BY NED GAGAHE
PUPILS at Numbu Primary School have been encouraged to make handwashing with soap a daily habit to protect their health and prevent the spread of diseases.
The message was delivered during the commemoration of Global Handwashing Day on Thursday, October 15, under the theme, “Be a Handwashing Hero!”
The Island Sun accompanied the Live & Learn Solomon Islands team to Numbu Primary School and Ghaobata Community High School, where students took part in practical demonstrations and interactive activities promoting proper hygiene.
At Numbu Primary School, pupils and teachers gathered for an awareness session led by Live & Learn Solomon Islands Project Manager Everlyn Darcy and her team.
Presentation by Live and Learn Solomon Islands Project Manager Everlyn Darcy, photo credit-Ned Gagahe.
Numbu pupils listen attentively during presentation, photo credit-Ned Gagahe.
Students learned the correct steps for washing their hands with soap, participated in demonstrations and learned a handwashing song. Several pupils were also invited to demonstrate the proper technique in front of their teachers and classmates.
The session concluded with the distribution of soap to students and teachers.
Numbu Primary School teacher Susan Sikua thanked the team for bringing the awareness programme to the school and stressed the importance of teaching children good hygiene practices from an early age.
“Let us thank the team who have demonstrated and raised awareness on the importance of Global Handwashing Day. It is very important that children practice this early so it becomes a habit,” she said.
At Ghaobata Community High School, students from both the primary and secondary sectors participated in quizzes, skits, drama and awareness presentations.
Students at Ghaobata Community High School participated at the lively activities marking the Global Handwashing Day, photo credit-Ned Gagahe.
Science teacher Emmanuel Vota said Global Handwashing Day is important for students and school staff because it encourages them to maintain proper hygiene in their daily lives.
He urged parents to continue teaching their children how to wash their hands properly at home and at school.
Mr Vota also suggested that future celebrations be held in open community spaces to allow parents and students to participate together, saying their involvement will help extend hygiene practices beyond the classroom.
Ms Darcy said the programme aimed to make handwashing with soap an everyday social norm among individuals, families, schools, workplaces and communities.
She commended the students for their enthusiasm and their willingness to learn and practice proper handwashing during the sessions.
The activities formed part of a wider campaign conducted across six schools in North and Northeast Guadalcanal by Live & Learn Solomon Islands in partnership with the Guadalcanal Province Education Division.
Other participating schools included Kulu School and Ngalimbiu School.
The programme featured handwashing demonstrations, Germ Buster games, question-and-answer sessions, songs, quizzes and classroom discussions to help students understand how proper handwashing can reduce the spread of germs and create healthier school and community environments.
The commemoration was supported by UNICEF, with funding from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), through the Climate Smart Social Services and Infrastructure programme.
Photo credit: Ned Gagahe
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Talakali Adventist Primary School in Malaita receives a new ablution block funded by the Australian Government through Disaster READY. After many years without proper permanent sanitation facilities, Talakali Adventist Primary School (TAPS) in Langalanga Lagoon, Malaita Province, have taken ownership of a newly completed ablution block. The new ablution block was funded by the Government [...]
The post Talaka Adventist Primary School Receives New Ablution Block appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
A major infrastructure development at Nasuragena Primary School in Star Harbour is on track to rescue up to 500 local children who have been forced to drop out of school due to a critical shortage of classrooms.
Ward 14 Ward Development Constituency (WDC) Chairman Solomon Maresikos told Island Sun this today in an exclusive interview.
Mr Maresikos said the six-block classroom project is being financed through provincial fixed grants and coordinated directly by the Ward 14 Ward Development Committee (WDC) in the East Makira Constituency.
He confirmed that the development has successfully reached stage three of its construction timeline.
“We are hoping to complete stage four by the end of this year. The project was initiated last year, but full construction commenced at the beginning of this year. If stage four wraps up as planned, we will host the official launching early next year, around February or March,” Mr. Maresikos stated.
While project financing has remained stable, he highlighted that logistics have posed a significant challenge specifically the difficult task of transporting commercial hardware materials by sea from Honiara to remote Makira.
He said the local community has stepped in with overwhelming physical support to counter these delays.
“In terms of local materials, we thank the community for their invaluable help in providing logs and essential bush materials to keep the project moving forward,” the Chairman acknowledged.
He said the WDC is already aiming to construct a similar classroom block at nearby Nana Primary School once the current site is fully operational.
“The classroom block marks the second major project delivered under the current WDC leadership, following the successful completion of the Naruga community water supply system,” he said.
Mr. Maresikos announced that a third milestone is underway: the construction of a brand-new WDC Office for Ward 14, funded through the provincial government’s Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF), the office will be the very first dedicated WDC facility of its kind in the region.
He said local contractor GK Construction and Plumbing Services has been officially awarded the contract to build the new ward headquarters.
Photo credit: Solomon Maresikos
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作者:约翰·霍阿尼哈乌
马基拉地区纳苏拉根小学(Nasuragena Primary School)的一项重大基础设施建设正在进行中,预计将拯救多达500名因教室严重短缺而被迫辍学的当地儿童。
第14区发展委员会(Ward Development Constituency,WDC)主席所罗门·马雷西科斯(Solomon Maresikos)今天在接受《岛屿太阳报》(Island Sun)独家采访时表示。
马雷西科斯先生表示,这个六栋教室的项目是通过省级固定拨款资助的,并由东马基拉选区的第14区发展委员会直接协调。
他确认,该项目的建设时间表已成功达到第三阶段。
“我们希望在今年年底前完成第四阶段。该项目于去年启动,但全面建设在今年年初开始。如果第四阶段按计划完成,我们将在明年年初,约在2月或3月举行正式启动仪式,”马雷西科斯先生表示。
虽然项目融资保持稳定,但他强调,物流方面面临着重大挑战,尤其是从霍尼亚拉(Honiara)通过海运将商业硬件材料运输到偏远的马基拉的困难。
他说,当地社区在应对这些延误方面提供了大量的实质性支持。
“在当地材料方面,我们感谢社区在提供木材和必要的灌木材料方面给予的宝贵帮助,以推动项目的进展,”主席表示。
他表示,WDC已经计划在当前地点全面投入运营后,在附近的纳纳小学(Nana Primary School)建设类似的教室楼。
“这个教室楼是当前WDC领导下交付的第二个重大项目,此前成功完成了纳鲁加社区供水系统,”他说。
马雷西科斯先生宣布,第三个里程碑正在进行中:为第14区建设一座全新的WDC办公室,该办公室由省政府的省级能力发展基金(Provincial Capacity Development Fund,PCDF)资助,将成为该地区首个专门的WDC设施。
他说,当地承包商GK建筑与管道服务公司(GK Construction and Plumbing Services)已正式获得建设新区总部的合同。
照片来源:所罗门·马雷西科斯
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BY JOSES SAREN
The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) is investigating an alleged gang assault on a student at Tuvaruhu following his graduation, after a video showing the incident circulated on social media.
