BY TONY IROGA
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has issued a strong wind warning for all waters around Solomon Islands, warning sea travellers of hazardous conditions.
Strong Wind Warning Number 200 was issued by SIMS at 7am today, Sunday, September 13, 2026.
SIMS said a trough is lying just northeast of Solomon Islands while a general southeasterly trade wind flow continues across the country.
“Expect southeasterly winds to reach 15 to 25 knots over most waters of Solomon Islands,” SIMS said in its warning.
The weather service said seas are expected to be moderate to rough, with moderate southeasterly swells of between 2.5 and 3.5 metres.
It also warned of poor visibility in areas affected by showers, with thunderstorms possible.
“People in those areas should take precautionary measures as such strong winds have the potential to impact lives and properties,” SIMS said.
Sea travellers have also been urged to take safety precautions, particularly operators of small boats.
“Such winds can produce dangerous wave conditions which are hazardous to small boats,” SIMS warned.
SIMS said a strong wind warning means winds of between 20 and 25 knots, with gusts potentially reaching 33 knots, are expected to create hazardous sea conditions for small craft.
The weather service said boat operators should assess the level of risk based on their experience, as well as the size and type of their boats.
SIMS also reminded the public that wave forecasts represent average wave heights and that individual waves can be much higher.
“Be aware that these wave forecasts are an average. The height of some individual waves can be expected to be as much as two times greater,” SIMS said.
The public has also been urged to share the warning with people with disabilities.
The next strong wind warning is expected to be issued tomorrow.
Sea travellers are advised to remain alert and consider postponing trips where conditions are considered unsafe.
Solomon Islands raises meteorological equipment, sustainable financing, technology and regional partnerships at PMC-8. For Solomon Islands, the eighth Pacific Meteorological Council Meeting (PMC-8) provides an opportunity to raise the country’s meteorological needs, particularly in equipment, sustainable financing, technology and regional partnerships. The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service plays a role in providing weather forecasts, warnings and [...]
The post Why PMC-8 Matters for Solomon Islands’ Weather and Climate Services appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) is exploring new opportunities to strengthen research, education and disaster preparedness following a high-level meeting with a delegation from China’s Island Research Center (IRC).
SINU in a statement said the Chinese delegation, from the Ministry of Natural Resources of China, paid a courtesy call on SINU Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau today to discuss potential areas of cooperation in marine and island science, with a particular focus on disaster preparedness, climate change and resilience.
Central to the discussions was the China-Island Countries Cooperation Program on Marine Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation 2025–2030, a five-year initiative with the aim to strengthen the capacity of island nations to respond to climate change and natural disasters.
The program was officially launched at the China-Island Countries Ocean Cooperation Forum in Pingtan, China, in November 2024.
During the meeting, the visiting delegation outlined key components of the program, including joint research, the development of an “Island Management Toolkit” and the establishment of “Blue Data Partnerships” to support knowledge sharing and informed decision-making among island countries.
Professor Aqorau and the IRC delegation discussed how SINU could participate in these initiatives and use them to strengthen the University’s capacity in disaster risk reduction and marine science.
Potential areas of collaboration include joint research, the development of new academic courses, and staff and student exchange opportunities.
The discussions are particularly relevant to Solomon Islands, a Pacific island nation highly exposed to the impacts of climate change, natural disasters and other marine-related hazards.
Professor Aqorau said strengthening partnerships in research and education will be important to build national and regional capacity to respond to emerging environmental and disaster challenges.
The visit also builds on SINU’s growing engagement with Chinese institutions and existing cooperation in disaster preparedness, including the recent participation of a SINU delegation in a training seminar on disaster prevention in China.
The meeting represents another step towards strengthening international partnerships and advancing SINU’s strategic vision of contributing to national and regional resilience through education, research and innovation.
The proposed cooperation could also position SINU to play a greater role as a regional centre of excellence for disaster resilience and marine science in the Pacific.
Photo credit: SINU
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BY CHARLES STENNETT
Pacific Islands Forum Leaders have endorsed new regional measures on kava, fisheries and labour, including the establishment of a dedicated Regional Labour Ministers Meeting to strengthen coordination on workforce and labour mobility issues.
Pacnews reported that leaders have endorsed the Kava Declaration, recognising kava as a unique Pacific cultural and economic asset and calling for stronger protection of its Pacific origins, traditional knowledge, cultural identity and heritage.
It said the declaration is intended to strengthen Pacific ownership of kava, expand value addition and market opportunities, and protect the interests of Pacific producers and communities as the product gains greater international trade exposure.
Pacnews reported that leaders said the declaration was an important step towards safeguarding the long-term interests of Pacific kava producers.
On fisheries, Leaders recognised the sector as a strategic asset of the Blue Pacific and backed a phased, Member-led consideration of the Regional Fisheries Development Fund feasibility assessment.
It said the work will also consider broader activities linked to the East New Britain Initiative(ENBI), informed by the Forum Fisheries Agency(FFA) process.
Leaders stressed the need for greater Pacific participation across the fisheries value chain so that Members can secure more economic benefits from the region’s fisheries resources.
Pacnews reported that any development of the proposed fund and related initiatives must maintain national ownership, economic accountability and equitable access, while ensuring sustainability and consistency with existing fisheries governance arrangements.
