★ Mon, 02 Nov 2026 ·HONIARA ·Updated daily

All Updates

All collected updates from verified Solomon Islands sources.

MASI media awards 2026 coming up

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU The Media Association Solomon Islands (MASI) media award 2026 is coming up very soon, according to Ednal Palmer of In-depth Solomons and MASI board member. Speaking at the MASI annual general meeting on Saturday 17 October at the Heritage Park Hotel, Mr. Palmer announced that the major event is expected to take place either at the end of this month or by next month. “The media awards event is coming up very soon. It either end of this month or next month. So, pass on the message to nominates the awards,” he said. Mr. Palmer emphasized that the media awards event is an important event for MASI. During his address, Palmer also highlighted the importance of the Press Club event and suggested that the new MASI President and the incoming board revisit the program. He noted that in the past, the Prime Minister served as the patron of the event and always made it a point to attend. “The Press Club organizes events where key public figures, government officials, and community leaders act as guest speakers to address current national events or major policies. It is very important event in the sense that it brings media people together chill and discuss where we can also convert the event into some sort of fundraising to raise much needed fund for MASI,” Palmer said. [Photo caption: Members of the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) listen to the final address from outgoing President Ofani Eremae during the recent Annual General Meeting (AGM). Photo credit: MASI facebook page]

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-10-20 Original ↗

Western Province to submit El Niño situation report

BY BEN BILUA Gizo WESTERN Province is preparing to submit a situation report outlining the impact of El Niño and measures needed to address the growing challenges faced by communities. The Western Provincial Disaster Operations Committee met last week following a call by Premier Billy Veo to compile a report on the effects of the prolonged dry spell across the province. Provincial Secretary Collin Potakana said information had been gathered during the meeting and forwarded to the provincial Disaster Office, which is currently preparing the official report. He said the report outlines potential challenges posed by El Niño and identify mitigation measures to help the province respond to the situation. “We have collected all the necessary information during our meeting. Information gathered was forwarded to the Disaster Office in Gizo, and our officers are working on the official report,” Potakana said. Island Sun understands that communities across Western Province are experiencing worsening conditions as the prolonged dry spell continues to affect water sources and food gardens. The lack of rainfall has caused water levels in rivers and streams to decline, while food gardens have been damaged, raising concerns about access to safe drinking water and food supplies. Gizo has been among the hardest-hit areas, with access to clean drinking water declining rapidly. Families have increasingly relied on bottled and carton water purchased from shops for drinking and cooking as water shortages continue to affect households. The situation has also affected the operation of the Western Provincial Government office, which has been forced to operate half-day due to water shortages. Speaking to Island Sun earlier this week, Premier Veo said the provincial government had requested assistance from the National Disaster Council to help address the water crisis in Gizo. He said the request included two water trucks and 10 water tanks, each with a capacity of 3,000 litres, to support water distribution and storage. Veo said the request formed part of the province’s immediate response to the impact of El Niño in Gizo. Meanwhile, information emerging from communities across the province indicates that the effects of the prolonged dry spell may extend beyond the main urban centres. However, the full extent of the impact on remote communities remains unclear, highlighting the need for further assessments and field reporting to establish the challenges faced by affected families. In the meantime, the situation report is expected to provide a clearer picture of the challenges confronting the province and help identify appropriate responses to support affected communities. [Photo caption: A water source resident of Righuru village in Western Province collect drinking and cooking water from.The water source is now almost dried up due to continued dry spell. Photo Supplied.]

