BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
Malaita’s Premier, Elijah Asilaua, has told the business community and stakeholders in Auki, Malaita Province, that all commercial and residential developments in the town must meet the required planning, engineering, environmental and safety standards.
He made the assurance during the inaugural business forum held in Auki last week.
Asilaua said while the Malaita Provincial Government welcomes and encourages investment and development in the province, such development must be undertaken responsibly and in accordance with approved requirements.
“As Auki continues to expand, we are witnessing an increase in commercial and residential construction projects.
“While development is welcome and encouraged, it must be undertaken responsibly and in accordance with approved planning, engineering, environmental and safety requirements,” he said.
Premier Asilaua said building and development standards exist to protect lives, safeguard investments and ensure orderly urban development.
He warned that poorly designed or non-compliant structures could create serious risks to public safety and undermine the long-term development aspirations of Auki.
Asilaua said his government remains committed to ensuring that all developments in Auki comply with the relevant approvals and regulatory requirements.
“The Provincial Government therefore remains committed to ensuring that all developments comply with the relevant planning approvals, engineering requirements and building regulations,” he said.
Premier Asilaua said the provincial government is preparing to engage constructively with investors and business owners to address their concerns and improve the efficiency of regulatory processes.
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BY LORETTA B MANELE
The Aviation Complex Building at Henderson reaches a major milestone with physical construction works now substantially completed.
The Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA), through the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), with financial and technical support from the World Bank made the announcement in a statement from the SIRAP 2 Project this afternoon.
As stated, remaining architectural finishes, mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) installations, external works, landscaping and approved variation works have reached completion.
“Final inspections and several significant stakeholder visits have also been undertaken as part of the close-out, handover and operational readiness process,” the statement added.
MCA Minister’s room, Photo credit- SIRAP 2 Project
Staff work stations, Photo credit- SIRAP 2 Project
SIRAP 2 said the construction works are being undertaken by China Railway Construction Engineering Group (CRCEG), with Egis Asia providing construction supervision services.
Meanwhile, critical items that remain outstanding are; installation of the transformer by Solomon Power and procurement and integration of the required information technology (IT) hardware by MCA.
SIRAP 2 said these activities must be completed before final testing and commission of the affected building systems can proceed and before the facility can become fully operational and ready for handover.
MCA’s Permanent Secretary, Alwyn Danitofea said they are pleased to see the Aviation Complex Building reach this important stage.
“The completion of the physical works is a significant achievement and reflects the commitment of the Ministry, our project partners and contractors to delivering a modern facility that will strengthen the capacity and efficiency of Solomon Islands’ aviation sector,” he said.
The SIRAP 2 Project, apart from the Aviation Complex Building is also supporting other major aviation and transport infrastructure improvements across Solomon Islands.
“These include the upgrading of Santa Cruz and Suavanao Airfields, air traffic control towers at Honiara and Munda International Airports, air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, regional airport maintenance, the rehabilitation of 21 kilometres of East Road between Baratolo and Atori, and the sealing of 12 kilometres of North Road between the Auki-Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction,” the statement said.
Photo credit: SIRAP 2 Project
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The China-aid Auki Road Project is nearing completion, marking another major milestone in the rehabilitation of the road network in Malaita Province.
Following almost two weeks of asphalt application on the Fasitoro feeder roads and nearly three weeks of work on the Auki town main roads, the project is now progressing towards its final section at Kilu’ufi.
A source within the China-Aid Auki Road Project, who requested anonymity, said the project could be completed within the next two to three weeks.
The source also said local workers were expected to be laid off within the next two weeks as the project approaches completion.
“Currently, we are nearing the completion of the project.
“We are now continuing with the asphalt application on the main road towards Kilu’ufi. After this, we are expecting to carry out the final touches, which will include pavement marking,” the source said.
The source confirmed that local workers are expected to finish their work within the next two weeks as the project winds down.
“Yes, local workers should be laid off within the next two weeks,” the source said.
Completion of the Auki Road Project is expected to provide a smoother, safer and higher-standard road network for communities in Malaita Province.
The improved road infrastructure is also expected to strengthen connectivity for rural communities, providing better access to government services, education, markets and other essential services.
The road infrastructure will be officially handed over to Malaita Province on their Second Appointed Day which is planned to be held on November 18, this year.
The China-Aid Auki Road Network Rehabilitation Project is estimated to cost approximately SBD 200 million.
Photo credit: Rodrick Desuri
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BY LORETTA B MANELE
Water is the essence of daily living and sometimes where it is supplied unconditionally, it can be taken for granted.
Meanwhile, in other places, it is a need.
This is the case for people of Vaovao community, in Fox Bay in West Guadalcanal.
The community has about 10 households and only two standpipes.
Chief Ignausius Pukini said the existing water supply needs maintenance or even, the community might need a new water source.
Chief Ignasius Pukini of Vaovao community in Fox Bay. Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
The weather also plays a role in determing how often water is supplied to the community.
Pukini said they are only supplied with water when it rains and this doesn’t mean the water is clean.
“Our water supply at the moment, comes from ontop of the hill, so when it rains, water floats to the dam, fills it up before it is supplied to us through the standpipes.
“The water that comes through these standpipes does not mean its good because it comes from rain,” he said.
The chief said the community only has one tank, which was given to them by their member of parliament (MP).
It is understood that the community has also already submitted a proposal to their MP for a water supply project.
The only tank in the community. Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
Camila Pukini, the chief’s wife also shared the hardship they face when the water supply runs dry.
She said their water supply is not that good because water only flows through the two standpipes when it rains while on a sunny day, it runs dry.
Pukini said no water supply means a stop to daily household activities.