It also reported that Forum Leaders have endorsed the establishment of a Regional Labour Ministers Meeting as a dedicated ministerial mechanism within the Forum architecture.
It said the labour and workforce governance had become strategic regional priorities, with growing implications for economic resilience, labour mobility, skills development, workforce sustainability and inclusive growth.
The new meeting is intended to provide dedicated political leadership on labour and workforce issues across the region whichh will complement the existing Forum Economic Ministers Meeting (FEMM) and Forum Trade Ministers Meeting (FTMM) rather than duplicate their roles.
The Labour Ministers Meeting will focus specifically on labour and workforce priorities.
Leaders said the three ministerial mechanisms would strengthen policy coherence, regional coordination and implementation of the Resources and Economic Development priorities under the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
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BY NED GAGAHE
The United States has announced plans to provide four aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicles to Solomon Islands to strengthen safety at Honiara International Airport.
The announcement was made by US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau yesterday as he concluded a three-day visit to Solomon Islands, a media statement from the US Embassy said.
Mr Landau signed an agreement with Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela for the Peace Corps to return to Solomon Islands after a 26-year absence. Photo credit: US Embassy.
Mr Landau made the announcement during a meeting with Solomon Islands Airport Corporation officials at Honiara International Airport.
He said the US Department of State, working with the US Congress, intends to provide the four specialist vehicles to enhance airport safety for American and international travellers.
The announcement comes as Solomon Islands continues to prepare for increased international travel and tourism, with Honiara International Airport serving as the country’s main international gateway.
During his visit, Mr Landau also announced that the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) will assess the cost of rehabilitating the Solomon Islands Parliament building.
The Parliament building was constructed with US support in 1993 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Guadalcanal Campaign during World War II.
A group photo in Parliament building. Photo credit: US Embassy.
Mr Landau made the announcement during a visit to Parliament earlier in the day.
The proposed assessment is expected to determine the cost and scope of rehabilitation required for the building.
The Deputy Secretary of State’s three-day visit focused heavily on the historical relationship between the United States and Solomon Islands, particularly the shared history of World War II.
Mr Landau paid his respects at the Guadalcanal, Red Beach and Bloody Ridge memorials, remembering American, Solomon Islands and other Allied personnel who lost their lives during the Guadalcanal Campaign.
He also announced US support through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation for the preservation of the Bloody Ridge battlefield.
The support is intended to help preserve the historic site as a place of remembrance and continuing education for future generations.
The visit also resulted in a new agreement aimed at strengthening people-to-people links between the two countries.
Mr Landau being led by Clerk of Parliament inside the Parliament building. Photo credit: US Embassy.
Mr Landau signed an agreement with Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela for the Peace Corps to return to Solomon Islands after a 26-year absence.
The return of the Peace Corps is expected to create opportunities for renewed cooperation and exchanges between Solomon Islands communities and the United States.
Throughout the visit, Mr Landau highlighted the historical bonds between the two countries and outlined a vision for mutual progress in what he described as a free and open Pacific.
The latest announcements cover airport safety, infrastructure, cultural preservation and people-to-people cooperation, marking a broadening of US engagement with Solomon Islands.
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BY RODRICK DESURI
Auki
A Land Use Forum Establishment workshop organised by the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM) was successfully held at the Baha’i Centre in Auki, Malaita Province today.
The one-day workshop was attended by stakeholders, representatives from government ministries and the Malaita Provincial Government.
The workshop is part of the Ensuring Resilient Ecosystems and Representative Protected Areas (EREPA) project initiated by the ministry.
The objectives of the workshop included revisiting discussions on the establishment of the Malaita Province Land Use Forum, discussing a draft Terms of Reference for the forum, discussing the Letter of Agreement for the Malaita Province Land Use Forum, and appointing members of the forum.
Deputy Director of Conservation at MECDM, Trevor Maeda, acknowledged the participants for their active participation and contributions during the discussion sessions.
He said the views and opinions raised during the workshop will be noted and taken into consideration as the ministry moves forward.
“On behalf of our team, I just want to thank you all for your effective discussions and eagerness during this training.
“What you discussed and decided today is what we will consider as we work forward to strengthen our sectors, especially in conservation of the sea, coastal areas and land,” he said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Provincial Permanent Secretary Peter Herehura thanked the MECDM team for their time and for bringing the workshop to Malaita.
He said Malaita Province is more than willing to learn things that can benefit its people and improve their living.
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has issued a strong wind warning for waters surrounding Temotu, Makira and Rennell/Bellona provinces.
Strong Wind Warning Number 188 was issued at 7:00am today, Monday, September 7, 2026, advising communities and sea travellers in the affected areas to take necessary precautions.
According to SIMS, a trough is currently lying just north of the Solomon Islands, while a general south-easterly trade wind flow continues across the country.
The Meteorological Service forecasts south-easterly winds of between 20 and 25 knots over the waters of Temotu, Makira and Rennell/Bellona provinces.
Sea conditions are expected to range from moderate to rough, with moderate south-easterly swells reaching between 2.5 and 3.5 metres.
SIMS also warns of poor visibility in areas experiencing showers, while thunderstorms may further contribute to hazardous conditions at sea.
