BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Outgoing Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) President Ofani Eremae has called for industry-wide unity, digital innovation, and cost-sharing strategies to secure the long-term viability of independent journalism in the country.
Delivering his final President’s Report at the MASI Annual General Meeting (AGM) over the weekend, Eremae confirmed he would not seek re-election, closing a two-year tenure heavily focused on local newsroom capacity-building and financial sustainability.
Eremae addressed the meeting amid ongoing economic pressures, rapid digital shifts, and emerging threats from misinformation, detailing the extensive training programs executed during his term and outlining crucial survival strategies for the local press.
The outgoing president said media sustainability must be treated as a collective industry priority rather than leaving individual news outlets to struggle alone.
He revealed that MASI has been collaborating with development partners, donors, the government, and the private sector to explore funding avenues beyond traditional advertising models to address severe financial and operational hurdles.
“This includes helping media organisations identify new revenue streams, develop digital business models, strengthen audience engagement, explore commercial partnerships and make better use of the opportunities offered by online platforms,” Eremae said.
He further urged local media executives to pursue greater collaboration, including cost-sharing and resource-sharing arrangements, to reduce overhead expenses without compromising individual editorial independence.
Detailing the association’s activities over the 2025–2026 reporting period, Eremae highlighted a series of fourteen core training initiatives aimed at upgrading professional standards and newsroom leadership.
Under the Building Voices for Accountability (BVA) Project funded by Internews, MASI conducted specialized Training of Trainers and In-House Accountability Journalism sessions.
He said Media practitioners also took part in interview skills workshops and rural stringer development programs funded by BBC Media Action to broaden national coverage.
He adds the technical upgrades included radio production training for local broadcasters and an intensive television news-gathering course led by Fiji Broadcasting Corporation Senior Multimedia Journalist Apenisa Waiqaira.
“To combat regional misinformation, Island Sun Chief Editor Irwin Angiki and SIBC’s Fredrick Kusu facilitated a localized Verification and Fact-Checking Workshop following their completion of advanced training in Suva, Fiji,” he said.
Eremae also acknowledged ongoing international support, noting that four local journalists from the Island Sun, Tavuli News, and SIBC are currently in New Zealand on year-long academic scholarships through the New Zealand High Commission, with all four expected to return by the end of the year.
He expressed gratitude for targeted funding from the Australian, British, and Chinese governments, which supported various local training, climate change reporting workshops, and study travel opportunities.
Concluding his address, Eremae reminded the association that the duty of building a resilient media body does not rest on the executive leadership alone, calling on the entire membership to take collective responsibility for the future of the industry.
He challenged media professionals to remain steadfast, protect ethical benchmarks, and continue defending the public interest as a critical democratic pillar.
“The people of this country need a media that can inform them, question those in authority, expose wrongdoing and give a voice to communities whose concerns might otherwise go unheard. That responsibility is too important for any of us to carry alone. We must carry it together,” Eremae said.
[Outgoing MASI President Ofani Eremae delivering his final President’s report at the MASI Annual General Meeting (AGM) over the weekend.]
BY TONY IROGA
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has issued a strong wind warning for waters across several provinces as a persistent southeast trade wind flow continues to affect the country.
Issued at 7:00 AM today, Sunday, October 18, 2026, Strong Wind Warning Number Twenty covers the coastal and open waters of Temotu, Makira, Rennell/Bellona, Malaita, and Guadalcanal provinces.
According to SIMS statement forecasters, southerly winds are expected to reach speeds of 15 to 25 knots over the affected marine areas, accompanied by moderate to rough seas and moderate southeast swells ranging between 2.5 and 3.0 meters.
Weather officials also warned mariners and coastal residents to expect poor visibility in areas experiencing heavy showers and thunderstorms.
“People in those areas should take precautionary measures as such strong winds have the potential to impact lives and properties,” SIMS said.
Sea travellers’ particularly operators of small boats, are strongly urged to exercise caution and prioritize safety before heading out, as rough conditions can produce hazardous wave movements.
Authorities have also requested public cooperation in sharing the safety advisory with vulnerable members of the community, including people with disabilities.
SIMS confirmed that the next update, Strong Wind Warning Number Twenty-One, will be issued at 4pm this afternoon.
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Defending champions East Central FC are set to face Eastern Frigates in the highly anticipated Grand Final of the 2026 Guadalcanal Football Championship tomorrow.
The tournament’s ultimate showdown has been locked in following days of intense pool stages and knockout battles at the at Lawson Tama Stadium.
The final will take place on Monday, 19 October 2026, at Lawson Tama Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 3:00 PM.
A total of nine teams participated in this year’s tournament, featuring eight constituency teams representing Guadalcanal alongside one invitational team from Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML).
