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★ Mon, 02 Nov 2026 ·HONIARA ·Updated daily

All Updates

All collected updates from verified Solomon Islands sources.

Solomon Islands and Viet Nam Strengthen Bilateral Relations with Appointment of Honorary Consul

所罗门群岛与越南通过任命荣誉领事加强双边关系

SIBC Politics & Government · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

Network issue linked to alleged Telekom cable theft

BY BEN BILUA Gizo POLICE have reportedly arrested several individuals in Munda over the alleged theft of Telekom cables, an incident believed to be linked to disruptions in the telecommunications network in recent weeks. A report reaching Island Sun alleged that the individuals cut Telekom cables and sold them as scrap metal to a local buyer. The matter was reportedly brought to the attention of police, leading to the arrest of the suspects, who were subsequently taken into custody. A source familiar with the incident told this paper that the alleged cable theft was linked to the telecommunications network disruptions experienced over the past weeks. According to the source, the cables contain brush metal which has value in local scrap metal market. The incident has raised concerns about the impact of damage to telecommunications infrastructure on connectivity and communication services in affected communities. The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) in Munda is investigating the incident.

Island Sun Disasters & Weather · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

Isabel provincial government proposes total alcohol ban by 2027

BY DOUGLAS VAHIA The Isabel Provincial Government is actively seeking public feedback on a groundbreaking proposal to completely prohibit the sale and consumption of alcohol across the entire province by 2027. The initiative became a major talking point after an official provincial notice regarding the proposed total alcohol ban quickly went viral on social media. The correspondence, originally dated October 7, 2026, sparked widespread debate and speculation among citizens online. Clarifying the administration’s stance, Isabel Provincial Secretary John Mark Lokumana, speaking to the Island Sun, Mr Lokumana confirmed that the measure is currently an “opinion proposal” designed to gauge public sentiment. He strongly emphasized that no formal legislation or official mandate has been presented to or passed by the Isabel Provincial Assembly yet. “It is just a proposed planning from the Isabel Provincial Government to totally ban alcohol by the whole of next year 2027, but only if it is possible,” PS Mr. Lokumana stated. He explained that the executive body distributed the consultation forms to local villages specifically to gather the consent, thoughts, and minds of community members before taking any binding legal steps. Addressing the online leak, Mr. Lokumana revealed an administrative mishap, noting that letter of notice was written by the province for him official sign it, unfortunately, another individual signed on his behalf. Moving forward, the provincial executive will carefully analyse the feedback collected from rural and urban communities. This grassroots data will ultimately determine if the petition commands enough public support to be drafted into a formal provincial ordinance. [Photo: Isabel Provincial Secretary, John Mark Lokumana. Photo: SIG]

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

Government targets 5,000 labour mobility workers annually

政府每年目标派遣5,000名劳动力流动工人

SIBC Politics & Government · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

‘Very low’ risk to SI following suspected plague death in Russia: WHO Honiara office

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU The World Health Organization (WHO) Country Office in Honiara has confirmed there is insufficient evidence to suggest any public health risk to the Solomon Islands following a suspected pneumonic plague incident in the Russian. The WHO agency issued these reassurances in response to inquiries from the Island Sun, following global headlines regarding the October 2, 2026, death of an employee at the Irkutsk Anti-plaque Research Institute in Siberia. Initial media reports suggested the worker died from suspected pneumonic plague following occupational exposure in a laboratory setting. On 2 October 2026, WHO headquarters became aware through media reports of the death of an employee of the Irkutsk APRI of Siberia and the Far East, Russia. The individual died on 2 October following hospitalization for severe pneumonia on 29 September, according to WHO headquarters. It adds that, on 3 October, 5 October, 6 October and 7 October, WHO contacted the Russian Federation health authorities to verify the information reported by media including a purported second case and in accordance with Articles 9 and 10 of the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR), WHO also asked for further information to assess the potential international public health implications in accordance with Article 6 of the IHR. However, according to officials at the WHO office in Honiara, the WHO headquarters currently labels the international risk of the event as “very low”. WHO office in Honiara adds that based on current data, WHO has identified no evidence of ongoing transmission associated with the event. The WHO office emphasized that it is closely monitoring the situation through established global surveillance and risk assessment mechanisms. The office add that they are continuing to collaborate with national authorities, including the Public Health Emergency Surveillance Unit (PHESU) within the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS). Addressing potential border vulnerabilities, the WHO Honiara office confirmed it has not advised any restrictions on international travel or trade related to the Russian incident. The WHO office said the existing health surveillance and preparedness activities at international ports of entry, such as Henderson International Airport, remain appropriate and should continue as normal. In light of the global assessment, the Honiara office is urging the public in the Solomon Islands to avoid unnecessary alarm or the spread of misinformation. The office advises citizens to rely strictly on official, verified information from trusted national health authorities. Meantime, the WHO headquarters in a statement said the International Health Regulations (IHR) National Focal Point of the Russian Federation confirmed the death but clarified that no case of plague has been officially registered in the Irkutsk Oblast following formal verification requests. It said the Russian authorities reported that laboratory testing of all contacts for high-threat pathogens returned negative results, no biosecurity incidents occurred in the lab, and all monitored contacts have remained entirely asymptomatic. However, the WHO headquarters said that because the exact cause of the fatal illness remains undetermined, further clinical investigations are ongoing. [Workers at Russia’s Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute of Siberia. Photo: Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute of Siberia and Far East/AP]