People living in the affected areas have been urged to take precautionary measures, as the strong winds have the potential to affect lives and property.
Sea travellers, particularly those operating small boats, are strongly advised to consider appropriate safety measures before travelling.
The Meteorological Service cautions that the combination of strong winds and rough seas could produce dangerous wave conditions that pose a significant hazard to small vessels.
Communities are also encouraged to ensure that people with disabilities receive the warning and are supported to take appropriate safety measures.
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service said the next strong wind warning will be issued at 4:00pm today.
Members of the public, particularly those in the affected provinces and sea travellers, are advised to continue monitoring official weather updates and follow safety advice from authorities.
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By RODRICK DESURI
Auki
The CCECC road construction project in Auki is making steady progress, with asphalt application now underway along the main road from Kwaibala despite unstable weather conditions.
The Chinese contractor, CCECC, is continuing the works as it races against time to complete and hand over the major road infrastructure project to the province later in November, this year.
The asphalt works follow the completion of several feeder-road sections and mark another major milestone towards the completion of the project.
In a media release issued earlier this week, CCECC urged motorists, pedestrians and other road users to put safety first while construction activities continue.
The public has been advised to respect road signs, follow traffic-control instructions and slow down when approaching construction areas.
CCECC also raised particular concern about the safety of children and students in Auki, warning parents, guardians and schools to remind children to stay away from active construction sites.
“Special attention has also been drawn to schoolchildren and pedestrians using the road corridor. Parents, guardians and schools are encouraged to remind children about the dangers of playing near construction sites, heavy machinery, asphalt trucks and other construction equipment,” the company stated.
CCECC said the asphalt application signals the final stage of the project and represents an important achievement as the road works move towards completion.
“The start of asphalting is therefore seen as an important achievement as the project moves towards completion,” it stated.
Once completed, the project is expected to provide Auki and surrounding communities with a smoother and safer road network, improving traffic flow and access for motorists, pedestrians and businesses across the provincial capital.
Photo: [CCECC construction team laying the asphalt. Photo supplied.]
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BY JOSES SAREN
New Tenabuti village in Paripao Ward, North East Guadalcanal, has acknowledged the 300 bags of rice received by the community yesterday to assist families affected by a flash flood that destroyed gardens along the riverbanks.
Former MPA and senior community elder Andrew Rayboy made the acknowledgement in an interview with this paper, expressing his heartfelt appreciation to the Guadalcanal provincial premier, Guadalcanal Disaster Council and the MPA for Paripao Ward for the assistance.
“We are very grateful for the support provided to our community during this unexpected flash flood. The assistance means a lot to the families affected, especially those who lost their gardens and food crops. On behalf of the community, I would like to sincerely thank the Guadalcanal provincial premier, the Guadalcanal Disaster Council and the MPA for Paripao Ward for their support during this difficult time,” Rayboy said.
He said the flooding was unusual as it occurred without rain in the area.
Rayboy explained that the flooding continued from Monday to Wednesday last week, destroying gardens along the riverbanks and affecting an important source of food for families.
He said the rice assistance would provide relief to families whose gardens and crops were destroyed by the flooding.
Rayboy also urged community members to take precautions against similar disasters by moving their gardening activities further inland and away from riverbanks.
He encouraged families to also look for other means of livelihood and food production instead of relying entirely on farming.
Rayboy said having alternative sources of income and food would help families cope when natural disasters damage or destroy their gardens.
Photo: [Andrew Rayboy, former Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) for Paripao Ward. File Photo.]
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BY CHARLES STENNETT
The planned motion of no confidence in the Prime Minister, Mathew Wale, cultural obligations and unfavourable weather conditions had resulted in the deferment of the inquiry into the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2026 by the Bills and Legislation Committee, BLC, scheduled to have started Wednesday afternoon, until further notice.
A post on the National Parliament’s Social Media site said the deferral is due to the pending outcome of the Motion of No Confidence currently before Parliament and that the BLC Chairman Jamie Vokia is also currently away attending the burial of his late father and is unable to return to Honiara due to prevailing bad weather and flooding.
It said further notice will be issued once a new date for the inquiry is confirmed.
The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2026 seeks to amend the Citizenship Act 2018 by introducing additional grounds on which the Citizenship Commission may revoke the citizenship of a person who acquired Solomon Islands citizenship by application under Part 3 of the Act.
The Bill also seeks to strengthen the protection of the stability, security, public safety, public order and constitutional stability of Solomon Islands by providing for the revocation of citizenship where the Citizenship Commission is satisfied, on reasonable grounds that a person who acquired citizenship by application has engaged in serious conduct prejudicial to Solomon Islands.
The statement said the Bill provides safeguards intended to ensure that any new grounds for revocation are applied prudently and consistently with lawful democratic participation.
The Bill also makes it clear that citizenship must not be revoked merely because a person, lawfully expresses a political opinion, criticises the Government or a Government policy, participates in parliamentary proceedings, participates in a lawful protest, assembly or association; or participates in any other lawful democratic process.
The Committee’s inquiry will form part of Parliament’s consideration of the proposed amendments before the Bill proceeds through the legislative process.
