Solomon Islands has forfeited Chinese vessel MV Wealth under the Immigration Act 2012 following an investigation into illegal entry. The Solomon Islands Government now officially owns the Chinese vessel MV Wealth after it was seized and forfeited under the Immigration Act 2012. The Director of Immigration exercised powers under Section 58(1) of the Immigration Act [...]
The post Government Forfeits and Takes Ownership of MV Wealth appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Government has taken ownership of MV Wealth, the Belize-flagged cargo vessel authorities intercepted and detained in June this year for illegally entering the country. A government statement said the action was taken in line with the Immigration Act 2012. “The Director of Immigration exercised powers under Section 58(1) of the...
The post Gov’t Seizes Ownership of MV Wealth appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
Geo-technical work is progressing at the newly approved relocation site for the first group of households affected by the proposed Bina domestic wharf project.
The geo-technical activities began early this week, following an environmental science assessment conducted last week.
Speaking to the Island Sun this afternoon, Bina Community Secretary Jackson Maearia said work at the new relocation site was progressing well.
Maearia said the first 14 households approved for relocation were anticipating the move to make way for the domestic wharf project. He added that some families had also decided on repatriation arrangements.
“As we speak, the people, especially the first 14 houses and households, are anticipating relocation, as are those families who have decided on repatriation arrangements,” Maearia said.
He explained that the current activities formed part of the initial preparations for the relocation site, with more substantial work expected to follow.
“The preparation timeline for the relocation work is two years,” he said.
Maearia identified several key tasks that must be completed before the relocation can proceed. These include:
1. Designing the new residences.
2. Raising the ground level through backfilling.
3. Constructing houses.
4. Providing access to piped water.
5. Connecting the area to electricity.
Meanwhile, Maearia reiterated that an assessment conducted by the Harbour Master of the Solomon Islands Ports Authority had subsequently led to the approval of Bina Harbour’s sea depth for both the domestic wharf and the international port.
The relocation is an important part of preparations for the proposed Bina port development, which requires the affected households to move from the designated project area.
[Photo Caption: Overview of the Bina Harbour Project site. Photo: MFMR.]
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) has successfully conducted a critical in-country workshop focused on Nursing Regulation, Standards and Accreditation. Held from 13 to 16 October 2026, the four-day initiative was organised through the National Nursing Administration Division and the Solomon Islands Nursing Council to improve local healthcare delivery.
According to the MHMS stated, that the workshop received substantial support from the Australian Government through its Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). It was also supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Development at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS).
This training forms part of the broader Strengthening Health Workforce in the Pacific (Nursing and Midwifery) Program. This regional initiative aims to build a sustainable, resilient health workforce and enhance population health across 13 Pacific Island Countries.
The program focuses specifically on improving clinical leadership, professional governance, regulation, and consistent practice standards across the region. Additionally, it integrates important principles of Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) into local frameworks.
Health Minister Morris Toiraena delivered his remarks at the conference. Photo Credit MHMS.
Speaking at the official opening, the Minister for Health and Medical Services, Honorable Morris Toiraena, expressed gratitude to the Australian Government, DFAT, the WHO, and the UTS Collaborating Centre.
He commended their continued partnership and dedication to strengthening the nursing and midwifery sectors within the Solomon Islands.
Minister Toiraena noted that the workshop directly builds on momentum generated during the 2025 Pacific Leadership Programme in Sydney. During that event, Solomon Islands fellows established a national task force dedicated to elevating local nursing regulations and professional registration.
“Today, we take the next important step in that journey,” Minister Toiraena stated. He emphasized that nurses and midwives make up the vast majority of the regulated healthcare workforce in the Pacific. These professionals remain vital for providing essential healthcare services to local communities, rural clinics, and during national health emergencies.
However, the Minister pointed out that providing safe, high-quality medical care requires strong foundational systems. These systems include modern legislation, effective governance, transparent professional standards, quality education, institutional accreditation, and continuous professional development.
To address these needs, the government has prioritized a comprehensive review of the Nursing Council Act. This aligns with the National Health Strategic Plan’s directive to modernize health laws in accordance with contemporary health sector policies.
“This work is not simply about regulation. It is about protecting patients, improving the quality of care and strengthening public confidence in our health services,” Minister Toiraena stated. He added that a robust regulatory framework ensures healthcare workers are thoroughly prepared, supported, and held accountable to international best practices.
