BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
A PROLONGED dry spell is putting increasing pressure on households in Gizo, with residents struggling to find enough clean water for drinking and cooking.
Several household wells have reportedly dried up, leaving only a few sources available for basic domestic activities such as bathing and washing.
Residents say the situation is becoming increasingly difficult as the dry conditions continue.
“This is one of the worst dry seasons yet. There has been no rain for quite a long time,” one resident said.
Some families are now buying cartons of bottled water from shops to meet their drinking and cooking needs, adding extra costs to already stretched household budgets.
Others are relying on remaining wells and walking along roads carrying buckets in search of water to take home.
The sight of residents carrying empty containers and moving from one water source to another has become increasingly common in parts of Gizo.
With the dry spell continuing, residents are concerned that the situation could worsen if there is no significant rainfall soon.
The shortage is placing particular pressure on households that depend on wells as their main source of water.
Residents are now hoping for sustained rainfall and appropriate action to ensure communities have access to safe and reliable water during prolonged dry periods.
Water shortage is not a new thing in Gizo, but this time its getting worse as dry spell continues since last month.
For feedback, contact: maetuana777@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Makira Ulawa Provincial Government, (MUPG) and West Are’are Constituency, (WAC), Shipping have signed an agreement that will alllow West Are’are’s MV Taimareho to serve the people of South Ulawa in Makira Ulawa Province.
According to a statement from the Province’s inland revenue division, the agreement was signed after WAC Shipping met the province’s Business License Ordinance.
“We highly commend your decision to expand your shipping service routes to include West ‘Are’are, Afio, and South Ulawa. This crucial expansion provides a long-awaited, reliable maritime link for the people of Ulawa, demonstrating a commendable spirit of partnership and service to our communities.” the statement said.
It said for too long, the people of Ulawa have struggled with shipping services, leaving local businesses disconnected and copra farmers facing severe hardships in transporting their produce to markets in Honiara.
The statement said with the newly established agreement, it is confident that these logistical challenges will be significantly eased, paving the way for immediate economic relief and sustainable growth.
The people of Ulawa and Ugi have not been properly served with shipping services since the demise of the constituency boat, LC Lokoiola.
Other ships servicing Makira Ulawa Province include, Fair Chief, Fast craft Pelican, MS Charisma, MV Airi and KCB.
Photo credit: MUPG
For feedback, contact: charsstennett@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY JOY OFASIA
The Ministry of Communication and Aviation has officially opened and handed over its new Aviation Complex Building at Henderson, marking what Minister for Communication and Aviation Hon. Frederick Kologeto described as an important milestone for the ministry and the country’s aviation and communication sectors.
Speaking at the official handover and opening ceremony today, Minister Kologeto acknowledged the individuals, organisations and stakeholders whose efforts contributed to the completion of the project.
“Today, we are not simply handing over a new building, we are marking an important milestone in the development of the Ministry of Communication and Aviation,” Kologeto said.
He said the project was also part of the government’s continuing efforts to improve the delivery of essential services to the people of Solomon Islands in the aviation and communication sectors.
Kologeto said the construction of the complex was firmly aligned with the Great Coalition Government’s focus on infrastructure and national development.
Minister of Communication & Aviation Hon. Frederick Kologeto and Acting Prime Minister – Hon. Francis Sade with all guests in front of the new Aviation Complex Building.
He said the completion of the building also represented an achievement under the government’s Policy Translation and Implementation Framework, which gives the Ministry of Communication and Aviation responsibility for leading the development of the aviation and communication industries.
The minister said the project had a total value of US$5,771,547.68, or approximately US$5.8 million.
The construction was carried out by China Railway Construction Engineering Group, which signed the contract on 1 November 2024.
According to Kologeto, construction officially began on 17 December 2024 and continued for 652 days before the complex was completed and officially handed over on 30 September 2026.
“Today, after 652 days of construction, we have finally reached this important moment, the completion and officially handing over of this magnificent communication and aviation complex,” he said.
Minister for Communication and Aviation Hon. Frederick Kologeto.
Kologeto described the completion as a testament to the commitment and hard work of the various partners involved in delivering the project.
“Today, we can proudly say that the vision has become a reality,” he said.