“Sometimes when we need to carry out tasks, but available water supply is a major challenge for us and this has costs us.
“So, at times, when we want to do our washing or make sure our kids have showered, we cannot do so because of lack of water supply.
“This has also affected us daily. Like on Sundays, if the water supply is not providing water through our stand pipes we often delay in preparing to go to church,” she said.
Pukini then points towards a tank, saying it is the only tank in the community and because there are many of them in the community, the tank is restricted to use for cooking and drinking only.
“This one tank is not enough for our whole community. We need one or two more tanks to cater to us all.
The lack of water being pumped into the two standpipes to Vaovao community is one issue, the other part of the issue is how clean this water actually is.
Cathy Galasa from Vaovao community said the two standpipes are not enough to provide water for the whole community.
The road that leads inwards to the stream women and girls travel to carry water back to their villages. Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
She said when rain pours own, the water supplied to them is sometimes dirty because pigs move around near the dam and their wastes run through the water supply along with plastics.
Galasa said they have experienced diarrhoea because of this.
“A proper water system would be good to ensure that we receive clean water supply from the water source,” she said.
Galasa said because women and girls use water the most for cooking, cleaning, washing the dishes and clothes, it is a huge issue for them when the standpipes don’t supply water at any given day.
When this situation hits, she said they have to make a 30 minute walk or travel by boat to collect water from a stream that runs near cocoa trees in a nearby community.
The stream that women and girls travel to fetch water from. Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
She said they also do this when they host big events in the community and it is very frustrating because they have to get water to cook, prepare food and for other uses because they have guests during such times.
Galasa said it is even worse for women and girls because they also travel this far to access water especially when it gets to that time of the month, saying it affects their health and well-being that they have to go far to get water just so they can be able to bathe.
The two women voiced that if the community had clean water supplied through more standpipes with more tanks available, only would it put an end to them having to travel just to get water so they could cook a meal, wash their clothes or bathe their children.
*Reporting for this story was supported by Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS).
BY RODRICK DESURI
Auki
Three feeder roads in Central Kwara’ae, Malaita Province, are currently undergoing maintenance and regravelling works to improve access and connectivity for rural communities.
The roads include the Talakali, Kwaimanafu and Arabala feeder roads, which had deteriorated over the years, making it difficult for rural communities to access markets, schools and essential social services in Auki.
A statement from the contractor, Exodus Trade Development Ltd, over the weekend said work on the roads is progressing well.
“Talakali road maintenance is going well. Thank you to landowners from Augiria/Baybay for supporting this project through coronas and gravel,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, maintenance and regravelling works on the Arabala and Kwaimanafu feeder roads have reached the regravelling stage and have been completed.
The completion of the roadworks is expected to greatly improve transportation for rural farmers and communities, allowing them to travel more easily to markets to sell their produce.
In West Kwaio, rural community leaders have also called for the maintenance and regravelling of feeder roads in their areas.
They said maintaining and improving roads in rural communities demonstrates that the national and provincial governments, as well as Members of Parliament, care about the livelihoods and wellbeing of people in rural areas.
Photo credit: Exodus Trade Development Ltd page
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作者:罗德里克·德苏里(RODRICK DESURI)
奥基
马莱塔省中央克瓦拉艾的三条支路目前正在进行维护和重新铺设工作,以改善农村社区的通行和连接。
这些道路包括塔拉卡利(Talakali)、夸伊马纳夫(Kwaimanafu)和阿拉巴拉(Arabala)支路,这些道路多年来已经恶化,使得农村社区难以进入市场、学校和奥基的基本社会服务。
承包商Exodus Trade Development Ltd在周末发布的声明中表示,道路的工作进展良好。
“塔拉卡利道路的维护进展顺利。感谢Augiria/Baybay的土地所有者通过提供沙石支持该项目,”声明中提到。
与此同时,阿拉巴拉和夸伊马纳夫支路的维护和重新铺设工作已达到重新铺设阶段,并已完成。
道路工程的完成预计将大大改善农村农民和社区的交通,使他们更容易前往市场销售产品。
在西克瓦伊奥,农村社区领导者也呼吁对他们地区的支路进行维护和重新铺设。
他们表示,维护和改善农村社区的道路表明国家和省政府以及国会议员关心农村地区人民的生计和福祉。
照片来源:Exodus Trade Development Ltd页面
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Shortland Islands Constituency has delivered a major boost to local transportation and economic empowerment, handing over 57 boats and 57 outboard motor (OBM) engines to successful applicants across the constituency.
The handover ceremony was held on 11 September 2026 at Nila Mission Station on Poporang, with recipients from villages across the Shortland Islands gathering to receive the development assistance.
The projects were distributed following a screening process conducted by village Sub-Committees, with applications later reviewed and approved by the Constituency Development Committee (CDC).
Outboard motors engines prepared for distribution. Photo Credit by Shortlands Islands Constituency of the Solomon Islands
According to the Shortland Islands Constituency Office, every village in the constituency has had a Sub-Committee established since 2024 to oversee project applications.
The handover was facilitated by CDC Secretary Killian Pule and Projects Officer Jonathan Levo, together with CDC members Caroline Laore and Calisto Illaha and representatives of the various village Sub-Committees.
Member of Parliament for Shortland Islands, Junior Isikeli Vave, congratulated the successful recipients and reaffirmed his commitment to delivering further development projects across the constituency.
He assured people who were unsuccessful in the latest rollout that more projects were in the pipeline and would be made available in future distributions.
Outboard motors engines prepared for distribution. Photo Credit by Shortlands Islands Constituency of the Solomon Islands.
The Constituency Office also reminded recipients that they have signed legally binding agreements with the office, acting on behalf of the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD).