Furthermore, the Minister stressed that a well-regulated healthcare workforce remains fundamental to national health security. It enhances the country’s capacity to manage epidemics, natural disasters, climate change impacts, and unexpected public health emergencies.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving workforce capacity, staff retention, professional specialisation, and ethical practices.
Minister Toiraena encouraged the participants to engage constructively, share experiences, and identify practical solutions that can be translated into national actions.
He concluded by noting that the success of the workshop will ultimately be measured by the practical improvements that follow.
Both the Australian Government and the WHO have reaffirmed their long-term commitment to supporting the Solomon Islands’ nursing sector. This collaborative effort marks a historic milestone for medical practitioners nationwide. This vision guarantees better healthcare outcomes.
[Photo caption: Some of the participants seated at the nursing conference. Photo Credit: MHMS]
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Sports clubs representing Small Malaita communities in Honiara are stepping up fundraising activities to support their preparations for the 2026 Small Malaita Mini Games, with several teams and the organising committee scheduled to hold fundraising events this Saturday.
The latest activities, promoted through the SMMG 2026 organisers’ social media updates, are part of a wider community effort to help participating clubs prepare for the December 25–31 tournament at Rokera.
Three fundraising drives are scheduled for Saturday, October 24, at the FOPA Cultural Village at Solomon Islands National University’s Panatina campus.
Ro’one Sports Club, through Ro’one FC, will host its fundraiser from 9am to 5pm under the slogan “One people, one community, one vision!”
Its programme includes card games, dart games, prizes, drinks and cooked local dishes.
Wai’aha Reunited Sports Club will also hold a fundraising event from 9am to 6pm under the motto “Together We Can!” The programme features local food, island music and entertainment to rally support for the club’s preparations.
Running alongside the club events, the SMMG Local Organising Committee will conduct a general fundraising drive from 9am to 6pm, featuring raffle ticket sales, draws, DJ music and local food.
The proceeds are intended to support the Games’ preparations, including venue improvements and operational expenses at Rokera.
The latest activities follow earlier fundraising efforts by Small Malaita clubs across Honiara.
Aona FC and host club RKP FC launched fundraising drives on October 10, at Saru Beach and Mbokonavera 2 respectively.
Arahana FC held a fundraiser at FOPA Cultural Village on October 17, featuring food sales, a barbecue and card games to support its preparations for the tournament.
Toloa Sports Club also organised a fundraising activity on October 17 at the SIDT area in Chinatown, with cooked food and card games forming part of its programme.
These initiatives reflect the important role of community support in preparing teams for the Games, as clubs work to meet their travel, equipment, uniform and other participation costs.
Under the current arrangements, participating clubs are responsible for their own transportation to and from Rokera and must provide their playing gear and uniforms. The LOC is expected to provide food and accommodation for participating contingents during the tournament.
Beyond fundraising, preparations are also progressing at the host venue, where work on sporting facilities and water supply is intended to improve conditions for athletes and visitors.
The Small Malaita Mini Games will feature 11-a-side soccer, futsal and netball, bringing together participating communities for a week of sporting competition under the theme “One People, One Spirit in Sport and Culture”. The organisers are calling on Small Malaitans, families, wantoks and supporters in Honiara to contribute to the preparations and help make the December event a success.
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE Western Province Education Authority Inspector, Willie Etupio, has urged schools across Western Province to remain vigilant and innovative as the country enters the El Niño period.
Etupio said the effects of El Niño were already being felt across the province, with many schools experiencing water shortages that could disrupt teaching and learning.
He said school administrations and communities must develop appropriate response plans to ensure schools remain operational despite the challenging conditions.
Etupio stressed that schools must prioritise their plans to ensure the 2026 academic year runs smoothly, particularly for students preparing for national examinations.
“For example, examination classes. Schools must ensure all examination classes are prioritised. That is for Year Six, Year Nine, Year 11 and Year 12,” Etupio said.
He said students in examination classes must be given priority to continue their studies until they sit their respective examinations.
Etupio also called on school heads and boards to develop intervention plans for other classes to ensure students continue learning and are adequately prepared for their end-of-year assessments.
“This is important because of students’ end-of-year assessment,” he said.
He urged schools facing serious difficulties to seek assistance through the Umi Ready application established by the Ministry to support schools during the El Niño period.
