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All collected updates from verified Solomon Islands sources.

Second Honiara Road Moves Closer to Reality

by Indy Maealasia The long-awaited plan to build a second road corridor through Honiara has taken a significant step forward.... The post Second Honiara Road Moves Closer to Reality appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Infrastructure · 2026-08-08 Original ↗

Stolen Bloody Ridge Plaque Replaced

A stolen plaque commemorating one of the most significant battles of the Guadalcanal campaign has been replaced at Bloody Ridge... The post Stolen Bloody Ridge Plaque Replaced appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth General News · 2026-08-08 Original ↗

Wale Moves to Plug Public Finance Leakages

Prime Minister Matthew Wale says the Government has taken steps to strengthen fiscal discipline and stop long-standing leakages in public... The post Wale Moves to Plug Public Finance Leakages appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

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

New PM Residence Set for 2028

The GREAT Coalition says it will deliver a new official residence for the prime minister before the nation celebrates its... The post New PM Residence Set for 2028 appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Politics & Government · 2026-08-08 Original ↗

Guadalcanal province accepts Prime Minister’s Wale’s apology

The Guadalcanal Province has accepted Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s “unreserved apology” for not attending the province’s 42 nd Second Appointed Day celebrations. Guadalcanal Province Premier Willie Atu said, “On behalf of the people of Guadalcanal, I accept the Hon. Prime Minister’s apology and his reason for not attending.” “We thank Hon. Prime Minister Wale for using the floor of Parliament to convey his apology. That is leadership and respect. Guadalcanal Province reciprocates its respect to the Prime Minister.” He said the province is encouraged by the Prime Minister’s assurance that the GREAT Coalition is committed to addressing issues important to the people of Guadalcanal. Premier Atu said he is particularly grateful “to hear the Prime Minister inform Parliament and the nation that statehood and a Guadalcanal provincial hospital are included in the GREAT Coalition Government’s policy agenda.” He said the Guadalcanal Province and its people are pleased with the GREAT Coalition’s pledge to table the issue of state government in Parliament by the end of 2027. Hon. Prime Minister Wale told Parliament the state government issue “has weighed upon this nation for decades [and] will not be left to drift any longer. It will be brought to a decision, and the provinces will know where they stand. The legislation for the Constituent Assembly must be dealt with before the end of 2027.” Premier Atu said Guadalcanal Province has already completed the preparatory work needed to support and inform the Constituent Assembly, the body established to deliberate on the draft Federal Constitution before it is submitted to Parliament. He said the province has completed its report on “Minimum Criteria Readiness for Statehood under the Proposed Solomon Islands Federal System,” which has been approved by the Provincial Executive. On the issue of a Guadalcanal provincial hospital, the Premier said he is pleased with the Prime Minister’s assurance that the GREAT Coalition is working closely with development partners and the relevant ministries to deliver this much-needed infrastructure development for Guadalcanal. Premier 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.” [end] GP statement The post Guadalcanal province accepts Prime Minister’s Wale’s apology first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .

SIBC Politics & Government · 2026-08-08 Original ↗

More NFIs for Victims of Cyclone Maila

More NFIs for victims of Cyclone Maila. Volunteers of Red Cross - Western Branch unloading NFIs donated by Red Cross Society

Volunteers unloading relief supplies for Cyclone Maila victims
Island Sun Disasters & Weather · 2026-08-08 Original ↗