Guadalcanal Provincial Government approves $2.5 million to support flood-affected communities recovering from Cyclone Maila. The Guadalcanal Provincial Government has approved $2.5 million to support communities across Guadalcanal Province that continue to experience the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Maila. Guadalcanal Province Premier Willie Atu told Tavuli News that prolonged bad weather and flooding remain a serious [...]
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By RODRICK DESURI
Auki
Two registered nurses serving at Sinamauri Rural Health Centre (RHC) in West Kwaio, Malaita Province, have applauded UNICEF and the Australian Government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), for improving facilities at the clinic.
The nurses expressed their appreciation during a short tour of the facility with officials following the handover ceremony yesterday afternoon.
UNICEF supported the successful installation of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system, while the Australian Government supported the construction of a staff house.
The improvements are expected to strengthen primary healthcare services at the rural facility through sustainable and climate-resilient solutions.
One of the nurses, Maxwell Oloisae, said the new facilities would greatly support their work, particularly during night operations and emergencies.
“For sure, it really helps and supports our services. For the past few days that we have had the lights, it has helped us attend to patients and carry out our work smoothly and successfully without hindrance,” he said.
“This is much better than before, when we had to use a torch during the night to check patients and attend to emergency cases,” Oloisae added.
Mercy Suarana, a female nurse responsible for assisting mothers during deliveries, said the solar power had addressed a long-standing challenge faced by the clinic when mothers arrived for delivery at night.
“This is much better than before. We now have lights if a mother goes into labour at night, and we can also preserve medicines that require power because we now have electricity,” she said.
“Even though we still use our old delivery room, essential services are now available and operational. Before, we had to rely on the torch on our mobile phones,” Suarana said.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Health and Medical Services representative and Director of Kilu’ufi Hospital, Dr David Danitofea, urged the community and surrounding communities to take ownership of the improved facilities.
He said the facilities should be properly maintained and protected so they could continue serving the people of Sinamauri and surrounding communities for many years and benefit future generations.
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BY IRWIN ANGIKI
Solomon Airlines has announced its plan to cut back in its international network and focus on improving its domestic service.
This involves letting go of one airbus and increasing its Twin Otter fleet over the next one to two years.
SolAir said this is improve the domestic arm and support ‘essential public transport and flight connectivity to key tourism destinations’.
The Airline currently operates with two airbuses for its international service, but after the lease of one expires in May next year, it will run with only one. The domestic service runs on two twin otter planes.
This is part of a ‘Board-resolved decision, as part of a broader re-fleeting strategy’, Solomon Airlines announced in a statement today.
The airline will return the second international aircraft, Airbus A320-200 H4-SIB, to its lessor at the conclusion of the current lease in May 2027, Solomon Airlines said.
“The aircraft will be formally withdrawn from service in February 2027.”
CEO Matthew Findlay said Solomon Airlines is responding to factors which will affect the national carrier for some time.
“The decision to reduce by one international aircraft for now, is a disciplined response to factors which are likely to continue impacting us for some time,” Mr Findlay said.
“Many regional carriers, Solomon Airlines included, are heavily impacted by the ongoing global fuel crisis and resulting heightened fuel costs. We are also seeing the impact of forecast softer Australian and New Zealand market conditions.
“A further factor driving this decision is our assessment confirming that structural repairs are required to this aircraft following recent damage sustained. We are working with our insurers to bring the aircraft back into service for the limited time left with us,” Findlay said.
The removal of Airbus A320-200 H4-SIB from the fleet will see Solomon Airlines operate a smaller international network in the short term. Changes will include reduced frequencies between Vanuatu and Auckland, with Vanuatu to Christchurch services being suspended from November. Honiara to Port Moresby services are suspended with scheduled recommencement mid-December 2026 to support peak demand, SolAir said.
SolAir said all existing bookings will be honoured and the airline will be reaching out to contact affected passengers, to make best possible alternative travel arrangements.
As for the ailing domestic service, apart from the plan to increase the number of Twin Otters, SolAir said it is looking at hastening the return of the Dash-8
Findlay said Solomon Airlines is ‘acutely focussed’ on improving domestic air services across Solomon Islands.
“The airline is seeking to expedite the return of the airline’s 32 seat Dash 8 domestic aircraft, currently offshore for maintenance repairs.
“Meeting the vital domestic transport needs of citizens across Solomon Islands and supporting tourism operators is a fundamental responsibility and we are determined to improve the reliability and resilience of our domestic operation,” he said.
SolAir’s announcement comes amid numerous complaints from public over bad service, many citing continuous rescheduling due to flight unavailability, missed flights due to sudden change in schedule without prior notification or passenger listing affected by previous rescheduling.
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BY NED GAGAHE
The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) has downgraded its 2026 economic growth forecast from 3.8 percent to 3.0 percent, citing higher fuel costs, Tropical Cyclone Maila and El Niño-related disruptions.
The revised forecast was highlighted in CBSI’s latest monetary policy assessment following its decision to maintain the policy rate at 1.5 percent for the next six months.
Despite the downgrade, CBSI expects the economy to recover in 2027, with growth projected to reach 3.7 percent, supported by mining, infrastructure investment and continued expansion in the services sector.
The Bank said fiscal conditions are expected to become more expansionary during the second half of 2026 following the supplementary budget.
This, it said, could provide additional support to domestic demand and help underpin economic activity.