Island Sun Disasters & Weather · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

Solomon Water launches new WaterCare App, making it easier for customers to stay connected

BY CHARLES STENNETT Solomon Water has launched its new app, the WaterCare App 2.2.4, making it easier for customers to stay connected to their accounts and access their account information from their mobile devices. In a statement, Solomon Water said that existing customers, new applicants, households, businesses, and landlords can apply for customer portal access online and then use the Solomon WaterCare App to keep their account information close at hand. The new WaterCare App 2.2.4 provides customers with benefits such as access water accounts and statements, check account balances and outstanding bills, view latest payments and meter readings and receive water disruption and service notifications. It also said the app also gives information on water leaks directly to Solomon Water, provide help and information through the WaterCare chatbot, updates on notices and other important information and access accounts through the WaterCare App or web portal. Solomon Water said the initiative is part of Solomon Water’s broader modernization strategy to reduce non-revenue water, improve transparency, and keep customers informed with up-to-date information on water disruptions across Honiara, Auki, Tulagi, and Noro. It said the new digital upgrade is expected to reduce long queues at physical offices, improve response times for maintenance issues, enhance communication between Solomon Water and its customers and support more efficient internal operations. Solomon Water is taking this initiative to align with regional trends toward digital service delivery and to demonstrate its commitment to providing more convenient and customer-focused services. Customers are encouraged to download and start using the app, with support available for those who are unfamiliar with digital platforms. Acting Chief Executive Officer Ray Andresen said, “The launch of the new WaterCare App marks a significant step in Solomon Water’s digital transformation and will help keep customers connected with Solomon Water. The initiative demonstrates Solomon Water’s commitment to adding value for its customers by enabling them to manage their own accounts and stay updated with Solomon Water notices and other important information”.

Island Sun Infrastructure · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

PALM scheme inaugural expo set to boost worker opportunities

BY TONY IROGA The Labour Mobility Unit (LMU), in partnership with the Australian High Commission, is gearing up to host the inaugural 2026 Solomon Islands Approved Employers Expo from 20 to 22 this month,2026. A media press briefing was held today at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) to outline the grand preparations for next week’s landmark event. Addressing the media, Supervising Permanent Secretary Hickson George said that the upcoming exposition is designed to cement stronger international partnerships and build absolute employer confidence in the local workforce. The briefing was led by the Supervising Permanent Secretary of the MFAET, Hickson George, with assistance from the Director of LMU, Christina Marau. “The Expo is not a recruitment event,” Mr. George said during his opening remarks. “Rather, it is an opportunity to strengthen relationships, showcase Solomon Islands’ workforce readiness, and build employer confidence in recruiting workers from Solomon Islands through the PALM scheme.” Operating under the theme “Partnership in Growing the PALM Scheme in Solomon Islands,” the landmark event will welcome 25 Australian Approved Employers participating in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme. George said that the initiative directly supports the coalition government’s ambitious objective of deploying 5,000 workers overseas per annum, building on the more than 13,000 Solomon Islanders already mobilized across Australia. He added that the program is fully funded and supported by the Australian Government. George said that the event will feature an official opening ceremony followed by extensive site visits to key training institutions and local businesses operated by returned PALM scheme workers. “Official expo launches on 20 October 2026 at the National Stadium, bringing together approved employers, government representatives, training partners, stakeholders, returned workers, and the media,” he said. Visiting employers will tour key vocational institutions across Honiara to inspect rigorous preparation standards, including: -Pacific Australia Skills (PAS) meat works training -Solomon Islands Professional Driver Training -Hastings Deering forklift training -Don Bosco Technical Institute agriculture training Employers will experience firsthand the long-term domestic economic impact by touring successful local enterprises established by returned workers, featuring a large-scale corn farm, a commercial piggery, and a rural transport service supporting remote communities in Guadalcanal. George said that the comprehensive three-day program aims to demonstrate the exceptional quality, dedication, and readiness of Solomon Islands workers for success in Australia’s labour market. [Photo: Director of LMU, Mrs Christina Marau, Supervising Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hickson George during the media briefing this morning. Photo – Tony Iroga]