Island Sun Disasters & Weather · 2026-10-20 Original ↗

Guadalcanal’s football talent needs more opportunities to grow and compete: Tovosia

BY RICHARD MENANOPO Member of Parliament for East Guadalcanal Constituency, Bradley Tovosia has called for continued football opportunities in Guadalcanal, saying the talent displayed during the 2026 Guadalcanal Football Champions Cup shows the potential of local players to progress to higher levels of competition. Speaking during the tournament’s prize presentation, Tovosia thanked the participating teams, organisers and sponsors, while acknowledging the disappointment of East Central FC after losing the grand final to Eastern Frigates FC. Tovosia said the result was part of football, where one team must win and the other accept defeat, and urged players to remain committed to developing their abilities. “Someone has to win, someone has to lose. That’s normal. That’s the spirit of football,” he said. He also praised the quality of the players on display, saying Guadalcanal had promising football talent that needed continued opportunities and development. “The players you’re looking at are skilful,” Tovosia said, adding that they needed further development and opportunities to move on to other competitions. His remarks highlighted the importance of maintaining local competitions where players can gain experience, demonstrate their abilities and prepare for higher-level football. Tovosia also encouraged Guadalcanal Football Association (GFA) to continue organising tournaments, recognising the value of providing regular competitive opportunities for clubs across the province. He thanked the tournament’s sponsors, including Gold Ridge Mining Limited, as well as the organisers and participating teams for their contributions to the competition. Eastern Frigates FC emerged as champions after defeating East Central FC 2–0 in the grand final. Duvata FC claimed third place with a 3–0 win over GRML FC in the playoff. The tournament brought together nine teams over two weeks, providing a platform for Guadalcanal’s footballers to compete and showcase their talent. [CHAMPIONS Eastern Frigates FC players celebrate in jubilation as they lift the trophy after securing a 2–0 victory over East Central FC in the Guadalcanal Football Champions Cup 2026 grand final. Photo supplied]

Island Sun Sports · 2026-10-20 Original ↗

RSIPF investigates viral video of alleged gang assault

所罗门警方调查涉嫌帮派袭击的病毒视频

SIBC Law & Security · 2026-10-20 Original ↗

PM Wale pushes for more PALM jobs

BY NED GAGAHE PRIME Minister Matthew Wale has reaffirmed the GREAT Coalition Government’s commitment to expanding the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme through stronger partnerships with Australia and local stakeholders. Speaking at the inaugural PALM Scheme Approved Employer Expo in Honiara today, PM Wale emphasized that collaboration is essential to creating more jobs for locals while filling Australia’s workforce gaps. Since 2018, over 13,000 Solomon Islanders have joined the scheme, sending money back home to support their families while gaining key workplace skills. The Honiara expo has brought together representatives from 25 Australian approved employers, including seven companies recruiting from the Solomon Islands for the first time. Since 2018, over 13,000 Solomon Islanders have joined the scheme. Photo credit: PMO PM Wale highlighted that the government has set an ambitious target to send 5,000 workers abroad every year under labour mobility programs. To hit that goal, he stressed the need for better coordination across government agencies, thorough worker preparation, and stronger recruitment systems. “The Government is working to address existing barriers and review the National Labour Mobility Policy to strengthen the country’s labour mobility framework,” PM Wale stated. The financial impact remains a major driver for local communities. Figures from the Central Bank of Solomon Islands show PALM workers remitted roughly SBD 507 million to local households in 2025 alone. “Beyond remittances, the scheme provides opportunities for workers to develop skills, gain experience and bring valuable knowledge back to their communities,” he added. PM Wale challenged approved employers and the ministry’s Labour Mobility Unit to work closely together, clear the work-ready pool, and hit the 5,000 annual target. [Photo caption: PM Wale speaking at the inaugural PALM Scheme Approved Employer Expo in Honiara today. Photo credit: PMO]

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-10-20 Original ↗

Met service tracks low sea levels in northern, western Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service says sea levels in parts of the country are running well below normal in a pattern consistent with El Niño.