CBSI also reported that the country’s external position remains strong, with foreign reserves reaching $6.9 billion in June 2026, equivalent to 12.5 months of import cover.
The level of reserves is projected to remain adequate through the end of the year, while monetary conditions remain supportive, with ample liquidity and moderate credit growth.
CBSI Governor Dr Luke Forau said the Bank would continue monitoring developments in the economy, particularly inflation and domestic demand.
“CBSI will continue to monitor macroeconomic developments. If inflation becomes more persistent or begins to broaden into domestic demand, the Bank will reassess its policy stance,” Dr Forau said.
The Bank remains concerned that supply-side inflation pressures could push inflation above the upper bound of its 2–5 percent desired range towards the end of 2026 and into early 2027.
CBSI said it would continue to closely monitor developments and adjust its monetary policy stance when necessary to maintain price and financial stability.
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BY NED GAGAHE
The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) has maintained its policy rate at 1.5 percent for the next six months, saying current inflationary pressures are being driven mainly by supply-side and external factors rather than excessive domestic demand.
The decision was made by the CBSI Board at its meeting on 28 August 2026.
The Bank said a stable exchange rate and subdued domestic demand are expected to cushion some of the impact of external pressures on domestic prices.
However, CBSI warned that inflation could rise to between 5 and 6 percent by the end of 2026, before moderating to around 4.4 percent from March 2027 as oil price pressures ease.
Headline inflation had already risen to 4.6 percent in June 2026, from just 0.4 percent in December 2025.
CBSI said the increase was driven largely by supply-side factors, with betel nut prices alone contributing 2.5 percentage points, or 54 percent, of headline inflation.
Higher transport and utility prices linked to movements in global oil prices accounted for most of the remaining inflationary pressure.
The Bank said the stability of the exchange rate, together with Government tax exemptions on fuel, had helped mitigate some of the impact of higher global oil prices on domestic inflation.
CBSI said the projected rise in inflation towards the end of the year reflects base effects, higher oil prices and weather-related pressures on domestic food supplies.
Core inflation, meanwhile, is projected to remain below 1 percent, indicating subdued underlying domestic demand.
The Bank warned that the inflation outlook remains subject to considerable uncertainty.
It said a further escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, El Niño-related disruptions to food supplies and the pace of fiscal spending could push inflation above 5 percent in early 2027.
Growth forecast cut
Alongside the inflation outlook, CBSI has also revised down its 2026 economic growth forecast to 3.0 percent, from an initial projection of 3.8 percent at the beginning of the year.
The Bank attributed the downgrade to the impact of higher fuel costs, Tropical Cyclone Maila and El Niño-related disruptions.
Despite the downgrade, CBSI expects economic growth to recover to 3.7 percent in 2027, supported by mining, infrastructure investment and continued expansion in the services sector.
Fiscal conditions are also expected to become more expansionary in the second half of 2026 following the supplementary budget.
CBSI said this could provide additional support to domestic demand.
The country’s external position remains strong, with foreign reserves standing at $6.9 billion in June 2026, equivalent to 12.5 months of import cover.
The level of reserves is projected to remain adequate through the end of the year, while monetary conditions remain supportive, with ample liquidity and moderate credit growth.
CBSI Governor Dr Luke Forau said the Bank would continue monitoring macroeconomic developments and reassess its policy stance if inflationary pressures become more persistent.
“CBSI will continue to monitor macroeconomic developments. If inflation becomes more persistent or begins to broaden into domestic demand, the Bank will reassess its policy stance,” Dr Forau said.
The Bank remains attentive to the risk that supply-side inflation pressures could move above the upper bound of its 2–5 percent desired range towards the end of 2026 and into early 2027.
CBSI said it would continue to monitor developments closely and adjust its monetary policy stance as necessary to maintain price and financial stability.
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By DOUGLAS VAHIA
A plane carrying around 130 passengers from Nadi was diverted yesterday to Munda due to bad weather and poor visibility in Honiara.
Solomon Airlines has confirmed that flight IE703 was diverted to Munda after the aircraft was unable to land at the Honiara International Airport due to low visibility caused by weather conditions on Sunday, August 30.
The scheduled Solomon Airlines flight operated by a Skytrans Australia aircraft on the airline’s behalf, saw affected passengers remain overnight in Munda while arrangements were made for their recovery, Solomon Airlines said.
A recovery service for the affected passengers has been scheduled for today, departing Honiara at 2.50pm and arriving in Munda at approximately 3.40pm. The recovery flight will be operated by a Solomon Airlines Airbus A320, subjected to operational and weather conditions.
Additional fuel for the Skytrans aircraft is being transported to Munda to allow it to depart later today and eventually return to Brisbane.
The subsequent IE706 services from Honiara to Brisbane was also cancelled, as the aircraft originally operating IE703 service remain grounded in Munda following the diversion and was unavailable for the scheduled services.
Solomon Airlines said passenger safety remains its highest priority, and the decision to divert IE703 was made with safety of passengers and crew in mind, given the low visibility conditions at Honiara.