Both finalists have fought through this fierce field of provincial talent to earn their place in the championship match.
East Central FC entered the competition with the heavy responsibility of defending their provincial crown, proving their championship pedigree by defeating the tough GRML invitational side 1-0 in the semi-finals to keep their title defence alive.
Meanwhile, Eastern Frigates booked their grand final ticket after edging out Duvata FC in a gruelling 1–0 semi-final thriller.
The final sets up a massive rematch of the opening day of the tournament, where East Central originally defeated the Frigates 4–2 in an action-packed Pool A encounter.
The Guadalcanal Football Association (GFA) has called on football fans from across the province to turn out in large numbers, wear their team colours, and support the final two clubs fighting for provincial supremacy.
BY JOSES SAREN
For Junior Kalita, graduating from Selwyn College National Secondary School is more than an academic achievement. It is a milestone shaped by childhood loss, his mother’s sacrifices and his determination to continue his education despite hardship.
The Form Six Arts student reached graduation without his mother beside him, after financial difficulties prevented her from attending the ceremony. His achievement carries particular significance because his father died when he was still a young child, leaving his mother to raise him alone.
Junior, from Ha’a village in Central Province, said his journey to graduation had been filled with challenges, sacrifice and valuable lessons.
“Reaching this important milestone was not easy, but I kept going,” he said.
Growing up without his father presented challenges, but Junior continued to pursue his education with determination. His mother’s efforts to raise him have been an important part of his journey, even though financial hardship meant she could not be present to witness his graduation.
For Junior, completing Form Six represents the result of perseverance through difficult circumstances and a step towards building a better future.
His experience also reflects the challenges faced by students whose families struggle financially while trying to support their children’s education.
Junior belongs to Noabu B, Table Four, at Selwyn College. Noabu is one of the college’s four divisions and is divided into Noabu A and Noabu B.
Despite the difficulties he has faced, Junior remains hopeful that education will open opportunities for further studies, employment and greater independence.
He also hopes to build a future in which he can support his family, recognising the sacrifices made by his mother throughout his upbringing.
Although his mother could not attend the graduation ceremony, Junior’s achievement stands as an important milestone for both of them.
His story is a reminder that behind every graduation is a personal journey, and for some students, reaching the finish line means overcoming challenges that extend far beyond the classroom.
[Junior Kalita holding his certificate alone during the graduation. Photo credit: Adam Pitakaka]
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Georgina Maka’a of In-Depth Solomons is the new president of Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) with Island Sun Chief Editor Irwin Angiki was elected as the Vice President following MASI’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) over the weekend at the Heritage Park Hotel.
During the election, MASI members also bid farewell to outgoing MASI President Ofani Eremae, Vice President Lynda Wate Seni, and a board member Eddie Osifelo.
Following the election results on Saturday, MASI welcomed four new board members, including the President, the Vice President, and newly elected board member Andrew Fanasia.
The executive board now consists of seven members, including Ednal Palmer of In-Depth Solomons, Chrisnrita Aumanu – Leong of ABC, Ned Gagahe of Island Sun, Ruthina Koroa, and Andrew Fanasia.
Speaking at the event, the newly elected MASI President, Ms. Maka’a, assured members of her dedication to serving the association.
“Thank you for trusting me to take up this role. On behalf of myself and the board, I would like to thank the outgoing President, Vice President, and board member Eddie Osifelo. Thank you so much for your contributions to MASI. I did not expect this, but I hope for us to work together to grow our media industry.
“As we are witnessing, the media industry needs us to work together, especially as we see many of our senior journalists leaving mainstream media. Let’s work together to find ways to grow and strengthen the media industry in the Solomon Islands,” Ms. Maka’a added.
Outgoing President Ofani Eremae, when delivering his remarks, called on MASI members to remain steadfast in their duties.
“As we turn the page and look forward to a new chapter and new leadership, I urge each and every one of you to remain steadfast in your duties, uphold ethical standards, and serve our industry and country with dignity, pride, integrity, and dedication. A free, vibrant, and responsible media remains a vital pillar of our democracy and society,” Eremae said.
The newly elected MASI Board. (Front row, L-R): Ruthina Koroa, President Georgina Maka’a, and Chrisnrita. (Back row, L-R): Ned Gagahe, Andrew Fanasia, and Ednal Palmer— Photo: Douglas Vahia
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
THE Development Bank of Solomon Islands (DBSI) has launched a new digital banking and lending system aimed at improving efficiency, strengthening loan management and delivering better services to customers across the country.