Island Sun Infrastructure · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

Timeline and officials confirmed for Koviloko ward 7 by-elections

BY DOUGLAS VAHIA The Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) has officially set Wednesday, December 9, 2026 as the polling date for the upcoming Koviloko Electoral Ward 7 by-election in Isabel Province. The timeline was finalized following an official notice published in the Solomon Islands Gazette on Tuesday, 13 October 2026. The date was formally established by Alfred Lazarus Rimah, the Minister for Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening, acting on the advice of the Electoral Commission. The by-election was called to fill a vacant seat in the Isabel Provincial Assembly following the death of its provincial assembly member the late Obed Neo passed away in July, just three months after he was elected in a by-election. In preparation for the vote, the Commission has designated the DFL Centre in Buala as the official nomination venue. Intending candidates and their nominators must submit their applications in person to the Returning Officer at this location. According to an order signed on October 12, 2026, by Electoral Commission Deputy Chairperson Jeffrey Sade Deve, the nomination window opened yesterday, October 13, and will close promptly on October 28, 2026. Officials emphasized that all paperwork must be completely filled out and submitted before this deadline. Prospective candidates are strongly urged to thoroughly review the Provincial Assemblies and Honiara City Council Electoral Act 2023 and the 2024 Election Regulations before filing. The Electoral Commission is currently ramping up ground operations in partnership with the Isabel Provincial Government and key community leaders to ensure a smooth logistical rollout. Commission authorities stated they are fully committed to delivering an election process that is orderly, transparent, credible, and peaceful. To lead the ground operations, Chief Electoral Officer Jasper Highwood Anisi appointed Mr. Hubert Hilly Odikana as the Returning Officer for Koviloko Ward. Following his appointment, Mr. Odikana named Mrs. Nash Bright Aleziru as the Assistant Returning Officer. Both gazetted appointments took effect on October 13, 2026. Additionally, Mr. Reuben Dotho Jnr has been appointed as the Election Manager to supervise the overall administration. All three officers are stationed at the DFL Building in Buala. All eligible voters in Koviloko Ward 7 are encouraged to note the December 9 election date. Furthermore, the Commission has called on all candidates, political supporters, and members of the public to foster a secure environment and respect the democratic process throughout the campaign period. Voters are advised to closely monitor the Commission’s official communication channels for upcoming announcements regarding voter education, polling station locations, and final election day guidelines. Koviloko Ward 7 will head to the polls for the third time in two years. Late MPA Neo was elected on 16 April 2026 in a by-election to represent Koviloko Ward 7, replacing the former Member of the Provincial Assembly, who had died after being elected in the April 2024 provincial election. [Photo: Mr. Reuben Dotho Jnr has been appointed as the Election Manager to supervise the overall administration. Photo SIEC.]

Island Sun Education · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

FREE EDUCTION: WHAT SOLOMON ISLANDS CAN LEARN FROM CHINA

As Solomon Islands prepares to introduce free education in 2027, China’s nine-year compulsory education system offers lessons in funding, access and educational quality. The post FREE EDUCTION: WHAT SOLOMON ISLANDS CAN LEARN FROM CHINA appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Education · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