BY DOOUGLAS VAHIA
The Biosecurity (SI) Strategy 2026-2036 will undergo its validation workshop next week ahead of the establishment of this important 10-year plan.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL), in collaboration with Biosecurity Solomon Islands (BSI) and development partners, will hold the opening of the Biosecurity (SI) Strategy 2026 – 2036 Validation Workshop on Monday, August 31, at the Heritage Park.
The workshop will bring together government agencies, development partners, provincial representatives, private sector stakeholders and other key partners, basically to validate the strategic priorities of the Solomon Islands’ national Biosecurity for the next ten years.
Key areas of discussion are mainly the Biosecurity (SI) Strategy 2026 – 2036 Validation and include sustainable financing, strengthening partnerships, a capacitated workforce, public engagement and support, expanded safeguarding coverage, and strengthened risk assessment and risk reduction.
The workshop will also provide an opportunity for partners and stakeholders to discuss investment alignment and strengthen collaboration in protecting Solomon Islands’ agriculture, environment, economy and communities from biosecurity risks.
The workshop is scheduled to begin at 8.30am at Heritage Park.
Opposition leader Sogavare calls on Government to continue supporting Maila-affected communities in Western and Choiseul provinces
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare has called on the GREAT Government to continue supporting communities facing food shortages following Tropical Cyclone Maila.
Mr Sogavare’s call comes amid reports that communities in the Western province are facing serious food security challenges in the aftermath of Cyclone Maila and are pleading for relief supplies.
Government has responded to earlier reports of other communities in the Western province questioning the promised Maila relief supplies, saying that it will take time before relief supplies reached affected communities and called for patience.
Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo in his contribution to the second reading of the 2025 and 2026 supplementary appropriation bills on August 13 in parliament asked Maila-affected communities to be patient. This sentiment was echoed by the National Disaster Council (NDC) and National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) in a press conference on August 19.
Opposition Leader Sogavare however rebuts this saying asking for patience alone does not help the victims of Maila who are calling for help.
“The Government has asked affected communities to be patient. But patience does not put food on the table. Families need clear information, continued assistance and visible progress in their communities,” Sogavare said.
Sogavare in a statement yesterday said news reports from Mondo and Lale communities on Ranongga Island show that some families are still struggling to produce enough food more than four months after the cyclone.
Community leaders have reported that replanted food gardens are not yet producing enough to sustain families.
Continuing bad weather and pest infestations have further hampered recovery, leaving some people dependent on previously distributed rice and wild taro, locally known as kakake.
“These reports are deeply concerning. The communities are working to restore their gardens, but conditions beyond their control are making recovery difficult,” Sogavare said.
“They are not asking for indefinite assistance. They are asking for continued food support until their gardens can once again sustain their families.”
The Government has explained that recovery assistance will take time because funding announced from different sources must go through their respective processes.
Sogavare said affected communities should be kept informed about the recovery process, but calls for patience must also be accompanied by practical assistance for families facing immediate hardship.
“People understand that recovery takes time, but hunger cannot be placed on hold while funding processes are completed.
“Where families are still unable to produce enough food, targeted distributions should continue to help them through this difficult recovery period.”
Sogavare said the significant support announced by the Government and its development partners had understandably raised expectations among affected communities.
“The people of Western and Choiseul provinces have demonstrated tremendous strength and resilience. The Government must stand with them until they can restore their food security and livelihoods,” he said.
Finance minister Lilo in his parliament speech had said $75 million was allocated for the Maila recovery effort.
An estimated $150 million has been raised towards the Maila recovery programme, which includes funds from GREAT government, Solomon Islands’ partners such as Australia, New Zealand, China and UK.
Island Sun earlier this week reported on the dire situation communities of Mondo and Lale in Ranongga island are facing as they wait for government to deliver on the promised relief supplies and recovery programme.
Chief of Mondo community in Ranongga, Silas Reuban told Island Sun most gardens planted after the cyclone have been unable to produce enough food to meet the needs of families.
He said the ongoing bad weather has further contributed to the difficulties faced by communities trying to restore their food gardens.
“Currently, we are surviving on the bags of rice that were distributed after the cyclone. Gardening is quite difficult at the moment due to the ongoing weather and also pest invasion,” Reuban said.
He said people in Mondo are now relying on wild taro, locally known as kakake, to supplement their food supplies.
Reuban said food distributions should continue to support communities and families that are struggling to restore their gardens and achieve food security.
Disaster Chairperson of Lale village, Billy Aqolo shared similar concerns saying some families are still struggling to put enough food on the table.
“We are slowly recovering from the disaster, but we still need food supplies to support our families,” Aqolo said.
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By Eliza Kukutu
For the first time since Cyclone Namu in 1986, the government will be taking a shelter recovery approach as part of its response to the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Maila on affected communities.
This was confirmed by the Chairman of the National Disaster Council (NDC), David Hiriasia, at a recent press conference.
He says the shelter recovery programme will see the construction of more than 1,300 houses for people whose homes were severely destroyed by Tropical Cyclone Maila.
“It will be standard two-bedroom houses. The design for the houses will also cater for expansion, allowing homeowners to extend the houses when they want to.
“We are also exploring options for importing prefab houses. So, we are looking at each house costing about $30,000 to $60,000 per house, meaning the project will cost millions of dollars.”
Hiriasia confirmed that funding for the ambitious plan is included in the recently passed 2025 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026, with additional funding to be sought when needed.