A statement from DBSI said, the new system was officially launched on October 5, 2026, by Acting Chief Executive Officer Stanley Peter Havae, in the presence of board members, management, United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) country representative Zoe Victoria Tate and representatives from Finlectra Technologies.
The system includes Finlectra’s Core Banking System and Loan Origination, Management and Collection Solution, which will support the bank’s daily operations, including transaction processing, loan administration and financial reporting.
DBSI management, board members, and international partners gather at the headquarters for the live deployment and launching of the new digital banking and lending platform. Photo credit: DBSI
Speaking at the launch, Mr Havae said the new technology would provide a stronger foundation for improving the bank’s operations and customer services.
He said the system would help reduce manual workloads, improve the accuracy of information and enable staff to respond more effectively to customers’ needs.
Mr Havae also highlighted the importance of the upgrade in supporting DBSI’s core mission of assisting local entrepreneurs and farmers who contribute to sustainable development in Solomon Islands.
However, he stressed that the successful use of the new system would depend on the commitment and responsibility of bank staff.
He urged employees to maintain accurate records, follow security procedures, protect customers’ confidential information, continue learning and regularly monitor the system’s performance.
In a statement, Finlectra Head of Implementation Clayton Nyanyiwa and Vice President of Global Delivery Rajesh Jaypal stated that DBSI’s Board and management have a clear vision for the bank’s future.
The executives expressed pride in partnering with DBSI to provide the technology and implementation support required to improve customer services.
Mr Nyanyiwa emphasized that digital transformation makes financial services more convenient and accessible, and confirmed that Finlectra will continue to support DBSI throughout its modernization journey.
As part of its ongoing digital transformation, DBSI plans to introduce mobile application services and internet banking before the end of 2026.
The planned services are expected to provide customers with additional ways to access banking services digitally.
The launch marks an important step in DBSI’s efforts to modernise its operations, strengthen its service delivery and better support individuals, entrepreneurs and farmers throughout Solomon Islands.
(Left to right) DBSI Acting CEO Stanley Peter Havae, Finlectra Head of Implementation Clayton Nyanyiwa, and a DBSI official. Photo credit: DBSI
The University of Auckland says Sir Collin Tukuitonga, co-director of Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa, has spent the past year arguing the Pacific offers solutions on climate and health. He was named President-Elect of the World Obesity Federation in August.
奥克兰大学表示,科林·图库伊通加(Sir Collin Tukuitonga),太平洋健康中心(Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa)共同主任,过去一年一直在争论太平洋地区在气候和健康方面提供解决方案。他于八月被任命为世界肥胖联合会(World Obesity Federation)当选会长。
Independent Leader Peter Shanel Agovaka has joined other political leaders in paying tribute to the late MP David Gina. In a condolence statement, Agovaka extended sympathy to Gina’s wife, children, relatives and constituents on behalf of the Independent Group in Parliament and his office staff. He described Gina’s death as a loss to Parliament and [...]
The post Independent Leader joins tributes to late MP David Gina appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Solomon Islands’ Emma Komasi joins Pacific women in Sydney for training in rugby commentary, mobile journalism and digital storytelling.
The post Emma Komasi joins Pacific women at rugby media training in Sydney appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Marovo Lagoon faces possible risks to marine life as low sea levels linked to El Niño affect parts of Solomon Islands, the meteorological service warns.
The post Low Sea Levels Raise Concerns for Marine Life in Marovo Lagoon appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Helma Sikekolo has delivered the first baby at the newly opened Naha Birthing Centre, as 24-hour low-risk maternity services begin in Honiara.
The post First baby born at new Naha Birthing Centre as round-the-clock services begin appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Health officials say breast cancer screening remains low in Solomon Islands, with just 190 mammograms carried out at NRH in the first half of 2026.
The post Breast cancer screening remains low as Solomon Islands launches awareness campaign appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
The Philippines appoints Johnny Sy as honorary consul to Solomon Islands, with plans to strengthen trade, investment and bilateral cooperation.
The post Philippines Appoints Johnny Sy as Honorary Consul to Solomon Islands appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Ahanga Wharf construction progresses on Bellona Island, with the government earlier setting December 2026 as the revised completion date.
The post Ahanga Wharf Construction Progresses on Bellona Island appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Global climate talks end without agreement on key scientific reports as Pacific climate groups warn that delays could affect the 2028 climate review.
The post IPCC Climate Talks End Without Agreement on Science Reports appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Investigative journalist Georgina Maka'a has been elected MASI president, succeeding Ofani Eremae, with Irwin Angiki named vice president.
The post Georgina Maka’a Elected New MASI President appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
-Malaita youths kick off clean-up campaign ahead of Malaita Provincial Second Appointed Day celebrations
BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
Youths in Malaita Province, together with staff of the Malaita Provincial Government, have kicked off a clean-up campaign around the provincial government office building in Auki yesterday.
