By DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Labour Division of the Ministry of Commerce, Industries, Labour and Immigration has formally revoked the Prohibition Notice on mining activities at Pit One, allowing Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) to resume operations at the site, subject to compliance with all applicable legal, safety and operational requirements.
The revocation follows a detailed presentation made by GRML to the Labour Division on 4th August, regarding the localized slope movement that occurred at the mine site on 27th July.
In GRML presentation stated that the Company outlined the activation of its Mine Emergency Response Plan and the full sequence of emergency response and site management measures undertaken following the incident. GRML also submitted a set of technical documents, including its Open Pit Slope Stability Study, Gold Ridge Project Feasibility Study, Mine Emergency Response Plan, Open Pit Slope Online Monitoring System Proposal, and a Geotechnical Assessment Report on the open pit slope instability.
Following its review, the Labour Division found the Company’s report to be comprehensive and sufficiently detailed. It also determined that the emergency response to the incident was timely, and that the site management and response measures taken were appropriate and compliant. The Division further considered the Company’s proposed technical remediation and management measures to be practical and capable of implementation, and confirmed that GRML had completed the required corrective actions in line with its rectification guidance.
GRML stated that on the morning of 7th August, Labour Division officers conducted a follow-up site inspection at the mine to verify the implementation of the corrective measures and to physically assess the area affected by the slope movement.
Based on the Company’s presentation and the findings of the site inspection, the Labour Division approved the revocation of the Prohibition Notice for Pit One, clearing the way for mining activities to resume in the affected area.
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Ngella MP Choilyn Douglas calls for stronger laws to protect Solomon Islands’ cultural heritage, sacred sites and traditions Honiara, Solomon Islands – Member of Parliament for Ngella, Choilyn Yim Douglas, has called for stronger legislation to protect Solomon Islands’ cultural heritage, including customary and sacred sites. Speaking in Parliament during her reply to the Speech [...]
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BY NED GAGAHE
THE Government has collected around SBD$219 million more than its year-to-date revenue target, with total collections reaching about 60 percent of the annual revenue target by July.
Dokekana made the disclosure as the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) begins its scrutiny of the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill , with the Ministry of Finance and Treasury appearing before the committee this afternoon.
Dokekana said revenue collections up to July were 13.4 percent above the year-to-date budget, describing the performance as a positive sign for the country’s revenue position.
“Up to July last month, we have collected around more than 13.4 percent above the year-to-date budget,” Dokekana told the committee.
“That equates to around $219 million above the budget.”
He said the Government had already collected about 60 percent of total projected revenue, leaving 40 percent to be collected during the remaining five months of the year.
Dokekana attributed the strong performance mainly to mining revenue and improvements in tax compliance.
He said joint activities between Customs and IRD had also contributed to the increase, including work to examine valuations and share information held by Customs and the Central Bank.
This, he said, had enabled the authorities to issue more accurate tax assessments and collect additional revenue from taxpayers.
The Commissioner also told PAC that the Government’s tax reform programme was continuing and was expected to be completed by 2027.
The reform covers both legislative and administrative changes aimed at strengthening the tax system.
As part of the reforms, IRD is planning a major increase in its workforce.
Dokekana said the number of staff is expected to increase from the current 181 to 258 by next year.
He said the additional staff would give IRD greater capacity to undertake revenue collection activities.
The Commissioner said the upward trend in revenue collection was a good sign, particularly with mining revenue contributing significantly to the increase.
He also pointed to improved control over exemptions as another factor contributing to the stronger revenue performance.
Dokekana’s appearance before PAC comes as the committee continues its examination of Government’s financial performance and expenditure.
The revenue figures provide a more positive outlook for Government finances, although the Commissioner’s comments indicate that mining revenue and improved compliance have been key drivers of the current increase.
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CALLS FOR STRONGER PROTECTION
OF SI CULTURAL HERITAGE
Member of Parliament [MP] for Ngella, Hon. Choilyn Yim Douglas, has called for stronger legislation to protect Solomon Islands’ cultural heritage, including customary and sacred sites.
Speaking in Parliament during her reply to the Speech from the Throne, Hon. Douglas said the Government’s commitment to protecting and celebrating cultural heritage must be supported by an appropriate legal framework.
She questioned what laws would protect the country’s “living inheritance” and highlighted the particular importance of heritage sites in Ngella.
“Solomon Islands does not have a comprehensive cultural heritage law,” she said.
Hon. Douglas pointed to the country’s significant World War II heritage, including the wrecks located in and around Ngella waters, while also raising concerns about the protection of customary cultural sites.
She said the current legal framework does not provide comprehensive protection for all aspects of Solomon Islands’ cultural heritage.
Hon. Douglas also called attention to the absence of a national cultural policy, noting that the existing National Museum policy dates back to 1991 and focuses primarily on the collection and preservation of artefacts.
“A Government that commits itself to the living inheritance of our people must be prepared to write the statute under which that inheritance is protected,” she said.
She called for greater support for national cultural institutions, including the National Museum, National Archives and National Library.
Hon. Douglas said cultural development must ensure that communities retain control over how their cultural knowledge, traditions and heritage are recorded, promoted and commercially used.