Solomon Times General News · 2026-10-20 Original ↗

Renovation of Auki market sanitation facility nears completion

BY RODRICK DESURI AUKI Renovation work on the men’s restroom at the Auki Central Market sanitation facility is progressing and nearing completion. The renovation follows concerns raised by vendors and members of the public in Auki, Malaita Province, over men and women having to share the same restroom, a situation that goes against the customs and traditions of the people of Malaita. For several months, men and women have been using the same women’s restroom, prompting concerns among community members who strongly uphold their cultural values and traditions. Malaita Provincial Deputy Secretary Peter Herehura confirmed that work on the men’s restroom was progressing smoothly and almost complete. Inside the market where additional stalls and tables are needed. Photo supplied. “Yes, work on the men’s side is progressing and near completion,” he said. Meanwhile, market vendors and members of the public have welcomed the renovation and commended the market management for addressing the issue. However, they have also called on the management to address other challenges faced by vendors, particularly the shortage of facilities at the market. One vendor, Evangeline Olo, acknowledged the management’s efforts to resolve the sanitation issue but urged it to pay attention to the daily challenges vendors face. “I really appreciate the market management for addressing the issue of men and women using the same room. This is against our custom, especially we Malaitans, who are people of custom and culture,” she said. Olo also appealed to the management to address other concerns affecting vendors at the market. “Also, I want to appeal to them to address the small issues here in the market that we vendors face every day,” she said. She said vendors needed additional facilities to support their businesses, particularly more stalls and tables to display and sell their produce. “We need additional stalls and tables to sell our produce,” she said. The vendors hope the market management will continue improving sanitation facilities and provide the necessary infrastructure to create a better trading environment for those who depend on the market for their livelihoods. [Photo caption: Auki Central Market sanitation house. Photo supplied.]

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-10-20 Original ↗

Pineapple farmers in West Kwaio affected by El Niño

BY RODRICK DESURI AUKI Pineapple farmers and people in West Kwaio, Malaita Province who depend largely on gardening for their livelihoods are facing difficulties as a result of the current El Niño-related dry conditions. The dry conditions, which has affected the country over the past few months, has disrupted agricultural activities, leaving farmers struggling to produce their expected harvests. The pineapple farmers said they had harvested fewer fruits than expected, while the dry conditions had also delayed the usual harvesting period for their pineapples. A long-time pineapple farmer, Isaiah Enobae said the prolonged dry season had affected the growth of pineapple fruits and delayed their expected harvesting time. “Normally, September and October every year are the months when we always harvest our pineapple fruits for marketing. These two months would hardly be missed,” he said. “But this year everything has changed,” he added. Enobae said the dry conditions had also affected other crops planted in their gardens, resulting in lower yields and smaller produce. “This also happens to our gardens. Our gardens yield fewer crops, and the sizes are smaller,” he said. Meanwhile, Enobae has appealed to the Ministry of Agriculture to assist farmers through awareness programmes and provide guidance on ways to improve their gardens and pineapple farms during prolonged dry periods. “This is a very important part of our lives, and when facing seasons like this El Niño, the Ministry of Agriculture should step up and help us with ways that can improve our gardens,” he said. He warned that if the dry conditions continued, communities in West Kwaio could face more serious challenges, particularly shortages of food and water. The Enobae’s concerns highlight the difficulties faced by rural farming communities that rely heavily on their gardens and pineapple production for food, income and everyday survival. [Photo Caption: Pineapple farming in West Kwaio. Photo supplied]