The video reportedly shows a group of boys identifying themselves as the “Nine Six Gang” allegedly assaulting the student, prompting police to investigate the incident, the RSIPF said.
Police said the group was allegedly moving around in numbers, verbally insulting individuals and then joining together to physically assault them when they responded.
The RSIPF said it had identified locations associated with the group, while community members from areas where the boys reside were working closely with police to assist with the investigation.
Police said appropriate action will be taken against those involved in accordance with the law.
The RSIPF also wishes to remind parents and guardians of their responsibility to teach children respect, discipline and appropriate behaviour from an early age.
RSIPF said parents and guardians play a vital role in guiding children to become responsible members of society, adding that a lack of proper guidance and supervision can contribute to unacceptable behaviour among young people.
Police encourages parents, guardians and community members to work together to promote peace, safety and respect.
The RSIPF warns groups of boys considering forming or initiating gangs to think carefully about the consequences of their actions, stressing that such behaviour will not be tolerated and those involved will face legal action.
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The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has raised concerns over suspected deliberate damage to streetlighting infrastructure along the newly constructed Tandai Highway, west Honiara. The latest incident involved severe fire damage to an underground streetlighting cable at St John School Junction. “The cable is located beside the concrete footpath, on...
The post Tandai Highway Streetlight Cable Burned in ‘Suspected Arson’ appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY CHARLES STENNETT
Provincial members of the Makira Ulawa Provincial Government (MUPG), are currently undergoing a two-week induction workshop in Kirakira that started this morning.
Organised by the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS), the workshop will cover many areas in relation to the Provincial Government Act, (PGA) and was opened by Stephen Kumi, Minister for Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD).
A statement from the MUPG social media said the two-week program will cover the following key issues;
– Revised Provincial Government PGA 1997.
-Revised PGA Assembly Standing Orders.
-PGSP governance arrangements and roles and responsibilities of special duties.
-Project Engineering Implementation and their associated challenges.
-Financial instruction procurement processes and procedures.
-Revenue mobilisation strategies for MUPG.
-Discussions on Ward Development Committee and participatory planning.
Other areas of discussion include the provincial recurrent budgeting guidelines and presentations from the Leadership Code Commission and Ombudsman on procedures on Provincial Public Accounts Committees to ensure public transparency and oversight.
MUPG hopes that the induction workshop will equip all the provincial members to ensure effective local governance, legal compliance, and rural development in their respective wards and for them to be effective provincial state legislators and agents for positive change.
Photo credit: MUPG
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Rower Arie Rasmussen Magasiva, 23, received the Major Pasifika Award at the 2026 Blues Awards of Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, on 2 October.
BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
Beijing New Building Materials (BNBM) has supported Buma/Baolo School in West Kwaio, Malaita Province, with a donation of school furniture aimed at improving the learning environment for students and teachers.
The furniture was supplied by BNBM with the assistance of the Sisters of Charity.
The items were officially handed over to the school on Friday, October 16, and include new desks, chairs and tables for teachers.
During the handover ceremony, a representative of BNBM said the company was pleased to support the school and invest in rural communities.
Furnitures handed over to Buma/Baolo School. Photo: Atiman
“We are happy to give back to the community. Supporting rural schools is investing in the future of Solomon Islands,” the representative said.
Meanwhile, Buma/Baolo School principal Ben Morosini thanked BNBM for the assistance, saying the donation would help improve teaching and learning at the school.
He said the school had been facing challenges due to a shortage of suitable furniture, with students and teachers having to use broken desks for a long time.
“We have been learning with broken desks for a long time, and this support will boost learning for us students and teachers,” he said.
“We would want to thank the Sister’s of Charity at Buma for support through this furniture,” he said.
Morosini said the new furniture would provide better support for classroom activities and help create a more conducive learning environment for both students and teachers.
BNBM is a Chinese company operating as a hardware and home improvement centre in East Honiara. It is a subsidiary of China National Building Material Company Ltd (CNBM).
The company supports schools in Solomon Islands through donations of building materials, furniture and equipment aimed at improving learning environments.
[Photo Caption: Furnitures handed over to Buma/Baolo School. Photo: Atiman]
BY CHARLES STENNETT
A programme providing valuable hands-on learning opportunities for the students and strengthening collaboration between the university, government fisheries authorities and the Tiaro Bay community was held at Tiaro bay recently and thirty students from the Fisheries Department at Solomon Islands National University (SINU) participated in a field programme recently.
The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine resources said the aim of the program was to strengthen marine environmental awareness and promoting sustainable coastal resource management.
The programme was conducted in collaboration with the Tiaro Bay community, the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), Guadalcanal Provincial Fisheries Department, SINU and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) project.
MFMR said students facilitated interactive marine environmental education activities for pupils at Tiaro Primary and Secondary Schools which provided an opportunity for students to share knowledge about the marine environment and the importance of conserving coastal and marine resources with younger learners.
The SINU students also conducted field surveys of trochus populations and coral habitats at six sites within Tiaro Bay’s locally managed marine area.
It said the surveys provided practical experience in marine resource monitoring and helped students develop a better understanding of coastal ecosystems and the management of marine resources.
MFMR said an important component of the programme was the exchange of knowledge between students and the local community.
Students also presented their findings to community members, whose local ecological knowledge contributed to discussions on marine resource conditions and sustainable management practices.
The programme provided valuable hands-on learning opportunities for the students while strengthening collaboration between the university, government fisheries authorities and the Tiaro Bay community.
MFMR said the partnership highlights the importance of combining scientific research, community knowledge and environmental education in supporting community-based resource management and the long-term sustainability of Solomon Islands’ coastal and marine resources.