“Culture must not be viewed only as a tourism product. Our languages, traditional knowledge, customary practices, sacred sites, music, dances, carving, weaving and oral histories are the living inheritance of our people,” she said.
She urged the Government to strengthen legislation and institutional support so that economic development does not come at the expense of cultural identity and community ownership.
- Opposition Press
[ENDS]
BY JOSES SAREN
Mining royalty rates will rise and fall with global gold prices under a new sliding-scale system announced by the government.
Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification Derrick Rawcliffe Manuari revealed the reform in his response to the Speech from the Throne in Parliament on Thursday.
Under the new system, royalty rates paid by mining companies will move directly with international gold prices.
This means the Government will collect a bigger share of profits when gold prices are high.
Companies will still pay a fair rate when prices are low, keeping investment attractive.
Minister Manuari said the framework would improve fiscal certainty and bring Solomon Islands in line with international best practice on mineral royalties.
The reform is part of the same Mineral Resources Bill that introduces the Government’s 25 per cent equity stake in mining projects and the “No Pay, No Ship” export rule, reported by Island Sun yesterday.
Alongside the royalty change, the Government will build two new laboratories to check mineral exports independently.
The National Mineral Assay Laboratory will verify the value and quality of ore before it leaves the country.
The National Geochemical Laboratory will confirm mineral grades, support environmental monitoring and check that royalty payments match what is actually being exported.
Both labs are designed to be internationally recognised, meaning their results can be trusted by investors and buyers overseas.
Minister Manuari said the labs would strengthen the Government’s ability to independently verify what mining companies report, rather than relying only on company figures.
Currently, the Government has limited in-country capacity to test ore grades and verify royalty payments independently.
The new labs are intended to close that gap and reduce the risk of underpayment or revenue leakage.
No cost or completion timeline for the two laboratories was given in the Minister’s statement.
The reforms are expected to come before Parliament as part of the wider Mineral Resources Bill.
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SIFF youth championship provides young players with a platform to develop and push for national team selection
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
The Solomon Islands Football Federation’s (SIFF) Youth Championship has provided a valuable platform for young footballers to develop their game while putting themselves in contention for future national team selection.
Academy U15 were crowned champions after defeating KOSSA Yellow 2-0 in the final, with KOSSA finishing runners-up, while Marist U16 secured third place after edging Grassroots Red 1-0 in the play-off.
Speaking at the prize presentation at the SIFF Academy Football Field, SIFF Chief Executive Officer Leonard Paia said the competition was designed to give young players an opportunity to develop and showcase their talent.
“This competition is also part of your development,” Paia said.
“It is not only about participating in this competition, but also about continuing to develop yourselves as players.”
Paia said the tournament was particularly important for players hoping to make the final national youth squads, giving them an opportunity to catch the attention of selectors.
“For those of you who have been selected in the final Under-17 national team, this competition is an opportunity for you to display your talent and convince the selectors that you should be part of the final team for the 2027 World Cup,” he said.
Academy U15 head coach Ian Lagwai Kalu said winning the championship would give his players added confidence as they continue along the national team pathway.
“It means a lot for these boys because they are the ones who will be moving forward for the Under-16 World Cup qualifiers next year,” Kalu said.
“Winning this championship is a massive thing for these boys. It also boosts their morale to work harder and look forward to more competitions.”
For Marist U16 coach Christian Ohasio, consistency was among the biggest lessons his players took from the tournament.
“The big lesson we learned is consistency,” Ohasio said.
“Every game you play, you must be consistent. Training, fitness, endurance and performance, everything is very important.”
Meanwhile, Grassroots Red coach Fred Talo said the tournament had given his relatively inexperienced players valuable exposure against established sides.
“Most of the boys are new to this level,” Talo said.
“I was pleased to see their performance improve and match up with teams that have been together for some time.”
Paia also thanked parents and supporters for their contribution to the development of the young players, stressing that success should not be measured only by trophies.
“Winning prizes is one thing, but having the opportunity to participate and show your talent is another thing,” he said.
“Whether you’re winning a prize or not, everyone, you will be champions and winners because you are part of football development in our country.”
The SIFF Youth Championship was staged at the federation’s Academy Football Field as part of its youth development programme, giving young players competitive experience while providing a pathway towards future national team opportunities.
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BY TONY IROGA
OPPOSITION MP for South Choiseul, Mr. Tozen Leokana, has questioned whether the Government has the financial resources, infrastructure and teacher workforce needed to successfully implement its proposed nationwide free education policy from 2027.
Leokana, a former Minister of Education and Human Resources Development, raised the concerns on Friday while delivering his reply to the Speech from the Throne in Parliament.
He said the Opposition supports the principle that every Solomon Islands child should have access to education, regardless of their parents’ financial circumstances.
“No child in Solomon Islands should be turned away from a classroom because of the poverty of their parents,” Leokana said.
However, he warned that removing school fees without first strengthening the education system could create serious problems for schools, teachers and students.
Leokana said his experience as a former education minister had given him a close understanding of the challenges facing the country’s education system.
“I signed papers that go through to Treasury. I received the school census data. I read school-by-school teacher establishment returns,” he said.