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-10-20 Original ↗

Pipisu community strengthens disaster preparedness through simulation exercise

皮皮苏社区通过模拟演习加强灾害准备

SIBC Disasters & Weather · 2026-10-20 Original ↗

FRIGATES RULE

Tovosia hails team effort after Eastern Frigates avenge earlier defeat to East Central with 2–0 grand-final victory BY RICHARD MENANOPO Eastern Frigates FC head coach, Freling Tovosia has described his side’s 2–0 victory over East Central FC in the Guadalcanal Football Champions Cup 2026 grand final yesterday at Lawson Tama field as a well-deserved triumph after weeks of hard work and determination. Tovosia said the victory was particularly satisfying because his team had lost to East Central in their earlier meeting before regrouping. “I think it is a well-deserved victory because we’ve worked hard for it,” Tovosia said after his side lifted the championship trophy. He credited the players’ teamwork and commitment for their success, saying the squad had worked extra hard to overcome its earlier setback and prove itself in the decisive encounter. Tovosia said scoring first was central to the team’s game plan, which focused on defending collectively and using counter-attacks to exploit East Central’s high-pressing approach. “Our game plan was to score first because we worked hard on defending and playing as a team,” he said. The strategy worked as Eastern Frigates took the lead before adding a second goal to secure the championship, completing what Tovosia described as “sweet revenge” against their earlier conquerors. The coach also praised the supporters who turned out in numbers for the grand final, describing their presence as an important source of motivation for the players. “Thank you so much to every supporter, relative, and player, including everyone in the team, for coming out in numbers to support us,” he said. “It really means a lot, acting as our 12th man on the field today.” Looking ahead, Tovosia said the club will regroup and prepare for future competitions, with plans to draw on young players from high schools and universities, including the University of the South Pacific (USP) and Solomon Islands National University (SINU). He said upcoming preparations will include trials and squad selection as the team works towards its next challenge. Eastern Frigates defeated East Central FC 2–0 in the grand final to claim the 2026 title, while Duvata FC secured third place after beating Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) FC 3–0 in the third-place playoff. Photo: Supplied For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-10-20 Original ↗

Tandai Highway Streetlight Cable Burned in ‘Suspected Arson’

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has raised concerns over suspected deliberate damage to streetlighting infrastructure along the newly constructed Tandai Highway, west Honiara. The latest incident involved severe fire damage to an underground streetlighting cable at St John School Junction. “The cable is located beside the concrete footpath, on... The post Tandai Highway Streetlight Cable Burned in ‘Suspected Arson’ appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Education · 2026-10-20 Original ↗

Mining company signals continued support for GFA football

BY RICHARD MENANOPO Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) has signalled its intention to maintain its partnership with the Guadalcanal Football Association (GFA), with company representative Benjamin Afuga saying the mining operation expects to continue for another 25 to 30 years. Afuga made the remarks during the prize presentation of the 2026 Guadalcanal Football Champions Cup, where he congratulated the association and its local organising committee for delivering the tournament successfully. On behalf of the company, Afuga thanked GFA for selecting GRML as the competition’s major sponsor and said the company was pleased to support the event. “I would like to assure you that Gold Ridge Mining Limited will operate for the next 25 to 30 years. That means this partnership will continue for those remaining years,” Afuga said. His statement provided a forward-looking message for the association as it seeks continued support for football competitions and player development in Guadalcanal. Afuga also acknowledged the nine participating teams, their coaches, managers and players, commending their performances throughout the two-week competition. He encouraged the football community to continue supporting GFA, the local organising committee, sponsors and players to help sustain sponsorship opportunities for future tournaments. “I encourage everyone to continue supporting GFA, the local organising committee, other sponsors, and our players so that we can have this kind of sponsorship in the future,” he said. The tournament concluded with Eastern Frigates FC defeating East Central FC 2–0 in the grand final, while Duvata FC finished third after a 3–0 victory over GRML FC. The competition brought together nine teams and was supported by GRML as the major sponsor; alongside other partners acknowledged during the closing ceremony. For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-10-20 Original ↗