Etupio said schools must carefully manage their available resources, with water supply and the needs of final-year students among their key priorities.
“If you have the remaining of your school grants, please use wisely. Prioritise water and final-year reports,” Etupio said.
He emphasised the need for schools to be proactive and develop practical measures to minimise disruptions to teaching and learning as the effects of El Niño continue to affect communities across Western Province.
作者:本·比卢亚
吉佐
西部省教育局督察威利·埃图皮奥(Willie Etupio)敦促西部省的学校在国家进入厄尔尼诺时期时保持警惕和创新。
埃图皮奥表示,厄尔尼诺的影响已经在省内显现,许多学校面临水资源短缺,这可能会干扰教学和学习。
他说,学校管理层和社区必须制定适当的应对计划,以确保学校在困难条件下仍能正常运作。
埃图皮奥强调,学校必须优先考虑他们的计划,以确保2026学年顺利进行,特别是为准备国家考试的学生。
“例如,考试班。学校必须确保所有考试班得到优先考虑。这包括 Year 6、 Year 9、 Year 11和 Year 12,”埃图皮奥说。
他说,考试班的学生必须优先继续学习,直到他们参加各自的考试。
埃图皮奥还呼吁学校负责人和董事会制定干预计划,以确保其他班级的学生继续学习,并为年终评估做好充分准备。
“这很重要,因为学生的年终评估,”他说。
他敦促面临严重困难的学校通过教育部设立的Umi Ready应用程序寻求帮助,以支持学校在厄尔尼诺期间的运作。
埃图皮奥表示,学校必须仔细管理可用资源,水供应和毕业班学生的需求是他们的重点优先事项。
“如果你还有剩余的学校拨款,请明智使用。优先考虑水和毕业班报告,”埃图皮奥说。
他强调,学校需要主动采取措施,制定切实可行的方案,以尽量减少厄尔尼诺对教学和学习的干扰,因为其影响仍在继续影响西部省的社区。
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Board of Trustees and Fund Management Office of the Bahomea and Malango Community Benefit Sharing Trust Fund (CBSTF) have completed a two-day strategic planning workshop aimed at developing a five-year roadmap to guide community benefit-sharing initiatives linked to the Tina River Hydropower Development Project.
The workshop, held on October 15 and 16 at Parangiju Mountain Lodge in Central Guadalcanal, brought together trustees, fund management executives, and institutional partners to formulate the CBSTF Strategic Plan for 2027-2031.
A statement from Tina Hydro official Facebook page said the plan is intended to support the organization’s transition into a standalone project implementation entity responsible for delivering long-term benefits to communities affected by the Tina River Hydropower Development Project.
The CBSTF was incorporated under the Charitable Trusts Act in 2023 as part of the World Bank-funded Solomon Islands Community Benefits Sharing Project Phase Two. The fund was established to channel revenue generated from power production into socio-economic development, climate-resilient infrastructure, and community empowerment initiatives in the Bahomea, Malango, and Ado/Belaha catchment areas.
A group photo of the participants. Photo credit: Tina Hydro official Facebook
During the workshop, participants undertook visioning exercises and discussions focused on the fund’s strategic priorities, including infrastructure development, education, livelihoods, food security, social inclusion, climate resilience, and community empowerment.
The statement said the Board of Trustees Chairman Denson Denni said the planning exercise represented an important step towards strengthening the fund’s long-term operational independence.
He said the five-year strategy would help ensure benefits generated through the Tina River Hydropower Development Project deliver sustainable and equitable outcomes for communities in the affected regions.
Mr. Denni said the Board’s responsibility was to safeguard community assets and establish a transparent framework that would support future generations.
The workshop’s outcomes will be compiled into a synthesis report and a draft Strategic Plan for 2027-2031. The document will include an implementation work plan, performance indicators, and financing strategies to support the fund’s future operations.
Once approved by the Board of Trustees, the strategic plan will guide the fund’s transition from its current World Bank grant-supported pilot phase to long-term benefit distribution arrangements following the commercial operation of the Tina River Hydropower Project.