He said he had also visited schools in provinces across the country, from Choiseul to Temotu, and had seen first-hand the differences in infrastructure, staffing and resources between Honiara and rural communities.
Leokana said the Government’s free education policy must be carefully planned to prevent further movement of families and students from rural areas into Honiara.
He warned that if parents believed free education would be better or more reliable in the capital than in the provinces, the policy could accelerate existing urban migration.
“The consequence is the urban drift,” he said.
Leokana said Honiara already had relatively high enrolment outcomes compared with many provincial schools, while rural and remote schools continued to face shortages of classrooms, teachers and other basic facilities.
He argued that the Government should therefore prioritise investment in provincial schools before, or at least ahead of, further expansion in Honiara.
“If free education is not deliberately front-loaded in provincial schools, then a policy meant to equalise opportunity may end up deepening the pull of Honiara and weakening the provinces,” Leokana said.
He also questioned the financial sustainability of the policy.
Leokana said a recurrent commitment on the scale required for free education would compete with other major government priorities, including health, infrastructure and productive sectors.
He called on the Government to provide clear information on the policy’s total cost, revenue assumptions, sensitivity analysis and contingency plans.
“This chamber must satisfy itself that this policy passes the first of the three tests the test of fiscal honesty,” he said.
Infrastructure was another major concern raised by the Opposition MP.
Leokana said thousands of additional children enter the education system every year even without the introduction of free education, placing continued pressure on classrooms and other school facilities.
He questioned whether enough classrooms, teachers’ houses, dormitories, sanitation facilities, water systems and other infrastructure would be available before the policy begins in 2027.
“A free policy without an infrastructure schedule is not an education plan, but a crowded management plan,” Leokana said.
He challenged the Ministers responsible for education and infrastructure to tell Parliament how many new facilities had already been prepared for the proposed rollout.
Leokana also raised concerns about teacher shortages and the capacity of the education system to absorb a potential surge in enrolment.
He said the introduction of a new teacher salary structure was welcome, but argued that better salaries alone would not automatically produce the additional teachers needed.
“New salary structures do not produce new teachers,” he said.
Leokana called for a 10-year teacher supply plan covering the number of teachers required, their deployment by province and education level, and the annual output of teacher-training programmes.
He said the plan should also address teacher absenteeism and the upgrading and professional development of teachers.
“Until this chamber has that plan, it does not have a free education policy. It has an enrolment service without the workforce,” Leokana said.
The former education minister said his biggest concern was ultimately the quality of education.
He warned that increasing access without simultaneously investing in teachers, classrooms, learning materials, sanitation and school management could result in more children entering school without receiving a quality education.
“Every child gain admission, but no child gains an education,” he said.
Leokana pointed to international experiences where the rapid expansion of fee-free education increased enrolment but also placed pressure on teachers and school resources.
He said Solomon Islands should learn from those experiences and avoid expanding access at the expense of educational quality.
“Our education system, on the best day of its best year, is already carrying children who cannot read at grade level, who cannot count at grade level, and who leave school before completing the lower secondary cycle,” he said.
Leokana said adding more students to an already stretched system without providing additional capacity would only worsen existing challenges.
“If a child sits in a classroom of 40 or 50, taught by an untrained teacher, without a textbook, without functioning water or toilet facilities, that child is not receiving a free education,” he said.
“That child is receiving a diminished education and calling it free.”
He said the Opposition would support the aspiration of universal access to education but would hold the Government accountable for ensuring the policy was properly funded and implemented.
“The aspiration of universal education must be matched dollar to dollar, classroom to classroom, teacher for teacher, with the capacity of the system to deliver it,” Leokana said.
He said the Government must demonstrate fiscal honesty, constitutional integrity and responsible management of Solomon Islands’ foreign relations as it proceeds with its major policy commitments.
Leokana concluded by stressing that free education should not simply mean removing fees, but ensuring that children throughout Solomon Islands receive meaningful and quality education.
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BY NED GAGAHE
THE Opposition has challenged the Wale Government to show how it will finance its ambitious programme, warning that Parliament has been presented with a long list of promises without clear costings, funding sources or implementation timelines.
Opposition MP Trevor Manemahaga raised the concerns during debate on the Speech from the Throne in Parliament last week.
He said the Government had outlined major commitments including public-service salary increases, a Higher Salary Commission, a Sovereign Wealth Fund, re-establishment of the National Bank of Solomon Islands, free education, major infrastructure projects, expanded health services and numerous legislative reforms.
However, he questioned how Government could pursue fiscal consolidation while announcing a wide range of potentially costly commitments without first presenting Parliament with a clear financing plan.
“Where are the cost estimates?” Manemahaga asked.
He also questioned which initiatives would begin in 2026, which would be pushed to 2027 and which would have to be deferred.
He said Government must also explain what revenue would fund the commitments, what existing programmes would be reduced or discontinued and what the annual recurrent costs would be once major projects or institutions were established.
Manemahaga said the Opposition was not against the Government’s proposals but wanted Parliament to properly examine whether they were realistic, affordable and capable of being delivered.
He said the real challenge facing Solomon Islands had never been a shortage of policies, plans, committees or announcements, but implementation.