Solomon Islands faces growing water shortages amid low rainfall

BY DOUGLAS VAHIA The Solomon Islands Meteorology Service (SIMS) has issued a meteorological drought warning for all provinces amid growing concerns over low rainfall and water shortages across the country. The warning was announced during a press conference held at the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) yesterday. The press conference was attended by Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM), Mr David Hiriasia, SIMS Director Mr Alick Haruhiru, NDMO Director Mr Jonathan Tafiariki and Mr Jack Kaobata of the Water Resources Division. SIMS Director Mr Haruhiru said the country is experiencing rainfall deficiencies, with forecasts indicating that below-normal rainfall would continue through October and November. He said SIMS declared an El Niño condition for Solomon Islands on June 17, 2026, and current forecasts indicate that it is likely to strengthen and continue until at least the end of this year. Mr Haruhiru explained that El Niño is generally associated with reduced rainfall, which could affect water supplies, agriculture, health and other important sectors. He said rainfall records from June to August showed mixed conditions across the country’s meteorological stations, with some areas recording below-normal, near-normal and above-normal rainfall. However, rainfall assessments for August and September showed significant deficiencies, prompting SIMS to issue the drought warning under the National Drought Plan. The service’s rainfall analysis showed that rainfall levels had fallen within the 10th to 30th percentiles, indicating drier-than-normal conditions. The rainfall outlook for November also points to continued rainfall deficiencies. NDMO Director Mr Tafiariki said several provinces had already reported water shortages, with communities facing challenges in accessing sufficient water. He said the reports received by NDMO were mainly related to water shortages, raising concerns about the effects of prolonged low rainfall on communities across the country. SIMS warned that people who depend on rainwater harvesting and boreholes as their main water sources could be among those most affected. Communities with access to major rivers may experience less impact, depending on local conditions. The service said the effects of the drought would vary between provinces and communities, depending on their water sources and other local circumstances. SIMS will continue monitoring rainfall conditions and provide monthly updates to keep the public informed about the developing situation. A drought warning bulletin is expected to provide further information to support national preparedness and appropriate action at community level. With El Niño forecast to strengthen during the final months of 2026, the public is encouraged to remain alert and prepare for possible water shortages. The warning highlights the importance of early preparation as the country faces the possibility of continued below-normal rainfall in the coming months. Photo credit: Douglas Vahia For feedback, contact: diivee56@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Infrastructure · 2026-10-20 Original ↗

Pacific flags at Rugby League World Cup celebrate more than sport, lecturer says

Dr Caleb Panapa Marsters of the University of Auckland said the Pacific flags flying across Auckland during the Rugby League World Cup show the ties diaspora communities keep with their homelands, and singled out Papua New Guinea's passion for the game.

Solomon Times Sports · 2026-10-20 Original ↗

Malaita woman is the voice of the world hit 'Sweet Lullaby'. A new film finds her family and Deep Forest names her

The voice in Deep Forest's 1992 hit Sweet Lullaby is Afunakwa, a Baegu woman from Malaita, singing a lullaby about two orphans. A new film has found her family, who say none of the money reached them. In October the band began to name her.

Solomon Times Environment & Climate · 2026-10-20 Original ↗

Solomon Islands data storyteller wins prize for cyclone visualisation

所罗门群岛数据讲述者因气旋可视化获奖

SIBC Disasters & Weather · 2026-10-19 Original ↗

East Kwaio people return home with hopes to find gold

BY RODRICK DESURI AUKI A large number of people from East Kwaio living in Honiara and other provinces are reportedly returning home following the circulation of viral videos and social media posts about a possible gold discovery in East Kwaio, Malaita Province. The videos and posts, which went viral earlier this month, have attracted people originally from East Kwaio, as well as those with family connections to the area. Many are returning with hopes of participating in gold digging and earning money to support their families and meet their basic household needs. A source from Sifilo, who requested anonymity, said about 100 people, including men, women and children, had arrived in the area, with some joining the gold-digging activities. The source said most of those returning were based in Honiara and were hoping to find opportunities through gold digging. “Many people have returned here. They have all come back with the hope of digging for gold and selling it,” the source said. “Most of them are from East Kwaio, while others have married into families connected to East Kwaio,” the source added. Despite the growing interest, the gold discovery has yet to be officially verified by the relevant authorities. However, residents are reportedly continuing to pursue gold-digging activities. This paper spoke with several people from East Kwaio, some of whom claimed that gold had been found in the area. One source, who also requested anonymity, claimed that some people had taken mineral samples to Honiara and sold them to a Chinese company. “My in-law is the latest person to sell what he believes is gold in Honiara and has just returned home. He received $15,000 in cash from his first sale,” the source said. “This has confirmed to us that this is real gold,” the source added. However, the reported sale and payment have not been independently verified, and the transaction does not by itself establish the identity or commercial value of the mineral. The source also said gold-digging activities had temporarily been put on hold while residents worked to settle land boundaries in the area where the gold was reportedly found. The move is intended to prevent potential land disputes in the future. According to the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE), there is no official confirmed existence of a commercially viable gold deposit in Malaita Province. In June 2023, the Malaita Technical Institute (TIM) reported that alluvial gold samples had been discovered by a local house builder in West Kwara’ae. The samples were reportedly tested locally before being sent to the Geology Office in Honiara for further verification. At the time, the ministry indicated that it was too early to make an official announcement confirming a gold discovery. As interest in the reported gold discovery in East Kwaio continues to grow, official verification will be important in establishing the nature of the mineral and whether it represents a commercially viable deposit. For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-10-19 Original ↗