[SINU students attending the marine environmental awareness and sustainable coastal resource management program at Tiaro, Bay West Guadalcanal. Photo credit: MFMR]
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Outgoing Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) President Ofani Eremae has called for industry-wide unity, digital innovation, and cost-sharing strategies to secure the long-term viability of independent journalism in the country.
Delivering his final President’s Report at the MASI Annual General Meeting (AGM) over the weekend, Eremae confirmed he would not seek re-election, closing a two-year tenure heavily focused on local newsroom capacity-building and financial sustainability.
Eremae addressed the meeting amid ongoing economic pressures, rapid digital shifts, and emerging threats from misinformation, detailing the extensive training programs executed during his term and outlining crucial survival strategies for the local press.
The outgoing president said media sustainability must be treated as a collective industry priority rather than leaving individual news outlets to struggle alone.
He revealed that MASI has been collaborating with development partners, donors, the government, and the private sector to explore funding avenues beyond traditional advertising models to address severe financial and operational hurdles.
“This includes helping media organisations identify new revenue streams, develop digital business models, strengthen audience engagement, explore commercial partnerships and make better use of the opportunities offered by online platforms,” Eremae said.
He further urged local media executives to pursue greater collaboration, including cost-sharing and resource-sharing arrangements, to reduce overhead expenses without compromising individual editorial independence.
Detailing the association’s activities over the 2025–2026 reporting period, Eremae highlighted a series of fourteen core training initiatives aimed at upgrading professional standards and newsroom leadership.
Under the Building Voices for Accountability (BVA) Project funded by Internews, MASI conducted specialized Training of Trainers and In-House Accountability Journalism sessions.
He said Media practitioners also took part in interview skills workshops and rural stringer development programs funded by BBC Media Action to broaden national coverage.
He adds the technical upgrades included radio production training for local broadcasters and an intensive television news-gathering course led by Fiji Broadcasting Corporation Senior Multimedia Journalist Apenisa Waiqaira.
“To combat regional misinformation, Island Sun Chief Editor Irwin Angiki and SIBC’s Fredrick Kusu facilitated a localized Verification and Fact-Checking Workshop following their completion of advanced training in Suva, Fiji,” he said.
Eremae also acknowledged ongoing international support, noting that four local journalists from the Island Sun, Tavuli News, and SIBC are currently in New Zealand on year-long academic scholarships through the New Zealand High Commission, with all four expected to return by the end of the year.
He expressed gratitude for targeted funding from the Australian, British, and Chinese governments, which supported various local training, climate change reporting workshops, and study travel opportunities.
Concluding his address, Eremae reminded the association that the duty of building a resilient media body does not rest on the executive leadership alone, calling on the entire membership to take collective responsibility for the future of the industry.
He challenged media professionals to remain steadfast, protect ethical benchmarks, and continue defending the public interest as a critical democratic pillar.
“The people of this country need a media that can inform them, question those in authority, expose wrongdoing and give a voice to communities whose concerns might otherwise go unheard. That responsibility is too important for any of us to carry alone. We must carry it together,” Eremae said.
[Outgoing MASI President Ofani Eremae delivering his final President’s report at the MASI Annual General Meeting (AGM) over the weekend.]
BY JOSES SAREN
For Junior Kalita, graduating from Selwyn College National Secondary School is more than an academic achievement. It is a milestone shaped by childhood loss, his mother’s sacrifices and his determination to continue his education despite hardship.
The Form Six Arts student reached graduation without his mother beside him, after financial difficulties prevented her from attending the ceremony. His achievement carries particular significance because his father died when he was still a young child, leaving his mother to raise him alone.
Junior, from Ha’a village in Central Province, said his journey to graduation had been filled with challenges, sacrifice and valuable lessons.
“Reaching this important milestone was not easy, but I kept going,” he said.
Growing up without his father presented challenges, but Junior continued to pursue his education with determination. His mother’s efforts to raise him have been an important part of his journey, even though financial hardship meant she could not be present to witness his graduation.
For Junior, completing Form Six represents the result of perseverance through difficult circumstances and a step towards building a better future.
His experience also reflects the challenges faced by students whose families struggle financially while trying to support their children’s education.
Junior belongs to Noabu B, Table Four, at Selwyn College. Noabu is one of the college’s four divisions and is divided into Noabu A and Noabu B.
Despite the difficulties he has faced, Junior remains hopeful that education will open opportunities for further studies, employment and greater independence.
He also hopes to build a future in which he can support his family, recognising the sacrifices made by his mother throughout his upbringing.
Although his mother could not attend the graduation ceremony, Junior’s achievement stands as an important milestone for both of them.
His story is a reminder that behind every graduation is a personal journey, and for some students, reaching the finish line means overcoming challenges that extend far beyond the classroom.
[Junior Kalita holding his certificate alone during the graduation. Photo credit: Adam Pitakaka]
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
THE Development Bank of Solomon Islands (DBSI) has launched a new digital banking and lending system aimed at improving efficiency, strengthening loan management and delivering better services to customers across the country.
A statement from DBSI said, the new system was officially launched on October 5, 2026, by Acting Chief Executive Officer Stanley Peter Havae, in the presence of board members, management, United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) country representative Zoe Victoria Tate and representatives from Finlectra Technologies.
The system includes Finlectra’s Core Banking System and Loan Origination, Management and Collection Solution, which will support the bank’s daily operations, including transaction processing, loan administration and financial reporting.
DBSI management, board members, and international partners gather at the headquarters for the live deployment and launching of the new digital banking and lending platform. Photo credit: DBSI
Speaking at the launch, Mr Havae said the new technology would provide a stronger foundation for improving the bank’s operations and customer services.
He said the system would help reduce manual workloads, improve the accuracy of information and enable staff to respond more effectively to customers’ needs.
Mr Havae also highlighted the importance of the upgrade in supporting DBSI’s core mission of assisting local entrepreneurs and farmers who contribute to sustainable development in Solomon Islands.
However, he stressed that the successful use of the new system would depend on the commitment and responsibility of bank staff.
He urged employees to maintain accurate records, follow security procedures, protect customers’ confidential information, continue learning and regularly monitor the system’s performance.
In a statement, Finlectra Head of Implementation Clayton Nyanyiwa and Vice President of Global Delivery Rajesh Jaypal stated that DBSI’s Board and management have a clear vision for the bank’s future.