The agreements prohibit recipients from selling items provided through the Rural Constituency Development Fund (RCDF).
Meanwhile, further development projects are being prepared for rollout across the Shortland Islands.
These include water tanks, cement bags, steel rods, sanitation pipes, borehole drills, cool rooms and sewing machines, among other essential items.
The Constituency Office has thanked communities across the Shortland Islands for their continued patience and partnership as it prepares to deliver the next round of projects.
Boats lined up along the shoreline. Photo Credit by Shortlands Islands Constituency of the Solomon Islands.
Friday 11 September, Honiara – Alexander Dite’e is a high school teacher at Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School in Malaita Province. He lives with his family in the provincial capital, Auki. Before pursuing a degree in Fiji, he had a keen interest in agricultural activities and has experience in poultry farming.
“The livelihoods of our people in the village depends heavily on agriculture to support our families,” he said.
With this in mind, upon his return, Mr. Dite’e formed the ADA Alliance and Farmers Association, one of 45 Agribusiness Producer Organizations (ABPOs) in Malaita Province, supported by the Solomon Islands Agriculture Rural Transformation (SIART) Project, a World Bank funded initiative implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL).
The ADA Alliance and Farmers Association is made up of an extended family of 20 household farmers, including women and children, in Analolo Village, in the mountains of Central Kwara’ae.
Chairman of the ADA Alliance and Farmers Association, Alex Dite’e (second from right), SIART Finance Officer for Malaita Province (middle) and some of the farmers in Analolo village.
Through the Association, Mr. Dite’e as Chairman and members will receive 1,000 day-old-chicks from the SIART Project.
The Project has also supported them with a poultry house, equipment, starter feed, and a revolving fund to manage their agribusiness.
“Thank you to the SIART Project for this opportunity and for assisting our struggling farmers in the rural communities,” Mr. Dite’e, said.
“This support has put us in a position where we have the opportunity to start our village poultry farm and an organized agribusiness as a group,” he added.
The first bunch of 500 day-old-chicks arrived in Analolo village in late August 2026 with a second bunch expected to be delivered soon.
The first bunch of 500 day-old-chicks arrived in Analolo village in late August 2026 with a second bunch expected to be delivered soon.
After 6 weeks of feeding, the farmers at Analolo village will go to the market at $120 per bird and can easily earn up to SBD$100,000 for their 1,000 birds provided by the SIART Project.
Central hub for feeding
Every fortnight, Mr. Dite’e travels to the village to meet with members of the association. And they have agreed on a system on how to operate their agribusiness in these early stages as they look to grow and become self-subsistent going into the future.
“The facility or poultry house constructed as part of the support from SIART will be our central hub where all the birds will be raised,” Mr. Dite’e, said.
“When the birds are strong enough, we can give to our farmers as they also have their own poultry houses that can cater for 50 to 100 birds,” he said.
The aim of the Chairman and his farmers is to build the cash base of the association in the first two years by using a central hub to raise their birds before taking the next step in enhancing the capacity of their farmers to cater for more birds at their individual poultry houses.
While SIART has also supported the association with a generator, solar set and freezer, their long-term goal is to build a storage facility in the village.
“This will allow us to store our birds after slaughter before transporting them to our buyers,” Mr. Dite’e said.
“As our cash base grows, we will look at using the money earned to build our storage facility which is very important for us,” he added.
Relishing the benefits and mitigating the challenges
The farmers at Analolo village are grateful to the SIART Project for putting them in a position to start somewhere.
“The funding support SIART in itself is already a benefit for us,” Chairman, Mr. Dite’e, said.
“It provided us the opportunity to have 1,000 birds and feed without spending any money. For us, this is a big help which we really value. That is why we will ensure that the implementation of this project is done properly to ensure that everyone, all our farmers benefit,” he added.
Apart from the financial aspect, the farmers are also recipient of capacity building trainings delivered by the SIART Project.
Like any other project been implemented, there will always be challenges. For the ADA Alliance and Farmers Association, their geographical location is a major challenge.
For the ADA Alliance and Farmers Association, their geographical location is a major challenge but the farmers there are working together to mitigate the challenges.
To get to Analolo village, you go by truck from the provincial capital Auki and then walk a distance from the main road crossing at the head of the Fiu River on the way.
“To ensure we successfully implement our project, we have to work together to mitigate the challenges,” Mr. Dite’e, said.
“Farmers must have a sense of ownership of this project, so that everyone works. We are not expecting immediate benefits, but overtime we will reap the rewards of our hard work,” he added.
Since their association is made of all closely related family members, Mr. Dite’e said solving issues and concerns amongst members is easy with everyone committed to mitigating any challenges faced.
Sustainability of their ABPO
With the SIART Project coming to an end at the end of 2026, the ADA Alliance and Farmers Association are already mapping out their plans to ensure the sustainability of their agribusiness going into the future.
They will be using their SIART funded poultry house as a central feeding hub for two years or so with the aim of building the cash base of the association. During this time, they plan to enhance the capacity of their farmers to raise 50 to 100 birds at their individual poultry houses.
“When the time comes for our member farmers to raise birds at their own poultry houses, they will then sell them when ready to the association.
“The association is currently working on securing markets for our birds in Auki and also to Honiara,” Chairman, Mr. Dite’e, said.
As part of the support to ABPOs, SIART has also provided revolving funds to enable them to operate their agribusiness.
And a key aspect to managing and operating their agribusiness is undergoing relevant training.
Mr. Dite’e said the trainings SIART delivered have been very helpful both on farm management and on the financial side.
“The financial literacy training is an important aspect to ensure our farmers are capable of properly keeping and managing their records,” he said.