The minister also used the occasion to acknowledge everyone who contributed to the project, saying that despite the challenges encountered during its implementation, stakeholders had worked together to turn the ministry’s vision into reality.
He said the ceremony should serve as evidence of successful cooperation between the Government of Solomon Islands and the various stakeholders involved in the project.
“Let this celebration be evidence of the successful cooperation between the various stakeholders and the Government of Solomon Islands,” Kologeto said.
The official opening and handover mark the completion of the new facility and its transition into use by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation.
作者:JOY OFASIA
通信与航空部在亨德森正式开放并移交其新建的航空综合大楼,通信与航空部长弗雷德里克·科洛盖托(Hon. Frederick Kologeto)称这是该部和国家航空与通信领域的重要里程碑。
在今天的正式移交和开幕仪式上,科洛盖托部长感谢了为项目完成作出贡献的个人、组织和利益相关者。
“今天,我们不仅仅是在移交一座新建筑,我们是在标志着通信与航空部发展的重要里程碑,”科洛盖托说。
他说,该项目也是政府持续努力改善所罗门群岛人民在航空和通信领域基本服务交付的一部分。
科洛盖托表示,综合大楼的建设与大联合政府对基础设施和国家发展的关注紧密相连。
通信与航空部长弗雷德里克·科洛盖托(Hon. Frederick Kologeto)与代理总理弗朗西斯·萨德(Hon. Francis Sade)及所有嘉宾在新航空综合大楼前合影。
他说,建筑的完成也代表了在政府政策转化与实施框架下的一个成就,该框架赋予通信与航空部领导航空和通信产业发展的责任。
该项目的总价值为5,771,547.68美元,约合580万美元。
建设由中国铁路建设工程集团承建,该公司于2024年11月1日签署合同。
根据科洛盖托的说法,建设于2024年12月17日正式开始,持续了652天,直到2026年9月30日完成并正式移交。
“今天,在经过652天的建设后,我们终于迎来了这个重要时刻,完成并正式移交这个宏伟的通信与航空综合体,”他说。
通信与航空部长弗雷德里克·科洛盖托(Hon. Frederick Kologeto)。
科洛盖托称完成这一项目是各方合作伙伴在交付项目过程中承诺和努力的见证。
“今天,我们可以自豪地说,愿景已成为现实,”他说。
部长还借此机会感谢所有为项目作出贡献的人,表示尽管在实施过程中遇到挑战,利益相关者们仍然齐心协力将该部的愿景变为现实。
他说,仪式应作为所罗门群岛政府与参与项目的各方之间成功合作的证据。
“让这次庆祝活动成为各利益相关者与所罗门群岛政府成功合作的证据,”科洛盖托说。
正式开幕和移交标志着新设施的完成及其交由通信与航空部使用。
BY JOSES SAREN
A North Malaita copra farmer wants the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) to run its own transport to collect farmers’ produce.
Willie Suiarala, 36, from Bethany Village in North Malaita, Malaita Province, said dedicated transport would give rural farmers more support.
Mr Suiarala has farmed since he was a boy. His father started the family coconut plantation, and he has kept it going over the years.
He built a copra dryer on the farm. He dries his coconuts into copra there before taking them to market.
He thanked CEMA for supplying him with copra bags. He said the bags have helped his farming work.
Suiarala strongly urged CEMA to go further and own transport to collect produce from communities.
He said the service would make it easier for farmers to get their produce to the CEMA buying centre.
He also called on the Government to resource CEMA properly so it stays open in Auki.
The Auki buying centre has helped farmers greatly, he said. It pays competitive prices and stocks basic farming materials.
Farmers in rural areas depend on CEMA as a market for their copra and other produce, Suiarala said.
Photo Caption: Willie Suiarala.
Research by WaterAid and the University of Technology Sydney found Pacific activists rank the exclusion of women from water and climate decision-making as the root cause of other gendered climate impacts.
水援助组织(WaterAid)和悉尼科技大学(University of Technology Sydney)的研究发现,太平洋地区的活动家将女性在水资源和气候决策中的排除视为其他性别气候影响的根本原因。
BY CHARLES STENNETT
A landing craft was barred from unloading its cargo at the Makira Ulawa Provincial capital Kirakira over the weekend for not meeting provincial regulations.