“A farmer cannot bank a promise,” he said.
“A patient cannot be treated by a policy statement.”
He added that a child could not learn from a development plan without a teacher, classroom and learning materials, while a broken road could not be repaired by another committee.
The Opposition also questioned two major financial proposals—the establishment of a Sovereign Wealth Fund and the re-establishment of the National Bank of Solomon Islands.
Manemahaga said a Sovereign Wealth Fund would not automatically create national wealth and would require actual revenue surpluses, strong governance, independent investment management, transparent reporting and protection from political interference.
On the proposed national bank, he warned that it must be commercially viable, professionally managed and protected from politically directed lending.
Otherwise, he said, it could become another liability for taxpayers rather than an institution that expands economic opportunities.
The Opposition said it was prepared to consider both proposals constructively but wanted proper feasibility studies, capital requirements, governance arrangements, risk assessments and implementation timetables before Parliament was asked to endorse them.
Manemahaga said the Opposition was not against ambition or reform.
But he warned against what he described as “ambition without a delivery mechanism”.
He called on Government to table within 60 days a National Delivery and Accountability Schedule covering every major commitment in the Speech from the Throne.
The schedule, he said, should identify the baseline position, total cost, funding source, responsible ministry, annual and quarterly milestones, provincial allocation, implementation risks and measurable expected results.
He also called for Ministers to report quarterly to Parliament on progress against the commitments made in the Speech.
“This would turn the Speech from an announcement into a contract of accountability with the people,” Manemahaga said.
He said Solomon Islanders did not need another season of announcements but a season of implementation.
“They need fair prices. They need markets. They need medicine. They need functioning schools. They need roads and shipping services.
“They need jobs,” he said.
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BY NED GAGAHE
The Government is set to introduce five major pieces of legislation aimed at reforming land governance, resolving land disputes, improving housing and strengthening coastal and marine management in Solomon Islands.
The proposed reforms were outlined by the Minister for Lands, Housing and Survey Oliver Salopuka in Parliament while responding to the Speech from the Throne.
The five Bills are the Customary Land Governance Bill, Land Dispute Resolution Bill, National Housing Bill, Land Information System Bill, and Coastal and Marine Governance Bill.
The Minister said the proposed legislation would form one of the most comprehensive reform programmes undertaken in the lands sector, with the aim of establishing a land governance system that is transparent, fair, modern and inclusive.
He said the reforms were necessary because land remains central to economic development, infrastructure, agriculture, investment and social stability.
“Land is not simply a resource. It is our identity. It is our history. It is our culture. It is our inheritance,” the Minister said.
He said weak governance, fragmented administration, unresolved disputes and outdated legislation had prevented Solomon Islands from fully unlocking the potential of its land while protecting the rights of customary landowners.
CUSTOMARY LAND
The proposed Customary Land Governance Bill will focus on strengthening the recognition and protection of customary ownership while providing greater legal certainty for landowners.
Around 85 percent of land in Solomon Islands remains under customary ownership, making effective customary land governance a major issue for national development.
The Minister said the Bill would strengthen governance arrangements within customary landholding groups and establish mechanisms to ensure communities receive equitable and transparent benefits from development on their land.
It would also encourage the establishment of Community Trust Funds, allowing revenues generated from customary land to support education, healthcare, infrastructure and future generations.
The Minister stressed that the reform was intended to empower customary landowners rather than replace them.
“It is about ensuring that development happens with them, not around them,” he said.
LAND DISPUTES
The Government also plans to overhaul the way land disputes are resolved.
The Minister said unresolved land disputes continued to undermine social cohesion, delay investment and divide communities.
The proposed Land Dispute Resolution Bill, developed with the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs and the Attorney-General’s Chambers, would seek to establish a more accessible, culturally appropriate and efficient system for resolving disputes.
The reform would strengthen community-based dispute resolution and recognise the role of chiefs, traditional leaders, churches and local institutions.
The Government’s objective, the Minister said, was to transform land from a source of conflict into a foundation for reconciliation, stability and national unity.
LAND FOR DEVELOPMENT
The Minister said protecting customary ownership should not prevent economic development.
He said secure land rights would create greater confidence for investment while ensuring customary landowners remained active participants in economic progress.
The Government intends to support development in agriculture, tourism, fisheries, mining, manufacturing and downstream processing.
The speech also identified projects and activities including the Bina Harbour Tuna Processing Project, cocoa and coconut plantations, eco-tourism, renewable energy projects and conservation areas for carbon markets.
The Minister said customary landowners must receive fair recognition, meaningful participation and equitable returns from such developments.
“The era of unequal partnerships must end,” he said.
DIGITAL LAND RECORDS
Another major reform will involve modernising land administration.
The proposed Land Information System Bill would establish a secure, integrated and fully digital land information system to replace paper-based records, fragmented databases and manual processes.
The Minister said digitising land records would improve transparency, reduce opportunities for fraud and provide more accurate information to landowners, investors, financial institutions and Government agencies.
He said modern technology would also support faster surveys, more reliable records and improved national planning.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
The Government is also proposing a National Housing Bill to provide a comprehensive framework for housing development.