[Photo Caption: Trustees and FMO staff work through a group exercise during the workshop. The session was part of the visioning and deliberations that will shape the CBSTF Strategic Plan (2027–2031). Photo credit: Tina Hydro official Facebook]
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Honiara City Council (HCC) has issued a public clarification distancing itself from overseas employment recruitment activities reportedly linked to the Honiara Council of Women (HCW), following complaints and inquiries from members of the public, particularly women, about job opportunities and associated payments.
In an official statement released today, HCC said it does not administer, operate, or facilitate overseas labour mobility schemes, including seasonal worker programs and overseas aged-care employment opportunities.
The Council said it had not authorized HCW to recruit workers, arrange overseas employment, or collect payments on its behalf. It emphasized that HCW is not acting for the HCC in matters relating to overseas employment schemes.
“Activities independently undertaken by the organization should not be mistaken for official council programs or assumed to have the council’s endorsement,” the statement said.
HCC further clarified that HCW operates under its own authority and responsibility unless expressly authorized by the Council to act on its behalf. As a result, any representations, commitments, recruitment activities, or financial transactions conducted independently by HCW are not attributable to the Council.
HCC also stated that it would not accept responsibility or liability for HCW’s actions or decisions, except where required by law.
The clarification comes amid growing public concern over overseas employment opportunities and reports of payments being requested from prospective applicants. HCC urged individuals seeking overseas work to verify the legitimacy of recruitment programs and the authority of organizations involved before submitting personal documents or making financial commitments.
The Council advised prospective workers to consult the Labour Mobility Unit within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade to confirm employment opportunities, authorized recruitment arrangements, application procedures, and any fees that may be requested.
It also encouraged anyone with concerns regarding recruitment processes or payments to retain receipts, correspondence, application forms, and other supporting documents and seek advice from the relevant authorities.
HCC said it remains committed to supporting women’s development, community welfare, and public awareness through its authorized programs and functions.
The Council thanked members of the public for raising their concerns and stressed the importance of obtaining accurate information through official channels before making decisions related to overseas employment opportunities.
Small Malaita Mini Games confirm three sports codes, dates and strict player eligibility rules
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Volleyball has been dropped from the 2026 Small Malaita Mini Games (SMMG) Rokera 2026, with organisers confirming three sporting codes and introducing strict player eligibility rules ahead of the December tournament.
The decision followed a joint meeting of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Games Organising Committee (GOC) at Kokonut Café on October 16, according to updates published by the SMMG 2026 organisers.
The games will now feature three confirmed sporting codes: 11-a-side soccer, futsal and netball.
The committees said the adjustment was made to support effective tournament administration, resource management and the smooth delivery of the games. They also apologised to clubs affected by volleyball’s removal and sought their understanding and cooperation.
The organisers have also confirmed the tournament schedule, with participating clubs and delegations expected to arrive at Rokera on December 25.
The official opening ceremony and first round of matches are scheduled for December 26, followed by further group and pool-stage competitions from December 27 to 30.
The championship matches and official closing ceremony are scheduled for December 31.
Alongside the competition arrangements, the LOC has issued player eligibility and community representation rules aimed at protecting the grassroots character of the Mini Games.
Under the rules, players must have a genuine connection to the community they represent through birth, origin, ancestral or family ties, or marriage.
Players may register for only one team, while clubs are prohibited from recruiting outside athletes to strengthen their squads.
The organisers have warned that teams found fielding ineligible players could face sanctions, including the removal of players, forfeiture of matches or disqualification from the tournament. The LOC also reserves the right to request proof of eligibility and determine disputes under its rules.
Meanwhile, registration remains open until November 15, with a late-registration period running from November 16 to 30, subject to additional fees.
Registration fees are set at $3,000 for 11-a-side soccer, $3,000 for netball and $1,500 for futsal. An official press conference is scheduled for November 30, while the fixtures are expected to be released in the first week of December.
The Mini Games will be hosted at Rokera, where infrastructure preparations include the development of sporting facilities and an upgraded water supply system for visiting athletes, officials and spectators.
The event is being organised under the theme “One People, One Spirit in Sport and Culture”, with the aim of promoting sports development, youth participation and unity among communities across Small Malaita.
[Photo: GRASSROOTS SPECTACLE: Participating teams lined up during an opening ceremony from a previous edition of the Small Malaita Mini Games. Organisers have officially locked in December dates and strict eligibility rules for SMMG Rokera 2026, which will feature 11-a-side soccer, futsal, and netball. Photo: SMMG.]
