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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Government and CBSI relaunch SME Credit Guarantee Scheme to expand finance access and support businesses across Solomon Islands. HONIARA, 27th August 2026—& Solomon Islands Government today officially reopened the Small and Medium Enterprises Credit Guarantee Scheme (SMECGS), marking a renewed commitment to improving access to finance for micro small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the [...]
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BY TONY IROGA
Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) has called on government, the National Hosting Authority (NHA) and other responsible authorities to publicly address the Auditor General’s special audit findings into the unlawful expenditure and procurements of the Pacific Games 2023.
TSI highlighted $118.29 million which was spent on two facilities – $84.29 million for the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) complex and $34 million for the Sports Legacy House – without an approved budget.
In a statement yesterday, TSI said the 2023 Pacific Games were a proud moment for Solomon Islands, but that national pride should not prevent proper scrutiny of how public funds were spent.
“This is not about undermining athletes or communities – it is about protecting taxpayers’ money and the trust of Solomon Islanders,” TSI said.
TSI said the Auditor General’s findings had highlighted serious weaknesses, including unlawful expenditure authority, procurement breaches, poor record-keeping, lack of competition and failures in due diligence.
TSI pointed to the High Court’s finding that expenditure through the Sports Solomon Fund breached sections 25, 57 and 60 of the Public Financial Management Act 2013.
The court also ruled that the NHA’s blanket waiver of competitive tendering was unlawful, TSI said.
TSI also questioned the amount paid for the Sports Legacy House and is demanding that the NHA release the valuation report used to determine the property’s $34 million price tag.
The organisation asked: “How many properties in the vicinity of this property were sold for the amount that taxpayers paid for this Sports Legacy House, the sum of $34 million?”
It further called on the NHA to disclose who conducted the valuation and how the purchase price was determined.
TSI said the public deserved answers to several key questions, including where the lawful authority to spend the money came from, whether proper approvals were obtained, whether procurement rules were followed and whether Solomon Islanders received value for money.
“The value of transparency requires more than retroactive (backdated) accounting,” TSI said.
“Authorities must explain what legal mechanisms were used, who approved them, and whether Parliament was properly informed.”
TSI stressed that procurement safeguards were designed to protect public funds, arguing that competition, due diligence and proper approvals were fundamental requirements rather than optional measures.
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Sharon Inone wins the 2026 Queen Elizabeth II Young Leaders Award for climate-smart community work in Temotu. A young Solomon Islander, Ms Sharon Inone, has won a prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Young Leaders Award from the UK.& Ms Inone was presented the award yesterday by British High Commissioner, Hi Excellency Paul Turner. The Queen Elizabeth [...]
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香农·伊诺恩因在特门图的气候智能社区工作而获得2026年伊丽莎白二世青年领袖奖。这位年轻的所罗门群岛人,香农·伊诺恩(Ms Sharon Inone),获得了来自英国的杰出伊丽莎白二世青年领袖奖。香农·伊诺恩于昨天由英国高级专员保罗·特纳(Hi Excellency Paul Turner)颁发该奖项。伊丽莎白二世奖......
该文章的完整内容请见于Tavuli News(所罗门群岛)。
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
THE Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI), in partnership with the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI), has officially reopened the SME Credit Guarantee Scheme (SMECGS).
The scheme was reopened at a ceremony held at the MCILI Conference Room today, August 27.
Minister Harry Kuma said the GREAT Coalition Government considers access to finance critical to private sector growth.
He referred to the recently released World Bank Economic Update for Solomon Islands, which recommends strengthening financial intermediation towards productive sectors.
Minister Kuma said access to affordable finance remains a major challenge for local businesses, particularly small and emerging enterprises that lack sufficient collateral.
He said SMECGS allows the Government to share lending risks with participating financial institutions, giving viable businesses a better opportunity to access credit.
Minister Kuma urged participating banks to resume nominations and submissions under the scheme and called on micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to use the facility responsibly.