The executives expressed pride in partnering with DBSI to provide the technology and implementation support required to improve customer services.
Mr Nyanyiwa emphasized that digital transformation makes financial services more convenient and accessible, and confirmed that Finlectra will continue to support DBSI throughout its modernization journey.
As part of its ongoing digital transformation, DBSI plans to introduce mobile application services and internet banking before the end of 2026.
The planned services are expected to provide customers with additional ways to access banking services digitally.
The launch marks an important step in DBSI’s efforts to modernise its operations, strengthen its service delivery and better support individuals, entrepreneurs and farmers throughout Solomon Islands.
(Left to right) DBSI Acting CEO Stanley Peter Havae, Finlectra Head of Implementation Clayton Nyanyiwa, and a DBSI official. Photo credit: DBSI
BY TONY IROGA
Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and the North Vella La Vella Constituency (NVC) have teamed up to make higher education accessible right from rural villages.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed yesterday at the Kukum Lecture Theatre Conference Room by SINU Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau and North Vella La Vella MP Mr. Clezy Rore.
SINU in a statement yesterday said the agreement will pave the way for SINU’s Distance and Flexible Learning (DFL) programmes to roll out across the constituency, allowing locals to pursue degrees without leaving their home communities.
Speaking after the signing, Professor Aqorau emphasised that geography should never be a barrier to learning.
He said SINU is committed to bringing education closer to the people, particularly those living in rural and remote communities.
“We want to take education beyond the traditional classroom and bring it into the village, so that people can continue their studies towards a degree while remaining in their communities,” Aqorau said.
He said that widespread smartphone and digital access have opened new doors for remote learning, though affordability and accessibility remain key hurdles that require strong community partnerships.
Under the deal , the Constituency will supply suitable facilities such as classrooms or community spaces for virtual learning and tutorials, alongside logistical backing.
SINU’s Centre for Distance and Flexible Learning (CDFL) will provide a Study Centre Coordinator, internet access, computers, learning materials, technical support, and trained tutors.
Priority will be given to local school leavers and community members to boost lifelong learning and capacity-building.
“Education should not be limited by geography. Through Distance and Flexible Learning, our people can access education, develop their skills and pursue their aspirations while remaining in their communities,” Aqorau said.
Photo credit: SINU
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
OFFICIALS from the United States Embassy in Honiara are visiting Western Province as part of efforts to strengthen engagement with provincial leaders, schools and young people across Solomon Islands.
The team arrived in Gizo this week and has met with Western Province Premier Billy Veo, the Provincial Education Officer and youths in the provincial capital.
Speaking to Island Sun, US Embassy Public Affairs Officer Mark P. Carr said the visit aims to engage provincial leaders and distribute copies of a special reading book titled “Rescuing JFK” to schools.
Carr said the team had already handed copies of the book to the Western Province Education Officer for distribution to schools across the province.
He said the initiative is an important part of the embassy’s outreach programme to promote reading and strengthen engagement with communities outside Honiara.
Carr said the team also held an information session at the Western Province Youth Hub on Thursday to introduce young people to United States education and cultural exchange programmes.
He said the session provided an opportunity for youths to learn about programmes that could expose them to educational and cultural experiences in the United States.
Carr said similar visits had already been conducted in Guadalcanal, Central and Isabel provinces, with the team planning to visit Malaita Province next.
“Next, we will go to Auki, Malaita Province. Before the end of the year, we want to visit all nine provinces,” he said.
Carr said the embassy had added new staff members as part of its efforts to expand its engagement and activities in Solomon Islands.
He also confirmed that construction of a new US Embassy building near Panatina Plaza in Honiara was underway, with the facility expected to open in January 2027.
“With that increased visibility in Honiara, we want to go and visit the nine provinces,” Carr said.
He reiterated that the main purpose of the provincial visits is to distribute copies of Rescuing JFK, particularly to schools and engage with provincial leaders and young people.
The visit to Western Province forms part of the embassy’s wider outreach programme to connect with communities throughout Solomon Islands before the end of the year.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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A record 50 Solomon Islanders have completed pre-departure training before starting Australia Awards scholarships in Australia in 2027, the Australian High Commission said. Women make up two-thirds of the cohort.
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Acting Premier of Rennell and Bellona province Collin Tesuatai is warning everyone about the current El Niño dry season.
Speaking to Island Sun today, Mr Tesuatai said the national government must help rural areas immediately.
“While towns are doing okay, rural villages are facing “double trouble” because their crops are dying and their water is running out,” he said.
He said this El Niño weather is very tricky.
“Even if it rains at night, the next day is very hot and dry. In the villages, it is much hotter and crops are not growing. It is a big problem for gardens. Even if you plant food, the plants die because of the hot, dry weather. Sometimes when it rains, the ground is so hot that the water does nothing. It is like pouring water on a fire,” Tesuatai said.
He added that while people in towns can still buy food and water, people in rural villages rely entirely on their own gardens to survive.
He said water is becoming a major problem in Rennell and Bellona as people depend on rain water tanks.
“If it does not rain for one month, they run out of water. Water tanks run dry in a month. When one house runs out of water, big families have to share from their neighbours. This uses up the water very fast. Even the local wells are very low and could dry up anytime,” he warned.
Tesuatai said the proposed plan from the provincial government with the province’s Ministry of Education is to close schools if the water runs out completely.
The Acting Premier strongly calls on the national government through the responsible Ministry to send officers to check on the villages.
“The province does not have the budget to buy supplies for the people. The ministry needs to send officers to rural areas to see what is happening. We should not have to ask them. The ministry is supposed to lead this work,” Tesuatai said.
He also calls on rural people to change their mindset and prepare for bad weather, just like people in other countries do.
“We take things too lightly, but Europeans take it seriously and prepare. We must take this seriously,” he said.
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BY TONY IROGA
The National Parliament of Solomon Islands (NPSI) has successfully concluded a landmark week of professional exchanges with the Parliament of New South Wales (NSW), Australia which aims to boost institutional capacity and regional cooperation.
NPSI officially announced the the wrap-up of the high-level twinning programme in a statement yesterday.
The program ran from October 7 and concluded yesterday, October 15 in Sydney.