Papua New Guinea's non-resource economy has grown by an average 2.3 per cent a person a year since 2022, close to the 2.8 per cent of the boom years, Stephen Howes, Rubayat Chowdhury and Dorothy Kaupa wrote on the Devpolicy Blog.
The Magistrates Court this afternoon sent Moffat Joel Konofilia to seven months in prison. This was over his role in the November 2021 riot that saw the burning and looting of shops and buildings in Honiara. The sentence follows Konofilia’s conviction on a charge of unlawful assembly stemming from the...
The post Seven Months Jail For Konofilia appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY SHOREYANN RAGOSO
HONIARA, Solomon Islands – Smiles, teamwork and a shared meal brought people together in Honiara on Monday, 19 October 2026, as Indonesian Navy personnel reached out to local communities through a series of humanitarian activities.
Aboard the hospital ship KRI dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo-991, the Indonesian Navy’s Joint Task Force Port Visit 2026 visited the White River community, Mbokonavera Mosque, Vura Anglican Church and Transfiguration Vura School.
The team delivered essential supplies, building materials, religious equipment, sports gear and other items to support local families and institutions.
But the visit was about more than donations. In White River, Indonesian Navy personnel joined local residents to repair and repaint a basketball court, turning the work into a shared effort that brought people together.
The activity showed how simple acts of service can build friendship between people from different countries.
“The best part is not only receiving help, but working together and getting to know one another,” a message reflected by the joint effort.
Colonel (Navy) Bendictus Hery Murwanto, commander of the Joint Task Force Port Visit 2026, formally handed over the assistance to representatives of the White River community, Mbokonavera Mosque and Vura Anglican Church.
The Indonesian Defence Attaché to Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, Colonel Suiyanto, and Assistant Defence Attaché Major Ferdianto also attended the activities.
The day ended with a communal meal shared by Indonesian Navy personnel and local residents. Around the table, people had a chance to talk, exchange experiences and learn about each other’s cultures.
The Embassy of Indonesia in Port Moresby welcomed the initiative, saying humanitarian activities help strengthen relations between Indonesia and Solomon Islands.
Through practical support and face-to-face engagement, Indonesia hopes to build lasting friendship, trust and cooperation with its Pacific neighbours.
For the people who took part, the visit left behind more than donated supplies and a refreshed basketball court. It offered a reminder that friendship grows when people work, share and care for one another.
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Church Agency Network Disaster Operations (CANDO) in partnership with the Solomon Islands Christian Association (SICA), Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Solomon IslandS with support from Deaf Association has successfully completed a five-day sign language training in Munda, Western Province.
ADRA in a statement today said the training was held at Kokegholo Education Hall from September 28 to October 2, 2026, bringing together 16 participants, including women, youth, church leaders and a representative of the mute and deaf community from Munda and Noro.
A facilitator guides participants on how to use the correct gestures in sign language when communicating with deaf people, photo credit- ADRA/CANDO.
Participants take part in an activity during the workshop, photo credit- ADRA/CANDO.
The aim of the training was to promote inclusion and protect the rights of deaf people by equipping participants with basic sign language skills to improve communication and accessibility in schools, health centres, churches and other community settings.
The statement said the training also aimed to encourage communities to recognise the rights of deaf people and ensure they can participate meaningfully in everyday activities and access essential services without communication barriers.
Speaking during the training, Gayleen Sosopu Tingokera, a church and school representative from Baru SDA Church in Noro, said sign language is important in ensuring that deaf people are not left behind in education and religious activities.
“Deaf children can sit in a classroom but learn nothing if teachers cannot sign. Deaf members can sit in church but cannot pray or fully participate if the minister cannot use sign language”
“Sign language makes schools, communities and churches inclusive. communication is essential for ensuring deaf people can participate meaningfully in everyday life and enjoy the same opportunities as other community members,’’she said.
Another Female CANDO Volunteer from Munda, Georgina Alenge also highlighted the safety risks deaf people face when they cannot communicate with service providers, particularly when seeking medical assistance or travelling by sea.
She said a deaf mother may be unable to explain that her child is sick at a health centre, while a deaf travellers may not understand safety instructions from ship crew members or shipping clerks’.
“Training health workers, seafarers, shop owners and telecommunications staff can help reduce these risks,” she said.