He said the objective was not simply to provide loans, but to help businesses invest, expand, create jobs and contribute to economic growth.
CBSI Deputy Governor Raynold Moveni said the scheme was suspended in January 2025 after the Government’s guaranteed commitments grew beyond available funding.
He said the challenges faced by MSMEs were not simply due to a lack of financial schemes, but also reflected gaps in the design of existing programmes.
Mr Moveni said these gaps often failed to take into account the specific needs of small businesses, particularly youth- and women-owned enterprises, which have recorded low uptake of existing schemes.
He pointed to recommendations from a recent MSME survey, including simplifying loan applications, adopting risk-based lending strategies, introducing flexible repayment options and strengthening financial literacy through closer cooperation between Government and financial institutions.
Mr Moveni confirmed that CBSI was ready to administer the scheme in line with the agreed framework and work with Government, financial institutions and other stakeholders to ensure it delivers practical and accountable outcomes.
He commended the Government for recognising that the potential of Solomon Islanders to grow their businesses should not be limited solely by a lack of collateral.
The reopening of SMECGS marks a renewed partnership between Government, CBSI, financial institutions and the private sector to expand access to finance for small and medium enterprises.
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PM Wale welcomes Gold Ridge landowners’ petition for more consultation on proposed Mineral Resources Bill 2025 amendments. Prime Minister Matthew Wale today welcomed a petition from the Gold Ridge landowners seeking more time for consultation on proposed additional clauses to the Mineral Resources Bill 2025. The petition was presented to the Prime Minister by Chief [...]
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BY NED GAGAHE
Solomon Islands’ national Under-19 men’s football squad has arrived in Samoa ahead of the OFC U-19 Championship 2026, which kicks off next week.
The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) announced on Wednesday that the 23-player squad and seven officials had been confirmed for the regional tournament.
The 30-member delegation departed Honiara on Wednesday, August 26, for Apia, where the championship will be held from September 1 to 14.
National youth coach and KOSSA youth coach Franco Ne’e will guide the young squad in its campaign.
Solomon Islands have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Samoa, New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea.
Solomon Islands will open their campaign against Papua New Guinea on September 1 at 11am at Samoa Football HQ – Field 1.
They will then face New Caledonia on September 4 before completing their group matches against Samoa on September 7.
The tournament carries added significance, with the top two teams earning qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2027 to be hosted by Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan.
Defending champions New Zealand are in Group B with Tahiti, Fiji and Vanuatu.
The OFC U-19 Championship provides the Solomon Islands squad with an opportunity to test themselves against some of the region’s best youth teams and gain valuable international experience.
The squad’s participation also forms part of SIFF’s efforts to develop young players and provide a pathway towards senior international football.
Photo: SIFF
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By Agnes Menanopo
Customary landowners from Central and North Guadalcanal are calling on the government to reconsider the proposed Mineral Resources Bill 2025.
In a petition addressed to Prime Minister Matthew Wale, the landowners said they are not opposed to responsible mining or national development.
However, they are calling for stronger legal protection, meaningful consultation and a fair share of the benefits from mineral resources found on customary land.
The petition is jointly supported by recognised Gold Ridge tribes, the Gold Ridge Community and Landowners Council, the Kolobisi Tailings Dams Association, chiefs, elders, women and other community leaders.
Among their key requests, the landowners are calling for the government to:
Clearly explain the legal and constitutional basis for the proposed mineral ownership framework.
Return the current Mineral Resources Bill to stakeholders for meaningful and adequate consultation before it proceeds further.
Ensure equitable ownership, participation and benefit-sharing among the 17 recognised Gold Ridge tribes.
Clarify the proposed Sovereign Wealth Fund and explain how revenues from minerals and other natural-resource sectors will be treated.
Review the proposed free-carry and state-owned enterprise arrangements to ensure customary landowners are not excluded from meaningful ownership.
Establish clear legal protection for customary ownership, consultation, consent, compensation, equity participation, community development and environmental protection.