Malaita provincial government and transport operators approve standard fares

BY RODRICK DESURI AUKI The Malaita Provincial Government and transport service operators in Auki, Malaita Province, have agreed on a new standard transport fares and destinations for taxi and bus services. The agreement follows a meeting held last week aimed at addressing growing public concerns and frustrations over transport operators allegedly overcharging passengers in Auki Town and surrounding areas. The Malaita Provincial Government announced the agreed and approved fares on Monday this week to inform the public of the new standard charges. According to the announcement, the approved fares are intended to be stable, reasonable and affordable for the traveling public. “The agreement aims to address public concerns about inconsistent fares and overcharging, which have affected residents and passengers traveling within Auki Town and along the North and South Road corridors,” the announcement stated. The approved fare schedule covers 15 destinations for taxi services and three destinations for bus services, including routes to Kilu’ufi, Kilusalarato and Namobauia. Student fares are also included in the bus fare schedule. “The Malaita Provincial Government wishes to inform all taxi owners, taxi drivers, bus operators, conductors and members of the travelling public of the following schedule of taxi and bus fares for transportation services operating from Auki Town to the destinations,” the announcement stated. Approved taxi fares from Auki The approved taxi fares for the listed destinations are as follows: Fasitoro, $25, Sikitae, $20, Kunu Enterprise, $30, LF at Kunu, $40, Rice Farm, $40, Kwaibala and Ambu, $20, Kilu’ufi, $50, Aligegeo $40, Aimela and Copesland, $50, Kilusakwalo and Fiu Bridge, $70, Kwainaketo, $25, Mage $30, Mala Motel, $30, Dukwasi Front Road, $40, Dukwasi Village, $50 Approved bus fares from Auki The approved bus fares for the listed destinations are charged for adult and student rates. Kilu’ufi, adult $4, student $3, Kilusalarato, adult $5 student $4 and Namobauia adult $7, student not specified. The new fare schedule is intended to provide clearer and more consistent transport charges for passengers travelling within Auki Town and along the North and South Road corridors. Passengers, taxi drivers, bus operators and conductors are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the approved fares. [Photo Caption: The public fleets at the Malaita Provincial Car park. Photo – Frank Samo.]

Island Sun Infrastructure · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

Malaita youth launch clean-up campaign in Auki

BY RODRICK DESURI AUKI The Malaita Provincial Youth, in partnership with the Malaita Provincial Government and other stakeholders, launched a clean-up campaign at the Auki Market area this morning. The campaign comes as Malaita Province prepares to celebrate its Second Appointed Day on November 18, 2026. The campaign was launched under the theme, “Empowering Youths in Partnership and Transformative Development.” Speaking at the launch, Malaita Provincial Youth Coordinator Frank Samo said the campaign marked a new chapter in empowering young people and promoting youth development in the province. Photos taken during the launching at Auki Central Market this morning. Photo supplied. Samo said Auki was home to people from all corners of Malaita Province, not only those living in the provincial capital. He stressed that everyone had a responsibility to keep the town clean and look after its environment. He said the theme highlighted three important ideas: youth empowerment, partnership and transformative development. “The launching of the clean-up campaign today is about inspiring a new attitude, building responsible leadership, strengthening partnerships, and empowering our young people to take ownership of the development and future of Auki town,” he said. Samo said Auki, as the provincial capital of Malaita Province, was the centre of provincial administration, business activities, public services, education and community life. Schools also joined the programme to launched the clean-up campaign at the Auki Market area this morning. Photo supplied. “We cannot expect Auki to become a beautiful, clean, healthy, and attractive town if we continue to throw rubbish carelessly, ignore public spaces, misuse drainage systems, and leave the responsibility of cleaning our town to provincial government workers alone,” he said. “A clean city begins with a clean attitude. It begins with our character, our behaviour, our discipline, and our willingness to take responsibility for the environment in which we live,” he added. Samo also called on the Malaita Provincial Government, Auki Town Council, youth organisations, business houses, churches, schools, community leaders and development partners to strengthen their cooperation in keeping Auki clean and promoting environmental responsibility. He said that by combining their efforts, resources, knowledge and skills, stakeholders could achieve their common goal of maintaining a cleaner and healthier town. The launching ceremony was attended by representatives of the Malaita Provincial Government, other stakeholders and young people from Auki and surrounding communities. [Photo Caption: Photos taken during the launching at Auki Central Market this morning. Photo supplied.]

Island Sun Women & Youth · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

‘Long Memory’: Pacific Faces Decades of Global Warming

by Jennifer Dudley-Nicholson of AAP in Brisbane The Pacific Ocean could feel the effects of global warming for centuries after the world reaches net-zero emissions, a study has found, due to its “long memory”. University of Melbourne researchers published the findings late on Tuesday in a peer-reviewed paper that also... The post ‘Long Memory’: Pacific Faces Decades of Global Warming appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Education · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