Meanwhile CANDO Coordinator Dominic Baona who coordinated the training acknowledged the Australian Government through the AHP Disaster Ready 2 Project for funding the training and United Church of Solomon Islands (UCSI) in Munda for providing the venue for the training.
“I would like to thank Australia Government for funding this training by helping us promote deaf people’s human rights in our community.
“This training was in line with the theme of this year’s International Sign Language Day: ‘Declaring Deaf People’s Human Rights,’’Mr Baona said.
Participants from Noro and Munda attend the deaf awareness and sign language training at Kokeqolo in Munda, photo credit- ADRA/CANDO.
The training was funded through the Disaster READY project, support by the Australian Government and implemented by Church Agency Network Disaster Operation (CANDO).
ADRA said the training represents an important step towards building more inclusive communities in Western Province, where deaf people can communicate more easily, access essential services and participate in family, church and community life with dignity and respect.
Photo credit: ADRA/CANDO
For feedback, contact: jhouanihau24@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY CHARLES STENNETT
A Marine Spatial Planning and Stakeholder Mapping Workshop is underway in Makira Ulawa Province with Ward Development Committee Chairpersons and relevant MUPG Officials facilitated by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS).
A statement from the Makira Ulawa Provincial Government on social media said the objectives of the workshop are to develop the MSP roadmap and plan for Makira Ulawa province, collect relevant data and information for Makira Ulawa MSP plan, improve the capacity of provincial stakeholders in MSP related work and to map out stakeholders and the scope of their work in Makira province.
It said the Marine Spatial Planning is a critical process for analysing and allocating the spatial and temporal distribution of human activities within marine areas.
Its purpose is to achieve ecological, economic, and social objectives defined through political processes.
MSP brings together diverse stakeholders with varying interests in the marine environment to collaboratively map and plan activities, ensuring that ecological, economic, and social benefits are maintained without disruption.
The statement said that under the Bezos Earth Fund project, Makira-Ulawa Province is one of three target provinces selected to benefit from the funding to advance their MSP roadmap in alignment with the National MSP Plan.
At the provincial level, the project will support the provincial government in developing and implementing a comprehensive MSP plan in partnership with provincial and national stakeholders.
Makira-Ulawa has been identified as a priority area by the National Government to advance its Marine Protected and Conserved Areas (MPCA) agenda, safeguarding the province’s ecological and cultural uniqueness within the marine environment.
To initiate MPCA work in Makira Province, a Marine Spatial Plan is required to guide the mapping of marine areas into distinct segments suitable for different human activities. Following the conclusion of this workshop, a clear map of unique areas should be produced to inform the initial process of designating MPCA sites.
“Stakeholder mapping is a key supporting activity within MSP as it identifies stakeholders engaged in marine-related work and clarifies their roles to avoid duplication or overlap. For Makira-Ulawa Province, this workshop is essential to define the scope of each stakeholder’s activities, gather relevant information, and ensure coordinated efforts within provincial waters,” the statement said.
Its goal is to develop a shared vision, spatial priorities, and a draft MSP roadmap and Plan for sustainable marine resource management in Makira Province.
The workshop is expected to end on Friday.
Photo credit: MUPG
For feedback, contact: charsstennett@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY JOSES SAREN
Prime Minister Matthew Wale has called on Pacific Island countries to strengthen regional cooperation, improve air connectivity and ensure tourism delivers greater economic benefits to local communities.
He made the call while officially welcoming Pacific tourism ministers and delegates at the opening reception for the South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) Board of Directors and Council of Tourism Ministers meeting at Pacific Crown Hotel in Honiara on Tuesday evening.
“Of course we must compete globally, but it is essential that we cooperate regionally,” Mr Wale said.
He said Solomon Islands is still developing its tourism industry and has much to learn from neighbouring countries, including Vanuatu and Fiji.
However, he stressed that every Pacific country has something to contribute, with the region’s cultural and natural diversity being one of its greatest strengths.
“Our goal is simple: strong destinations within an even stronger Pacific,” he said.
Mr Wale identified better connectivity, sustainable and inclusive tourism, and stronger regional institutions as three priorities for Pacific tourism leaders to consider during the meeting.
On connectivity, he called for better links between Pacific islands and international markets, more multi-destination travel and a review of air services agreements to ensure they were fair and beneficial to countries regardless of size.