The Minister said rapid urbanisation had placed growing pressure on Honiara and other urban centres, with many families living in informal settlements without secure tenure or adequate access to water, sanitation, roads and other essential services.
The proposed legislation would improve coordination across Government, encourage affordable housing investment and strengthen national housing policy.
The Ministry will also work with Guadalcanal Province, Honiara City Council and development partners to improve land administration and extend essential services to informal settlements.
The Minister said these communities were home to thousands of Solomon Islanders and their dignity and wellbeing deserved equal protection.
COASTAL PROTECTION
The fifth proposed Bill will focus on coastal and marine governance.
The Minister said climate change, rising sea levels, coastal erosion and environmental degradation were increasing threats to communities and national development.
The Coastal and Marine Governance Bill would strengthen the legal framework for coastal management while recognising and protecting customary sea rights.
It would also support sustainable coastal planning, greater community participation in environmental management and improved resilience to climate-related hazards.
The Minister said the legislative programme was ambitious because the challenges facing Solomon Islands were significant.
He called on Government, Opposition and Independent MPs to support the reforms in the national interest.
“Let us rise above politics,” he said, urging Parliament to unite behind legislation aimed at strengthening customary ownership, promoting peace, expanding economic opportunities, improving housing and protecting the environment.
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
TABAKA Technical Institute (TTI) in Western Province has secured a major partnership with Solomon Islands National University (SINU), opening new opportunities for its staffs and students to pursue higher-level technical qualifications.
The two institutions signed a five-year Excellence through Skills Innovation Partnership last week, marking what TTI describes as a significant milestone in strengthening technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in Solomon Islands.
TTI Principal Joash Lawrance said the partnership was a dream come true for the institution and its students.
“It’s a milestone in itself, and TTI acknowledges SINU for the support,” Lawrance said.
He said the five-year partnership would strengthen TTI’s capacity to deliver quality technical and vocational education while creating clearer pathways for students to advance their studies.
“Under the partnership, the two institutions will work together on institutional capacity building, staff development, programme and curriculum development, quality assurance, skills training and pathways to higher-level technical qualifications,” Lawrance said.
He said the agreement would give TTI students greater opportunities to continue their education beyond the institution and pursue further qualifications through SINU.
Lawrance said strengthening links between technical training institutions and the national university is important to ensure students can build on the skills and qualifications they had already gained.
SINU Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau welcomed the partnership, stressing that its success would depend on how effectively the agreement was implemented.
Professor Aqorau said the partnership should not remain simply an agreement on paper, but must be supported by clear implementation plans and measurable outcomes.
The partnership is expected to strengthen collaboration between TTI and SINU and contribute to the development of a more effective TVET pathway for students in Western Province and beyond.
For TTI, the agreement represents an important step towards expanding its educational opportunities and strengthening the quality and relevance of technical training available to Solomon Islands students.
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New Higher Education Ministry
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Honiara
The Solomon Islands education sector is set for a major structural reform with a planned establishment of a new Ministry of Higher Education, Skills Development, Research and Innovation.
Responding to the Speech from the Throne in Parliament on Friday, Minister for Education and Human Resources Development Hon. Stephen Kumi said the reform recognises that school education and higher education have become distinct sectors requiring separate leadership and policy direction.
Mr. Kumi said the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development will continue overseeing Early Childhood Education, primary and secondary education, with a focus on literacy, numeracy, curriculum delivery, teacher quality and school governance.
The proposed Higher Education Ministry will instead oversee universities, colleges, scholarships, technical and vocational education, research, innovation and workforce planning.
"Together, these two Ministries will create a stronger and more responsive education system that better meets the needs of our growing population and our future economy," he said.
The Minister also outlined broader education reforms currently underway, including the redevelopment of the Senior Secondary Curriculum and review of the Early Childhood Education Curriculum.
He said by 2027 Solomon Islands is expected to have a coherent curriculum framework covering education from early childhood through to Year 12.
Mr. Kumi said the Ministry has also launched a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) pilot programme with technical support from UNESCO to better prepare students for future employment opportunities.
In support of the reforms, the Government is progressing several key pieces of legislation, including bills on digital transformation in education, higher education and skills development, tertiary education governance, the proposed Solomon Islands University of Technology, and a new National TVET framework.
The Minister said the legislation will provide the legal foundation needed to modernise the education system, improve governance and strengthen quality assurance across the sector.
///Ends///
Government to Use SIMHL for Up to 25% State Equity in Mining Projects
The Government will use the proposed Solomon Islands Minerals Holding Limited (SIMHL) to take direct equity stakes of up to 25 per cent in strategically significant mining projects under reforms proposed in the new Mineral Resources Bill.
Minister of Mines Derrick Manuari outlined the proposed reforms in Parliament this week while contributing to the debate on, and expressing his support for, the Governor-General’s Speech from the Throne.
Manuari said the reforms would fundamentally change how Solomon Islands participates in and benefits from the development of its mineral resources.
Under the proposed State Equity Participation Framework, SIMHL will be empowered to exercise statutory back-in rights of up to 25 per cent equity in eligible mining projects.
The Minister said this would allow the State to benefit beyond royalties and taxation by also receiving dividends and benefiting from the long-term capital growth of successful mining operations.