Meanwhile, authorities are now working on plans for how the construction will be carried out and are calling on communities to be patient, given the time it will take to implement the shelter recovery plan.
“This is something we’ve never done before, and we really need to plan out everything before implementing it, so it will take time. Data needs to be validated to make sure that houses are given to those who really deserve them.
“So I ask for everyone’s patience as we work towards this.”
The council will discuss and agree on the house designs and bills of quantities before putting the plan before Cabinet for final endorsement.
Hiriasia said this will also give time for the supplementary budget to go through the process of being gazetted so that funds can be made available.
While planning processes are ongoing, the actual construction of the houses is expected to begin next year.
ENDS//
The post Shelter Recovery Approach for TC Maila Response first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
El Niño conditions remain active in Solomon Islands and could trigger severe weather events, including periods of heavy rainfall and drought.
Speaking during a press conference recently, Jonathan Tafiariki said while the continuing rainfall has been a blessing for communities that rely heavily on rainwater, excessive rainfall has negatively affected high-risk communities.
He said the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC), under the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), has already been updated on impacts being experienced by communities, particularly in Guadalcanal and Makira.
“Reports from the western parts of Guadalcanal and parts of Makira indicate that communities experienced continuous rainfall early last month, resulting in flooding in some areas,” he said.
Tafiariki said reports from communities also indicated that food gardens had been affected by the persistent rainfall, with the information already reaching the NDMO.
He said the NDMO is working with the Guadalcanal and Makira provincial authorities to activate existing arrangements to assess and respond to the situation.
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change Disaster Management and Meteorology David Hiriasia added that El Niño conditions are historically associated with an increased risk of tropical cyclones.
He said Solomon Islands normally experiences below-average rainfall during El Niño conditions, but the situation changes as the country approaches the cyclone season.
“Usually, we have more tropical cyclones during El Niño years than during La Niña or neutral years,” Hiriasia said.
The duo said communities should remain prepared as the country continues to experience the effects of the current El Niño conditions.
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
THE Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has issued Strong Wind Warning Number 165 at 4:00pm today, Wednesday 26th August 2026.
A Strong Wind Warning is currently in effect for the waters of Temotu, Makira, Malaita and Rennell & Bellona provinces.
According SIMS, a trough lies over the Solomon Islands, with a general southeast trade wind flow persisting south of the trough. Southeasterly winds are expected to reach 20 to 25 knots over the affected waters, with seas becoming moderate to rough and moderate southeast swells of between 2.5 and 3.5 metres. Poor visibility is also expected in areas experiencing showers and thunderstorms.
The Met Service is urging people in the affected provinces to take precautionary measures, warning that the strong winds have the potential to impact lives and property.
Sea travellers have been urged to take safety precautions, as the conditions can produce dangerous wave conditions hazardous to small boats. The public has also been asked to share the information with people with disabilities.
SIMS advises that a strong wind warning means winds of 20 to 25 knots, gusting up to 33 knots, are expected to produce hazardous sea conditions for small craft, with boat operators advised to assess the degree of hazard based on their experience and the size and type of their vessel. The Service also noted that wave forecasts represent an average, and individual waves can be up to twice the forecast height.
The next Strong Wind Warning will be issued at 7:00am tomorrow.
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BY JOSES SAREN
Four Seventh-day Adventist churches in Honiara completed a three-day disaster preparedness training at White River SDA Church’s Lamb Shelter Tuesday August 25, strengthening their disaster committees ahead of future emergencies.
Varamata, Forest Valley, White River and Reilonga (Kakabona) SDA churches took part in the training, which ran from Sunday and concluded yesterday, held under the Disaster Ready Church (DRC) Project run by ADRA Solomon Islands, Program Coordinator Denver Newter said.
Newter said more than 14 members from each of the four churches attended, totalling more than 60 participants, including elders, pastors, youth, deacons and the Dorcas women’s group, with an emphasis on gender balance.
The DRC Project is funded by the South Pacific Division, Trans-Pacific Union Mission and Solomon Islands Mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, running from November 2025 to November 2026.
According to Newter, the project aims to help churches move from being passive recipients of aid to becoming better prepared to take practical action before, during and after a disaster.
Bruno Taupongi, DRC training facilitator, leads a session on child protection and safeguarding. Photo: Joses Saren
Two of the four churches are also undergoing retrofitting works, including new footpaths and ramps, to improve accessibility for people with disabilities, Newter said.
Emergency Management Coordinator for ADRA Solomon Islands, Raynick Jack, said the training equips church leaders and their existing disaster committees while also preparing the churches themselves as temporary safe spaces for members and surrounding communities during a disaster.
Jack said the initiative comes from the SDA Church’s South Pacific regional office, in response to the increasing frequency and severity of disasters in the region.
He explained that churches, like schools, are often used as evacuation centres because of their presence at the community level, making it important to build the capacity of church leaders and members to respond effectively.
The training sits alongside ADRA’s wider CAN DO network — the Church Agency Network for Disaster Operations — which is funded by the Australian Government through the Australian Humanitarian Partnership, Jack adds.
Jack said CAN DO already supports around 25 disaster committees across Malaita, Central, Guadalcanal and Western provinces, spanning the Catholic, Anglican, United, South Sea Evangelical and Seventh-day Adventist churches.