NPSI said the initiative brought together lawmakers and parliamentary officers from Solomon Islands, the Bougainville House of Representatives, and NSW to share expertise and study modern parliamentary procedures.
The vital professional development visit was fully funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The Solomon Islands delegation featured prominent parliamentary leaders, including the Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, Mr. Dr Paul Popora Bosawai, Chair of the Parliamentary House Committee, Mr. Franklyn Wasi, Chair of the Environment and Conservation Committee, Mrs. Mary Garu, alongside Principal Hansard Reporter Ms Sherilyn Ragoso.
“The parliamentary leaders were joined in the second phase by delegates from the Bougainville House of Representatives,” statement said.
Throughout the week, participants engaged directly with NSW MPs and officers.
They observed Question Time in both the Legislative Assembly (Lower House) and the Legislative Council (Upper House), and took part in chamber tours.
They also joined shadowing sessions that focused on committee operations, stakeholder engagement, security, and departmental services.
NPSI said that the twinning arrangement plays a crucial role in advancing democratic governance.
The program is said to have provided a platform for meaningful exchanges between the three legislatures.
NPSI said it also allowed participants to compare practices, share professional experiences and identify approaches that may strengthen parliamentary operations in their respective institutions.
For delegates like Ms Ragoso, the exchange also offered invaluable hands-on learning with the NSW Hansard team, sharpening reporting skills that will directly benefit parliamentary transparency back home.
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作者:TONY IROGA
所罗门群岛国会(NPSI)与澳大利亚新南威尔士州议会(NSW)成功结束了一周的专业交流活动,旨在提升机构能力和区域合作。
NPSI昨日正式宣布高层结对项目的结束。
该项目自10月7日开始,并于昨日10月15日在悉尼结束。
NPSI表示,此次活动汇集了来自所罗门群岛、布干维尔众议院和新南威尔士州的立法者和议会官员,共同分享专业知识,学习现代议会程序。
这次重要的专业发展访问完全由联合国开发计划署(UNDP)资助。
所罗门群岛代表团由多位杰出的议会领导人组成,包括公共账户委员会主席保罗·波波拉·博萨维博士(Mr. Dr Paul Popora Bosawai)、议会事务委员会主席弗兰克林·瓦西(Mr. Franklyn Wasi)、环境与保护委员会主席玛丽·加鲁(Mrs. Mary Garu)以及首席速记员谢丽琳·拉戈索(Ms Sherilyn Ragoso)。
“在第二阶段,议会领导人还与布干维尔众议院的代表一起参与,”声明中说。
在这一周的时间里,参与者与新南威尔士州的议员和官员进行了直接交流。
他们观察了立法议会(下议院)和立法委员会(上议院)的提问时间,并参与了议会的参观。
他们还参加了聚焦于委员会运作、利益相关者参与、安全和部门服务的跟随会议。
NPSI表示,结对安排在推进民主治理方面发挥了关键作用。
该项目为三国立法机构之间提供了有意义的交流平台。
NPSI表示,这也使参与者能够比较实践、分享专业经验,并确定可能加强各自机构议会运作的方法。
对于像拉戈索女士这样的代表来说,这次交流还提供了与新南威尔士州速记团队的宝贵实践学习,提升了报告技能,这将直接有利于国内的议会透明度。
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
A total of 442 students from Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School (PSS) in Malaita Province graduated yesterday.
The graduation ceremony themed “Embrace Learning for a Brighter Future” also marked the school’s 79th anniversary of educating young people under its motto, “Learning Leadership.”
Aligegeo PSS Principal Alick Bebesia in his address at the ceremony said the occasion is a proud moment for all graduates as they celebrate their achievements.
He also acknowledged the hard work and dedication of the school’s coordinators, Form Six and Form Seven tutors, heads of departments, teaching staff and support staff for their collective efforts in educating and preparing students for the future.
“On behalf of the students, I wish to thank them for their collective effort to help raise our students here at this school.
“I have the honour to announce that today we will witness a total of 442 students receiving their certificates,” Bebesia said.
Reflecting on the graduation theme, Bebesia said it carries a powerful and meaningful message about the importance of education in shaping individuals, communities and the nation.
“Education is more important than attending classes, completing assignments, passing examinations or receiving certificates,” he said.
He explained that embracing learning means welcoming knowledge with an open mind, being willing to learn from others, accepting corrections, learning from mistakes and continuously improving oneself.
Bebesia reminded the graduates that learning does not end when students leave the classroom or receive their qualifications and instead is about every stage of life presenting new opportunities to learn, grow and develop.
“It helps us to understand the world around us, discover our abilities and prepare ourselves to face the challenges and opportunities of the future,” he said.
The principal also encouraged the graduates to be prepared for changes in society, particularly as new technologies, discoveries and challenges continue to transform the way people live and work.
“My dear graduates, the world you are entering is changing rapidly. New technologies, new discoveries and new challenges are transforming the way people live and work.
“The careers available in the future may require knowledge and skills that are different from those we use today. Therefore, you must develop a positive attitude towards learning and be prepared to adapt to change,” Bebesia said.
The graduates were also encouraged to embrace lifelong learning, remain open to new ideas and continue developing the knowledge and skills needed to contribute positively to their communities and the nation.
As Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School marks 79 years of educational service in Malaita Province, the graduation ceremony celebrates not only the achievements of the 442 graduands but also the school’s continuing role in educating and preparing young people for a brighter future.
Photo credit: Rodrick Desuri
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
Malaita’s Provincial Education Coordinator, Andy Siarani, has urged parents to take greater responsibility in supporting their children’s education.
Siarani, who was the guest of honour at Gwaidingale Community High School’s 30th graduation ceremony, delivered the message in his address to students, parents, guardians and other attendees.
He said strong parental support and a solid family background are essential for students to succeed in their education.
Siarani warned that when parents failed to fulfil their roles and responsibilities, their children’s chances of success in school could be affected.
“This is very important, and I must strongly emphasise this to you, my good parents. This school is my school, and I have witnessed this years back,” he said.
He said that parents have an important role to play in supporting their children throughout their education.
Siarani also referred to biblical teachings, reminding parents that they have a responsibility to fulfil their duties towards their children.
He also reiterated comments made by the school principal, highlighting the importance of support from parents and the home environment in helping students understand the knowledge and skills taught at school.
“Everything taught in the school is from the white man’s language, and for our students to learn and succeed in school, it must come first from the parents and home teaching,” he said.
He added that teachers are there to guide students during their time at school, while parents also need to provide support and encouragement at home.
Siarani congratulated the graduates on reaching this important milestone and wished them success in their upcoming national examinations in the coming weeks.
The 30th graduation ceremony was attended by the West Kwaio Constituency representative, a health representative, chiefs, church leaders, the school chairman and Provincial Education Coordinator Andy Siarani, who was also the guest of honour.
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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The prolonged drought driven by the 2026 El Niño phenomenon has triggered severe water and food shortages forcing the total closure of schools on Moli mainland and Moli island.
Local resident Anthony P. Telovae reported that both Moli Primary School on Moli mainland and Moli Secondary School on Moli island, northwest Choiseul province have been forced to suspend classes due to the shortage of water supplies within the school compounds.
Mr Telovae said the primary division on the mainland shut its doors two weeks ago, while forms one and two of the secondary division suspended classes last week.
“Things are getting worse for us at the moment, only Form Three students are currently allowed on campus so they can prepare for their upcoming examinations at the end of this month,” Telovae said.
He said the crisis has left local dams and water supplies running critically low, forcing residents to walk deep into bush streams to fetch water for their households.
“Beyond water shortages, the month-long absence of rain is now destroying local food security as gardens begin to dry up,” he said.
Expressing deep concern for the community, Telovae issued an urgent appeal to provincial leaders and national emergency management sectors to intervene.
“The government authorities, through the provincial government and the disaster council, should act now,” he urged.
The crisis aligns with recent warnings from the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS). In its latest El Niño 2026 awareness update, SIMS cautioned that the climate pattern would bring drastically reduced rainfall, severe water shortages, and threats to agricultural livelihoods across the archipelago.
SIMS continues to urge citizens to conserve water, safeguard food gardens, and closely monitor official weather updates. The meteorological service, alongside the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), is actively requesting communities to report localised El Niño impacts directly to their official channels to help coordinate relief efforts.
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作者:约翰·霍阿尼哈乌
由2026年厄尔尼诺现象引发的持续干旱导致严重的水和食品短缺,迫使莫利大陆和莫利岛的学校全面关闭。
当地居民安东尼·P·特洛瓦(Anthony P. Telovae)报告称,位于莫利大陆的莫利小学和位于莫利岛的莫利中学(Moli Secondary School)由于校园内水源短缺,被迫暂停上课。
特洛瓦先生表示,位于大陆的小学在两周前关闭,而中学的 Year 1和 Year 2上周暂停了课程。
“目前我们的情况越来越糟,只有 Year 3的学生被允许在校园内,以便他们为本月底即将到来的考试做准备,”特洛瓦说。
他说,这场危机使当地的水坝和水源严重不足,迫使居民深入灌木丛中的溪流取水以供家庭使用。
“除了水短缺,长达一个月的无雨天气正在破坏当地的食品安全,花园开始干枯,”他说。
特洛瓦对社区表示深切关注,并向省领导和国家应急管理部门发出紧急呼吁,请求干预。
“政府当局应通过省政府和灾害委员会立即采取行动,”他敦促道。
这场危机与所罗门群岛气象局(SIMS)最近的警告相吻合。在其最新的2026年厄尔尼诺意识更新中,SIMS警告称,这一气候模式将导致降雨量大幅减少,水资源严重短缺,并威胁到整个群岛的农业生计。
SIMS继续呼吁公民节约用水,保护食品花园,并密切关注官方天气更新。气象局与国家灾害管理办公室(NDMO)积极请求社区直接向其官方渠道报告局部的厄尔尼诺影响,以帮助协调救援工作。
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with John Houanihau
‘We are suffering’ — Moli communities cry out for help as El Niño dries up water and shuts down schools
The current prolonged El Niño dry season has plunged communities across Moli Parish into a severe water and food crisis. With local water supply dams starting to dried up, residents, schools, and vital services are facing unprecedented disruptions.
Compounding the crisis, many families are still reeling from the structural damage caused by Tropical Cyclone Maila. Now, hard-baked soil, dying food gardens, and parched water sources are forcing residents to travel distances just to survive.
Here are local leaders, teachers, students, and elders on the ground who share their experiences about the continuous dry season impacts in their various communities.
Leni Piku (Sulunari Community)
“Things are going from bad to worse. The sun is intensely hot, and our water sources are running completely dry. Even our food gardens, root crops, and vegetables are starting to wither and die out, which deeply worries us. Right now, we are truly struggling to find water. Even when dark clouds gather in the sky, the rain just never falls.”
Michael (Pimadara Community)
“Since this El Niño commenced, we have been facing immense suffering. The village is incredibly hot, and our children look exhausted and dehydrated because there is not enough water. The small water sources left simply cannot cater to our community’s population, forcing people to travel far into the bush or mainland to find a single bucket.
This situation is a double disaster for us. We were already severely affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila, and this El Niño has compounded our suffering before we could even recover. Our gardens cannot grow. The ground is baked so hard and stiff that you cannot even plough the soil or plant root mounds. We need responsible authorities to respond immediately with either emergency relief or survival advice.”
Anastasia Qora, Teacher (Moli Primary School)
“The dry season has completely disrupted our school programs. We have been forced to suspend classes because there is not enough water for students to drink during break times or to maintain normal daily school activities.
It is affecting us teachers just as badly. We have no clean water left for drinking or cooking. We, along with our children, have turned to drinking green and dry coconuts just to stay hydrated. We are even forced to use the sea for washing. Before classes were suspended, students constantly complained about the stifling heat, saying they felt too weak and tired to focus on their lessons.”
Philip Poqeteno (Pimadara Community)
“It is deeply heartbreaking to see how this dry season is affecting our people. The heat is from the sun is just too much. I am urging parents to ensure their little children carry a small bottle of water with them at all times.
I also strongly advise our people not to carry open firewood or fire carelessly through the village. The environment is dry, and a single dropped ash could instantly spark a bushfire. The crisis is hitting our livestock too; even the cattle at the Moli Station are visibly thirsty as their watering holes evaporate. Everyone must try to stay cool under the shade.”