A statement from the Province said LC King Xiang was not allowed to unload its cargo on Saturday until their provincial shipping license was fully settled.
The action was an indication that the Province is taking a tough stance on shipping operators operating in the province.
It said the action is part of the province’s ongoing revenue strengthening exercise and strict compliance with provincial regulations, which is now mandatory.
“Any shipping vessel intending to establish a schedule or operate within Makira-Ulawa Province must follow the correct administrative procedures by registering with the province prior to making any voyages. Failure to do so will result in operational disruptions” the statement said.
The province said the disregard to comply with provincial regulations had resulted in the barring of LC King Xiang’s cargo over the weekend, a joint action by the Makira Ulawa Provincial Government’s Revenue Division and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force in Kirakira.
It advises all ship operators wanting to operate in the province to regularize their documentation and pay appropriate License.
[Photo: LC King Xiang barred from unloading cargo. Photo Credit: MUPG.]
作者:查尔斯·斯特内特(CHARLES STENNETT)
一艘登陆艇因未满足省级规定而被禁止在周末于马基拉乌拉省会基拉基拉卸货。
省政府的声明称,LC King Xiang在周六未被允许卸货,直到其省级航运许可证完全解决。
这一举措表明省政府对在该省运营的航运公司采取了强硬立场。
声明称,此举是省政府持续加强收入的措施之一,并严格遵守省级规定,这现在是强制性的。
“任何希望在马基拉乌拉省建立航班或运营的船只,必须遵循正确的行政程序,在进行任何航行之前向省政府注册。未能做到这一点将导致运营中断,”声明中指出。
省政府表示,未遵守省级规定导致LC King Xiang的货物在周末被禁止卸货,这是马基拉乌拉省政府收入部门与基拉基拉皇家所罗门群岛警察部队的联合行动。
它建议所有希望在该省运营的船舶运营商规范其文件并支付适当的许可证费用。
[照片:LC King Xiang被禁止卸货。照片来源:MUPG。]
Fourteen representatives from Solomon Islands traffic and transport management agencies have travelled to Fiji to learn first-hand how to create safer vehicle management systems, effective enforcement arrangements and well-maintained roads.
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
GHATERE community in Kolombangara, Western Province, is now enjoying improved access to water following the completion and handover of a new water supply project.
The project was supported by the Australian Government through the Solomon Islands–Australia Community Partnerships.
Second Secretary of Infrastructure at the Australian High Commission, Thomas Hayes, officially handed over the water supply during his visit to Kolombangara last week.
Hayes said Australia had supported communities whose Community Partnerships projects were damaged by the cyclone.
“We announced that affected communities could apply for additional funding to repair damage and ensure that the benefits of the original projects were maintained,” Hayes said.
He said the second round of the Community Partnerships programme is currently being assessed.
“We are actively looking at funding for projects that were affected by the cyclone. We look forward to announcing the results soon,” Hayes said.
Hayes said the completion of the Ghatere water supply demonstrated the importance of strong leadership and coordination within the community.
He said the completed project showed that the Ghatere community had worked together to turn the project into reality.
Hayes also acknowledged the contributions of community, national and provincial leaders towards the successful completion of the project.
“Now that you have this important water supply project, it is important that it is properly maintained so that the benefits of reliable access to water can continue to serve the community for many years to come,” Hayes said.
The new water supply is expected to provide the Ghatere community with more reliable access to water and improve the community’s resilience following the impacts of the cyclone.
[Photo: Thomas Hayes and Gizo/Kolombangara MP Jimson Tanangada try out the newly installed water supply system.Photo supplied.]
Solomon Islands and the US discuss rural connectivity, satellite internet, AI education tools, development and regional security. Minister of National Planning and Development Coordination, Peter Kenilorea today met with United States Assistant Secretary of State Mr. Michael Dosembre, on the margins of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. The meeting focused on [...]
The post Kenilorea, US Assistant Secretary Discuss Rural Connectivity and Digital Development appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
MID urges communities to protect road signs as speed hump works progress along the Henderson–Mberande Road corridor. Work on the installation of speed humps at various locations along the Henderson–Mberande Road in Guadalcanal Province is currently progressing under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP), implemented by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID). The speed [...]