Ensure compulsory acquisition powers cannot be used to undermine or displace customary landowner rights without proper negotiation and agreement.
Develop a stable and predictable legal framework that protects customary landowners, the national interest and responsible investors.
The concerns were raised during a meeting today at the Paul Tovua Complex between the landowners and members of the Bills and Legislative Committee (BLC), including Opposition Leader, Hon. Manasseh Sogavare, Independent Leader, Hon. Peter Shannel Agovaka and Public Accounts Committee Chairman, Hon. Paulson Bosawai.
Chairman of the Gold Ridge Landowners Council, Walton Naezon, said the landowners understand that the bill has already gone through consultation.
However, he questioned why new amendments had been included in the latest version without further consultation with stakeholders.
“But what we could not understand and draw a fair line as to why a new amendment has been put on. We understand that there are about three to four chapters of the Bill. It is a new version that has not been to the stakeholders’ consultation.
“It has not been to us. We don’t know. That is why we are coming to you. We have to find a way to be able to stop this bill in Parliament,” Naezon said.
Naezon described the proposed legislation as a “greedy bill”, claiming it could undermine landowners’ rights.
“A bill that’s going to steal people’s rights. There is no provision as to where the landowners are going to go.
“Part of our petition, we are so fearful about ownership of minerals. This is what the people right now have been asking: fairness and sharing.
“We asked for federalism, our statehood. Where is it?” he said.
BLC Chairman Jaimee Lency Vokia said the committee had written to the Prime Minister on Tuesday requesting that the bill be withdrawn.
He told the landowners that further consideration would be given to the issues raised in their petition and that a meeting between the BLC and Gold Ridge representatives could be held next week.
The landowners also visited the Prime Minister this morning before meeting with the BLC.
[end]
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SBD250m Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre opens, expanding primary healthcare services for 50,000 Honiara residents. The SBD250 million Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre officially opened yesterday, marking a major investment in Solomon Islands’ healthcare system and introducing expanded primary health services designed to serve a catchment population of about 50,000 people. The facility [...]
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By Eliza Kukutu
For the first time since Cyclone Namu in 1986, the government will be taking a shelter recovery approach as part of its response to the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Maila on affected communities.
This was confirmed by the Chairman of the National Disaster Council (NDC), David Hiriasia, at a recent press conference.
He says the shelter recovery programme will see the construction of more than 1,300 houses for people whose homes were severely destroyed by Tropical Cyclone Maila.
“It will be standard two-bedroom houses. The design for the houses will also cater for expansion, allowing homeowners to extend the houses when they want to.
“We are also exploring options for importing prefab houses. So, we are looking at each house costing about $30,000 to $60,000 per house, meaning the project will cost millions of dollars.”
Hiriasia confirmed that funding for the ambitious plan is included in the recently passed 2025 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026, with additional funding to be sought when needed.
Meanwhile, authorities are now working on plans for how the construction will be carried out and are calling on communities to be patient, given the time it will take to implement the shelter recovery plan.
“This is something we’ve never done before, and we really need to plan out everything before implementing it, so it will take time. Data needs to be validated to make sure that houses are given to those who really deserve them.
“So I ask for everyone’s patience as we work towards this.”
The council will discuss and agree on the house designs and bills of quantities before putting the plan before Cabinet for final endorsement.
Hiriasia said this will also give time for the supplementary budget to go through the process of being gazetted so that funds can be made available.
While planning processes are ongoing, the actual construction of the houses is expected to begin next year.
ENDS//
The post Shelter Recovery Approach for TC Maila Response first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
BY NED GAGAHE
The Faculty of Education and Humanities (FEH) and the SEWA Student Association have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Open Day 2026.
FEH won the Best Booth Award for its presentation, featuring a coconut tree-inspired design and a Tomoko canoe from Western Province to represent unity and cooperation.
The SEWA Student Association received the Best Cultural Performance Award for its panpipe performance, which showcased Solomon Islands culture and student talent.