He recalled that some of those committees in Western Province activated their response plans during a recent cyclone, sheltering people whose homes were destroyed.
The four churches trained this week will bring the total number of committees strengthened under CAN DO to 29, with four more planned for training next month, according to Jack.
Disaster Manager for Honiara City Council, Duran Taupongi, who also sits under the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, said the training aligns with the National Disaster Management Office’s national framework.
ADRA’s Raynick Jack (left) looks on as HCC Disaster Manager Duran Taupongi presents a certificate to a participant. Photo: Joses Saren
Duran Taupongi said the NDMO uses Community-Based Disaster Risk Management as its main tool to bring disaster knowledge to communities, churches and schools, working alongside partners such as ADRA.
He said that churches and schools are often the first line of response during a disaster, making it important for them to have clear preparedness, mitigation and response plans in place ahead of time.
Training facilitator Bruno Taupongi, a volunteer who delivered sessions on child protection and safeguarding, says the training focused on preparing churches to respond to disasters, building participants’ understanding of preparedness, and equipping members to act during an emergency.
Bruno Taupongi said psychosocial first aid is also an important part of disaster preparedness, though time constraints limited how much the training could cover.
He said the training reminds churches that faith must be matched with works, encouraging them to prepare physically, through facilities and knowledge, and not rely on spiritual readiness alone.
According to Bruno Taupongi, church members need to be ready to respond immediately after a disaster, before government agencies or other stakeholders are able to reach them.
Each of the four churches sent a committee of about 14 members, including an executive, to the training, and members will now return to their congregations to decide among themselves who takes on the executive roles, Duran Taupongi said.
Participants received certificates at the close of the training yesterday.
He adds that the DRC Project will continue to support the committees once they are finalised.
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Remote communities in Western province call for supplies as bureaucracy continues to slow Maila relief works
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
COMMUNITIES in remote parts of Ranongga island, Western province are still in need of food supplies as food security challenges continue to worsen following Cyclone Maila.
This follows the reality faced by government in the slow-moving relief work to reach affected communities in the Western and Choiseul provinces due to bureaucratic hurdles.
Chief of Mondo community in Ranongga, Silas Reuban said most gardens planted after the cyclone have been unable to produce enough food to meet the needs of families.
He said the ongoing bad weather has further contributed to the difficulties faced by communities trying to restore their food gardens.
“Currently, we are surviving on the bags of rice that were distributed after the cyclone. Gardening is quite difficult at the moment due to the ongoing weather and also pest invasion,” Reuban said.
He said people in Mondo are now relying on wild taro, locally known as kakake, to supplement their food supplies.
Reuban said food distributions should continue to support communities and families that are struggling to restore their gardens and achieve food security.
Disaster Chairperson of Lale village, Billy Aqolo, shared similar concerns, saying some families are still struggling to put enough food on the table.
“We are slowly recovering from the disaster, but we still need food supplies to support our families,” Aqolo said.
He calls on the Provincial Disaster Committee and the national government to consider continuing food distributions to communities still affected by the disaster.
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECCDM) David Hiriasia last week told a media conference the reality of the snail-paced relief work which is due to bureaucratic hurdles.
Mr Hiriasia voiced that it will take time for relief to reach communities in the two provinces, Western and Choiseul.
He said that while funding had been announced to support recovery, the funds could not be distributed immediately because each funding arrangement had its own processes.
“A lot of funding has been announced, and people always refer to those funds, but they also have their own processes. One of the main funding sources was the supplementary appropriation, which Parliament has already passed,” he said
He said Government will continue with the allocation, but can seek additional funding if the approved amount is insufficient.
“If it is not enough, then we request the Government to support with additional funds,” he said.
Hiriasia said Maila’s severity had triggered disaster financing arrangements and support from development partners, including the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, Australia, New Zealand and other partners.
He said Government is now working through the different processes to ensure assistance reaches affected communities.
“It will take time, and we continue to ask our people in those affected areas to be patient with us and understand that we are prioritising these areas,” he said.
Hiriasia also said Government’s response to Maila was being guided by the national disaster plan, which provides for a whole-of-government approach.
He said the plan was developed following the Gizo earthquake and tsunami and had continued to be refined based on lessons learned from previous disasters.
“The current version, developed in 2018, is reviewed to identify gaps and areas requiring improvement,” he said.
Hiriasia said new government structures, including Constituency Development Committees and Ward Development Committees, will also need to be incorporated into the disaster plan.
“By including these changes, hopefully it will improve response and recovery in the future,” he said.
He acknowledged that recovery from previous disasters had sometimes been delayed because of limited resources, with some disasters not receiving adequate recovery support.
Hiriasia said Government will use lessons learnt to improve its disaster response and recovery approach.
He urges affected communities to remain patient as Government continues to prioritise recovery needs and work through the required processes.
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MID condemns deliberate damage to newly installed road signs along Henderson-Alligator Road and urges public protection. The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), through the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP), has strongly condemned the deliberate damage to newly installed road signs and road furniture along the Henderson to Alligator Road. Two newly installed road signs [...]
The post MID CONDEMNS DAMAGE TO NEWLY INSTALLED ROAD SIGNS appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .