Wed, 29 Jul 2026 ·HONIARA ·Updated daily

All Updates · Culture & Entertainment

All collected updates from verified Solomon Islands sources.

Nambawan Haus Museum opens in Tulagi

BY JOSES SAREN The Nambawan Haus Museum has been officially opened in Tulagi, Central Islands Province. Prime Minister Matthew Wale cut the ribbon on the Nambawan Haus Museum yesterday officially opening what organisers describe as the country’s flagship heritage tourism site. Standing with the Prime Minister for the ribbon-cutting were Premier of Central Islands Province Kenneth Sagupari and Minister for Culture and Tourism (MCT) James Bonunga. The ceremony, held under the theme “Preserving Our Past, Inspiring Our Future” drew hundreds of guests including chiefs and elders of Nggella, staff and students of Woodford International School and King George VI school, representatives of Solomon Islands National University, and diplomatic and defence officials from New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States and Japan. Guests seated under the marquee for the opening ceremony, dignitaries in leis and kastom shirts in the front rows, with US military and Coast Guard personnel among them. Photo by Joses Saren UK High Commissioner HE Paul Turner and PM Matthew Wale. Photo Supplied Prime Minister Wale and Vice Admiral Joseph Buzzella, Commander of the US Coast Guard in the Pacific, were met with a kastom welcome on their way in, with warriors in traditional dress — grass skirts, body paint, tusk necklaces, spears and stone axes — staging a customary ambush along the path before the pair were guided up the flower-draped stairway to the museum grounds. The formal programme opened with the national anthem and the raising of three flags — the Solomon Islands, Central Islands Province and Union Jack — by Central Islands Provincial police, followed by an opening prayer and blessing of the exhibition led by Rt Rev Steven Koete. The Solomon Islands, Central Islands Province and Union Jack flags fly together over the museum grounds, with the Tulagi coastline visible beyond. Photo by Joses Saren According to welcome remarks by Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Culture and Tourism Bunyan Sivoro, the museum’s origins trace back to 2013, when Dr Paul Roughan and his team began researching the original residence of Charles Morris Woodford, the first Resident Commissioner of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate, with a view to reconstructing it as a museum on its original site. The exhibition fit-out, delivered by Millicent Design, was handed over last year, with the building itself completed earlier. In his keynote address, Minister Bonunga said the museum represents the government’s commitment to reform, empowerment, accountability and transformation, and framed heritage as a foundation for sustainable national development. The Vale Kiala (Kastom Binabina Canoe Haus), the purpose-built thatched house holding the museum’s centrepiece war canoe, its woven ceiling matting supported by carved posts. Photo by Joses Saren He said Tulagi’s history as the former administrative capital, its role in the Second World War, and its place in the region’s Kula trade network all deserved permanent recognition, and described the museum as “a living institution” whose work continues beyond the opening-day milestone. Guests entering the British Coloniala Gallery section of the museum. Photo Supplied British High Commissioner Paul Turner in his speech explained that the museum is on the site of the residence of the first British Commissioner of Solomon Islands during the British Protectorate era. “Charles Woodford was the first Commissioner of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate from 1896 – 1915. “The Commissioner’s residence in Tulagi was rebuilt and now stands as a museum of the British Protectorate and also the Ngella people.” Mr Turner referenced Charles Woodford in his speech, quoting Woodford who said that he found a place “worthy of devoting the rest of his life”. Turner said Woodford had been dedicated to the islands. US Chargé d’Affaires Dan O’Hara also delivered remarks, while a representative of the Japanese Embassy spoke in place of Ambassador Keiichi Higuchi. Organisers said the next phase of work will focus on improving road access to Tulagi’s heritage sites, expanding the museum’s exhibitions, and developing a National Museum Strategy in partnership with the Central Islands Provincial Government. Photo credit: Joses Saren For feedback, contact: josessaren@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

Solomon Islands Opens Second National Museum in Historic Tulagi Residence

By Georgina Maka’a Solomon Islands has officially opened its second museum, the Namba Wan Haus Museum, in Tulagi, marking a... The post Solomon Islands Opens Second National Museum in Historic Tulagi Residence appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-28 Original ↗