Government Moves to Develop Second Road Corridor to Ease Honiara Traffic

Government Moves to Develop Second Road Corridor to Ease Honiara Traffic The Government is moving to address Honiara’s worsening traffic congestion through the development of a second road corridor linking Henderson in East Honiara to White River in the west. Speaking in Parliament, the Minister responsible for Infrastructure and Development said the Government, in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), is progressing plans for the Honiara Alternative Road Corridor, which is expected to provide a second major route through the city. “To alleviate the current traffic congestion problems we experience on a daily basis in Honiara, my ministry, in collaboration with ADB, is embarking on the Honiara Alternative Road Corridor, which is expected to be our second road corridor, connecting the existing feeder roads from Lunga to White River,” the Minister said. He said the Ministry is currently in the process of procuring an engineering firm to undertake a feasibility study and detailed design for the proposed alternative route. The project is intended to provide an alternative to the existing main road through Honiara and help reduce pressure on the city’s increasingly congested road network. The Minister also revealed that his Ministry is working with ADB on the rehabilitation of the White River–Lambi Road on West Guadalcanal. He said the engineering consultant’s report for the project is expected to be submitted to the Ministry in October 2026. “Upon receiving this report, my ministry will further look at the implementation arrangements to expedite this road project,” he told Parliament. Meanwhile, with funding support from the Government of Australia, the Ministry is planning several major road improvement works in Honiara in 2026, which will be carried out through local contractors. One of the projects will involve the Florence Young–Kolaridge Road, which the Ministry plans to fully rehabilitate with an asphalt pavement. Another major section identified for rehabilitation is Hibiscus Avenue, from Town Ground through to the Point Cruz Hot Bread Roundabout. The Government says the planned investments are aimed at improving Honiara’s road network, easing congestion and providing safer and more reliable transport links for the growing population.

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SBM Infrastructure · 2026-08-08 Original ↗

Guadalcanal Accepts PM Wale Apology, Backs Statehood Push

Guadalcanal Province says it has accepted Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s “unreserved apology” for not attending the province’s 42nd Second Appointed... The post Guadalcanal Accepts PM Wale Apology, Backs Statehood Push appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Politics & Government · 2026-08-08 Original ↗

Monument Plaque Reinstated at Bloody Ridge National Historical Park

Monument Plaque Reinstated at Bloody Ridge National Historical Park Honiara, Solomon Islands - Marking the restoration of one of the Solomon Islands’ most important World War II heritage landmarks, a new monument plaque commemorating the battle of Bloody Ridge has been reinstated at Bloody Ridge National Historical Park. The original plaque, installed when Bloody Ridge was formally declared a National Historical Park in 2017, was stolen shortly after its unveiling. Its replacement has been funded thanks to the generosity of United States-based Valor Tours supporters, 25 of whom joined Ministry of Culture & Tourism (MCT) Permanent Secretary, Bunyan Sivoro along MCT staff, Tourism Solomons team members and the Bloody Ridge Rangers at an official unveiling ceremony marking the 64th anniversary of the Guadalcanal landings. Expressing the Government’s deep appreciation to Valor Tours group leader Scott Freund and the many donors who contributed funds towards the new plaque, Permanent Secretary Sivoro said their efforts had restored an important landmark that holds great meaning for both Solomon Islanders and international visitors. Valor Tours group leader and company representative, Scott Freund said he was deeply grateful to everyone who contributed towards the new plaque.. “The Solomon Islands holds a special place in my heart, and I always look forward to returning,” he said. The names of all donors will be recognised at the new Bloody Ridge National Historical Park office as a lasting tribute to their generosity. Also present, MCT Tourism Technical Advisor, Bjorn Svensson, who has played a major role in the development of the national park. Reflecting on the long journey to establish Bloody Ridge National Historical Park, he acknowledged the challenges faced in developing and protecting the site and recognised the dedication of the Bloody Ridge Rangers. He also highlighted future development plans aimed at strengthening the park’s role in heritage tourism and creating sustainable economic opportunities for surrounding communities. The Valor Tours group is visiting the Solomon Islands to commemorate the 84th anniversary of the US landings on Guadalcanal, Tulagi, and the Florida Islands.