Speaking during the launch, Provincial Youth Coordinator Frank Samo said the campaign is being led by young people in the province.
He expressed that this is also an opportunity for them to experience and demonstrate leadership in action.
“Through this clean-up campaign, we are giving our youths an opportunity to demonstrate leadership through action,” he said.
“We want our young people to understand that leadership is not only about holding a position or giving instructions, but leadership is also about taking a broom, collecting rubbish, cleaning public spaces, protecting our environment, and encouraging others to do the right thing,” he added.
The campaign follows its official launch on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, under the theme “Empowering Youth in Partnership and Transformative Development”.
The initiative aims to prepare the province for the Malaita Provincial Second Appointed Day celebrations next month.
The annual event, traditionally held on August 15, was deferred to November 11 this year.
Samo also reminded the youths that true leaders do not wait for others to make their communities better but take the first step themselves.
The campaign highlight the role of young people in promoting environmental cleanliness, community responsibility and active leadership as Malaita Province prepares for its annual Second Appointed Day celebrations.
Photo credit: Rodrick Desuri
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BY TONY IROGA
Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and the North Vella La Vella Constituency (NVC) have teamed up to make higher education accessible right from rural villages.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed yesterday at the Kukum Lecture Theatre Conference Room by SINU Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau and North Vella La Vella MP Mr. Clezy Rore.
SINU in a statement yesterday said the agreement will pave the way for SINU’s Distance and Flexible Learning (DFL) programmes to roll out across the constituency, allowing locals to pursue degrees without leaving their home communities.
Speaking after the signing, Professor Aqorau emphasised that geography should never be a barrier to learning.
He said SINU is committed to bringing education closer to the people, particularly those living in rural and remote communities.
“We want to take education beyond the traditional classroom and bring it into the village, so that people can continue their studies towards a degree while remaining in their communities,” Aqorau said.
He said that widespread smartphone and digital access have opened new doors for remote learning, though affordability and accessibility remain key hurdles that require strong community partnerships.
Under the deal , the Constituency will supply suitable facilities such as classrooms or community spaces for virtual learning and tutorials, alongside logistical backing.
SINU’s Centre for Distance and Flexible Learning (CDFL) will provide a Study Centre Coordinator, internet access, computers, learning materials, technical support, and trained tutors.
Priority will be given to local school leavers and community members to boost lifelong learning and capacity-building.
“Education should not be limited by geography. Through Distance and Flexible Learning, our people can access education, develop their skills and pursue their aspirations while remaining in their communities,” Aqorau said.
Photo credit: SINU
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BY JOY OFASIA
Breast cancer remains the leading cancer affecting women in the Solomon Islands with 128 cases recorded in 2024, according to figures presented by Dr Andrew Soma. Dr Andrew Soma Head of NRH Oncology Unit highlighted this in his presentation at the Cancer Survivors Breakfast at the Heritage Park Hotel this morning.
participants attending the breakfast event
Speaking at the PinkTober Survivors Breakfast, Dr Soma said the growing burden of cancer in the country and called for increased awareness, early detection and timely treatment to improve outcomes for women affected by the disease. “Breast cancer is still the highest in the Solomon Islands,” he said.
Dr Soma said cancer cases had continued to increase over the years, citing data collected by the National Referral Hospital and other major centers. However, he noted that the available figures might not reflect the full picture, particularly in rural communities where access to health services remains a challenge. He said more than 70 per cent of the country’s population lives in rural areas, making it important to expand cancer awareness and screening services beyond Honiara. “All this data, came just from National Referral Hospital, and maybe from other main centers. Not in the rural areas, and we know that 70 plus percent of our population lives in the rural area,” he said.
Dr Andrew Soma Head of NRH Oncology delivering his presentation at the breakfast event
Dr Soma also raised concern about late presentation, revealing that the cancer unit was treating more patients requiring palliative care than those receiving treatment intended to cure the disease. He explained that palliative treatment focuses on relieving pain and improving the comfort of patients whose cancer has advanced, while curative treatment aims to eliminate the disease.
He urged women to seek medical advice early whenever they notice changes in their breasts, stressing that early diagnosis can significantly improve their chances of recovery. “The earlier you come, the better your chance to get cured,” Dr Soma said. He also encouraged women to learn how to examine their breasts and seek information about available screening services, including mammograms.
Dr Soma said breast screening services were available through the hospital’s radiology department and encouraged women to make enquiries about accessing them. Dr Soma called for stronger public education, improved access to screening and better cancer services to help ensure that more patients receive timely diagnosis and treatment.