The post Speed Hump Works Advance on Henderson–Mberande Road as MID Warns Against Sign Vandalism appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY JOSES SAREN
The Attorney-General’s Conference of Parties (AG-COP) 2026 opened this morning at the National Aquatic Centre, Sports City, bringing together government ministries, provincial governments and state-owned enterprises for two days of talks on law and governance.
The conference runs from September 22 to 23 under the theme “Law at the Centre of Good Governance: Promoting Responsibility, Accountability and Building a GREAT Solomon Islands,” Attorney-General Gabriel Suri said in his welcome address.
Suri opened the conference shortly before 9am.
Minister for Justice and Legal Affairs Alfred Tuasulia delivered the opening keynote address as guest of honour.
A representative of the Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands also addressed participants during the keynote session.
The morning’s main session was led by the Chambers’ Litigation and Advice Division, under the topic “When Government Becomes the Litigant — What does litigation tell us about the quality of Governance?”
Participants took part in an interactive case study session analysing real government decision-making scenarios as part of that presentation.
The International Affairs Unit and the Commercial Law Unit also presented during the day, followed by a question and answer session.
The Legislative Drafting Division rounded out the afternoon program, covering the legislative drafting process, the legislative competence of provincial governments and the Honiara City Council, and the journey of a bill from the Attorney-General’s Chambers to the National Parliament of Solomon Islands (NPSI).
Day One sessions were scheduled to close at 4:30pm, with the conference set to continue into its second and final day on tomorrow September 23.
[Photo: Participants from government ministries, provincial governments and state-owned enterprises attend Day One of the Attorney-General’s Conference of Parties 2026 at the National Aquatic Centre, Sports City, Honiara. Photo: Joses Saren]
British High Commissioner says initiative can benefit Government, communities and mining companies
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) can deliver a “win-win-win” for the Solomon Islands Government, local communities and mining companies, British High Commissioner Paul Turner says.
Mr Turner made the remarks yesterday during the formal launch of the next phase of United Kingdom support for Solomon Islands’ re-entry into the EITI.
He said EITI could help Solomon Islands strengthen revenue collection and exports while improving transparency across the mining sector.
“It is a win-win-win: for Government, local communities and for mining companies who will have greater export markets,” Mr Turner said.
The EITI Board last week approved Solomon Islands’ application to rejoin the initiative, making it the 56th EITI implementing country.
Solomon Islands left the EITI in 2018 after failing to meet its commitments under the initiative.
Under its renewed EITI membership, the country is required to improve disclosure of information relating to its mining sector to strengthen transparency and public management of the industry.
The United Kingdom, working with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has supported efforts to help Solomon Islands rejoin the EITI.
The UK will continue providing support to help the country meet its obligations under the initiative.
Mr Turner said EITI membership had the potential to transform the mining sector and ensure the industry delivers greater benefits to Solomon Islands.
“Membership of EITI has the potential to transform the mining sector in Solomon Islands,” he said.
“It will ensure that mining does not go the same way as logging did in this country.”
Solomon Islands is re-engaging with EITI at a time when its mining sector is expanding, particularly in gold and nickel.
The sector is expected to play an increasing role in economic diversification, with growth driven by the Gold Ridge gold mine and the Kolosori nickel project.
The EITI Board also commended the renewed commitment of the Government, mining companies and civil society to a more equitable and environmentally responsible approach to mining decisions.
A new multi-stakeholder group comprising representatives from central and provincial governments, mining companies, local communities and civil society will monitor activities across the sector.
The next phase of UK support will assist Solomon Islands to develop a national plan for the disclosure of mining information across all provinces.
It will also support capacity building for local stakeholders to monitor and report on mining activities and strengthen the Government’s ability to provide regular reports to the EITI Secretariat.
[Photo Caption: British High Commissioner Paul Turner and Permanent Secretary of Finance David Dennis sign the next phase of UK support for Solomon Islands’ re-entry into the EITI.]
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement II (CAUSE) Project will handover 19 completed community infrastructure projects in Gizo and Noro.
The projects will be formally handed over to the Western Provincial Government, town authorities and community representatives.