“The GREAT Coalition Government has further strengthened the proposed Mineral Resources Bill through five strategic policy reforms that fundamentally redefine the manner in which Solomon Islands will govern, develop and benefit from its mineral wealth,” Manuari said.
He said the reforms are intended to establish a modern and transparent mining sector that promotes responsible investment while ensuring Solomon Islanders receive a greater and more enduring share of the wealth generated from the country’s natural resources.
The proposed framework will also establish a Mining Equity Participation Fund to support the acquisition and management of State equity interests in mining projects.
According to Manuari, the framework will further strengthen the participation of customary landowners in mineral development.
Another key component will be the establishment of an independent National Mineral Assay Laboratory.
The laboratory will provide internationally recognised services for ore verification, mineral valuation, quality assurance and royalty verification.
Manuari said the package of reforms represents a significant shift in the Government’s approach to mineral resources—from being a passive resource owner to becoming an active participant in the mining economy.
The proposed Mineral Resources Bill is part of the Government’s broader effort to reform the mining sector and ensure that future mineral development delivers sustainable and broader benefits to the State, customary landowners and the people of Solomon Islands.
PM Matthew Wale commits to advancing the Guadalcanal Provincial Hospital with government agencies and development partners PRIME Minister Hon. Matthew Wale has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to advancing the proposed Guadalcanal Provincial Hospital, signalling concrete action in response to the needs of the province. Speaking in Parliament yesterday, the Prime Minister said Government will work [...]
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PM Matthew Wale says Free Education will be fully costed and legislated, with implementation details to reach Parliament Prime Minister.Matthew Wale has welcomed the Opposition Leader’s support to the free education principle that ‘the classroom shall not be closed in the face of any Solomon Islands child because of the poverty of that child’s parents.’ [...]
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Makira-Ulawa Province Marks 43rd Second Appointed Day
Makira-Ulawa Province today celebrates its 43rd Second Appointed Day with a programme hosted by the East Makira Constituency Host Committee at the National Museum in Honiara.
The celebrations began early this morning with Makira-Ulawa people assembling at the SMI Town Ground before a parade made its way to the National Museum.
The official programme includes the arrival of the Guest of Honour, Hon. Derick Franklyn Wasi, followed by the blessing of the provincial flag, the national and Makira-Ulawa provincial anthems, and a flag-raising ceremony by the Solomon Islands Scout Association.
The programme also featured cultural presentations, including a susugu dance by Ulawa boys, a speech on the culture of Makira-Ulawa Province, and the cutting of the 43rd Anniversary cake.
Later in the day, awareness talks were delivered by medical and RSIPF teams, covering health and crime awareness, followed by cultural entertainment and performances from Makira-Ulawa groups and Artists.
The celebrations conclude with a word of thanks and closing prayer.
The 43rd Second Appointed Day celebrations provide an opportunity for Makira-Ulawa people to celebrate their culture, heritage and provincial identity.
Happy 43rd second appointed day, Makira-Ulawa Province.
The government, through the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration, has reaffirmed its commitment to placing Indigenous Solomon Islanders at the centre of the country’s economic development.
Delivering his speech in response to the Speech from the Throne in Parliament this week, Minister Hon. Harry Kuma said government policies such as the “First Bite, Better Bite” business principle are designed to give locals priority access to business opportunities, government procurement, and economic benefits within reserved business sectors.
He stressed that the policy is not intended to discourage foreign investment, but rather to ensure that economic development strengthens local ownership, participation, and capability.
“The Ministry will therefore advance the review of reserved business activities, the new MSME legal framework, reforms to Company Haus, cooperative development, and provincial business support.
“Our task is to create a pathway from informal business activity to a resilient and bankable business, from a small cooperative to a reliable supplier, and from a local producer to a competitive exporter,” he said.
He added that government procurement must become part of this pathway so that a greater share of public expenditure helps build capable local enterprises, while ensuring value for money and maintaining integrity.
The Minister further emphasised that government procurement must also help build capable local businesses rather than exclude them.
“We should not train local businesses and then design procurement systems that automatically exclude them. Protecting our local companies shouldn’t mean they never have to work hard to improve.
“When we give local businesses special treatment, we must also give them training, clear rules, new ideas, and high standards,” he said.
Minister Kuma also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building local companies that are strong enough to compete, grow, employ workers, and eventually sell to the rest of the world.