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SBM Culture & Entertainment · 2026-08-08 Original ↗

US Commemorates 84th Anniversary of Guadalcanal Campaign

Solomon Islands and the U.S. commemorate the 84th anniversary of the Guadalcanal Campaign and honour World War II heroes The 84th anniversary of the U.S. Marines’ landing on Guadalcanal and Tulagi during World War II has been commemorated at the Guadalcanal American Memorial in Skyline, Honiara. The landing on 7 August 1942 marked the beginning [...] The post US Commemorates 84th Anniversary of Guadalcanal Campaign appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli General News · 2026-08-07 Original ↗

Open Invitation Confirmed for upcoming 55th Pacific Leaders Meeting

Rick Houenipwela says the 55th Pacific Islands Forum in Palau will operate under an open invitation arrangement The upcoming 55th Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting in Palau will operate under an open invitation arrangement for invited participants, according to Solomon Islands Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Rick Houenipwela.& Responding to questions on [...] The post Open Invitation Confirmed for upcoming 55th Pacific Leaders Meeting appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Business & Economy · 2026-08-07 Original ↗

SIBC TV NEWS

SIBC TV NEWS

SIBC General News · 2026-08-07 Original ↗

Airport Workshop Strengthens Regional Asset Management

SIRAP2 workshop strengthens airport asset management to improve aviation safety and infrastructure across Solomon Islands The Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA), through the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2) with support from the World Bank, has successfully concluded the second Regional Airport Asset Maintenance Workshop aimed at strengthening capacity in the management [...] The post Airport Workshop Strengthens Regional Asset Management appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Infrastructure · 2026-08-07 Original ↗

Wale Says Sorry, Promises Lasting Action

By Georgina Maka’a Prime Minister Matthew Wale has offered an unreserved apology to the people of Guadalcanal for failing to... The post Wale Says Sorry, Promises Lasting Action appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Politics & Government · 2026-08-07 Original ↗

Women Complete Leadership Programme to Strengthen Executive Skills.

By Andrianah Kole Participants in the Solomon Islands Senior Executive Women in Leadership Programme (Cohort 8) have been recognised after completing a leadership development course designed to prepare women for executive and board leadership positions. The participants received their certificates during a celebration breakfast today (Friday), attended by programme alumni, partners and supporters. The event recognised the participants’ achievements and provided an opportunity for networking. Guest speaker David Quan congratulated the graduates, saying continuous professional development is essential in preparing future leaders. “Whether at home, with your family or at work, you’re already leaders in your own right,” he said. Quan said while education and professional training are important, effective leadership is ultimately shaped by attitude, integrity and a commitment to serving others. He encouraged participants to remain professional in the workplace by focusing on resolving issues rather than allowing disagreements to become personal. “Focus on the issue. Don’t personalise it. Once discussions become personal, we won’t achieve anything,” he said. Quan said leadership often involves making difficult decisions and urged participants to ensure those decisions are guided by the law, organisational policies and ethical standards. He also encouraged them to continue building professional networks, seek guidance from experienced colleagues and support one another throughout their leadership journeys. The programme was organized by the Women in Executive Leadership Coalition (WELSI), which aims to increase the number of women serving in executive and board leadership positions across Solomon Islands. WELSI President Pamela Naesol Alamu said the organisation was established to empower women by building confidence, strengthening leadership skills and creating opportunities for professional growth. Registered in 2024, the coalition has delivered leadership training since 2023 through partnerships with professional organisations. More than 130 women completed the previous seven cohorts, with a further 18 participants graduating from the latest programme. Mrs. Naesol Alamu said the initiative was about more than increasing the number of women in leadership positions. “It’s not only about increasing the numbers. It’s about the quality of the women too. We want women to be competent, confident and prepared for leadership,” she said. She said the programme helps women make informed career decisions, recognise their leadership potential and develop the confidence to pursue executive and board appointments. The coalition has grown to more than 100 members and continues to operate through volunteers supporting women across the country. Mrs. Naesol Alamu said hearing participants describe how the programme had strengthened their confidence continued to motivate the organisation’s work. She also referred to research showing women remain underrepresented in senior leadership roles in Solomon Islands, although recent studies indicate progress, with more women serving as chief executives and board members. Encouraging women to pursue leadership opportunities, she said leadership was defined by influence rather than position. “Leadership is not about position or power. Leadership is about how you influence others through the way you live and conduct yourself every day,” she said. Participant Barbara Kuere, a Port Engineer with Solomon Islands Ports Authority, said the four-day programme provided practical knowledge on corporate governance, board procedures, risk management, financial literacy and building a professional brand. “The two lessons I take away from the training are confidence and clarity. Being a leader does not mean I know everything. It is about being willing to learn and having the courage to solve problems in the environment where we work,” she said. Ms. Kuere also highlighted the importance of professional networks, saying the programme connected participants with women who could continue supporting one another beyond the training. “By supporting one another and building meaningful connections, we create lasting relationships that extend beyond a single meeting,” she said. “Together, we can share knowledge, encourage growth and empower each other to succeed. When we work collaboratively, we can make a meaningful difference in our workplaces, our communities, our homes and across our nation.” The Women in Executive Leadership Coalition says the programme is the first in a broader series of initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s leadership, expanding professional networks and increasing women’s participation in decision-making across Solomon Islands. ENDS// The post Women Complete Leadership Programme to Strengthen Executive Skills. first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .

SIBC Women & Youth · 2026-08-07 Original ↗

HEALTH MINISTER: “PRIMARY HEALTH CARE WILL BE A CENTER OF OUR WORK”

Health Minister Morris Toiraena prioritises primary health care and upgrades to clinics, hospitals and referral services Health Minister Hon. Morris Toiraena says the Ministry will place primary health care at the forefront of its efforts, in his speech in response to the Throne of Parliament yesterday.& He highlighted, for many people, the first contact with [...] The post HEALTH MINISTER: “PRIMARY HEALTH CARE WILL BE A CENTER OF OUR WORK” appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Health · 2026-08-07 Original ↗

Houenipwela urges Pacific Foreign Ministers to strengthen regional ownership

Rick Houenipwela urges Pacific unity and stronger regional leadership in managing global partnerships and priorities Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Rick Houenipwela, has called on Pacific Foreign Ministers to strengthen regional ownership in managing external partnerships while addressing priorities affecting Pacific communities. Speaking as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Foreign Ministers [...] The post Houenipwela urges Pacific Foreign Ministers to strengthen regional ownership appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Business & Economy · 2026-08-07 Original ↗

PM WALE APOLOGISES TO GUADALCANAL

Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Wale has apologized to the people of Guadalcanal for not attending the province’s recent Second Appointed Day celebrations. Guadalcanal Premier Hon. Willie Atu in a recent statement had expressed disappointment over the Prime Minister’s decision not to attend the event, noting that the celebrations were held in Honiara so the Prime Minister could be present. Speaking in Parliament this evening, Prime Minister Wale clarified that his absence was in no way political. “Since both the Minister for Provincial Government and the Deputy Prime Minister were going to be present, I decided, after some discussion with them, that this was adequate representation of the Government. I obviously, Mr. Speaker, misjudged the feelings of some in this matter, and I therefore unreservedly apologise.” “I truly am very sorry. 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.” Prime Minister Wale also said that he may not be able to attend every Second Appointed Day celebration because of his schedule, but he hoped his absence would be kept in perspective and not overblown. “This is 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.” He also confirmed that the issues raised by Premier Atu during the Second Appointed Day celebrations regarding statehood and a hospital for the province are already included in the Great Coalition Government’s policy agenda and that the Government is committed to implementing them. “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. The legislation for the Constituent Assembly must be dealt with before the end of 2027,” he said. On the matter of health infrastructure for the province, Prime Minister Wale says they are working closely with donor partners to deliver a hospital for the province. “The Government, through the social sector under the Prime Minister’s political oversight, will work closely with the province, the Ministry, MID, the Ministry of Planning, and other government agencies to begin the work required for this project and to bring the concept paper to caucus and Cabinet as soon as possible.” ENDS// The post PM WALE APOLOGISES TO GUADALCANAL first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .

SIBC Politics & Government · 2026-08-07 Original ↗

Gov’t to support establishment of new cocoa and coconut plantations

BY LORETTA B MANELE The GREAT Coalition Government has made its intention of establishing new cocoa and coconut plantations across the country. Agriculture Minister, Franklyn Wasi shed light on this whilst delivering his response to the Speech from the Throne in parliament on Wednesday. He said traditional cash crops like cocoa and coconut remain among our most important agricultural export commodities. “The GREAT Coalition Government intends to support the establishment of new cocoa and coconut plantations across the country while also rehabilitating aging plantations through improved planting materials, farmer support programmes and better pest and disease management,” he said. Wasi said the Government will also continue to expand nurseries, drying facilities and storage infrastructure to improve product quality and increase farmer incomes. The Member of Parliament for East Makira said these measures will strengthen Solomon Islands competitiveness in international markets while creating sustainable economic opportunities for rural communities. Wasi said the target is to reach 10,000 hectares of new planted cocoa and coconut trees across the whole nation in the coming years. Photo credit: NPSI For feedback, contact: lorettamanele@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-07 Original ↗

Gov’t committed to increasing production of local poultry and meat

BY LORETTA B MANELE The Great Coalition Government is facilitating investment in commercial domestic feed milling, poultry breeding facilities and additional hatcheries. Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD), Franklyn Wasi announced this during his ministerial response to the Speech from the Throne in parliament on Wednesday. Speaking on the livestock industry, he said the industry offers enormous potential to improve nutrition, reduce imports and increase incomes. Wasi stressed that the Government is committed to raising the production of local poultry meat and eggs so people can access nutritious protein more affordably. “The GREAT Coalition Government is committed to increasing local production of poultry meat and eggs so that our people can access nutritious protein at more affordable prices,” he said. The minister said to achieve this, they are facilitating investment in commercial domestic feed milling, poultry breeding facilities and additional hatcheries. Wasi said these investments will address longstanding supply constraints and reduce dependence on imported breeding stock. He mentioned that at the same time, they are revitalizing the national pig breeding programme through improved genetics and artificial insemination, while also progressing the development of national cattle and small ruminant breeding centres. Wasi said these initiatives will strengthen livestock production and create new opportunities for rural households. Photo credit: NPSI For feedback, contact: lorettamanele@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-08-07 Original ↗

Manele calls for stronger Parliamentary oversight of foreign policy

BY TONY IROGA Opposition MP for Kia/Hograno Constituency and Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Relations, Jeremiah Manele, has called on the Government to strengthen parliamentary oversight of the country’s foreign policy, treaties and international agreements. Contributing to the Motion of Thanks on the Speech from the Throne in Parliament this week, speaking in parliament today, Manele welcomed the Coalition Government’s commitment to strengthen democratic institutions but said more work is needed to ensure transparency and accountability in the conduct of foreign affairs. “I welcome the Coalition’s initiative to strengthen the pillars of our democracy, including the independence and autonomy of Parliament and the Judiciary,” Manele said. He also welcomed the Government’s decision to maintain Solomon Islands’ long-standing foreign policy of being “friends to all” while pursuing a renewed approach to relations with traditional partners. “That is a policy choice the Coalition has decided to take, and that is fine,” he said. “But in the process, one must also be careful not to lose the trust of non-traditional partners.” Manele stressed that Solomon Islands should engage constructively with all countries based on national interest rather than distinguishing between traditional and new partners. “I think one should not discriminate between traditional or new partners. They are all valuable partners, and we need them all,” he said. The former Prime Minister urged the Government to involve Parliament more closely in the ratification of international treaties, saying the current process gives Cabinet sole authority to approve major agreements. “It would be useful for the Government to table some of these treaties before Parliament for deliberation and endorsement before ratification or accession,” Manele said, while acknowledging that some security-related agreements may need to remain confidential. As chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, Manele said the committee will continue engaging with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET), the Prime Minister’s Office and other stakeholders to monitor the implementation of international agreements. He also called on the Government to finalise a comprehensive foreign policy document. “I call on the Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade to bring a full Foreign Policy White Paper to Parliament within the next 12 months after consultation with relevant stakeholders,” he said. Manele said Solomon Islands should place greater emphasis on its Pacific relationships and regional organisations, including the Pacific Islands Forum, the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and the Melanesian Spearhead Group. “Our strength has never been our size. It has been our solidarity,” he said. On economic diplomacy, Manele said the Government’s policy statement outlined broad intentions but lacked specific targets, agreements and implementation mechanisms to expand exports and reduce trade imbalances. He also supported labour mobility programmes but said they must be carefully managed to avoid creating shortages of skilled workers in essential sectors such as health and education. “We support our workers abroad because remittances help families, build homes, establish businesses and pay school fees. But remittances must not deprive our hospitals and classrooms of skilled workers,” he said. Manele further proposed that the Minister for Foreign Affairs present an annual report to Parliament detailing the country’s key international relationships, agreements signed, and the performance of overseas missions. “What the Government measures, this House can support. What it hides, this House must question,” he said. He said the Opposition will work constructively with the Government on the proposed Foreign Relations Bill and seek amendments to strengthen parliamentary scrutiny of treaties and foreign policy decisions. “Foreign policy should be the most bipartisan business of this House because the flag our diplomats carry belongs to no coalition and no government,” Manele said. Concluding his speech, Manele thanked the Governor-General for delivering the Speech from the Throne and said it is now the responsibility of the Government, ministers and the public service to deliver on the commitments outlined in the policy statement. “The onus is now on all of us, especially the Government, the Ministers and the public service, to implement and deliver for all our people,” he said. Photo: Supplied For feedback, contact: tonyiroga8@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-08-07 Original ↗