Representatives of FEH and SEWA received their certificates on Monday, August 24, in recognition of their achievements during the Open Day held on Friday, August 21, at the SINU Kukum Campus.
The event was held under the theme, “Creating Your Future: Education, Skills and Innovation for a GREAT Solomon Islands.”
It brought together students, parents, schools, industry partners, Government representatives and members of the public to explore SINU’s academic and technical programmes, research, innovation and student support services.
The Open Day featured information booths, campus tours, a flag-raising ceremony, speeches and cultural and contemporary performances.
Hundreds of visitors, including secondary school students from across Honiara, attended the event to learn more about study, training and development opportunities available at SINU.
SINU thanked its students, staff, schools, partners, performers and members of the community for contributing to the success of Open Day 2026.
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Asia is no longer just a distant region on the map it has become one of the most powerful gateways for Solomon Islanders seeking higher education, global exposure and future leadership. With Indonesia announcing 22 new scholarship recipients two weeks ago and China awarding more than 40 scholarships yesterday, more than 60 fresh Solomon Islands minds are preparing to embark on academic journeys across Asia.
China alone now hosts over 200 Solomon Islands students, a number that continues to grow each year. Put regional institutions aside for a moment , the momentum toward Asia is undeniable.
At the scholarship award ceremony in Honiara, Chinese Ambassador Cai Weiming delivered a message that resonated deeply with the students and the nation. He reminded the new scholars that education is not merely about earning a qualification, but about shaping character, building confidence and preparing to contribute meaningfully to Solomon Islands.
His words were both a challenge and a blessing:
“Treasure this rare opportunity to pursue your academic dreams. You are among the lucky few to obtain the opportunity to study in China.”
He quoted an old Chinese proverb, a powerful reminder of the discipline required for academic success:
“There is a path to the mountain of books, and diligence is the way; the sea of learning is boundless, and hard work is the boat.”
This message is not just for the 40 students in the room. It is for every Solomon Islander who dreams of rising through education.
Asia’s rise as a global education hub is transforming opportunities for Pacific students. China, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia and Singapore are investing heavily in: advanced research, science and engineering, medicine and public health, agriculture and aquaculture and technology and innovation
For Solomon Islanders, this means access to world-class universities, modern laboratories, diverse cultures and global networks.
The latest cohort will study across 30 universities in China, in fields such as: medicine, sociology, accounting, agriculture, aquaculture, software engineering, civil engineering, communication engineering, business administration and economics and trade
These are not just academic disciplines, they are nation-building tools.
Ambassador Cai also reminded the students that their role extends beyond the classroom. They are cultural ambassadors, carrying Solomon Islands’ identity, values and stories into one of the world’s largest and most diverse societies.
He encouraged them to: embrace new experiences, make friends, travel beyond their host cities, share Solomon Islands culture and learn from Chinese society
“Today, you will be serving as bridges between civilizations,” he said. A profound responsibility and a profound opportunity.
With over 200 Solomon Islanders already studying in China, and dozens more heading to Indonesia and other Asian countries, a new generation of leaders is emerging. Many former scholarship recipients have returned home to serve in: research, business, public service, education, engineering, health, agriculture
Their achievements prove the long-term value of these partnerships and the transformative power of education.
The 60 new scholars heading to Asia this month represent more than individual success stories. They represent the future of Solomon Islands, a future built on knowledge, global networks, and cultural exchange and disciplined academic pursuit.
Asia is rising. Our students are rising with it. And the nation will rise because of them.
BY NED GAGAHE
World Bank Resident Representative for Solomon Islands Bernard Harborne has commended the progress and impact of agriculture projects being implemented in three Guadalcanal communities.
Mr Harborne visited the Taubebe Cocoa Farmers Association in Tasiboko, the Momolu Cocoa Farmers Association in north Guadalcanal and the Gold Ridge Women Farmers’ Poultry project on Friday 21 August, a statement from Solomon Islands Agriculture and Rural Transformation (SIART) said today.