Premier Asilau’a urges SSEC to remain strong in faith, united and courageous

BY RODRICK DESURI AUKI Malaita Province Premier Elijah Asilau’a has encouraged members of the South Sea Evangelical Church (SSEC) in Malaita and elsewhere to remain strong in faith, united in purpose, courageous in truth, and faithful to their calling. He made the call during the official opening of the SSEC Biennial General Conference at Kilusakwalo, Malaita Province, on Sunday, October 18, 2026. He said the conference theme is timely and significant, particularly given the challenges facing communities today. Asilau’a said courage is essential for the Church to strengthen its commitment to guiding and serving people, especially during difficult times. “My encouragement to SSEC is this: remain strong in faith, united in purpose, courageous in truth, and faithful to your calling. “The Church needs courage to preach the Word of God faithfully, to stand for truth, to defend righteousness, to strengthen families, and to guide our young people,” he said. He added that the Church must remain faithful even when its message is unpopular, challenges arise, and doing what is right becomes difficult. Asilau’a also referred to bible verse, Joshua 1:9. “Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” He said the verse carries a clear message that leadership requires courage, faith, and a willingness to fulfil responsibilities, even when the road ahead is difficult. The Premier encouraged church leaders and elders to take their responsibilities seriously as they serve their congregations and communities. “As church leaders, you carry the responsibility of shepherding God’s people. Like political leaders, we carry the responsibility of governing and serving our communities. “Our responsibilities may be different, but both require wisdom, integrity, humility, and accountability,” he said. For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Infrastructure · 2026-10-19 Original ↗

MUPG MPAs undergo induction workshop in Kirakira

BY CHARLES STENNETT Provincial members of the Makira Ulawa Provincial Government (MUPG), are currently undergoing a two-week induction workshop in Kirakira that started this morning. Organised by the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS), the workshop will cover many areas in relation to the Provincial Government Act, (PGA) and was opened by Stephen Kumi, Minister for Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD). A statement from the MUPG social media said the two-week program will cover the following key issues; – Revised Provincial Government PGA 1997. -Revised PGA Assembly Standing Orders. -PGSP governance arrangements and roles and responsibilities of special duties. -Project Engineering Implementation and their associated challenges. -Financial instruction procurement processes and procedures. -Revenue mobilisation strategies for MUPG. -Discussions on Ward Development Committee and participatory planning. Other areas of discussion include the provincial recurrent budgeting guidelines and presentations from the Leadership Code Commission and Ombudsman on procedures on Provincial Public Accounts Committees to ensure public transparency and oversight. MUPG hopes that the induction workshop will equip all the provincial members to ensure effective local governance, legal compliance, and rural development in their respective wards and for them to be effective provincial state legislators and agents for positive change. Photo credit: MUPG For feedback, contact: charsstennett@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Education · 2026-10-19 Original ↗