GREAT to push Mental Health Bill to replace 1970 legislation

BY IRWIN ANGIKI The GREAT Government has said it will bring the Mental Health Bill for passage in parliament. This Bill is set to replace the current legislation, Mental Treatment Act, which was enacted in 1970. Along the years, consecutive governments have promised to replace the 1970 act. Sikua’s government in 2009 recognised that the Mental Treatment Act was “badly outdated” and required urgent redrafting into a modernised Mental Health Bill. Major milestone was achieved by the DCGA government under prime minister Manasseh Sogavare which launched the Mental Health Policy on July 27, 2023. GREAT is determined to go another step further with the Mental Health Bill. Health Minister Morris Toiraena, contributing yesterday (Thursday, August 6, 2026) to the motion of thanks to the Governor General’s speech from the throne said the Mental Health Bill is among the two Health bills GREAT will bring to parliament. “The Government will also progress several health legislations which include the Health Service Bill, Amendments to the Dangerous Drugs Act, Amendments to the Pure Food Act and a new Mental Bill before this Honourable House. These reforms will help provide a stronger legal and institutional basis for the work ahead,” Toiraena said. Toiraena said mental health can no longer be allowed to be a culturally sensitive issue on which people refrain open dialogue and solution seeking. “Many Solomon Islanders live with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance-related illness and other mental health conditions without adequate support. Families often carry this burden alone. Stigma keeps people silent, and services remain limited. “The Government will confront mental health openly and with compassion. We will work towards mental health facilities and services in every province, strengthen training for health workers, support community-based care, and improve referral pathways for people in crisis. “The planned relocation of the National Psychiatric Unit to Honiara is part of this commitment to provide more appropriate, accessible and dignified care. “Mental health is health. It deserves the same seriousness as any other condition,” Toiraena said. The national psychiatric unit is based in the Kilu’ufi hospital, Auki, Malaita province. However, in January this year the idea to have it relocated was established driven by factors such as logistical barriers to referral cases from other provinces to reach Kilu’ufi. The architectural and planning phases are underway. The physical transition to the National Referral Hospital is expected to finish by the end of 2026. Photo credit: NPSI For feedback, contact: irwin3angiki@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-07 Original ↗