He said tourism growth must also protect the environment, respect local cultures, build climate resilience and deliver tangible benefits to rural communities and local businesses.
Mr Wale said tourism is more than an industry because it creates jobs, supports communities, keeps cultures vibrant and improve people’s livelihoods.
He said the Government wants tourism benefits to reach mothers in villages, families on their customary land and young people in the provinces.
The Prime Minister outlined two principles guiding the Government’s development approach: “Solomonisation”, which places local people, knowledge and institutions at the centre of development, and a “first-bite policy”, under which Solomon Islanders should receive the first and greater benefits from their land and heritage.
He said Solomon Islands is not pursuing visitor numbers alone but wants visitors to stay longer and spend locally so that tourism revenue remains within the country.
Mr Wale also announced that Solomon Islands will soft-launch its “Happy Isles” tourism brand at the close of the meeting.
He said the brand reflects the country’s welcoming people, cultural diversity and natural beauty, and called on regional partners to support its promotion internationally.
He commended SPTO for promoting tourism as a driver of regional development and aligning regional tourism priorities with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
The three-day meeting brings together Pacific tourism ministers, SPTO board members and industry stakeholders to discuss shared priorities and strengthen regional cooperation.
For feedback, contact: josessaren@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Government has urged families and individuals to take responsibility for water conservation and disaster preparedness as the country continues to face drought conditions and prepares for the coming cyclone season.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM), Mr David Hiriasia, made the call during a press conference on Monday, October 19, at the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO).
Mr Hiriasia stressed that disaster preparedness should not be left to the Government alone, saying individuals and families must also take active steps to protect themselves.
He urged the public to manage water carefully and make use of available water storage facilities to prepare for possible shortages.
“If you have even a small water storage facility, I urge you to manage your water properly,” Mr Hiriasia said.
He also confirmed that recovery work for shelters damaged by Tropical Cyclone Maila is progressing, with the supply of building materials already underway. Delivery of the materials is expected to begin in November.
Mr Hiriasia said the country must now address both drought and cyclone recovery efforts at the same time.
Although drought remains the Government’s priority, he said recovery from the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Maila, particularly shelter support, is still an outstanding issue as the cyclone season approaches.
He also urged the public to take precautionary measures, noting that reported sea-related incidents this year have continued to increase.
Meanwhile, National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) Director Mr Jonathan Tafiariki clarified that the initial $10 million allocated by the Government is specifically for emergency response, not recovery activities.
Mr Tafiariki said the funding was allocated to provinces to support immediate emergency response efforts.
He added that the Government had also allocated $75 million through the supplementary budget for recovery activities. However, arrangements for the establishment of a special fund to manage the money are still underway.
Mr Tafiariki said shelter assistance remains the highest priority under the recovery efforts, while part of the funding will support water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) interventions, particularly in Western and Choiseul provinces.
Photo credit: Douglas Vahia
For feedback, contact: diivee56@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
Naka’s men target Tahiti title as 2027 World Cup qualification awaits Nations Cup winners
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
SOLOMON Islands’ Bilikiki are set to renew their pursuit of the Oceania beach soccer crown in Tahiti, where the OFC Beach Soccer Men’s Nations Cup 2026 offers the added prize of qualification for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2027.
The Oceania Football Confederation (OFC), in a media advisory issued on Monday, invited media to attend the official pre-tournament media opportunity at Parc de Aorai Tini Hau in Pirae, Tahiti, at 10am on Tuesday, October 20.
Coaches and captains from all five competing nations were made available for interviews upon request.
Solomon Islands will face host nation Tahiti, Vanuatu, New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea in the tournament, with Bilikiki looking to reclaim the continental title they last won in 2013.
According to the tournament’s official media guide, Solomon Islands and Tahiti are joint-most successful teams in the competition’s history, with four titles each. However, Bilikiki has lost its last three finals, leaving the team with another opportunity to challenge Tahiti’s dominance.
The latest defeat was on home soil in Honiara in 2024, when Tahiti edged Solomon Islands 3-2 in a closely contested final. Tahiti has also won the previous three editions of the tournament and will enter this year’s competition as the defending champions.
The media guide lists James Naka as head coach of the Solomon Islands team. Naka also holds the competition’s all-time goal scoring record, with 34 goals, adding to the experience behind the national side’s campaign.
The five teams will compete in a single round-robin format, with each nation facing the other once.