Nambawan Haus Museum in Tulagi Commissioned

Nambawan Haus Museum in Tulagi Commissioned Government through the Ministry of Culture & Tourism and the Central Provincial Government formally unveiled the Nambawan Haus Museum on Tuesday 28 July 2026. The ceremony was graced by the Guest of Honour Prime Minster [PM] Hon. Matthew Wale. The ceremony commences at 8am with speeches from invited guests. The morning program takes place at the Museum, followed by an opportunity to view the new exhibition. Located in the former official residence of the resident commissioner of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate, the Nambawan Haus Museum is one of the Solomons’ most significant heritage sites. A cultural performance and Kastom feast was held at the Raiders Hotel. By Eddie Osifelo Solomon Star, Tulagi //end//

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Solomon Star Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-28 Original ↗

Prime Minister Wale Attends Nambawan Haus Museum Opening in Tulagi

Prime Minister Matthew Cooper Wale is currently in Tulagi, Central Islands Province as guest of honor to witness the official opening of the Nambawan Haus Museum. Located in the former official residence of the resident commissioner of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate, the Nambawan Haus Museum in Tulagi is one of the Solomon Islands’ most significant heritage sites.

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OPMC Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-28 Original ↗

Chinese Bridge Program Strengthens Solomon Islands-China People-to-People Exchanges

Stories like this remind us that people-to-people exchanges are one of the strongest bridges between nations. Through the Chinese Bridge program, young people from the Solomon Islands have experienced China's rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality firsthand while building lasting friendships across borders. China will continue to support educational and cultural exchanges, creating more opportunities for young people to learn from one another, deepen mutual understanding, and contribute to the enduring friendship between China and the Solomon Islands.

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PRC Embassy Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-27 Original ↗

Christafari Brings Joy to Ports Park in Honiara

Highlight Last night, Christafari brought pure joy to Ports Park in Honiara live performed.

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Tavuli Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-27 Original ↗

Applications Open for POP48 Film Challenge

🎬 Applications for the POP48 Film Challenge are now open Tavuli News is inviting filmmakers, creative artists, and passionate storytellers from across Solomon Islands to take part in this year’s POP48 Film Challenge. The challenge provides an opportunity for participants to showcase their creativity, develop their filmmaking skills, and share stories from Solomon Islands with wider audiences. 📹 Watch the video for application instructions. 📱 Scan the QR code or use the registration link below to complete your application. Registration Form: https://docs.google.com/.../19KYDU6skaUxWKP0P-OCj9JmwEE.../edit... Submit your entry before the closing date. Tavuli News - Solomon Islands Pasifika TV

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Tavuli Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-26 Original ↗

Tulagi museum set to open next week

BY TONY IROGA The long-awaited Nambawan Haus Museum in Tulagi will officially open on July 28, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) says. The museum is a joint project between MCT and the Central Islands Provincial Government. It will become the country’s second museum and a place to preserve the history and culture of Central Islands Province. Prime Minister Matthew Wale is expected to officiate at the opening ceremony. He will be joined by Central Islands Premier Kenneth Sagupari, members of the provincial assembly, senior government officials and development partners. The Ministry said the museum is more than just a heritage building. “It will serve as a centre for education, research and cultural exchange while protecting the province’s history, traditions and identity for future generations,” the Ministry said. The museum is located on a hill overlooking Tulagi Harbour and Iron Bottom Sound. It is housed in the restored former residence of Charles Woodford, the British Resident Commissioner during the colonial period. The building was officially handed over to the Ministry and the Central Islands Provincial Government in May last year after major restoration work. According to the Ministry, visitors will learn about more than 2,500 years of Central Islands history. The displays cover the early Kula people, the arrival of European explorers, the British Protectorate, Tulagi’s time as the country’s colonial capital, the Second World War and the formation of Central Islands Province. The Ministry said the museum will continue to expand its collections through research and close partnership with local communities. One of the main attractions is the Binabina War Canoe, rebuilt by master canoe builder William Semu of Haroro using traditional materials and customary building methods. “The project has not only restored an important traditional canoe but has also helped revive and preserve an important cultural practice for future generations,” the Ministry said. The canoe is displayed inside the specially built Vale Kiala (Kastom Canoe House), where visitors can learn about one of Central Islands Province’s important cultural traditions. The Ministry said the opening of the Nambawan Haus Museum reflects the Government’s commitment to protect the country’s heritage, strengthen cultural identity, support education and research, and promote cultural tourism as part of sustainable economic development. Photo credit: Tourism media For feedback, contact: tonyiroga8@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-25 Original ↗

RSIPF and Australian Army Band Train and Perform Together

Lokol polis anda Ostrelia Ami Ban patna fo lane lane tugeda Herem kam wat nao RSIPF PC Jeriel Dolangania an Army Musician Joshua Mellor bin lanem from each ada taim tufala ban yia bin train an perform tugeda. *** RSIPF and Australian Army Band - partners learning together 🇸🇧🤝 🇦🇺 The Army Band may have gone home, but they will be taking back lessons they have learned in Solomon Islands. Have a listen to what RSIPF PC Jeriel Dolangania and Army Musician Joshua Mellor learned from each other while the two bands trained and performed together.