Moli community witnessing a changing way of life

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU On Moli, life has always been tied to the land and the sea. Families plant gardens, go fishing, and sell what they can to support themselves. But for a community that has relied on these resources for generations, survival is becoming harder. Moli is made up of 15 communities in northwest Choiseul, with more than 3,000 people. Moli Island in the Solomon Islands. Photo credit: John Houanihau. The Catholic mission is based on Moli Island, where most gatherings take place. The primary school and clinic are on the mainland, while the Catholic‐run secondary school is on the island. For Paul Telovae, chairman of the Moli Community Catholic Parish Leaders Committee, the changes are clear. “Life this day is not easy like before. We struggle all the time,” he said. In the past, families relied heavily on gardens. Today, the growing population has placed greater pressure on food supplies. Taro, cassava, and potatoes are still grown, but yields are lower. Moli Fisheries Centre undergoing renovation. Photo credit: John Houanihau. Mr Telovae believes climate change and current El Niño conditions have made things worse. Wild pigs also destroy gardens, forcing families to depend more on rice, but even rice is not enough for 3,000 people. Fishing remains vital. Moli supplies fish daily to Taro township, providing income for many families. But the sea has changed too. Cyclone Maila damaged coastal reefs where food was traditionally collected. “The reef is an important part of everyday life here. When it becomes less productive, families feel the impact,” Telovae said. Still, the community is adapting. A fisheries house is nearing completion, and plans for a Marine Protected Area are underway. Telovae believes conservation could protect resources while creating new income opportunities. Paul Telovae, chairman and secretary of the Moli Community Catholic Parish Leaders Committee. Photo credit: John Houanihau. Education is also evolving. Moli Secondary School currently offers Forms One to Three, but plans are in place to extend to Forms Four, Five, and Six. That would allow students to continue their studies closer to home, easing the burden on parents. The arrival of telecommunications has brought another change. A tower on the mainland now provides mobile and internet access. For students, it means access to information once out of reach. For the wider community, it offers security and connection, especially given Moli’s proximity to the Shortland Islands and Bougainville. Newly installed communications tower at Moli. Photo credit John Houanihau. Development has not erased daily struggles. The mainland clinic serves Moli and nearby communities, but reaching it during bad weather is difficult. With no proper road network, people often walk long footpaths, crossing rivers along the way. At Vanga, a bridge has become essential. During heavy rain, it provides safe passage for students and families. The community is also planning a jetty and ramp to improve sea access, allowing passenger vessels to connect Moli more reliably to Choiseul and beyond. Copra farmers are seeing new opportunities too. With support from the North West Choiseul constituency and CEMA, they can now access larger markets instead of relying only on small local buyers. Moli coastline affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila. Photo credit: John Houanihau. Moli itself has changed in another way. It is no longer home only to families who have lived there for generations. People from Malaita, Shortland Islands, Makira, Tikopia, and other provinces have settled there, many through marriage. Telovae sees this diversity as a strength. There is even a local song about the “new face” of Moli Island, reflecting a community made up of different people, cultures, and backgrounds. Moli today is caught between its past and its future. People still depend on gardens and the sea, but resources are under pressure. At the same time, new schools, communications, fisheries projects, and infrastructure are opening possibilities for the next generation. Moli community health clinic. Photo credit: John Houanihau. For Telovae, development is not about becoming a different place. It is about making life a little easier, having enough food, reaching a clinic, keeping children in school, and earning an income without losing the resources that have sustained the community. “We keep on struggling and pushing in order to survive,” he said. For Moli, change is inevitable. But the land, the sea, and the people remain at the heart of its identity. Bridge providing safer access for students and communities in daily activities. Photo credit: John Houanihau. [Photo: Moli Mainland settlement. Photo John Houanihau.] *Reporting for this story was supported by Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS)

Island Sun Education · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

CEMA supports former nurse sustain family copra legacy in Malaita

BY DOUGLAS VAHIA A 52-year-old retired nurse is helping the local economy in Malaita Province by running his family’s old coconut farm, showing both the big successes and the daily challenges faced by local rural farmers in the country. Rueben Laufilu retired as a nurse from the Ministry of Health and became a full-time copra farmer in year 2010. This year his business received a huge boost by CEMA under the authority’s Farmers First initiative. He now runs a large coconut plantation in Kware, located on the border of West Kwara’ae, where he keeps an old family tradition alive by planting new coconut trees to replace the old ones on the land passed down from his grandfather and father. Even though his farm is doing well, Mr Laufilu confirmed that rural farmers face big problems, especially a severe lack of building materials and basic tools needed to build proper copra dryers. The lack of proper drying tools directly hurts the processing work and makes it hard to get high-quality copra ready for the market before export. However, his business recently received a big boost from the Commodities Export MarketingAuthority (CEMA), which gave out free, high-quality copra bags to growers under its Farmers FirstInitiative. Laufilu noted that this helpful packaging support marks a big improvement from private buyers who in the past made independent farmers pay for all their bags. To ensure the long-term survival of the local sector, Laufilu asked the national government to properly fund CEMA’s offices, especially its main purchasing station in Auki. Steady government funding, he said, would allow the authority to keep supporting farmers and hopefully raise the buying price of copra in the future. [Photo: Rueben Laufilu 52, a retired nurse now a fulltime coconut farmer. Photo supplied.]

Island Sun Health · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

SATSOL and CBSI Sign Agreement to Strengthen Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity

SATSOL and the Central Bank of Solomon Islands have signed a 24-month Service Level Agreement (SLA) for the provision of colocation and dark fibre services to strengthen the Bank’s disaster recovery and business continuity arrangements. Under the agreement, SATSOL will provide colocation services at its data centre located at the cable landing station in Lengakiki, Honiara. The facility will allow CBSI to host relevant IT infrastructure at an alternative location, forming part of the Bank’s disaster recovery arrangements. Colocation is a service that allows an organisation to place its own computer servers, storage equipment and other IT infrastructure in a specialised data centre operated by another service provider. Such facilities are designed to provide a suitable environment for housing critical equipment, including supporting infrastructure such as power, cooling and physical security. For CBSI, the arrangement provides an alternative location for hosting essential infrastructure, helping the Bank prepare for potential disruptions at its main office. SATSOL will also provide a dark fibre service, establishing a dedicated fibre-optic link between its data centre and the CBSI office. This connection will enable the Bank to link systems and transfer data between the two locations, supporting reliable connectivity and the implementation of its disaster recovery arrangements. The agreement marks an important step in strengthening CBSI’s operational resilience by providing telecommunications infrastructure to support the continuity of its critical operations in the event of a disruption. SATSOL Chief Commercial Office r (CCO) Vivian Wickham said the company was privileged to have been given the opportunity to provide the services to CBSI, describing the Bank as an esteemed organisation and a critical player in the country’s economy. “We do have the capabilities on the ground in terms of infrastructure and systems, human resources, and we are 100 per cent sure that we will provide the service to the Bank and its services,” Mr Wickham said. CBSI Deputy Governor Raynold Moveni said the Bank was pleased to engage SATSOL to provide the services, adding that the company had met the Bank’s requirements for third-party service providers. “We have confidence in you. At CBSI, we have rigorous due diligence and fit-and-proper requirements for any third party providing services to the Bank. By selecting you, it means you have passed all the requirements,” Mr Moveni said. The 24-month SLA formalises the partnership between CBSI and SATSOL, providing the telecommunications infrastructure needed to support the Bank’s disaster recovery requirements and strengthen its preparedness for potential operational disruptions.

SBM Business & Economy · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

Parliament seeks public submissions on C-section services at referral hospital

Parliament is seeking public submissions for an inquiry into Caesarean sections, commonly known as C-sections, at the National Referral Hospital (NRH). A C-section is an operation to deliver a baby through a cut in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. It may be planned or carried out as an emergency when complications make it necessary to [...] The post Parliament seeks public submissions on C-section services at referral hospital appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Health · 2026-10-14 Original ↗

China supports Central Kwara’ae with education facilities and $100,000 for road maintenance

BY RODRICK DESURI AUKI The People’s Republic of China (PRC) has supported Central Kwara’ae Constituency in Malaita Province with educational facilities for Busufosae School and $100,000 in funding for road maintenance. The assistance includes a 3.2 kVA hybrid solar power system, desktop computers and internet laboratory equipment for Busufosae School, alongside financial support for road maintenance within the constituency. The support was provided through the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM). In a statement issued by the Central Kwara’ae Constituency Office, Member of Parliament Ricky Fuo’o expressed his gratitude to the People’s Republic of China for its financial assistance towards improving education and road infrastructure in the constituency. The educational facilities are expected to improve access to electricity, internet connectivity and digital learning resources for students and teachers at Busufosae School, where reliable power and internet services have previously been major challenges. “The Central Kwara’ae Constituency Office recognises China’s assistance as a valuable contribution towards improving educational opportunities for rural students and supporting road access for local communities,” the statement said. Excavator for road maintenance in Central Kwara’ae Constituency. Photo supplied. Mr Fuo’o said the $100,000 financial support for road maintenance would be used to deploy constituency road maintenance machinery to undertake rehabilitation works on Fiu Road and Namobaula Road. He said both roads had deteriorated over the years, creating difficulties for communities that depended on them for transportation and access to essential services. “The roads have experienced deterioration over the years, creating difficulties for communities that depend on them for transportation and access to essential services,” he said. The constituency office said maintenance work on the roads would benefit residents living along the routes, particularly farmers who depend on them to transport agricultural produce to Auki market. The improved road access is expected to make it easier for local farmers to transport root crops, vegetables and other agricultural produce to market, supporting rural livelihoods and economic activities within the constituency. The assistance reflects the importance of supporting both education and rural infrastructure to improve opportunities for communities in Central Kwara’ae. [Photo caption: Solar power Installation at Busufosae School. Photo credit: Central Kwara’ae Constituency.]

Island Sun Education · 2026-10-13 Original ↗

Busufosae school acknowledges China for educational support

BY RODRICK DESURI AUKI Busufosae School in Central Kwara’ae, Malaita Province, has acknowledged the People’s Republic of China for its support in providing essential educational equipment to the school. The school received the much-needed equipment through support provided to the Central Kwara’ae Constituency, bringing new opportunities for students and teachers to improve teaching and learning. Chairman of Busufosae School, Mr Joses Anofoa, expressed his gratitude to the Central Kwara’ae Constituency for facilitating the provision of the equipment. He said the assistance would make a significant difference to the school community, particularly students and teachers. “Busufosae School is located in a remote rural area, and it is fortunate to receive this assistance, which will make a significant difference to students and teachers,” he said. Mr Anofoa said students and teachers would now be able to use computers and access internet services directly from the school, creating better opportunities to obtain educational information and improve learning outcomes. Meanwhile, Member of Parliament for Central Kwara’ae Constituency, Ricky Fuo’o, also acknowledged the People’s Republic of China for its support in improving education in the constituency. “Through the Ministry of Environment, China supported the provision of a 3.2 kVA hybrid solar power system, desktop computers and internet laboratory equipment for Busufosae School,” he said. The facilities are expected to improve access to electricity, internet connectivity and digital learning resources for students and teachers. The support is particularly significant for the rural school, where reliable electricity and internet services have previously been major challenges. With the new facilities, Busufosae School is expected to provide students and teachers with improved access to digital educational resources and create better opportunities for learning and teaching. [Photo Caption: Installation of the Solar power systems at the Busufosae School. Photo credit:Central Kwara’ae Constituency.]

Island Sun Education · 2026-10-13 Original ↗

32 SINU staff, students complete sports coaching and administration training under NSC-OSEP partnership

BY RICHARD MENANOPO Thirty-two staff and students from Solomon Islands National University (SINU) have completed sports coaching and administration training, adding to the pool of local personnel equipped to support the development of sport in the country. The National Sports Council (NSC) said in a press release published on October 12 that the participants received certificates at SINU’s Kukum Campus last Friday after completing a week-long programme. The training was delivered through a partnership between NSC, the Oceania Sports Education Program (OSEP) and SINU, with participants undertaking two courses designed to strengthen their practical knowledge of coaching, officiating and community sport development. Of the 32 recipients, 17 completed the Community Coach and Official (CC&O) Certificate course, while 15 received certificates for the Sport in Community (SiC) course. Renee Bisili Maefonea receives her Certificate of Recognition as a Sports in Communities Administrator SINU Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate) Dr. William Parairato. Photo credit NSC Media. The training included interactive learning, group activities and practical discussions aimed at building participants’ capabilities in sports delivery and administration. NSC Education Manager and OSEP Master Educator Atueta Balekana, who represented the council at the certificate presentation, said the next step was for participants to put their training into practice. “These certificates represent an important step in building local capacity in coaching and sports administration. We hope the participants will use their skills to create more opportunities for people, especially young people, to participate in sport,” Balekana said. The emphasis on applying the skills reflects the wider value of sports education, where developing capable coaches and administrators is important to organising activities, supporting athletes and creating opportunities for people to participate. Darlton Hapson receives his Certificate of Recognition as a Sports in Communities from SINU Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate) Dr. William Parairato. Photo credit NSC Media SINU Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate) Dr. William Parairato, highlighted the importance of developing staff capacity in sport and reaffirmed SINU’s commitment to continuing its collaboration with NSC to support sports development in Solomon Islands. The programme was conducted from April 20–24 at Friendship Hall in Honiara under the existing Memorandum of Understanding between NSC, OSEP and SINU. NSC said the partnership would continue working to build local capacity and support coaches, administrators and other sports personnel contributing to the sustainable development of sport across Solomon Islands. [Photo: Participants, facilitators, and NSC officials gather for a group photo holding their certificates following the completion of the sports coaching and administration training program at SINU Kukum Campus. Photo credit: NSC]