The top two teams will advance to the final, while the third- and fourth-placed sides will contest the playoff for third place on the final match day.
Bilikiki will open their campaign against Papua New Guinea on Thursday, October 22, at 2pm local time before a crucial early showdown against defending champions Tahiti on Saturday, October 24, at the same time.
Solomon Islands will then face New Caledonia on Monday, October 26, before meeting Vanuatu on Thursday, October 29, in their final round-robin fixture.
Beyond the continental championship, the stakes are significant, with the tournament winners earning qualification for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2027. Solomon Islands last qualified for the global competition in 2015.
The 2026 edition is the ninth staging of the OFC Beach Soccer Men’s Nations Cup since its introduction in 2006, with the competition providing the region’s leading beach soccer nations an opportunity to compete for Oceania honours and a place on the world stage.
For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands’ efforts to develop hockey through improved sporting facilities and cooperation between sports organisations and government agencies has received international recognition.
International Hockey Federation (FIH) president Tayyab Ikram highlighted Solomon Islands as an example of how effective partnerships can create better opportunities for hockey development and encourage wider community participation.
According to the National Sports Council (NSC), Ikram made the remarks during the opening address at a recent FIH Engagement and Empowerment Meeting, where he emphasised the importance of building strong relationships with government agencies to support the sport’s growth.
He pointed to the positive working relationship between the NSC and hockey in Solomon Islands, particularly the availability of the new Hockey 5s pitch, as an example of how such cooperation can deliver practical benefits.
The facility has provided a safer and more accessible environment for players and other participants, as well as for staff working at the venue.
Feedback shared with the NSC also indicated a significant increase in participation following the improved access to the facility.
The international recognition places a spotlight on the role that sporting infrastructure and institutional support can play to strengthen the development of hockey locally.
Beyond providing a venue for games and training, accessible facilities can help create an environment where more people have the opportunity to experience the sport, develop their skills and remain involved.
For Solomon Islands hockey, the recognition reinforces the importance of maintaining partnerships that support safe sporting environments and sustainable participation.
The NSC shared the development through its official media platform on Friday, October 16, highlighting the value of continued cooperation between sporting organisations and public institutions in expanding opportunities for sport in the country.
Photo credit: NSC
For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
More than 100 residents, including women and children, in Moe Village, Russell Islands (East Lavukal Ward), are facing an increasingly worried situation due to severe food, water, and medicine shortages due to Prolonged Dry Season.
Moe development coordinator Sammy Vaurou told Island Sun yesterday in a phone interview from Moe Village, Russell Islands that the remote island community has been struggling to survive since the onset of a harsh dry season since July 2026.
According to Vaurou, unlike larger communities on the mainland, Moe Village is entirely isolated on a smaller offshore island, leaving residents with no natural, local fallback water sources during this prolonged dry spells.
A completely dry communal rainwater harvesting tank in Moe Village, leaving more than 100 residents without a local supply of clean drinking water, photo credit- Sammy Vaurou.
A traditional hand-dug well in Moe Village that has completely dried down to the soil, photo credit- Sammy Vaurou.
He said that the situation has grown so critical that villagers are forced to make a dangerous, two-hour boat journey across open seas to Komibo just to collect basic drinking water.
“A single round-trip sea fare costs $250 SBD, creating an unsustainable economic burden on families whose local food gardens and livelihoods have already been devastated by the drought,” he said.
Parched soil and wilting sweet potato (kumara) crops in a Moe Village family garden, illustrating the severe impact of the dry spell on local food security, photo credit-Sammy Vaurou.
He further said that community leaders are issuing an urgent plea to the National Disaster Council (NDC) and provincial disaster authorities for immediate humanitarian intervention.
“The village requires emergency deployments of fresh drinking water, emergency food rations, and medical supplies to combat emerging health risks,” he said.
This localised crisis comes as the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) continues monitoring severe, below-normal rainfall patterns across parts of the country.
While the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) has deployed emergency water security missions to hard-hit areas like Rennell and Bellona this month, smaller island communities like Moe fear they are slipping through the cracks.
Mr Vaurou said residents are calling on the national government to recognise their plight as a matter of extreme urgency before the lack of medicine and clean water results in a severe public health emergency.
Photo credit: Sammy Vaurou
For feedback, contact: jhouanihau24@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com