by Georgina Maka’a The Government says a police complaint has been lodged over allegations by Moffat Konofilia that Prime Minister Matthew Wale and his Special Secretary, Celsus Talifilu, were involved in instigating, planning and financing the November 2021 Honiara riots. In a statement, the Prime Minister’s Office said the Government...
The post Gov’t Refers Konofilia to Police Over PM Wale Riot Allegations appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology says its new UmiRedi mobile application brings climate information, disaster alerts and early warnings into one platform.
BY JOSES SAREN
A Government technical team has examined Papua New Guinea’s experience in gold refining, mineral processing and resource management as Solomon Islands prepares to strengthen its own minerals sector legislation.
The team undertook a one-week fact-finding mission to Port Moresby from September 20 to 26, 2026, to study the policy, regulatory, financial and institutional arrangements supporting PNG’s mineral resources sector, a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) said.
Led by Permanent Secretary for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification Dr Chris Vehe, the delegation included senior officials from the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification and the Ministry of Finance and Treasury.
It also included Sam Kaupa, Mineral Sector Advisor to the Prime Minister’s Office, former Finance and Treasury Permanent Secretary Mckinnie Dentana, and Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea William Soaki.
The government said the delegation held discussions with key institutions and industry stakeholders, including the Mineral Resources Authority, Bank of Papua New Guinea, Kumul Minerals Holdings Limited, Italpreziosi South Pacific Limited and the Mineral Resources Development Company.
The discussions covered gold sector development, refining, downstream processing, resource ownership and management, and ways to retain more economic value from mineral resources within the country.
The statement said the team gained insights into how government agencies, state-owned enterprises, financial institutions and private-sector operators contribute to the management and development of PNG’s minerals sector.
The mission comes as Solomon Islands continues work to strengthen the legislative and institutional framework for responsible and sustainable mineral development.
A Mineral Resources Bill is expected to be presented to Parliament soon, providing a legislative foundation for the sector.
OPMC said the findings from the mission could help inform the country’s ongoing policy and legislative development, particularly in assessing opportunities and challenges associated with mineral processing, refining and adding value to resources locally.
The Government thanked the Papua New Guinea Government, institutions and companies that met with the delegation and shared their technical knowledge and experience.
[Photo caption: The SIG technical team and High Commissioner with the Kumul Minerals Holding Ltd (KMHL), Managing Director, Sarimu Kanu (front, centre). Photo credit: OPMC]
Ba striker’s four-goal IDC campaign renews calls for Solomon Kings FC and national team consideration
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands striker John Orobulu has strengthened his case for another national team opportunity after playing a key role in Ba FC’s successful FMF Inter-District Championship (IDC) campaign in Fiji, renewing calls for his consideration by the national team and Solomon Kings FC.
The Fiji-based forward scored four goals during the tournament as Ba claimed the 2026 IDC Super Premier Division title, defeating Navua FC 2-0 in Sunday’s final at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. The victory completed Ba’s clean sweep of Fiji’s four major domestic competitions this season.
According to reports from Oceania Football Center, Orobulu scored twice in Ba’s 3-0 group-stage victory over Nadi on October 8, opening the scoring just 26 seconds into the match before completing his brace in the first half.
He continued his scoring form in the semi-final against Labasa on October 10, putting Ba ahead before the match finished 1-1 after extra time. Ba eventually advanced to the final after winning the penalty shootout.
His performances have renewed discussion among Solomon Islands football supporters following his omission from the national squad for the recent MSG Prime Minister’s Cup in Fiji.
Orobulu’s club record has been impressive. He finished the 2025 Fiji Premier League season as leading scorer with 19 goals in 18 appearances for Rewa before moving to Papua New Guinea’s Hekari United for the inaugural OFC Professional League.
After returning to Fiji with Ba in 2026, he helped the club secure the league title, Fiji FACT and Battle of the Giants before adding the IDC crown to his achievements.
The debate has also extended to Solomon Kings FC, the country’s representative in the OFC Pro League, with supporters calling for the striker to be considered for the club’s 2027 campaign.
Oceania Football Center reported in September that Solomon Islands head coach Ben Cahn had addressed Orobulu’s situation, saying the striker remained under consideration.
“John is on the radar. I watched him closely in the Pro League for Hekari. It’s not my place to comment on past issues,” Cahn was quoted as saying.
Any potential return to the national team or move to Solomon Kings FC would depend on selection assessments, recruitment plans and the player’s circumstances.
For now, Orobulu’s four-goal IDC campaign has provided further evidence of his ability to deliver in front of goal, leaving supporters hopeful that his form will earn him another opportunity to represent Solomon Islands.
[Ba FC striker John Orobulu celebrates with teammates during the 2026 FMF Inter-District Championship in Fiji. His four-goal campaign has renewed calls for his consideration for the Solomon Islands national team and Solomon Kings FC’s 2027 OFC Pro League squad. Photo: Supplied / Oceania Football Center.]
BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS) Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Framework consultation is underway in Auki, Malaita Province, today.
The one-day consultation aims to strengthen understanding of the importance of MEL, particularly its links to the ministry’s priorities and the national development strategy.
