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) raised questions about due process, press freedom and the safety of journalists carrying out their work.
MASI acknowledged the police mandate to investigate alleged offences but said such investigations must be conducted in accordance with legal procedures and with respect for the constitutional protections afforded to the media.
The association was particularly concerned about attempts to obtain confidential journalistic information, the seizure of work materials and the search of media premises.
MASI said these concerns were heightened by what it described as incorrect details contained in the search warrant.
“Journalists play an essential role in a democratic society. Their work informs the public, strengthens accountability, and supports transparency in matters of national interest. Any attempt to force a journalist to reveal confidential sources, seize work materials, or search media premises particularly under a warrant containing incorrect details risks undermining these democratic principles and may create an alarming effect on legitimate investigative reporting,” MASI said.
It warned that actions involving journalists, particularly attempts to force disclosure of confidential sources, could have a chilling effect on legitimate investigative reporting.
MASI said protection of confidential sources was a cornerstone of ethical journalism because it allows whistleblowers to come forward with information on matters of public interest.
“Pressuring journalists to disclose sources weakens public trust, discourages transparency, and threatens the integrity of the media sector,” the association said.
However, MASI said it also recognised the responsibility of law enforcement agencies to conduct investigations.
It called for police investigations involving journalists and media organisations to be carried out with greater sensitivity to the role of the media and strict adherence to legal and constitutional protections.
The association said issues involving mistaken identities, incorrect warrants and attempts to seize personal devices without a clear legal basis highlighted the need for stronger coordination between police and media organisations.
MASI is now calling for greater clarity and transparency in how police engage with journalists and media organisations.
It said authorities must ensure investigative actions involving media workers follow proper legal procedures and respect constitutional freedoms.
The association also called for confidential sources to be protected and encouraged greater dialogue between the RSIPF and media stakeholders to prevent similar incidents.
Looking ahead, MASI said it would consider developing a formal police-media engagement framework, advocating for a review of the Whistleblowers Protection Act 2018, and establishing a rapid-response system to provide legal advice and representation to journalists facing legal pressure.
It also plans to promote greater public awareness of press freedom and investigative journalism, while engaging Pacific and international press freedom organisations for additional support and protection for Solomon Islands journalists.
MASI said it stood with journalists and media organisations continuing to report on matters of public interest.
“A strong, independent media is not an obstacle to national development; it is one of its foundations,” the association said.
Meanwhile, the RSIPF, in a statement issued over the weekend said the search warrant served on Ms Maka’a was intended to obtain information relevant to an ongoing investigation and not to force the disclosure of a reporter’s source.
Police acknowledged an administrative error in the name stated on the warrant when it was executed, saying measures would be put in place to prevent a similar occurrence.
The RSIPF said it respects the work of media professionals but noted that search warrants can be used to obtain information for investigations and prosecutions.
The RSIPF said the case file has now been referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions for legal advice.
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Solomon Islands and Japan have reaffirmed their longstanding friendship and commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation across key development and strategic areas.
The commitment was reaffirmed during a bilateral meeting between Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Rick Houenipwela, Minister of National Planning and Development Coordination Peter Kenilorea Jr, and Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs Iwao Horii on the margins of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Koror, Palau, a statement by the PM Press Secretariat today said.
Mr Houenipwela welcomed Japan’s continued support to Solomon Islands, saying the new Government was focused on re-engaging with traditional partners, with Japan remaining an important longstanding friend and development partner.
The meeting covered cooperation in education, infrastructure, aviation and sports, as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest.
Minister Horii reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting Solomon Islands’ development priorities and said Japanese experts would continue working with relevant Solomon Islands authorities, including through the country’s education task force.
Aviation infrastructure was also highlighted, with Japan expressing its willingness to explore areas of support, including airport infrastructure and terminal development.
Mr Kenilorea stressed the importance of airports to Solomon Islands’ long-term economic development, national connectivity and resilience.
He said the Government was looking at developing airport infrastructure capable of meeting the country’s needs over the next 30 years.
This includes improvements to airport terminals, runways and, where required, aircraft parking facilities.
The two sides also welcomed Japan’s support for football development in Solomon Islands, including the recent donation of footballs to the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF).
Discussions also explored opportunities for Japanese technical expertise to support coaching and further develop football in Solomon Islands.
Regional cooperation was another key focus, including Japan’s engagement with the Pacific through the Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM) process.
Horii sought Solomon Islands’ support for Japan’s participation in the evolving regional architecture and highlighted Japan’s interest in being recognised as a Strategic Partner.
The two sides also exchanged views on regional peace and security, including developments affecting the Pacific Ocean.
Japan emphasised the importance of maintaining the Pacific as an “Ocean of Peace” and keeping dialogue and communication open among countries.
Kenilorea reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ longstanding friendship with Japan and said the Government looked forward to deeper engagement and practical cooperation.
Both sides agreed to maintain close communication and continue working together to strengthen the Solomon Islands-Japan partnership and deliver tangible development outcomes for the people of Solomon Islands.
BY TONY IROGA
Solomon Islands and the World Bank have discussed ways to improve energy security and lower the high cost of electricity in the country.
The discussions were held on Sunday, August 30, on the margins of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Koror, Palau.
Foreign Affairs and External Trade Minister Rick Houenipwela and National Planning and Development Coordination Minister Peter Kenilorea Jr met with World Bank Regional Vice President Felipe Jaramillo, a statement by the PM Press Secretariat today said.
The meeting focused on fuel prices, electricity costs and reforms needed to make the country’s energy sector more efficient and affordable.
Lowering electricity costs remains one of Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s key priorities under the GREAT Coalition Government, the statement said.
It said high energy costs are placing pressure on households and businesses and are also holding back economic growth.
Mr Houenipwela told the World Bank that Pacific Island countries need to work together to reduce the costs associated with transporting fuel from Singapore, including freight, transport and insurance costs.
This regional approach would complement efforts being made at the national level to reduce fuel and electricity prices.
Government also outlined its plans to increase the use of renewable energy, particularly through a mix of solar and hydropower.
Another key issue discussed was the possibility of Solomon Islands developing its own fuel storage facility.
The facility could potentially serve not only Solomon Islands but also as a regional fuel storage facility.
The World Bank has indicated that it is willing to undertake analytical work to assess the concept.
Mr Jaramillo welcomed the Government’s initiatives and outlined possible World Bank support ranging from short-term measures to medium- and long-term assistance.
This could include support for fuel storage investment and renewable energy development.
The World Bank also reaffirmed its continued support for the Tina River Hydropower Project.
The project is expected to provide reliable baseload electricity while reducing Solomon Islands’ dependence on imported fuel.
The World Bank has also been working with the Government to advocate for US$35 million in financing from the Green Climate Fund.
The two sides agreed to continue working together on practical measures to reduce electricity costs, strengthen energy security and support the country’s long-term economic development.
By Ben McKay of AAP in Koror, Palau China has promised “consequences” for Taiwan’s presence at the Pacific Islands Forum...
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