While they are focused at making their association a success, the farmers are happy to also continue with normal village activities to earn incomes for immediate needs.
“Most our members are piggery farmers before we started this association.
“So as our poultry agribusiness grows going into the future, the association can also support our members to enhance their piggery farms if they wish to,” Mr. Dite’e said.
For now, with the first bunch of 500 chicks already in their central poultry house, and 500 more to come, the local farmers at Analolo village have a bright future in sight.
ENDS//
-SIART
The post In Analolo Village, SIART is building better rural livelihoods through Poultry Farming first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has raised concern over the continued damage to road signs and other public infrastructure...
The post MID: Stop Vandalising Our Roads appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY RODRICK DESURI
A dispute that delayed the five-kilometre tar-seal road improvement project from Kwaibala to Oibola in Malaita Province has been resolved, allowing construction to resume.
The issue was settled on Wednesday, September 10, following reports on the dispute, which attracted negative comments from members of the public.
Provincial Deputy Secretary Peter Herehura confirmed that the dispute had been resolved between the Malaita Provincial Government, contractor Trades Transformation Company (TTC) and the landowners.
He said the dispute had delayed construction and slowed progress on the road works.
“Yes, the issue has been settled and resolved between the province, contractor Trades Transformation Company (TTC) and landowners yesterday,” he said.
“So, the road work has resumed and is going smoothly,” he said.
Earlier, the dispute involved two parties over access to gravel, preventing the contractor from obtaining the material needed for the road upgrade.
The dispute affected the progress of the project, particularly the supply of gravel required for the road works.
The Auki-Oibola tar-seal road improvement project is funded by the Australian Government through the Ministry of Infrastructure Development’s National Transport Fund.
The project has one month remaining under its scheduled completion period.
By RODRICK DESURI
Vehicle owners and drivers providing public transport services along East Road in Malaita have raised serious concerns over the deteriorating condition of Falake Bridge.
They are calling on the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) and the Malaita Provincial Government to urgently consider constructing a new bridge when funding becomes available.
The bridge collapsed several years ago, forcing vehicles to use a lower crossing, which drivers say is extremely dangerous, particularly for vehicles that are not four-wheel drives.
This newspaper spoke with several drivers operating public transport services on the eastern side of Malaita, and almost all expressed similar concerns about the condition of the crossing.
The drivers said using the lower crossing could cause mechanical problems to their vehicles. They also claimed that villagers sometimes demand additional payments from vehicle operators for gravel and patching work on the lower crossing.
They said MID and the Malaita Provincial Government had previously indicated that the bridge would be repaired. However, to date, no work has been carried out.
One vehicle owner and driver, who requested anonymity, said the condition of the bridge had been a concern for a long time.
He said a new bridge was urgently needed to replace the old structure and reduce the risk of accidents.
He also said addressing the bridge problem would help transport operators provide safer, more efficient and reliable services along East Road.
“Yes, we need the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and the Malaita Provincial Government to step in now to fix the Falake Bridge. Enough of turning a blind eye to this place, which even your officers have also been travelling through,” he said.
“We don’t know when we will have an accident that could cause loss of life, but this is the only doorway that Fataleka, Atori and Aufasu transport services can use to reach their destinations.”
The driver also called on the Members of Parliament for Fataleka, East Kwara’ae, East Malaita and East Kwaio to help address the urgent need for a permanent solution.
He said repairing or replacing the bridge would ensure safer and more reliable transport services for communities along East Road.
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
West Makira Constituency has received a major boost to its maritime transport services following the handover of a $1.5 million for transportation project, funded by the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
The project, delivered on September 4 through the China-funded Rural Sustainable Development Program (RSDP) and implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), includes 17 fibreglass boats and 18 outboard motor engines.
The engines comprise nine 40-horsepower and nine 30-horsepower units.
MRD in a statement said the support aims to improve transportation for remote communities and strengthen key sectors, including health, education, fisheries and agriculture.
The assets were formally received by West Makira Constituency Development Officer Selwyn Aharo on behalf of the Member of Parliament for West Makira, Minister Derrick Manu’ari, and the constituency beneficiaries.
Mr Aharo said the project is one of the constituency’s significant development milestones and will provide direct benefits to communities.
He said the boats will help health workers conduct emergency referrals, transport patients and carry out medical outreach more effectively.
The boats will also support schools by improving student transportation, administrative activities and the delivery of educational supplies.
For fisheries and agriculture, the new transport assets will help fishermen travel to deeper waters and transport their catch to markets, while farmers will have better access to transport tools and produce.
Beneficiaries include several health clinics and community high schools, as well as families involved in fisheries and agricultural associations in the constituency.
Mr Aharo thanked the Chinese Government and people, as well as the Solomon Islands Government through MRD, for supporting the project.
He also urged all recipient groups to take responsibility for the boats and engines and ensure they are properly maintained as communal assets.
Speaking at the handover, Counsellor Li Qinghua of the Chinese Embassy described the project as another symbol of the friendship and growing cooperation between China and Solomon Islands.
She said the RSDP was designed to support rural communities and ensure that development assistance delivers practical benefits to local people.
MRD Permanent Secretary John Misite’e also acknowledged China’s continued support through the RSDP, describing the handover as an achievement resulting from cooperation between the two governments.
The RSDP has been jointly implemented by MRD and the Chinese Embassy since 2023 and focuses on improving social and economic infrastructure, supporting income-generating activities, food security and climate resilience in rural communities.
Photo credit: MRD
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BY TONY IROGA
INNOVATION and entrepreneurship must be at the heart of building a resilient and sustainable economy for Solomon Islands, National Annual Trade Fair 2026 chairman Moses Waririu says.