Potakana appointed as new P.S of Western Province

BY BEN BILUA Gizo WESTERN Province has welcomed Collin Potakana as its new Provincial Secretary following his official appointment by the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) last week. Premier Billy Veo announced the appointment when he spoke to the media today. He confirmed that the Western Provincial Government had acknowledged and welcomed Potakana’s appointment. “I’m happy to announce that Collin Potakana is our new Provincial Secretary,” Mr Veo said. Potakana previously served as Deputy Provincial Secretary before his appointment to the senior administrative role. Speaking to Island Sun, Potakana said he is honoured and humbled by the trust and confidence placed in him to serve as Provincial Secretary. He said he accepted the responsibility with a strong commitment to leadership, integrity, accountability and service to Western Province and its people. “My priority is to work closely with the Premier, Provincial Executive, Assembly Members, Provincial Administration, development partners, and all stakeholders to strengthen governance, improve service delivery, and support sustainable development across our province,” Potakana said. He said he aims to build a professional, transparent and results-oriented administration that addresses the needs and aspirations of communities across the province. Potakana calls for greater partnership, teamwork and mutual respect to build a stronger, more resilient and prosperous Western Province for current and future generations. He acknowledged those who had supported and encouraged him, including those who had offered prayers following his appointment. “I look forward to serving the people of Western Province with dedication, humility, and excellence,” he said. His appointment places him at the head of the provincial administration, where he will work with the provincial political leadership, administration and other stakeholders to advance the province’s development priorities and improve services for its people. For feedback, contact: maetuana777@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-10-19 Original ↗

Gizo hardest hit by El Niño: Veo

BY BEN BILUA Gizo THE Premier of Western Province, Billy Veo, has described Gizo town as the hardest-hit area in the province by the current El Niño-related dry conditions, with water supplies running out and residents relying on bottled and other commercially manufactured water for drinking and cooking. Speaking to the media, Veo said the situation had placed pressure on residents as access to water continued to deteriorate. He said his office has summoned the Western Province’s Disaster Operation Committee last week to look into issue. Veo said one of the immediate actions passed during the meeting is to request two additional water trucks and ten 3000 litres water tanks from the national government to support water distribution across Gizo town. He said the water tanks will be distributed to parts of Gizo town that badly needs water. “Plan is for the water trucks to refill the tanks in a scheduled time so that people can access water,” he added. Veo said the request is part of the immediate measures his government is pursuing to help residents cope with the water shortage. “Currently we have only one water truck that is functioning. The other one needs repair, so we are requesting for additional two water trucks from the national government,” he said. Veo said improving access to water remains a priority for his government, particularly as the town continues to experience the effects of the prolonged dry conditions. He also said efforts are also underway to fast-track the long-awaited Gizo Water Project, which aims to improve water access for households across the town. According to Veo, a team of experts is expected to arrive in Gizo this month to undertake further drilling and other groundwork as part of efforts to develop a reliable water supply system. “We have three groups that already do the drilling and now this team will continue with the drilling. I trust this team because they are from the Ministry of Mines and Energy and South Pacific Community,” he said. Veo said the involvement of the technical team is an important step towards advancing the project and addressing the town’s ongoing water challenges. He assured residents that the provincial government is working hard to improve water access and address the immediate needs of communities affected by the dry conditions. Veo said the Gizo Water Project is part of his government’s long term plan to address water issue in Gizo. Meanwhile, the request for additional water trucks and the planned continuation of drilling are among the measures being pursued to ease the pressure on Gizo residents as the province responds to the El Niño-related water shortage. For feedback, contact: maetuana777@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Disasters & Weather · 2026-10-19 Original ↗

Solomon Islands government deploys emergency drought relief and water security mission to Rennell and Bellona Province

所罗门群岛政府向伦内尔和贝洛纳省派遣紧急干旱救助和水安全任务

SIBC Disasters & Weather · 2026-10-19 Original ↗

GREAT government pledges support for churches and community programmes

大政府承诺支持教会和社区项目

SIBC Religion · 2026-10-19 Original ↗

Soka Community launches fisheries management plan

索卡社区启动渔业管理计划

SIBC General News · 2026-10-19 Original ↗