Joachim Mae (Bibolo Community)
“This long dry spell is paralyzing everything—our community events, family life, and school schedules. For my own family, it has severely disrupted our daily routines. We have to walk long distances to collect water, which makes us late for our daily tasks. The persistent daily heat is leaving our young children feeling incredibly uncomfortable, drained, and weak every single day.”
Santy Vatua, Student (Moli Secondary School, Moli Island)
“As a student living on Moli Island, this weather is making it almost impossible to learn. Because the island has run out of water, we cannot concentrate on our studies. We are forced to cross over to the Moli mainland just to search for water to drink, cook, or bathe.
The shortage has forced Forms One and Two to completely close down their classes. Only the Form Three students are continuing their lessons right now, but we are all struggling under these dry conditions.”
Amata Lukasa (Qalovoke Community)
“This drought has severely impacted our livelihoods. Our gardens are ruined, and our food crops simply cannot grow without water. For us elderly women and people, the situation is even more terrifying because we do not have the physical strength to walk long distances to fetch water.
Our gardens are in a critical state, and I am deeply worried that we will soon have nothing left to eat. I am calling with the authorities to step in and send aid to help us survive this.”
Photo credit: Anthony P Telovae
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与约翰·霍阿尼豪(John Houanihau)
“我们正在受苦”——莫利(Moli)社区呼吁帮助,厄尔尼诺现象导致水源枯竭,学校停课
当前持续的厄尔尼诺干旱季节使莫利教区的社区陷入严重的水和食品危机。随着当地水库开始干涸,居民、学校和重要服务面临前所未有的中断。
危机加剧,许多家庭仍在承受热带气旋迈拉(Tropical Cyclone Maila)造成的结构性损害。现在,干硬的土壤、枯萎的食品花园和干涸的水源迫使居民不得不远行以求生存。
以下是当地领导、教师、学生和长者分享他们在各自社区中持续干旱季节影响的经历。
Leni Piku(苏鲁纳里社区)
“情况越来越糟。阳光炙热,我们的水源完全干涸。即使我们的食品花园、根茎作物和蔬菜也开始枯萎,这让我们非常担忧。现在,我们真的在努力寻找水。即使乌云在空中聚集,雨水也从未降临。”
Michael(皮马达拉社区)
“自从这个厄尔尼诺现象开始以来,我们一直在遭受巨大的痛苦。村庄非常炎热,我们的孩子看起来疲惫不堪,脱水严重,因为水源不足。剩下的小水源根本无法满足我们社区的人口,迫使人们远赴丛林或内陆寻找一桶水。
这种情况对我们来说是双重灾难。我们已经受到热带气旋迈拉的严重影响,而这个厄尔尼诺现象在我们甚至还未恢复之前就加重了我们的痛苦。我们的花园无法生长。土地干硬得连耕作或种植根茎作物都无法进行。我们需要负责的当局立即采取行动,提供紧急救助或生存建议。”
Anastasia Qora,教师(莫利小学)
“干旱季节完全打乱了我们的学校课程。我们被迫暂停课程,因为学生在课间没有足够的水喝,也无法维持正常的日常学校活动。
这对我们教师的影响同样严重。我们没有干净的水可供饮用或烹饪。我们和孩子们不得不喝青椰子和干椰子来保持水分。我们甚至被迫用海水洗涤。在课程暂停之前,学生们不断抱怨闷热的天气,表示他们感到虚弱和疲惫,无法专注于学习。”
Philip Poqeteno(皮马达拉社区)
“看到这个干旱季节对我们人民的影响,真是令人心碎。阳光的热量实在太过强烈。我呼吁家长确保他们的小孩随时携带一小瓶水。
我还强烈建议大家不要在村庄里随意携带明火或木柴。环境干燥,一点掉落的灰烬就可能瞬间引发丛林火灾。危机也影响到了我们的牲畜;即使在莫利站的牛也明显口渴,因为它们的饮水点正在蒸发。每个人都必须尽量在阴凉处保持凉爽。”
Joachim Mae(比博洛社区)
“这段漫长的干旱期使一切瘫痪——我们的社区活动、家庭生活和学校日程。对我自己的家庭来说,这严重打乱了我们的日常生活。我们不得不走很远的路去取水,这使我们在日常任务上迟到。持续的高温让我们的幼儿每天都感到极度不适、疲惫和虚弱。”
Santy Vatua,学生(莫利中学,莫利岛)
“作为一名生活在莫利岛的学生,这种天气几乎让我们无法学习。因为岛上水源枯竭,我们无法专注于学习。我们不得不渡过莫利大陆,只为寻找饮用水、烹饪或洗澡。
水源短缺迫使 Year 1和 Year 2的课程完全停课。现在只有 Year 3的学生在继续上课,但我们在这种干旱条件下都在挣扎。”
Amata Lukasa(卡洛沃克社区)
“这场干旱严重影响了我们的生计。我们的花园被毁,食品作物在没有水的情况下根本无法生长。对于我们这些年长的女性和人们来说,情况更加可怕,因为我们没有体力走很远的路去取水。
我们的花园处于危急状态,我深感担忧,我们很快就会没有东西可吃。我呼吁当局介入并提供援助,帮助我们度过难关。”
照片来源:安东尼·P·特洛瓦(Anthony P Telovae)
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Local copra and cocoa farmers in the Hograno-Kia-Havulei (HKH) Constituency have secured a dedicated infrastructure hub to streamline their trade operations. This development follows the official handover of a modern copra storage and buying facility to the Kaevanga Community Development Association (KCDA) on October 7, 2026.
According to the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), the newly commissioned facility establishes an institutional foundation for rural economic growth, market connectivity, and sustainable household livelihoods across the region’s agricultural networks.
Funded under the 2025 Rural Sustainable Development Program (RSDP), the project was successfully implemented through a bilateral development partnership between the Solomon Islands Government and the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
The centralised infrastructure is strategically located to serve rural farmers operating across the Kolotubi and Kolomola Wards of the HKH Constituency. This infrastructure provides a localised venue to store and trade agricultural commodities effectively.
MRD said HKH Constituency was allocated a total of SBD$1.5 million under the second phase of the China-funded RSDP in 2025. These public funds were formally facilitated through the Constituency Office under the administrative leadership of the Member of Parliament for HKH and former Prime Minister, Jeremiah Manele.
The capital injection was split equally between the primary production sectors of agriculture and marine fisheries to ensure balanced rural development.