Island Sun Education · 2026-10-13 Original ↗

Solomon Islands and Vietnam strengthen ties

BY DOUGLAS VAHIA The Solomon Islands and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam have taken a formal step toward elevating their diplomatic ties following the official designation of Mr Vo Viet Cuong as Viet Nam’s Honorary Consul to Solomon Islands. During a special appointment ceremony held in Honiara on Monday October 12, 2026, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Rick Houenipwela, formally extended his congratulations to Mr. Cuong, a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) said. The Minister acknowledged the deep trust and confidence vested in the new appointee by the Government of Viet Nam to safeguard and promote its national interests within the country. “This appointment further demonstrates the shared commitment of Solomon Islands and Viet Nam to deepening their cooperation in trade, investment, development and people-to-people connections,” Minister Houenipwela said. MFAET said, the bilateral breakthrough marks a significant historical milestone for the two sovereign nations, which first established formal diplomatic ties back in 1996. The new diplomatic framework opens up immediate avenues to broaden bilateral cooperation across several strategic areas of mutual interest. Minister Houenipwela said that Mr. Cuong’s enduring presence in the Honiara community, his extensive background as a local entrepreneur, and his pivotal leadership in founding the Solomon Islands Vietnamese Association make him exceptionally qualified to enhance mutual engagement. “His established networks across government, the private sector and the wider community, together with his understanding of both Vietnamese and Solomon Islands contexts, positions him well to serve as a bridge between our two countries and peoples,” the Foreign Minister said. The formal setup of the permanent Honorary Consul office in the capital will provide a critical, localized point of contact for Vietnamese citizens living in the Solomon Islands while fostering closer ongoing diplomatic communication. The Solomon Islands government anticipates substantial economic growth through this partnership with Viet Nam, which remains a highly influential trading market in the Southeast Asian region. Moving forward, priority sectors for joint developmental cooperation encompass agriculture, aquaculture, commercial fisheries, renewable energy deployment, trade facilitation, and direct investment. Both nations will additionally focus on technical training, professional capacity building, structured cultural exchange programs, and enduring grassroots community connections. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade has affirmed its readiness to collaborate directly with Mr. Cuong’s new office to implement these mutually beneficial economic partnerships while reinforcing the long-standing friendship between the Solomon Islands and Viet Nam. [Minister Rick Houenipwela congradulate Mr Vo Viet Cuong as Viet Nam’s Honorary Consul to Solomon Islands. Photo Credit: MFAET]

Island Sun Infrastructure · 2026-10-13 Original ↗

FAMILIES URGES TO PREPARE FOR DISASTERS

Solomon Islands urges families to prepare for disasters through emergency plans, essential supplies and early warning systems. The Solomon Islands Government is urging families to prepare for disasters by taking simple steps at home to protect lives and reduce damage. Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology Wayne Ghemu delivered the message while [...] The post FAMILIES URGES TO PREPARE FOR DISASTERS appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Disasters & Weather · 2026-10-13 Original ↗

Mass fish deaths raise concern in Dokoso Conservation Area

多科索保护区大量鱼类死亡引发关注

SIBC Environment & Climate · 2026-10-13 Original ↗

Gov’t responds to Konofilia’s video allegations

BY NED GAGAHE The Government has responded to allegations made in a Facebook video by Moffat Konofilia against Prime Minister Matthew Cooper Wale and the Special Secretary to the Prime Minister (SSPM), saying the matter has been reported to police. In a statement today, the government said it had noted the video containing allegations against the Prime Minister and the SSPM and was treating the matter seriously. “The government takes these allegations seriously,” the statement said. It confirmed that a case had already been reported to police concerning Konofilia’s conduct and the allegations he made against the two senior government officials. However, the government said it would refrain from further comment while the matter was being handled by police. “Since the matter is now the subject of a police process, it would be inappropriate to comment further, so as not to prejudice that process while it is ongoing,” the statement said. The government also reminded the public that established legal procedures and competent authorities were available to anyone wishing to raise complaints or pursue allegations of wrongdoing. It said such matters should be addressed through appropriate channels rather than through public accusations on social media. The statement further said that the government reserved its rights, including the possibility of pursuing legal action for defamation where warranted. “The government will allow the appropriate authorities to deal with the matters in accordance with the law and will not be drawn into further public commentary while the process is ongoing,” it said. Konofilia, 49, is awaiting sentencing on Tuesday, October 20, after being convicted of unlawful assembly in connection with the November 2021 Honiara civil unrest.

Island Sun Law & Security · 2026-10-13 Original ↗

Selwyn College honours alumni at inaugural Hall of Fame ceremony

塞尔温学院在首届名人堂仪式上表彰校友

SIBC Education · 2026-10-13 Original ↗