ENDS//
The post Government Reaffirms Focus on Indigenous Solomon Islanders in Economic Development first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
政府通过商业、工业、劳工和移民部(Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration)重申了将土著所罗门岛民置于国家经济发展中心的承诺。
在本周国会对王座演说的回应中,哈里·库马(Hon. Harry Kuma)部长表示,政府的政策,如“第一口,最好口”(“First Bite, Better Bite”)商业原则,旨在优先给予当地人商业机会、政府采购和保留商业领域内的经济利益。
他强调,该政策并不旨在阻碍外国投资,而是确保经济发展加强当地的所有权、参与和能力。
“因此,商业部将推进对保留商业活动的审查、新的中小微企业(MSME)法律框架、公司事务所(Company Haus)的改革、合作社发展和省级商业支持。
“我们的任务是创造一条从非正式商业活动到有韧性和可融资的商业,从小型合作社到可靠供应商,从地方生产者到具有竞争力的出口商的路径,”他说。
他补充说,政府采购必须成为这条路径的一部分,以便更大比例的公共支出帮助建立有能力的当地企业,同时确保物有所值并保持诚信。
部长进一步强调,政府采购还必须帮助建立有能力的当地企业,而不是将其排除在外。
“我们不应培训当地企业,然后设计自动排除它们的采购系统。保护我们的当地公司并不意味着它们不需要努力改进。
“当我们给予当地企业特殊待遇时,我们也必须给予它们培训、明确的规则、新的想法和高标准,”他说。
库马部长还重申了政府致力于建立足够强大的当地公司,使其能够竞争、增长、雇佣工人,并最终向世界其他地区销售的承诺。
结束//
该文章最初发表于所罗门岛广播公司(Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation,SIBC)。
BY IRWIN ANGIKI
Prime Minister Matthew Wale has apologised to the leaders and people of Guadalcanal for not attending the province’s second appointed day celebration.
Speaking in parliament yesterday [Friday, August 7] to conclude the motion of thanks to the Governor General, PM Wale touched on the matter of his absence being mentioned in the parliamentary debate.
Guadalcanal Premier Willie Atu has accepted the apology in a statement today [Saturday, August 8].
Wale voiced his sincere apologies assuring that it was an error in judgement that had no political strings attached and without malice.
“Mr Speaker, before I leave the domestic front, let me deal directly with a matter that has been raised in this debate: my absence from the Second Appointed Day celebrations of Guadalcanal Province.
“Let me state plainly that there was no political intent in that absence, none whatsoever. I made a judgment: since both the Minister for Provincial Government and the Deputy Prime Minister were going to be present, I decided that this was adequate representation of the Government.
“I obviously misjudged the feeling of some in this matter, and I therefore unreservedly apologise. I offer that apology without qualification, because Guadalcanal is the province on whose land this Parliament sits, and its feelings are owed respect, not management.
“At the same time, I must be honest with this House and with all our provinces: I may not be able to attend every Second Appointed Day event, and where duty keeps me away, I hope my absence is kept in perspective and not overblown, because the measure of a Government’s regard for a province is not the seating chart of a single day; it is what the Government does for that province across every day that follows,” Wale said.
PM Wale then addressed issues raised by Premier Atu in his 2nd appointed day speech, starting with Guadalcanal’s reiteration of its longstanding wish for statehood.
“First, on the long-standing question that stands behind so many others: the GREAT Coalition Government will bring the question of State Government to a determination by the end of 2027. A question that has waited upon this nation for decades will not be left to drift any longer; it will be brought to a decision, and the provinces will know where they stand,” Wale said.
Wale also promised to build a provincial hospital for Guadalcanal.
“It is my promise, and the promise of the GREAT Coalition, that the Government, working closely with our donor partners, will deliver as appropriately as we can in building the Guadalcanal Province Provincial Hospital, as requested by the Honourable Premier in his Second Appointed Day speech.
“The Government, through the Social Sector under the Prime Minister’s political division in the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, will work closely with Guadalcanal Province, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, the Ministry of National Planning and Development Coordination and other government agencies to start the work that is required for this project, and to bring the concept paper to Caucus and to Cabinet as soon as possible,” Wale said.
Premier Atu today [Saturday, August 8] in a statement accepted Wale’s apology, reassuring G-Province’s support of GREAT development plans for Guadalcanal.
“On behalf of the people of Guadalcanal, I accept the Hon. Prime Minister’s apology and his reason for not attending,” Atu said.
Atu assured the Prime Minister of Guadalcanal province’s commitment to “work with the GREAT Coalition Government to enhance the unity and development of our country and the wellbeing of our people”.
On Monday, August 3, Guadalcanal held the official closing of its four-day celebration of its 42 second appointed day at the national stadium, east Honiara. First-ever celebration to be held in Honiara city.
PM Wale did not attend, rather had sent his deputy, Francis Sade, in his place.
This did not go down well with Guadalcanal provincial leaders and people.
In a statement on Thursday, August 5, Guadalcanal Premier Atu publicly expressed disappointment on behalf of his government and people at PM Wale’s absence. Atu’s statement also marks the first provincial leader to protest the absence of a prime minister in a provincial day celebration.
“The Guadalcanal Provincial Government expresses disappointment in the Prime Minister Hon Matthew Wale’s decision not to attend the Province’s 42nd Second Appointed Day celebrations,” the statement said.
Premier Atu said his government and the people of Guadalcanal had looked forward to receiving PM Wale, especially to allow them to present their longstanding request for statehood and hear his response in person.
“It would have meant a lot for the Prime Minister to attend, listen to our call for federalism, our preparations for it, and respond to it in person,” Atu said.
In parliament on Thursday, August 6, Member of Parliament for North Guadalcanal Dr Paul Popora Bosawai raised this matter implying political reasons for PM Wale’s absence.
“PM my people wish you well in your leadership, particularly with your brand of servanthood as you’ve stated and I quote We are not your lords, we are your servants’. This statement is empowering and reflects our country’s motto ‘To lead is to serve’,” Mr Bosawai said.