The three are among Agribusiness Producer Organisations (ABPOs) supported under the Solomon Islands Agriculture and Rural Transformation (SIART) Project, funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL).
Solomon Tobana, Chairman of the Taubebe Cocoa Association in Tasiboko, north east Guadalcanal explains their ABPO’s operation to World Bank Resident Representative for Solomon Islands, Bernard Harborne during his visit to the community on Friday 21 August. Photo credit: SIART
SIART has signed agreements with 96 ABPOs across Guadalcanal, Malaita and Makira/Ulawa provinces. These include 32 ABPOs in Guadalcanal, 45 in Malaita and 19 in Makira/Ulawa.
During the visit, Mr Harborne met farmers and toured project-funded infrastructure, including cocoa processing facilities and a poultry house.
Taubebe Cocoa Farmers Association chairman Solomon Tobana welcomed the visit and thanked the World Bank for its continued support through SIART.
Mr Tobana said the association was beginning to see benefits from the project, including profits generated through its revolving fund.
“We have started to build the ABPO’s office building to support farmers more effectively,” he said.
Farmers and non-members are now selling wet cocoa beans to the Taubebe association, helping the group develop its cocoa processing facilities.
Two cocoa fermentaries and driers have been built, while a third drier is nearing completion.
The Momolu Cocoa Farmers Association also reported positive results, including farmer training, rehabilitation of cocoa plantations and increased production.
World Bank Resident Representative for Solomon Islands, Bernard Harborne and SIART Project Manager, William Okekini (right) in discussion with the Chairman of the Momolu Cocoa Farmers Association in north Guadalcanal. Photo credit: SIART
The association has become a main buyer of wet and dried cocoa beans from its members, reducing the need for farmers to travel to Honiara to sell their produce.
At Gold Ridge, women farmers said SIART support had helped improve their poultry housing and increase the capacity of each building to 500 broiler birds.
The first group of women is expected to receive 300 broiler birds on August 27. The birds are expected to be ready for sale after six weeks, with the women targeting sales to neighbouring communities and Gold Ridge Mining Company.
SIART Project Manager William Okekini said the project was supporting ABPOs through revolving funds, plantation rehabilitation, infrastructure development and capacity-building training.
One of three cocoa processing facilities for the Taubebe Cocoa Association in Tasiboko, north east Guadalcanal supported by the SIART Project. Photo credit: SIART
He said the project team was also working to ensure ABPOs became operational and sustainable after the SIART Project ends.
Mr Okekini described Mr Harborne’s visit as an important demonstration of the partnership between the Government and the World Bank.
He reaffirmed the project team’s commitment to supporting the completion and implementation of ongoing infrastructure projects for ABPOs and the wider agriculture sector.
Mr Harborne said the visit provided an opportunity to see first-hand the positive impact SIART is having on farmers.
“By supporting these local farmers through their respective ABPOs, the project contributes to the development of the country’s agricultural sector, driven by the partnership between the Solomon Islands Ministry of Agriculture and the World Bank,” he said.
He reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to supporting the future of Solomon Islands’ agriculture sector and its role as a reliable development partner to the country.
World Bank Resident Representative for Solomon Islands, Bernard Harborne visiting the Gold Ridge Women Farmers’ Poultry house supported by the SIART Project. Photo credit: SIART
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BY CHARLES STENNETT
A new forest carbon policy project, Rights, Integrity, Safeguards and Equity (RISE) in carbon markets was officially launched in Solomon Islands to support stronger policy, safeguards and community leadership in the country’s emerging carbon market.
RISE and the project is designed to promote best practice policy and regulation for community-owned forest carbon projects, helping ensure benefits, rights and development outcomes remain with local communities.
Bill Apusae from Live and Learn Solomon Islands the project aims to help Solomon Islanders.
“This project is about putting local leadership, customary land rights and fair, inclusive benefit-sharing at the core of Solomon Islands’ growing carbon market,”
“RISE is about having a constructive dialogue with carbon market decision makers. We want to see a place for locally led projects in national and international policy forums.” Mr Apusae said.