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AHC Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-25 Original ↗

Australian Online Gambling Laws And Pelaa Casino Explained

Navigating The Complex World Of Australian Online Gambling Regulations The landscape of online gambling in Australia is governed by a unique set of laws, primarily the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA). This legislation can often seem confusing for players trying to understand their rights and the legality of their online entertainment. While the IGA makes [...] The post Australian Online Gambling Laws And Pelaa Casino Explained appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-25 Original ↗

Final Call to Enter Solomon Airlines South Pacific Adventure Giveaway

🚨 Last chance! 🚨 This is your final boarding call for the chance to win the South Pacific adventure you've been daydreaming about. Together with get lost Magazine, we're sending one lucky winner (and their favourite travel buddy) to Vanuatu, with return flights, andincredible island stays. All you need to do is head to the latest issue of get lost Magazine and tell them what your ultimate Vanuatu adventure would look like. Enter now before it's too late: https://emag.getlostmagazine.com/get-lost-magazi.../win-a-trip Entries close soon. Ratua Private Island Resort, Vanuatu

Solomon Airlines Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-24 Original ↗

Guadalcanal Unveils Four-Day Second Appointed Day Celebration Programme

GUADALCANAL UNVEILS FOUR-DAY CELEBRATION PROGRAM | Guadalcanal Province is preparing for its 2026 Second Appointed Day celebrations with a four-day program that will promote culture, unity and development. The celebrations will run from 31 July to 3 August at SINU Village in Panatina and the National Stadium under the theme "Empowering Guadalcanal for National Unity and Prosperity." A major highlight will be the Float Parade on 31 July, where participants from across the province will march to SINU Village for the official opening ceremony. Visitors will also enjoy a Cultural Village featuring traditional performances, exhibitions, demonstrations and live entertainment by Guadalcanal bands, artists and string bands. Panel discussions involving former politicians, chiefs, church leaders, women and youth representatives will focus on important issues affecting the province, while government ministries and private companies will showcase their services through public information stalls. Registrations are still open for performers, choirs and speech contest participants until 27 July. The speech contest will cover topics including keeping Guadalcanal clean, saying no to illegal drugs and empowering the province for national unity and prosperity. A choir competition is also open to schools, churches, youth groups and community organisations. Organisers are encouraging constituencies, schools, churches and community groups to take part in the celebrations and have reminded residents to wear their official constituency colours during the Float Parade. The organising committee says more announcements on entertainment, competitions and vendor information will be released in the coming days as preparations continue for one of Guadalcanal's biggest annual cultural events.Source: Solomon Star/Photo credit @ GP Media

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Sunday Isles Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-23 Original ↗

Naghoniara Vaka Returns This August

Naghoniara Vaka is BACK this August! Don't miss out on the excitement, great bargains, and vibrant atmosphere! This August Book your space now! Secure your spot before they're all gone.

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HCC Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-23 Original ↗

Flag Dance Highlights Solomon Islands Cultural Diversity

A highlight of the recent Independence celebrations in the country was the Flag Dance. The Flag Dance begins with the Diversity Dance, showcasing the Solomon Islands as a diverse nation with a rich cultural heritage. SIBC TV spoke with Director of Culture, Dennis Marita, during the recent 48th Independence celebrations in Honiara, who shared more about the significance of the dance. ... See more

Flag Dance Highlights Solomon Islands Cultural Diversity
SIBC Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-21 Original ↗

Nambawan Haus Museum in Tulagi will officially open next week

Nambawan Haus Museum in Tulagi will officially open next week & Honiara, Solomon Islands – 21/07/2026: The Solomon Islands Government through the Ministry of Culture and [...]