According to the CAUSE Project, nine projects have been completed in Gizo, while another 10 projects have been completed in Noro.
An official handover ceremony will be held in Gizo tomorrow, Tuesday 22 September, followed by a second program in Noro on Wednesday.
The ceremonies will include the unveiling of sub-project billboards and the blessing of the completed facilities.
Western Province Premier Billy Veo, along with other provincial government representatives, has been invited to attend the handover ceremonies.
Officials from the CAUSE Project in Honiara and representatives of donor partners are also expected to participate in the programs.
The completion of the projects marks another contribution by CAUSE towards improving community infrastructure and access to essential services.
The project has continued to support communities through infrastructure development aimed at addressing local needs and improving living conditions.
The handover will formally place the completed facilities under the ownership and responsibility of the respective provincial, town and community authorities.
BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Ministry of Infrastructure Development, (MID), is now preparing to redevelop and improve the former Public Works Department (PWD), compound in Kirakira, Makira-Ulawa Province which is now in a deteriorating state.
The plan to redevelop the area follows on from a visit by a Makira-Ulawa Provincial delegation to MID last month in Honiara.
A post from the province’s social media said that to progress the initiative, an engineer from MID Engineer visited Kirakira to analyze the condition of the old PWD site with the aim of having it resurrected with staff houses while discussions to have the Eastern Region Machine Fleet to be based in Kirakira, Makira.
That will allow rehabilitation of our current roads and construction of new roads.
It said with the redevelopment of the PWD area and staffed will greatly improve the province’s economy and connectivity to its people.
Discussions were also about the tar sealing of the road between the Kirakira Township to Ngorangora Airport.
[Members of the Makira-Ulawa Provincial Government and MID Engineer after discussions to revive PWD in Kirakira. Photo credit: MUPG]
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Solomon Water has issued a public warning to residents living around the New Titinge Reservoir and surrounding communities not to drink or use water being discharged from the new reservoir.
Solomon Water said its contractor, Pacific Engineering Projects (PEP), has commenced discharging water from the new Titinge Reservoir through the washout pipe outfall as part of essential works.
The water being discharged is not safe for human consumption or domestic use, Solomon Water warned.
According to the utility, the discharged water contains a high concentration of sodium hypochlorite (chlorine), which may be harmful to human health.
Residents in the affected communities have been strongly advised not to drink or use the discharged water for cooking, washing food, bathing or any other domestic purpose.
Parents and guardians have also been urged to ensure that children do not play in or near the washout area.
Solomon Water said the washout process will commence on Monday, 21 September 2026, and is expected to continue for approximately five days, or until the chlorine concentration has reduced to a safe and acceptable level.
Residents are advised to avoid the affected washout location throughout the process and to follow all safety instructions issued by Solomon Water.
Solomon Water said it will issue a further public notice once the washout process is complete and the discharged water is no longer considered a risk.
Solomon Water thanked residents for their patience, understanding and cooperation while the essential works are carried out to support a safe and reliable water supply.
[Photo Caption: Residents are also encouraged to refer to the map provided by Solomon Water to identify the affected washout area.Photo credit: SW]
Tulagi Solar Power Plant is commissioned, expanding renewable energy and reducing diesel reliance in Central Islands Province. The Tulagi Solar Power Plant has been commissioned in Central Islands Province as part of a multi-provincial project aimed at increasing renewable energy use and reducing reliance on diesel-generated electricity in Solomon Islands. The commissioning ceremony was attended [...]
The post Tulagi Solar Power Plant Commissioned as Renewable Energy Project Begins Operations appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
By RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The asphalt application for the China-Aid Auki Road Project was completed yesterday at the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) workers’ base at Aligegeo, Auki.
The completion of the asphalt works marks another significant milestone in the delivery of road infrastructure in Malaita Province, as the project moves closer to completion.
The project is expected to provide a major improvement to road standards in the province.
Asphalt being applied to the China-Aid Auki Road Project at the CCECC workers’ base in Aligegeo, Auki.
According to a press statement issued by CCECC yesterday, the 9.2-kilometre tar-sealed road from Kwaibala to Kilu’ufi, including the Fasitoro and Sikitae feeder roads, has now been completed.