Mr Waririu made the remarks yesterday at the opening of the 2026 National Annual Trade Fair at FOPA, SINU Village.
Speaking at the event, Mr Waririu welcomed government representatives, development partners, sponsors, exhibitors, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to the national trade fair.
He acknowledged the support of government ministries and agencies, development partners, the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry, sponsors, exhibitors, producers, farmers, artisans and other stakeholders who contributed to the event.
Waririu said this year’s theme, “Our team innovating today will create a sustainable island tomorrow,” highlights the important role innovation, entrepreneurship and collaboration play in the country’s economic development.
“This trade fair is a platform for showcasing the ingenuity, creativity and potential of Solomon Islanders,” Waririu said.
He said the event brings together businesses, investors, communities and development partners to share knowledge, build networks and explore new markets.
Waririu encouraged participants and visitors to actively engage with exhibitors and make use of the opportunities provided through the trade fair.
“Together, we can drive innovation, promote local enterprise, and build a strong and more sustainable future for our country,” he said.
He also thanked stakeholders for their support and wished participants a successful and enjoyable 2026 National Annual Trade Fair.
“Come along and experience another exciting day of showcasing local businesses, products, services, innovation, and opportunities,” he said.
The second day of the 2026 National Annual Trade Fair continues today.
Photo credit: Tony Iroga
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Malaita road upgrades move closer to construction after consultations, with works planned for North and East Road corridors. & of Infrastructure Development (MID), through the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), with funding support from the World Bank, has recently concluded community consultations ahead of major road improvement works in Malaita Province. A [...]
The post Malaita Road Upgrades Move Closer to Construction After Community Consultations appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY LORETTA B MANELE
For every parent, bringing your child to school on their first day for the first time is always emotional.
While you are content that your little boy or girl has finally reached that age to attend ECE education, there is another side to this story from a teacher’s view.
Audrey Karaha is one of two ECE (Early Childhood Education) teachers at Fox Bay Kindy in West Guadalcanal.
There is a supervisor with Karaha as the classroom teacher.
Audrey Karaha, ECE teacher at Fox Bay Kindy, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
This year marks Karaha’s second year teaching and for this year, they have 56 children enrolled but are poor in resources.
The Kindy was not only poor in resources but also in water supply and fencing.
Karaha said they received grant but it wasn’t enough because this same grant, mainly for stationaries, was also shared with four other Kindy schools in West Guadalcanal.
“At Fox Bay Kindy, we are okay with the supply of stationary. In terms of development we are struggling to build one more staff house,” she said.
Karaha said the classroom also needs maintenance and repair, another toilet and clean and proper water supply.
The school’s only toilet. Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
“We also need proper water supply because it doesn’t come on all the time. When it reaches the point where the water supply is off, it is off,” she said.
Karaha said sadly, when water supply is cut off, they have to end their lessons during break time.
“ECE education is important because it is the first time a child enters education or school and ECE is also called the play base curriculum.
“So, students come to play and start their learning,” she said.
Karaha said ending classes early means lessening the learning time for their students.
Lastly, she said they also need proper fencing.
Current fencing at Fox Bay Kindy, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
She calls on their member of parliament, the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) or NGOs to support them with repair of the classroom, a water tank and proper fencing.
Audrey said a tank would really help when the water goes off so they don’t end classes early for their students.
The sight at Kindy classroom in Fox Bay is saddening.
A place to nurture children during the early stages of their learning journey seemed like to have gone through so much with so little care given.
The only tank available was located just outside the classroom and it was dirty looking, supposedly old and in very poor condition.
The school tank is in very poor condition, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
Outside the classroom walls, brown paper plastered against the walls, which was said to have been put there to cover holes outside the classroom.
A huge hole is visible outside of the classroom building, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
The ceiling was also rotting slowly both outside and inside the class.
The ceiling inside the classroom slowly deteriorating, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
There is one staff house for two teachers while a new one is still in the very early stages of being constructed.
A new staff house, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
Work on the second staff house is still in its early stages, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
The current fencing is also in dire need of repair to keep the compound safe and in front of the class room is what used to be a huge puddle of water now not completely dried up but still susceptible to be filled up again if heavy downpour should fall or salt water by natural means should flow in.
While its location is not too close to the seashore it is still located in a distance one could deem unsafe if cyclones or huge waves sweep in.
And even the posts holding up the classroom building are experiencing old age with evident cracks from cement that is trying to hold the posts in place.
One of the posts of the classroom building slowly deteriorating, Photo credit- Loretta B Manele
Apart from the need of resources, stable water supply, sanitation and fencing, the kindy needs a total makeover.
After all, it is where children begin their learning and they deserve as any other child in Solomon Islands to learn in a classroom that is equipped with resources, clean and available water supply and in an environment that is safe, and not one that is dry, thirsty and unsafe.
*Reporting for this story was supported by Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS).
Photo credit: Loretta B Manele
For feedback, contact: lorettamanele@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
A 120-metre seawall constructed by Exodus Construction has been completed as part of the Malu’u Market project, marking a significant milestone as construction moves into its next phase.
The completion of the seawall is another major achievement for the project, with work now shifting towards other on-ground construction activities.
The Malu’u Market is designed to boost economic activity in North Malaita by providing space for up to 140 vendors, as well as toilet and shower facilities for men, women and people with disabilities.
Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach said the project was another example of Australia’s commitment to delivering high-quality, climate-resilient and locally built infrastructure that could have a lasting impact on communities.
He said the project demonstrated how communities could work together to create spaces that support social activities and economic opportunities.
“Together we’re building a safe, comfortable and accessible place for social and economic activity in North Malaita for years to come,” he said.