A total of SBD$750,000 was directed to the KCDA to finance the establishment of the central buying hub, deliver necessary working capital directly to rural farmers, construct and equip specialised crop dryers, rehabilitate aging tree plantations, support local livestock initiatives, and manage program transport and logistics. The remaining half of the constituency’s allocation is earmarked for an upcoming seaweed farming project under the fisheries development component in the Havulei, Kia, and Katova Wards.
“Hograno is the most agriculture-rich part of our Constituency, and its people are among the most hardworking in the province, from our farmers to our business-minded families. Community companies such as Varivao began right here,” Manele noted during his keynote address as the guest of honour at the official ceremony. He emphasised that the regional history of agricultural productivity guided the state’s investment strategy.
“It is in recognition of this history, strength and comparative advantage that I decided to allocate half of the second phase of the PRC RSDP funds to KCDA for agriculture-related activities. I look forward to attending the handover ceremonies for the seaweed activities once they are completed,” Manele explained to the gathered community. The Member of Parliament extended formal appreciation to the PRC for its financial partnership.
Manele also expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) for facilitating the rollout of the RSDP across various national constituencies. “Our focus on agriculture and fisheries is in line with the policies of past and present governments to prioritise the productive sector. Agriculture will remain the backbone of our economy. I encourage all our farmers to keep working hard,” Manele stated.
He commended KCDA Chairman Dudley Longamei for his institutional vision, leadership, and persistent commitment to realising the agricultural project. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the cooperative’s executive board, local farmers, and resident families. Manele noted that operating rural enterprises presents clear logistical challenges, but dedication had allowed the association to reach this significant operational milestone.
“I know it is not easy and there are challenges, but with dedication you have come this far. It is my intention to expand and replicate these activities in other parts of the Constituency where there is potential for agriculture development. I will be asking Chief Longamei and his team to reach out to other parts of the Constituency so that more communities can benefit,” Manele added.
MRD said KCDA initially commenced commercial purchasing operations in June 2026, ahead of the formal facility handover. Since launching, the association has bought approximately 580 bags of dried copra and 26 bags of dried cocoa beans directly from local village producers. These agricultural commodities were successfully transported and sold to major commercial markets located in the national capital of Honiara.
By bringing localised market access directly to the doorsteps of rural communities, the buying centre allows smallholder farmers to sell their copra and cocoa locally. This eliminates the need for individual families to organize or fund independent transport logistics to Honiara. KCDA Chairman and Chief Dudley Longamei reported that the direct economic benefits of this localised market pathway are already observable inside village households.
“Behind every bag is the hard work of a farmer. Behind every sale is income reaching a family,” Chief Longamei remarked, explaining that the revenue generated from these commodity sales is utilised by families to pay for school fees, essential household provisions, and the expansion of small village businesses. The buying centre creates a reliable mechanism to convert rural labor into stable household income.
“KCDA is building a local agricultural value chain linking production, drying and processing, buying and marketing. This is how rural economic development begins: not simply by producing more, but by creating a reliable pathway for our farmers to turn their production into income,” Longamei stated. The RSDP funding has systematically supported a wide array of localised farming interventions.
The comprehensive development scheme managed by KCDA encompasses the establishment of the storage centre, the construction of processing dryers, the distribution of farming tools, plantation rehabilitation, and livestock management. This assistance has reached a significant number of families across multiple agricultural sub-sectors:
Coconut Sector : 368 families supported, involving approximately 41,345 coconut plants.
Cocoa Sector : 276 families supported, involving approximately 21,200 cocoa plants.
Kava Sector : 539 families supported, involving approximately 18,512 kava plants.
“This assistance represents far more than financial support for a project. It is an investment in our farmers, our communities and our shared future,” Longamei declared. Speaking on behalf of the KCDA Board, management, and rural farmers, the Chairman expressed his gratitude to the PRC for the capital funding. He assured development partners of KCDA’s commitment to governance.
Longamei affirmed that the association will maintain strict transparency, financial accountability, and regular maintenance protocols to protect the newly acquired community assets. “Our responsibility now is not only to account for what has been entrusted to us, but also to protect it, build upon it and ensure that its benefits continue to reach our farmers and communities for years to come,” he stated.
The cooperative aims to enhance its commercial operations, strengthen institutional governance, expand market access, and achieve long-term financial self-sufficiency.
“The facilities we hand over today give us a foundation.
“The responsibility before us is to build upon it and take KCDA to the next level. Our ambition goes beyond producing raw commodities. We want our farmers and communities to participate in trade, marketing and creating greater value from what we produce,” Longamei concluded.
Ministry of Rural Development Permanent Secretary John Misite’e congratulated the KCDA membership on achieving the infrastructure milestone. Misite’e highlighted the vital role that strong leadership, social cohesion, and robust governance frameworks play in executing sustainable rural development initiatives. He recognised the strategic foresight of Manele in securing this substantial capital investment for his constituency.
The Permanent Secretary thanked the HKH Constituency Office for providing ongoing logistical and administrative support to local farmers. Misite’e acknowledged the PRC’s sustained commitment to the RSDP framework, noting that the program successfully improves the socio-economic livelihoods of rural Solomon Islanders. He emphasised that the project underscores the strong partnership between the national government and its international development allies.
“Today’s handover is just the beginning of the journey we are taking together. I challenge you to take responsibility to ensure this facility benefits the local economy and the community,” Misite’e stated. He urged the community to safeguard the facility.
“You are fortunate to have this facility, and fortunate to have a leadership that understands and responds to the needs of the community. Build on it. Take care of it. Nourish it. And grow it.”
Constituency Development Officer Apollos Manegere also extended gratitude for the international aid. “It was PRC funding, through the Rural Sustainable Development Program, that made this project possible. For our people in the villages, that support matters, and we do not take it lightly,” Manegere noted, urging residents to maintain the infrastructure. “From today, this project is yours to look after. Maintain it, use it well, and make sure it continues to serve you, your family and your community, not only now, but for the years ahead,” he concluded.
MRD furthered that following the formal speeches, MP Manele, Permanent Secretary Misite’e, and their technical delegation conducted a field inspection of local farming properties and KCDA processing dryers. The event concluded with a community gathering attended by MRD officials, ward provincial members, tribal chiefs, elders, women, youth, and children from across the constituency.
Photo credit: MRD
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