“Asphalting works under the China-Aid Auki Road Project have now been completed, marking another major milestone in the delivery of road infrastructure in Auki and surrounding areas,” the statement said.
The statement said Project Manager Liu Bao Dong and his team would now shift their focus to the remaining works.
These include the installation of street-name signs and speed-limit signs, while road-line and pavement-marking works are already underway.
“These are part of the final works being carried out to ensure the road is properly completed and equipped with the necessary road safety signs and markings,” Project Manager Liu said.
The installation of street-name and speed-limit signs will assist motorists and other road users in navigating the newly improved roads.
Road markings will also improve visibility and contribute to safer road use for motorists, pedestrians and other road users.
The completion of the asphalt application represents a major step towards the final delivery of the China-Aid Auki Road Project, with the remaining works focused on road safety features and other finishing requirements.
Workers applying asphalt during the final stages of the China-Aid Auki Road Project along the Kwaibala–Kilu’ufi road in Auki, Malaita Province.
[Photo Caption: Workers applying asphalt during the final stages of the China-Aid Auki Road Project along the Kwaibala–Kilu’ufi road in Auki, Malaita Province.]
The third Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants (ISIA) Annual Congress officially opened in Honiara today under the theme ‘Beyond Qualifications: Building a Workforce that Thinks, Leads, and Creates.’ The two-day conference brings together financial practitioners, policymakers, and industry leaders to...
The post ISIA Annual Congress 2026 Focuses on Leadership and Ethics appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Bmobile Solomon Islands has clarified that it has not closed its business or ceased operations, saying it is currently undergoing a transition and restructuring process aimed at securing its long-term future.
In a media statement issued today, Bmobile said recent reports suggesting that the telecommunications company had shut down its Solomon Islands operations were incorrect.
The company said it continues to operate while making changes to establish what it described as a more sustainable operating model.
A key part of the transition is its ongoing network modernisation programme, which includes upgrades and improvements to its telecommunications network.
According to Bmobile, the programme is aimed at strengthening network performance, improving customer experience and positioning the company for future growth.
Bmobile also acknowledged that the transition has involved difficult decisions regarding its workforce and operating structure.
The company said some employees have been affected by the changes and thanked them for their service and commitment.
However, Bmobile stressed that reports claiming it had completely ceased operations were incorrect.
It said a number of employees remain with the company, particularly in critical technical and operational positions needed to support its telecommunications network and ongoing modernisation programme.
Bmobile also highlighted the importance of the telecommunications sector to Solomon Islands, saying continued investment, modern communications infrastructure and healthy competition remain important for consumers, businesses and communities across the country.
The company acknowledged that the current transition has created uncertainty for employees, customers and other stakeholders.
Management said it remains committed to progressing the network modernisation programme and ensuring Bmobile Solomon Islands continues to contribute to the development of telecommunications services in the country.
Bmobile urged media organisations and members of the public to seek clarification from the company about its operational status and ongoing activities to ensure information reported publicly is accurate.
The company said further updates will be provided as the business transition and network modernisation programme progresses.
BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Makira-Ulawa Provincial Government (MUPG) has officially launched its new sea transportation visibility initiative, rolling out official compliance stickers for all local transport vessels operating within the province to ensure they operate and abide by the province’s by laws.
A post from the province’s official social media platform said the initiative was designed to boost transparency and support the provincial Revenue Division.
It said these prominent stickers will serve as visual tools to easily identify legally compliant operators and monitor vessels that have not yet secured their required business licenses.
The post said the initiative marks a significant step forward in streamlining maritime regulations and ensuring that all operators contribute fairly to the province’s economic development.
Local sea transport operator PJM Transport, was the first proud service provider to officially receive and put the MUPG sea transportation sticker to its fleet.
It said by leading the way in compliance, PJM Transport underscores the important partnership between private operators and the provincial government in providing reliable, lawful sea transport to the people of Makira-Ulawa Province.
The post said the province commends PJM Transport for its proactive cooperation and encourages all other boat owners and transport providers to follow suit and finalize their business licenses immediately.
[Photo Caption: PJM Boat with MUPG Sticker. Photo Credit: MUPG]
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.
For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
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
For feedback, contact: lorettamanele@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
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
For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com