Tue, 01 Sept 2026 ·HONIARA ·Updated daily

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All collected updates from verified Solomon Islands sources.

GOVERNMENT AND CBSI RELAUNCH SME CREDIT GUARANTEE SCHEME TO STRENGTHEN LOCAL BUSINESSES

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 [...] The post GOVERNMENT AND CBSI RELAUNCH SME CREDIT GUARANTEE SCHEME TO STRENGTHEN LOCAL BUSINESSES appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Politics & Government · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

TSI calls on Government, NHA to publicly address audit findings

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. For feedback, contact: tonyiroga8@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

SHARON INONE AWARDED PRESTIGIOUS QUEEN ELIZABETH II AWARD

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 [...] The post SHARON INONE AWARDED PRESTIGIOUS QUEEN ELIZABETH II AWARD appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Environment & Climate · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

Gov’t reopens SMECGS after 2025 suspension

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. For feedback, contact: diivee56@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Education · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

PM WALE WELCOMES GOLD RIDGE LANDOWNERS’ CALL FOR MORE CONSULTATION

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 [...] The post PM WALE WELCOMES GOLD RIDGE LANDOWNERS’ CALL FOR MORE CONSULTATION appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Politics & Government · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

Solomon Islands U-19 squad arrives in Samoa

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 For feedback, contact: nedgagahe@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

Landowners call for review of Mineral Resources Bill 2025

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] The post Landowners call for review of Mineral Resources Bill 2025 first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .

SIBC Business & Economy · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

$250M NAHA CENTRE OPENS AS FIRST URBAN HEALTH CENTRE IN HONIARA

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 [...] The post $250M NAHA CENTRE OPENS AS FIRST URBAN HEALTH CENTRE IN HONIARA appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Health · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

Shelter Recovery Approach for TC Maila Response

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) .

SIBC Disasters & Weather · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

FEH, SEWA win SINU Open Day awards

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. For feedback, contact: nedgagahe@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Education · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

EDITORIAL: Asia is Rising and So Are Our Students: A New Chapter for Solomon Islands Education

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.

Sunday Isles Opinion · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

World Bank praises farming projects

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 For feedback, contact: nedgagahe@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

RISE forest carbon policy project launches in Solomon Islands

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. For feedback, contact: charsstennett@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

Government Prepares for 1,000-Student Fully Funded Initiative

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) .

SIBC Education · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

TSI Demands Answers Over $118m Pacific Games Spending

Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) is calling on the Government and relevant authorities to publicly account for what it says are... The post TSI Demands Answers Over $118m Pacific Games Spending appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Sports · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

Rising heat puts vaccine storage at risk

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. For feedback, contact: jsbalq909@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

Floods and cyclones threaten access to health care

BY JOSES SAREN Health centres in the Solomon Islands often depend on a single road, or a privately owned boat, to reach the people who rely on them. According to the Solomon Islands National Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA), tropical cyclones can disrupt that transport entirely, delaying or preventing timely care. The CRVA states health facilities and services already face a high present-day risk from coastal flooding, and a moderate risk from river flooding. Both risks are projected to reach extreme levels by mid-century under a high-emissions scenario, the assessment says. The CRVA warns the risk is greater for mountainous islands such as Guadalcanal, where steep river catchments raise the danger of flash flooding. Present-day risk from coastal hazards is already high for facilities located close to the shore, according to the assessment. That risk is projected to reach extreme levels by the end of the century as sea levels rise, the CRVA states. The assessment, prepared by Beca International Consultants Ltd with MECDM and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), notes that many health facility buildings are not designed to withstand current or future levels of cyclones, storm surge, or extreme rainfall. It states this makes buildings highly sensitive to roof damage, water ingress, foundation damage and loss of essential utilities. The CRVA also points to a health cost beyond damaged buildings. It states that contaminated water supplies during flooding raise the risk of diarrhoea, typhoid, leptospirosis and malnutrition, particularly for young children, the elderly and people with existing health conditions. The assessment separately flags a persistent risk of ciguatera fish poisoning, which it says is likely to intensify as seas warm, along with algal blooms and water quality problems from stagnant water during droughts. Because health services underpin community wellbeing, the CRVA warns that disruptions can trigger cascading impacts across other sectors. For feedback, contact: jsbalq909@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

Air Traffic Control towers take shape at Honiara, Munda

BY NED GAGAHE Construction of new Air Traffic Control towers at Honiara International Airport and Munda Airport is progressing, with major structural works completed at both sites. The projects are being implemented by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), with financial support from the World Bank. China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) is undertaking the construction, while Egis Asia is providing supervision consultancy services. At Munda Airport, all major structural concrete works, including the roof slab of the Visual Control Room, have been completed and the facility is now moving into finishing works, a statement from MCA said today. Munda ATC. Photo supplied. Plastering is also progressing on the ground and first-floor levels. At Honiara International Airport, construction has reached the fourth floor, with the slab, beams, columns and staircases successfully concrete-cast. Preparation and scaffolding are now underway for the fifth and final level, including the inclined columns, beams and roof slab. Structural concrete works are targeted for completion on or before August 25, 2026. Lintel beam works for doors and windows on the ground floor are also progressing. MCA Permanent Secretary Alwyn Danitofea said the progress at both airports was an important milestone for the Solomon Islands aviation sector. “The progress achieved at both Munda and Honiara is an important milestone for the Solomon Islands aviation sector,” Danitofea said. He said the new facilities would strengthen air traffic management and improve the safety, efficiency and reliability of aviation operations. Danitofea also acknowledged the support of the World Bank and the work of CCECC in delivering the infrastructure to the required quality and safety standards. The ATC tower projects form part of SIRAP2’s broader investment in strengthening aviation infrastructure and improving operational safety and air traffic management capacity at key airports in the country. The projects are also intended to make airport facilities safer, more resilient and better equipped to meet future operational needs. The Government, through MCA and with World Bank support, is working with contractors, consultants and other stakeholders to ensure the projects are delivered safely, efficiently and in line with required technical, quality and international aviation safety standards. For feedback, contact: nedgagahe@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Law & Security · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

Four spots remain open as Rove Rugby moves into its second competition

BY RICHARD MENANOPO The Rove Rugby 6-Touch Competition Series is set to rise again, with Competition 2 — aptly named RISE — scheduled for September 5 at Townground Rugby Stadium. Following the completion of the inaugural Competition 1, GENESIS, Rove Rugby has opened registration for new teams, with four of the eight available places already secured. According to Rove Rugby, the four remaining places are now open to new teams at a registration fee of $700, with interested teams encouraged to contact the organizers directly to secure a spot. The latest promotional material lists ARO 6-AGAIN, Eagles Rugby, HHH and Rove Panthers among the teams already secured for the second competition. RISE will be held on Saturday, September 5, at Townground Rugby Stadium, continuing the series after GENESIS provided a full day of six-touch rugby action on August 22. GENESIS featured eight teams across 24 matches, with ARO 6-AGAIN finishing as the inaugural competition champions. Rove Rugby later confirmed the final GENESIS standings, with 6-AGAIN first, Frigates second, Eagles third and HHH fourth. The organizers also acknowledged the support of Solomon Rugby (SIRUF) for allowing the use of Townground Rugby Stadium, while thanking BSP’s Amanda Kori for making rugby balls available for the competition. Rove Rugby also recognized the participating teams, players, referees, officials, volunteers and spectators whose involvement helped get the new competition series off the ground. With GENESIS now completed, attention has quickly shifted to RISE, with four places still available for teams looking to join the second chapter of the series. For Rove Rugby, the progression from GENESIS to RISE marks the continuation of what the organizers describe as a journey built around community rugby, competition and participation. For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

WORLD CUP PATH

SI U-16 women’s team face defending champions New Zealand in September opener as top-two finishers earn FIFA U-17 World Cup berths BY RICHARD MENANOPO THE road to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2027 will run through Honiara next month, with the Solomon Islands U-16 women’s side handed a challenging opening assignment against defending champions New Zealand. The OFC U-16 Women’s Championship 2026 will be staged at the National Stadium from September 6-19, with eight of the region’s best young women’s teams battling for the two available Oceania berths at next year’s global tournament in Morocco. OFC confirmed on Tuesday 25th August that media accreditation is now open for the tournament, which will see hosts Solomon Islands compete in Group A alongside New Zealand, Fiji and Cook Islands. The young Bonitos will begin their campaign on September 6 at 7pm against New Zealand, before facing Cook Islands on September 9 and Fiji on September 12. The opening clash against the defending champions is expected to provide an immediate test of the hosts’ credentials, but it also gives Solomon Islands an early opportunity to make a statement on home soil. The top two teams at the end of the championship will qualify for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2027, making every group match crucial for the Solomon Islands side as it seeks to advance to the knockout stage. Group B features Samoa, Tonga, New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea, with the top two sides from each group progressing to the semi-finals on September 16. The tournament will then conclude with the third-place play-off and final on September 19. For Solomon Islands, the home tournament represents more than just a regional championship, with a place at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup potentially within reach for the young side. The OFC schedule also confirms Cook Islands’ place in Group A after the nation secured qualification through the regional qualifying tournament earlier this year. Cook Islands drew 1-1 with Papua New Guinea in their final qualifying match in April after earlier recording a 10-0 win over American Samoa, finishing ahead of PNG on goal difference. With the tournament now less than two weeks away, attention will increasingly turn to the Solomon Islands squad and preparations for a campaign that could open the door to the biggest stage in women’s youth football. OFC has meanwhile invited media intending to cover the tournament in Solomon Islands to apply for accreditation, with the championship set to bring regional attention to Honiara from September 6. For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-08-27 Original ↗

A Kidney Transplant, Ignored Advice, and a President’s Surprise Pick to Run a $160 Billion Pacific Island Mine

by Michael E. Miller (OCCRP) and Carmel N. Pilotti (OCCRP) A Pacific island’s president bypassed an official selection process when... The post A Kidney Transplant, Ignored Advice, and a President’s Surprise Pick to Run a $160 Billion Pacific Island Mine appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Business & Economy · 2026-08-26 Original ↗

INDEPENDENT GROUP SUPPORTS STRONGER LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR SIMHL AND SOVEREIGN WEALTH FUND

Independent Group backs stronger laws for SIMHL and a Sovereign Wealth Fund to protect Solomon Islands mineral wealth. Honiara, Solomon Islands – The Parliamentary Independent Group has welcomed steps by the Minister for Finance and Treasury to regularise Solomon Islands Mineral Holding Limited (SIMHL), while calling for the company to be established through an Act [...] The post INDEPENDENT GROUP SUPPORTS STRONGER LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR SIMHL AND SOVEREIGN WEALTH FUND appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Business & Economy · 2026-08-26 Original ↗

BRITISH HIGH COMMISSION HONOURS TEAM SOLOMONS ATHLETES

British High Commission honours Team Solomons athletes after their Commonwealth Games participation in Glasgow. On Wednesday, British High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, HE Paul Turner, hosted athletes and officials of Team Solomons for afternoon tea at the British High Commission in recognition of their participation in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. Team Solomons represented [...] The post BRITISH HIGH COMMISSION HONOURS TEAM SOLOMONS ATHLETES appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Sports · 2026-08-26 Original ↗

Auki residents call for tighter enforcement

By RODRICK DESURI Auki A concerned resident in Auki, Malaita Province, has called for stronger enforcement of public order, cleanliness and betelnut trading rules in the town. Frank Samo Sari raised the concerns following a recent report in this paper about people dumping rubbish and relieving themselves along the seaside area in front of Auki Central Market. Samo said the situation around the market highlighted wider concerns about enforcement and the need for authorities to take a more active approach to maintaining order in Auki. He said he had observed people engaging in activities of concern, sometimes in the presence of security officers, and questioned why action was not being taken. “While the Auki Market public toilet is closed, why can’t the security officers instruct people to use appropriate places?” he questioned. Samo said the closure of the public toilet had forced some members of the public to look for alternative places, including areas behind the market fence, creating additional sanitation concerns. He warned that indiscriminate dumping of rubbish and the use of inappropriate areas for relieving oneself could contribute to unhygienic conditions and unpleasant smells around Auki. Samo called for provincial security officers and relevant authorities to be more active in enforcing public-order measures and to uphold the responsibilities entrusted to them. “I am noticing that illegal betelnut selling is becoming popular again in the town. I call on our security officers to be active and act upon their responsibilities,” he said. He also appealed to the authorities to urgently remove additional betelnut stalls erected by vendors near the front gate of the betelnut market, which he said were adding to congestion and disorder. Samo urged the Malaita Provincial Government and its security officers to strengthen enforcement and work closely with market vendors and the public to address the sanitation, illegal betelnut selling and congestion issues affecting Auki. For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Law & Security · 2026-08-26 Original ↗