Project Director Jeremiah Fonoota said a key feature of the project had been onsite mentoring and training aimed at upskilling the construction team, alongside efforts to strengthen relations with the local community.
“Our daily ‘toolbox sessions’ are one of the most important daily activities to inspire and guide the team about their contribution to nation-building in Solomon Islands,” Mr Fonoota said.
He said working closely with community members had enabled the project to use local quarry materials while also identifying community needs that the project could support.
These included improvements to the community market and playing field.
The contractor also excavated and cleared an access road to a local cemetery following requests from local landowners.
“Exodus contributed machinery and workers for three days to help level the playing field and supply gravel for the community market,” Mr Fonoota said.
The new market will also feature 43,000 litres of rainwater storage, solar lighting, and improved waste management and sanitation facilities.
The project is expected to provide a safer and more accessible space for vendors and the wider community while supporting economic activity in North Malaita.
For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com
Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com
BY NED GAGAHE
THE Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants (ISIA) will host its third annual Congress on September 17 and 18 at Heritage Park Hotel, bringing together accounting professionals, Government, business and industry leaders to discuss the future of the profession.
This year’s Congress will be held under the theme, “Beyond Qualifications: Building a Workforce That Thinks, Leads and Creates.”
The theme reflects the changing role of accountants and finance professionals, who are increasingly expected to go beyond financial statements, compliance and reporting.
They are now required to understand technology, interpret data, manage risk, support good governance, communicate with decision-makers and contribute to the strategic direction of their organisations.
ISIA chief executive officer Pamela Naesol has made a direct call to employers and businesses to support the professional development of their accounting staff by allowing them to attend the Congress.
“I am making a direct call to employers and businesses to support the professional development of their accountants by allowing them to be part of the discussions at the Congress,” Ms Naesol said.
She said professional development was a shared responsibility between employers, businesses, Government and professionals themselves.
“When we raise professional standards, every stakeholder stands to benefit,” she said.
Ms Naesol said the Congress remained the flagship event of the Institute and provided an important platform for the accounting profession to meet and network with business and industry leaders, as well as Government.
She said the event would allow stakeholders to discuss key issues affecting the profession and work towards collaborative and sustainable solutions to strengthen Solomon Islands’ financial management systems.
“The finance and accounting function is central to how an organisation plans, manages risk, reports performance and makes decisions,” she said.
“Investing in the professional development of accountants is necessary if we are to build an effective team to lead and strengthen our local organisations and institutions.”
The two-day programme will cover a wide range of issues, including economic development, public financial management, accounting standards, digital transformation, workforce capability, governance, financial reporting and transparency, sustainability and the future of the accounting profession.
The Congress will also feature perspectives from regional professional and standards-setting organisations, including the Australian Accounting Standards Board, Institute of Public Accountants and other regional professional accounting organisations.
ISIA said the event would provide Solomon Islands professionals with access to regional expertise and contemporary thinking without having to travel overseas.
Registration and programme information are available through the ISIA website.
When the new Malu’u market opens its doors, it will be more than a place to buy and sell. It...
The post New Malu’u market takes shape: 44 locals building a lifeline for North Malaita appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY NED GAGAHE
THE Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants (ISIA) is set to host its third annual Congress next week, with a focus on strengthening the capability of the country’s accounting and finance workforce.
The ISIA Annual Congress 2026 will be held on September 17 and 18 at Heritage Park Hotel under the theme, “Beyond Qualifications: Building a Workforce That Thinks, Leads and Creates.”
The theme reflects the changing demands placed on accountants and finance professionals, who are increasingly expected to go beyond financial reporting, compliance and accounting.
The profession now requires practitioners to understand technology, interpret data, manage risk, support good governance, communicate effectively with decision-makers and contribute to the strategic direction of organisations.
The two-day Congress will therefore cover a broad range of issues, including economic development, public financial management, accounting standards, digital transformation, workforce capability, governance, financial reporting and transparency, sustainability and the future of the accounting profession.
The event will also feature regional perspectives from professional and standards-setting organisations, including the Australian Accounting Standards Board and the Institute of Public Accountants.
ISIA chief executive officer Pamela Naesol said the Congress remains the flagship event of the Institute and provides an important platform for the accounting profession to engage with business, industry and Government leaders.
“This is where we hold important conversations around matters affecting the accounting profession and how the profession can work effectively with the Government and private sector to strengthen financial management systems of the country,” she said.
Ms Naesol said the finance and accounting function was central to how organisations plan, manage risk, report performance and make decisions.
She stressed that investment in the professional development of accountants was necessary to build an effective workforce capable of leading local organisations.
The Congress will provide Solomon Islands professionals with an opportunity to access regional expertise and contemporary thinking while remaining in the country.
Registration and programme information are available through the ISIA website.
For feedback, contact: nedgagahe@gmail.com
E ditor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com
By RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
Construction of the new Agriculture building in Auki has passed the halfway mark, with the project meeting key requirements under the Contractor’s Environmental and Social Management Plan (CESMP).
The building aims to strengthen agricultural services in Malaita Province and improve collaboration and service delivery when completed.
SIARTs Environmental Safeguards Officer, Steve Sae told this after visiting the construction site last week to assess the project’s progress and compliance.
Mr Sae said he was satisfied with the contractor’s performance, saying construction was progressing in accordance with the environmental, social, health and safety requirements outlined in the CESMP.
“We are happy that the contractor has implemented what is required and that they are fully compliant with their CESMP,” he said.
SIART also acknowledged JQY Construction for complying with the CESMP, which is a mandatory requirement for World Bank funded projects.
The plan sets out measures contractors must follow to manage environmental, social, health and safety risks throughout project implementation.
SIART said the project is now in its seventh month of a 12-month construction timeframe and is progressing well.
The double-storey building cost around the SBD17.9 million which supported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock in partnership with the World Bank through the SIART Project.
Once completed, the modern Agriculture building is expected to provide a better working environment and contribute to strengthening the agriculture sector in Malaita and the Solomon Islands.
New Auki Agriculture complex
makes steady work progress
The construction of the new modern agriculture office building in Auki, Malaita Province has passed mid-way of the construction phase.
All the preparatory work including the foundation footing up to first floor column and beam have been completed, according to Engineers from the Solomon Islands Agriculture Rural Transformation (SIART) Project.
The construction of the SBD17.9 million double-story agriculture office building is supported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock in partnership with the World Bank through the SIART Project.
SIART Project Engineer, Mr. Godfrey Hou highlighted that the construction phase has a time-frame of 12 months.
“We are now in the seventh month since construction started and just passed the mid-way point with good progress,” he said.
“From the progress so far, there are two milestones already achieved by the Contractor.
"They have completed the foundation footing up to the first-floor slab and the second milestone is from the slab to the beam for roofing on the second floor,” he added.
Mr. Hou said the Contractor is on track to achieve the next milestone which is roofing.
“As soon as they complete the beam for roofing, work on assembling and installation of roof frames will commence,” he said.
As of 31 August 2026, workers started preparation for roofing which included the casing for columns and beams as well as finishing off block work on the external wall of the first floor to be followed by the installation of roof frames and roof covering.
While construction is progressing well, SIART also acknowledges the Contractor, JQY Construction, for fully complying to the Contractor’s Environmental and Social Management Plan (CESMP) which is mandatory for World Bank funded projects that details how a contractor will manage environmental, social, health, and safety (ESHS) risks during project execution.
SIART’s Environmental Safeguards Officer, Mr. Steve Sae was on site on Thursday 27 August 2026 to conduct an environmental, health, social and safety audit to ensure compliance.
“From the SIART Project we are happy that the Contractor has implemented what is required of them and that they are fully compliance with their CESMP,” he said.
The SIART Project acknowledges the Solomon Islands Government through Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) and the World Bank for their continuous commitment towards the successful completion of the new agriculture office building in Auki.
“This new office facility reflects our shared commitment to improving the working environment for our staff and to ensuring that agricultural services are more accessible and responsive to the needs of our rural farmers and communities,” SIART Project Manager, William Okekini, said.
Once completed this new office will enhance collaboration, improve service delivery, and contribute significantly to the growth and resilience of agriculture in Malaita Province and across the Solomon Islands.
The SIART Project’s objective is to increase agricultural production and improve market access in selected value chains in Guadalcanal, Malaita, and Makira/Ulawa.
Additionally, the project ensures a prompt and effective response in the event of an Eligible Crisis or Emergency.
- SIART Media Release
ENDS///...with photos
Captions:
Photo 1: The construction of the new modern agriculture office building in Auki, Malaita Province has passed mid-way of the construction phase.
Photo 2: SIART Project Engineer, Godfrey Hou and the C0ntractor’s Site Engineer, Julian Tovena at the construction site.
Photo 3: SIART’s Environmental Safeguards Officer, Mr. Steve Sae (left) was on site on Thursday 27 August 2026 to conduct an environmental, health, social and safety audit to ensure compliance.
Photo 4: SIART Project Engineer, Godfrey Hou in a briefing with the Contractor’s Project Manager and construction workers.
Photo 5: SIART Project Engineer, Godfrey Hou and Environmental Safeguards Officer, Mr. Steve Sae (centre) with representatives of the Contractor JQY at the construction site on Thursday 27 August.
Photo 6: Local construction workers in Auki at the construction of the new modern agriculture office building for Malaita Province.
Photo 7: As of 31 August 2026, workers started preparation for roofing at the new modern agriculture office building in Auki, Malaita Province.
New Auki Agriculture complex
makes steady work progress
位于马莱塔省的奥基新现代农业办公大楼的建设已进入施工阶段的中期。
根据所罗门群岛农业农村转型(SIART)项目的工程师的说法,所有准备工作,包括基础脚和第一层柱梁,均已完成。
这座价值1790万所罗门元的双层农业办公大楼的建设得到了农业和畜牧业部的支持,并与世界银行通过SIART项目合作。
SIART项目工程师戈弗雷·侯(Mr. Godfrey Hou)强调,施工阶段的时间框架为12个月。
“自施工开始以来,我们已经进入第七个月,并刚刚通过中期,进展良好,”他说。
“根据目前的进展,承包商已经完成了两个里程碑。
“他们已完成基础脚至第一层楼板的施工,第二个里程碑是从楼板到第二层屋顶的梁,”他补充道。
侯先生表示,承包商正在按计划推进下一个里程碑,即屋顶施工。
“只要他们完成屋顶的梁,屋顶框架的组装和安装工作将开始,”他说。
截至2026年8月31日,工人们开始为屋顶做准备,包括柱梁的外壳以及完成第一层外墙的砌块工作,随后将进行屋顶框架和屋顶覆盖的安装。
虽然施工进展顺利,SIART也对承包商JQY建设公司表示感谢,感谢其完全遵守承包商环境和社会管理计划(CESMP),这是世界银行资助项目的强制性要求,详细说明了承包商在项目执行期间如何管理环境、社会、健康和安全(ESHS)风险。
SIART的环境保障官员史蒂夫·赛(Mr. Steve Sae)于2026年8月27日星期四在现场进行环境、健康、社会和安全审计,以确保合规。
“我们很高兴承包商已实施所需的措施,并且完全遵守其CESMP,”他说。
SIART项目感谢所罗门群岛政府通过农业和畜牧业部(MAL)和世界银行对新农业办公大楼在奥基成功建设的持续承诺。
“这个新办公设施反映了我们共同致力于改善员工工作环境,并确保农业服务更易于获取和更能响应我们农村农民和社区的需求,”SIART项目经理威廉·奥克基尼(William Okekini)说。
一旦完成,这个新办公室将增强合作,改善服务交付,并对马莱塔省及整个所罗门群岛的农业增长和韧性做出重要贡献。
SIART项目的目标是提高农业生产和改善所选价值链在瓜达尔卡纳尔、马莱塔和马基拉/乌拉瓦的市场准入。
此外,该项目确保在发生符合条件的危机或紧急情况时能够迅速有效地响应。
- SIART Media Release
结束///...附照片
说明:
照片1:位于马莱塔省的奥基新现代农业办公大楼的建设已进入施工阶段的中期。
照片2:SIART项目工程师戈弗雷·侯和承包商现场工程师朱利安·托维纳在施工现场。
照片3:SIART的环境保障官员史蒂夫·赛(左)于2026年8月27日星期四在现场进行环境、健康、社会和安全审计,以确保合规。
照片4:SIART项目工程师戈弗雷·侯与承包商项目经理和施工工人进行简报。
照片5:SIART项目工程师戈弗雷·侯和环境保障官员史蒂夫·赛(中)与承包商JQY的代表在施工现场,时间为2026年8月27日星期四。
照片6:奥基当地施工工人在为马莱塔省建设新的现代农业办公大楼。
照片7:截至2026年8月31日,工人们开始为位于马莱塔省的奥基新现代农业办公大楼的屋顶做准备。
The Isabel Provincial Government has allocated more than SBD3 million for the construction of a new administration building at Alladyce.
Isabel Provincial Secretary John Mark Lokumana said the funding has been allocated for the proposed administration block, which will be built on provincial government land at Alladyce.
More
伊莎贝尔省政府已拨款超过300万所罗门元用于在阿拉代斯(Alladyce)建设新行政大楼。
伊莎贝尔省秘书约翰·马克·洛库马纳(John Mark Lokumana)表示,这笔资金已拨给拟建的行政大楼,该大楼将建在阿拉代斯的省政府土地上。
更多
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Water supply from the Kongulai water source has been restored, Solomon Water has confirmed.
The restoration was completed at about 6pm on Monday following an interruption to the supply.
However, customers in Tasahe, Titinge, Skyline, West Kola Ridge and East Kola Ridge have been advised that it could take up to 48 hours for the water supply system in these areas to fully recover.
Solomon Water said customers who continue to experience no water or low water pressure after 48 hours should contact the utility on 44700.
Customers can also send a message through Solomon Water’s Messenger service, providing their water meter account number and contact details to assist with follow-up.
Meanwhile, the Kombito water source remains closed due to high turbidity.
Solomon Water has apologised for the inconvenience caused and thanked customers for their patience and understanding.
The utility has also issued a boil-water advisory for customers who are receiving water.
Customers are advised to boil all water before using it for drinking, food preparation, cooking and consumption.
The boil-water advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
Solomon Water is urging customers to continue following the advisory until further notice is issued confirming that the water is safe for consumption.
作者:道格拉斯·瓦希亚
孔古莱水源的供水已恢复,所罗门水务公司(Solomon Water)确认。
供水恢复工作于周一下午6点左右完成,此前供水中断。
然而,塔萨赫(Tasahe)、提廷格(Titinge)、天际线(Skyline)、西科拉岭(West Kola Ridge)和东科拉岭(East Kola Ridge)的客户被告知,这些地区的供水系统可能需要长达48小时才能完全恢复。
所罗门水务公司表示,若客户在48小时后仍然没有水或水压低,应拨打44700联系公用事业公司。
客户也可以通过所罗门水务公司的Messenger服务发送消息,提供他们的水表账户号码和联系方式,以便后续跟进。
与此同时,因浊度过高,康比托水源(Kombito)仍然关闭。
所罗门水务公司对造成的不便表示歉意,并感谢客户的耐心和理解。
该公司还向正在接收水的客户发布了煮水建议。
客户被建议在饮用、食品准备、烹饪和消费之前,先将所有水煮沸。
煮水建议将持续有效,直至另行通知。
所罗门水务公司呼吁客户继续遵循该建议,直到另行通知确认水安全可供饮用。
After years of bumpy drives and dodging potholes, residents and commuters in Gizo are finally seeing repairs begin on the...
The post Gizo roads get a much-needed facelift as urgent repairs get underway appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY TONY IROGA
Solomon Islands Water Authority (SIWA) has temporarily shut down its Kongulai water source following heavy rainfall that has caused high turbidity in the catchment area.
In a statement issued today, Solomon Water said the Kongulai source will remain closed until further notice as it monitors the water quality.
“Turbidity is a measurement of how cloudy the water is in surface water sources and can be caused by silt, mud, algae, or other particles in the water,” SIWA said.
The state-owned utility explained that the shutdown is necessary to prevent unsafe water from being supplied to customers.
Solomon Water said its normal disinfection process cannot effectively kill bacteria when turbidity levels are too high.
“This makes it unsafe and poses health risks to customers,” the statement said.
High turbidity can also cause problems in the water distribution system, including clogging pipes and customers’ water facilities.
Solomon Water warned that most customers supplied by the Kongulai source may experience low water pressure or no water at all during the shutdown.
Customers who are still receiving water from the system have been advised to boil all water before drinking or consuming it.
The water authority said it is continuing to monitor turbidity levels at the Kongulai source and will provide further updates to customers.
Solomon Water thanked customers for their patience and understanding while the situation is being monitored.