Live and Learn Solomon Islands is leading the RISE project locally, with collaboration from Live and Learn International, Nakau and Plan Vivo Foundation. The project is funded by the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office through the UK-based Forest Governance, Markets and Climate Programme.
Director of Live and Learn Solomon Islands, Elmah Panisi said need the support of many players to make it successful.
“High integrity in carbon markets cannot be achieved by individual projects and actors alone. It requires the same collaboration we see at project level to extend to national policies, safeguards, and implementation frameworks,” said the Director of Live and Learn Solomon Islands, Elmah Panisi.
“The RISE project will aim to engage with all change makers in society. We invite everyone, from national and provincial government to civil society, community representatives and technical partners, to be part of it.” Ms Panisi said.
Launched on earlier this week in Honiara, the RISE event highlighted the success stories and momentum of forest conservation carbon projects in Solomon Islands and called for continued collaboration between all actors for policies and practices that support locally led and rights-based projects.
It was attended by representatives from Solomon Islands Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology and the Ministry of Forestry and Research, alongside NGOs and other key stakeholders.
A central focus of RISE is to ensure national carbon policy reflects Indigenous governance systems and customary land ownership, and that benefits flow equitably to landowners. Inclusive approaches are also a critical part of the conversation, where women, youth and people with disabilities can equitably participate and benefit.
Forest conservation and carbon projects are strongest when built on these foundations, and when the benefits of local projects directly reach communities.
Nakau’s Policy and Advocacy Coordinator Sebastian Thomas said carbon markets can play an important role in supporting sustainable livelihoods and better stewardship of natural systems.
“Carbon is the currency of a climate-changed world and a measure of value in an economy that depends on how well we care for the natural systems that sustain us.”
“Done well, carbon markets can help turn that stewardship into sustainable livelihoods, regenerative businesses, and a more resilient model of trade and development,” he said.
RISE is also launching in Papua New Guinea and Indonesia.
Across the three countries, the project will share accessible knowledge and evidence from project case studies and policy analysis, strengthen capacity and policy dialogue through multi-stakeholder workshops, and advocate to international policy and market actors for locally led carbon projects.
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作者:查尔斯·斯特内特
一个新的森林碳政策项目——碳市场中的权利、诚信、保障和公平(RISE)在所罗门群岛正式启动,旨在支持该国新兴碳市场中更强的政策、保障和社区领导力。
RISE及该项目旨在促进社区拥有的森林碳项目的最佳实践政策和法规,帮助确保利益、权利和发展成果留在当地社区。
来自Live and Learn Solomon Islands的比尔·阿普萨表示,该项目旨在帮助所罗门群岛人民。
“这个项目的核心是将地方领导力、习惯土地权利和公平、包容的利益分享置于所罗门群岛日益增长的碳市场之中,”
“RISE旨在与碳市场决策者进行建设性对话。我们希望在国家和国际政策论坛中为地方主导的项目留出空间。”阿普萨先生说。
Live and Learn Solomon Islands在当地主导RISE项目,并与Live and Learn International、Nakau和Plan Vivo Foundation合作。该项目由英国政府的外交、联邦和发展办公室通过英国的森林治理、市场和气候项目提供资金。
Live and Learn Solomon Islands的主任埃尔玛·帕尼西表示,需要许多参与者的支持才能使其成功。
“碳市场的高诚信不能仅靠单个项目和参与者来实现。它需要我们在项目层面看到的同样合作,扩展到国家政策、保障和实施框架。”Live and Learn Solomon Islands的主任埃尔玛·帕尼西说。
“RISE项目将旨在与社会中的所有变革者进行互动。我们邀请所有人,从国家和省级政府到民间社会、社区代表和技术合作伙伴,参与其中。”帕尼西女士说。
RISE活动于本周早些时候在霍尼亚拉举行,强调了所罗门群岛森林保护碳项目的成功案例和势头,并呼吁所有参与者之间继续合作,以支持地方主导和基于权利的项目的政策和实践。
活动吸引了所罗门群岛环境、气候变化、灾害管理和气象部以及林业和研究部的代表,以及非政府组织和其他关键利益相关者的参与。
RISE的一个核心重点是确保国家碳政策反映土著治理体系和习惯土地所有权,并确保利益公平地流向土地所有者。包容性的方法也是对话的重要组成部分,女性、青年和残疾人能够公平参与和受益。
森林保护和碳项目在这些基础上最为强大,当地方项目的利益直接惠及社区时。