“Mr Speaker, my people felt that during the Guadalcanal second appointed day we did not fully witness the commitment and action. We anticipated that our good prime minister would come even if he did not intend to deliver a speech, simply to acknowledge the people and return to his national duties as explained by his deputy prime minister during the Guadalcanal government speech on the second appointed day.
“We wanted to congratulate you Hon prime minister during our provincial day. However your absence prevented us from doing so.
“The speech from the throne also emphasised ‘we are not your lords, we are your servants’ Mr Speaker. This statement should not merely remain a slogan, it must be practised in leadership. It is an empowering call to all of us members of parliament to put our nation Solomon Islands first and to serve our people with integrity and political honesty.
“So my brother prime minister through Mr Speaker, whatever political reasons may exist, we will continue to support policies that serve the people,” Bosawai said.
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Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Wale says the Government has taken steps to strengthen fiscal discipline and stop long-standing leakages in public finances.
In his closing remarks in response to the Speech from the Throne yesterday, the Prime Minister said the Government is actively closing gaps that have allowed revenue to “quietly haemorrhage” through discretionary tax exemptions and unexamined arrangements.
“What I can tell the House today is the direction of travel. The leakages in our public finances are being plugged,” he said.
Prime Minister Wale highlighted a key reform announced by the Minister of Finance and Treasury on 17 June.
And that is, he said the termination of all resource-sector tax exemption Memoranda of Understanding, alongside the restoration of the Revenue and Customs Exemption Committee as the sole lawful authority for granting exemptions.
“This decision restores integrity to our revenue system,” the Prime Minister said.
“It ensures that exemptions are no longer granted through discretionary arrangements but through a transparent and lawful process.”
Prime Minister Wale welcomed the Opposition Leader’s support for the reform.
He said such consensus reflects the importance of protecting national revenue.
“That decision is what fiscal honesty looks like in practice,” Prime Minister Wale said.
“It is the foundation on which this Government will rebuild the fiscal buffers our country needs.”
The Prime Minister emphasised that these measures mark a critical step towards strengthening public finances, restoring accountability and ensuring that government revenue is safeguarded for the benefit of all Solomon Islanders.
[end]
OPMC statement
The post PM says gov’t moves to plug revenue leaks and fiscal discipline first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Wale has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to advancing the proposed Guadalcanal Provincial Hospital, signalling concrete action in response to the needs of the province.
Speaking in Parliament yesterday, the Prime Minister said the Government will work closely with development partners to deliver the project in a practical and coordinated manner.
“The Government working closely with our donor partners will deliver as appropriately as we can in building the Guadalcanal Province Provincial Hospital,” he said.
The Prime Minister confirmed that the project responds directly to the request made by the Premier of Guadalcanal Province during the province’s Second Appointed Day celebrations.
He outlined a whole-of-government approach to progressing the initiative, led through the Social Sector under the Prime Minister’s Political Division in the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Prime Minister Wale said this will involve close coordination with Guadalcanal Province, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, the Ministry of National Planning and Development Coordination and other relevant government agencies.
He said work will begin on the necessary groundwork, including the development of a concept paper to be submitted to the Caucus and Cabinet for consideration as soon as possible.
“That is how this Government answers a province,” the Prime Minister said.
“Not with ceremony but with commitment.”
The Prime Minister emphasised its focus on delivering essential health infrastructure and improving access to quality medical services for communities across Guadalcanal Province.
[end]
OPMC statement
The post Gov’t commits to progress Guadalcanal Provincial Hospital Project: PM Wale first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
– Malaita provincial government hands over relief donations to NDMO aimed at Western province
BY JOSES SAREN
The Malaita Provincial Government yesterday handed over cash and material donations collected from churches in Malaita and Honiara to support communities affected by Cyclone Maila in Western Province.
The handover took place at the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) in Ranadi, with NDMO receiving the contributions on behalf of the victims.
Malaita Provincial Secretary Eric George said the donations came from a sincere appeal by the Malaita Premier to citizens in both Malaita and Honiara.
“These contributions come from the kind hearts of citizens who stepped forward to support the victims, families, and our brothers and sisters affected by Cyclone Maila in the Western Province,” George said.
He said the Premier was unable to attend due to an overseas commitment but extended his wholehearted appreciation to everyone who donated.
Solomon Kalu, chairman for the Malaita Provincial Disaster Committee, coordinated the collection of donations from churches in both Honiara and Auki after the appeal went out in early April.
Provincial Minister for Fisheries, Environment, and Conservation Jerry Hite, representing the Malaita Provincial Executive, thanked Mr Kalu and the churches for their response.
“As modest as it may seem, it is a significant help to our friends,” Hite said.
NDMO Director and Chairman of the National Disaster Operations Committee Jonathan Tafiariki said the donations would be delivered to communities affected by Cyclone Maila, with Western Province the hardest hit.
He said agriculture and food supply had been heavily disrupted in the province, and communities classified as red zones would continue to need ongoing assistance.
Tafiariki thanked the Malaita Provincial Government for complementing the national government’s disaster response and for mobilising its community networks in support of the victims.
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