Government to take 25 percent stake in mining, cut power costs

BY JOSES SAREN The Government will take up to twenty-five per cent stake in big mining projects and cut electricity costs to around 15 US cents (approx. SBD $1.20) per kilowatt-hour under major reforms. For years, the country has watched its minerals leave our shores while foreign companies took most of the profits, Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification Derrick Rawcliff Manuari says that will change. He announced the reforms today in his response to the Speech from the Throne in Parliament. Manuari said under the new Mineral Resources Bill, the Government can own shares in major mining developments through a new company called Solomon Islands Minerals Holding Limited. This means Solomon Islands will get a share of the profits, not just royalty payments. It also means landowners will have a stronger say in how mining is operated on their land. Manuari said the Bill also introduces a “No Pay, No Ship” rule in which mining companies must pay all royalties before any minerals leave the country which will stop companies from avoiding payments. The minister said Government will also reserve alluvial mining — the kind of mining done on riverbanks and small-scale operations — for Solomon Islanders only. On energy, Manuari said the Government wants to cut electricity costs through renewable energy investment as families in Honiara pay some of the highest electricity bills in the Pacific. The Tina River Hydropower Project is expected to change that, cutting costs by up to 40 per cent. Manuari said the Government’s commitment goes beyond the capital as thousands of families across the islands still have no access to electricity. He said the Government will roll out solar systems, mini-grids and community power solutions to reach rural villages. “No Solomon Islander should be left behind simply because of where they live,” Minister Manuari told Parliament. He stressed that electricity changes lives because with it, children can study at night, nurses can deliver babies safely, small businesses can grow and communities can stay connected. Manuari said the Ministry will also reform electricity laws to make sure pricing is fair and transparent. He said water security is also a priority, with investment in boreholes and water systems for provincial centres. Manuari said the reforms are about making sure mining benefits all Solomon Islanders and brings hope to rural communities. “Our responsibility is not simply to regulate these sectors, but to ensure that they improve the lives of every Solomon Islander. “Above all, it gives hope to rural communities that they too are part of our nation’s development journey,” he said. Photo credit: NPSI For feedback, contact: josessaren@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-08-07 Original ↗

Japan Donates 50 Footballs to Strengthen Grassroots Football in Solomon Islands

Japan Donates 50 Footballs to Strengthen Grassroots Football in Solomon Islands The Government of Japan has donated 50 footballs to the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF), reinforcing its commitment to grassroots football development and the longstanding friendship between Japan and Solomon Islands. The footballs were officially handed over during a ceremony at SIFF headquarters in Honiara, attended by Japan's Ambassador to Solomon Islands, H.E. Keiichi Higuchi, SIFF President Donald Marahare, SIFF Chief Executive Officer Leonard Paia, football officials, members of the diplomatic community and invited guests. In his keynote address, Ambassador Higuchi said the donation was inspired by the strong support Solomon Islanders showed for Japan during the recent FIFA World Cup, where many local fans proudly backed the Japanese national team. "Our Embassy received many requests for Japanese flags during the World Cup," Ambassador Higuchi said. "Although we could not meet all those requests, we witnessed countless handmade Japanese flags across Honiara. That passion demonstrated the deep love Solomon Islanders have for football." The Ambassador said the initiative followed discussions between Japan's State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Horii, and Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale during the Japan–Solomon Islands Summit on 23 July. The footballs were donated through the Nara Football Association as a gesture of friendship and support for football development in Solomon Islands. Drawing on Japan's experience, Ambassador Higuchi noted that the country's football achievements have been built through long-term investment in youth development and grassroots programmes. "We want to help young players grow and bring the joy of football to even more children. These fifty footballs contribute to that vision," he said. He also highlighted the growing football partnership between the two countries, pointing to Japanese footballer Sota Higashide, who currently plays for Solomon Kings FC, and JICA volunteer coach Kanto Yamashita, who continues to support SIFF's youth and women's football programmes. Receiving the donation, SIFF officials thanked the Government and people of Japan for their continued support of football in Solomon Islands, saying the equipment will benefit young players and community football initiatives across the country. The ceremony concluded with the official handover of the footballs and a group photograph involving the Ambassador, SIFF officials and invited guests. The donation is expected to enhance access to essential football equipment and further strengthen grassroots football development throughout Solomon Islands. ENDS/////////

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ZFM 99.5 Sports · 2026-08-07 Original ↗