Nakau的政策与倡导协调员塞巴斯蒂安·托马斯表示,碳市场在支持可持续生计和更好管理自然系统方面可以发挥重要作用。
“碳是气候变化世界的货币,是一个经济体中价值的衡量标准,这个经济体依赖于我们对维持我们生存的自然系统的关心程度。”
“如果做得好,碳市场可以帮助将这种管理转化为可持续生计、再生商业和更具韧性的贸易与发展模式。”他说。
RISE还将在巴布亚新几内亚和印度尼西亚启动。
在这三个国家,项目将分享来自项目案例研究和政策分析的可获取知识和证据,通过多方利益相关者研讨会加强能力和政策对话,并向国际政策和市场参与者倡导地方主导的碳项目。
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Island SunEnvironment & Climate环境气候·2026-08-27Original ↗原文 ↗
By Gardner Absolom
The Solomon Islands Government is preparing to roll out its fully funded education initiative, which will eventually support 1,000 students to pursue study opportunities in China.
Minister for Education and Human Resources Development, Steven Kumi, announced the initiative at the 2026 Chinese Government Scholarship Awards Ceremony earlier this week.
Minister Kumi said the first 200 students are expected to travel to China later this year, with the programme set to expand to 1,000 students in 2027.
“This government initiative will send its first group of 200 students to China later this semester, laying the groundwork to scale up to 1,000 students next year,” Minister Kumi said.
He said the programme will provide both degree and non-degree study opportunities, with a focus on areas critical to Solomon Islands’ national development.
These priority areas include agriculture, fisheries, forestry, healthcare, roads and infrastructure, renewable energy, and information technology.
Minister Kumi said the initiative will contribute to developing a skilled workforce equipped with the knowledge and expertise needed in key national priority areas.
ENDS//
The post Government Prepares for 1,000-Student Fully Funded Initiative first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) is calling on the Government and relevant authorities to publicly account for what it says are...
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BY JOSES SAREN
Solomon Islands’ health system is a decentralised network of facilities, from the National Referral Hospital in Honiara down to rural clinics and nurse aide posts.
It serves a population scattered across nearly 1,000 islands.
According to the Solomon Islands National Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA), that spread already creates serious logistical challenges, pushing many communities toward traditional and community-based care alongside the formal system.
The CRVA identifies 374 health facilities nationwide. Many depend on constant cooling to store vaccines and medicines safely. The assessment currently rates that risk as low.
It projects the risk will climb to extreme by the end of the century under a high-emissions scenario.
The CRVA, prepared by Beca International Consultants Ltd with the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster and Meteorology (MECDM) and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), states that extreme heat days in the Solomon Islands are already increasing.
Honiara now records more than three times as many very hot days each year as it did in the 1950s, the CRVA states.
By the end of the century, a greater share of days each year are projected to exceed high or extreme temperatures above 39 degrees Celsius, according to the assessment.
The CRVA warns that facilities relying on cooling for vaccines and medicines will face mounting strain as temperatures rise.
It also flags a second, less visible cost.
The assessment states that mental health burdens linked to sea-level rise and extreme events are increasingly documented, including persistent worry and stress in coastal and atoll communities facing saltwater intrusion and few options to relocate.
Because health underpins the functioning of other sectors, the CRVA warns that disruptions to health services can trigger cascading impacts across the wider economy and community wellbeing.
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