SIG Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-21 Original ↗

Rennell and Bellona Province Marks 33rd Second Appointed Day

Rennell and Bellona Province marked its 33rd Second Appointed Day today with a vibrant celebration at Town Ground Rugby Stadium in West Honiara, drawing hundreds of residents and invited guests. The event was held under the theme “Embracing Reform, Unity and Progress for Rennell and Bellona.” The program opened with a formal parade led by the RSIPF and Police Band platoon. Invited guests were garlanded upon arrival, and the Guest of Honour was ceremonially escorted onto the field by the Papa Traditional Group, adding cultural significance to the occasion. Residents of Rennell and Bellona living in Honiara, along with dignitaries and supporters, gathered to commemorate the province’s milestone and reflect on its ongoing journey of development, unity, and reform. Photo: Shoreyann Ragoso For Isles Media News Desk

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Sunday Isles Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-21 Original ↗

Happy 2nd Appointed Day, Renbel Province!

🎉Happy 2nd Appointed Day, Renbel Province! Today, we celebrate the rich culture, strong community spirit, and unique heritage of Rennell and Bellona Province. New Zealand 🇳🇿 is proud of our long-standing friendship with Renbel, from supporting the conservation of East Rennell's world-renowned forests and Lake Tegano, to working together in times of need, including the 2019 oil spill response.

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NZHC Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-20 Original ↗

Communities celebrate Independence

Communities celebrate Independence day through sports By SOLOMON LOFANA Solomon Star, Auki While the country celebrated Solomon Islands’ Independence Day on July 7, communities in highland of ward 29 in Central Kwara’ae, Malaita Province extended the celebration through sporting activities. The tournament ended last week with a successful prize presentation ceremony at Mamalade community. Representing the organising committee, David Wairimalefo congratulated all participating communities and teams for taking part in the volleyball competition and contributing to the success of the event. The 2026 Independence volleyball tournament was made possible through funding support from Central Kwara’ae Constituency Member of Parliament, Hon. Ricky Fuo’o. “On behalf of the organising committee, I would like to sincerely thank all participating teams for your enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and support throughout the tournament. Your participation made this event a great success,” Wairimalefo said. “I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to our major sponsor, Hon. Ricky Fuo’o, Member of Parliament for Central Kwara’ae Constituency, for his generous support in making this tournament possible. “Your commitment to supporting youth and community sporting activities is truly appreciated.” Wairimalefo also thanked match officials, referees, volunteers, supporters, and everyone who contributed towards the success of the tournament. “We look forward to an even bigger and better tournament this Christmas,” he said. The 2026 Independence volleyball competition was won by the Aisalinga Volleyball Team, with East Coast Travellers from Busurata finishing second, while Lightning Bolt secured third place. ///End// Photo captions: Action of the volleyball competition. Photos by David Wairimalefo.

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Solomon Star Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-19 Original ↗

TOPUP & WIN BIG PROMOTION IS ON!

🎉 TOPUP & WIN BIG PROMOTION IS ON! 🎉 Solomon Islands’ sensational music artist, Ruff Neck, is reminding everyone to top up and take part in the exciting Topup & Win Big Promotion! Top up, qualify and you could be one of our lucky winners! 📱🎁🔥

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Our Telekom Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-18 Original ↗

Solomon Islands Community in UAE Celebrates 48th Independence

Solomon Islanders in the UAE celebrate the nation’s 48th Independence while strengthening unity and bilateral ties The Solomon Islands community residing in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) celebrated the country’s 48th Independence Anniversary on 10 July 2026. Reflecting this year’s Independence theme, “One Nation, Our Responsibility and Accountability – Building a GREAT Solomon Islands,” Solomon [...] The post Solomon Islands Community in UAE Celebrates 48th Independence appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-17 Original ↗

Japan Festival “Matsuri” Brings Colour, Culture and Community Spirit to Honiara

Japan Festival “Matsuri” Brings Colour, Culture and Community Spirit to Honiara Ambassador HIGUCHI opened the festival with welcoming remarks before leading the crowd in Radio Taiso, Japan’s well‐known school‐day exercise routine. From there, the venue transformed into a lively cultural village, with families and young people exploring hands‐on booths featuring Yukata dressing, Japanese calligraphy, face painting, traditional toys, and fun chopstick challenge games. Check li... See more

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Sunday Isles Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-17 Original ↗

Solomon Islands High Commissioner Celebrates 48th Independence Anniversary in Melbourne

Solomon Islands High Commissioner Celebrates 48th Independence Anniversary in Melbourne In his address, Mr. Sisilo reflected on this year’s Independence theme, “Our Nation, Our Responsibility and Accountability – Building a GREAT Solomon Islands,” reminding Solomon Islanders that the future of the country depends on the collective efforts of its people. He urged the community to honour the sacrifices of past generations while working confidently toward a stronger and more uni... See more

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Sunday Isles Culture & Entertainment · 2026-07-17 Original ↗