According to the consultation overview, participants will discuss current MEL practices within the ministry.
The consultation will also provide an opportunity to understand existing MEL practices, systems and processes within the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and the Correctional Service of Solomon Islands (CSSI).
Participants will identify existing strengths and areas for improvement and assess how MEL information is generated and used to support planning and decision-making.
The consultation will also focus on developing a proposal for a Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Framework.
“This will include identifying appropriate outcomes, indicators, data sources, reporting arrangements, roles and responsibilities, and mechanisms for evaluation and organizational learning,” the overview stated.
Another key objective of the consultation is to identify gaps and challenges affecting the Ministry’s MEL implementation.
“It will help to identify key institutional, technical and operational gaps and challenges affecting MEL implementation, including issues relating to data quality, reporting and coordination,” the overview stated.
The consultation was attended by police officers, correctional services officers, provincial government representatives and other stakeholders.
The consultation is expected to contribute to the development of a more effective MEL framework to support the ministry’s planning, performance monitoring, reporting and decision-making processes.
[Photo: Group photo of the Participants of the MPNSCS MEL Framework Consultation held at Green House conference room. Photo credit: Frank Samo.]
Solomon Islands and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam have taken a significant step in strengthening diplomatic and economic relations following the formal appointment of Mr. Vo Viet Cuong as Viet Nam’s Honorary Consul to Solomon Islands.
The appointment was officially announced during a ceremony held in Honiara on Monday, 13 October 2026, where Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Rick Houenipwela, congratulated Mr. Cuong on behalf of the Government of Solomon Islands.
Minister Houenipwela said the appointment reflects the growing partnership between the two countries and demonstrates a shared commitment to expanding cooperation across trade, investment, development, and people-to-people exchanges.
He described the appointment as an important milestone in bilateral relations, noting that Solomon Islands and Viet Nam have maintained diplomatic ties since 1996. The new role is expected to create fresh opportunities for collaboration in a range of sectors.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Rick Houenipwela, congratulated Mr Vo Viet Cuong as Viet Nam’s Honorary Consul to Solomon Islands
Mr. Cuong, who has lived and worked in Solomon Islands for many years, was recognised for his contribution to the local community, entrepreneurial achievements, and leadership in establishing the Solomon Islands Vietnamese Association. His extensive connections within government, the private sector, and the wider community are expected to help foster stronger engagement between the two nations.
The establishment of the Honorary Consul office in Honiara will provide a direct point of contact for Vietnamese nationals living in Solomon Islands while supporting closer diplomatic, cultural, and economic cooperation.
Solomon Islands has identified several priority areas for future collaboration with Viet Nam, including agriculture, aquaculture, fisheries, renewable energy, trade facilitation, investment, training, capacity building, and cultural exchanges.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade stated it looks forward to working closely with Mr. Cuong and the Honorary Consul office to advance mutually beneficial partnerships and further strengthen the longstanding friendship between Solomon Islands and Viet Nam.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) .
所罗门群岛与越南社会主义共和国在正式任命吴越强(Mr. Vo Viet Cuong)为越南驻所罗门群岛名誉领事后,采取了重要步骤以加强外交和经济关系。
这一任命于2026年10月13日星期一在霍尼亚拉举行的仪式上正式宣布,外交与对外贸易部长里克·霍恩尼普维拉(Hon. Rick Houenipwela)代表所罗门群岛政府祝贺吴越强。
霍恩尼普维拉部长表示,此次任命反映了两国日益增长的伙伴关系,并展示了在贸易、投资、发展和人际交流等领域扩大合作的共同承诺。
他将此次任命描述为双边关系中的一个重要里程碑,并指出自1996年以来,所罗门群岛与越南保持外交关系。新角色预计将为各个领域的合作创造新的机会。
外交与对外贸易部长霍恩尼普维拉(Hon. Rick Houenipwela)祝贺吴越强(Mr. Vo Viet Cuong)被任命为越南驻所罗门群岛名誉领事。
吴越强在所罗门群岛生活和工作多年,因其对当地社区的贡献、创业成就以及在建立所罗门群岛越南协会方面的领导能力而受到认可。他在政府、私营部门和更广泛社区的广泛联系预计将有助于促进两国之间更强的互动。
在霍尼亚拉设立名誉领事办公室将为生活在所罗门群岛的越南公民提供直接的联系点,同时支持更紧密的外交、文化和经济合作。
所罗门群岛已确定与越南未来合作的几个优先领域,包括农业、水产养殖、渔业、可再生能源、贸易便利化、投资、培训、能力建设和文化交流。
外交与对外贸易部表示,期待与吴越强及名誉领事办公室密切合作,以推动互利伙伴关系,进一步加强所罗门群岛与越南之间的长期友谊。
来源:外交与对外贸易部(MFAET)。
BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The Baptist Church has supported Auki Community High School (CHS) with 100 Bibles for its students, in a move expected to strengthen Christian teaching and religious programmes at the school.
Auki CHS Principal Andrew Fuato’o expressed his gratitude to the Baptist Church and Pastor Colton for facilitating and handing over the Bibles yesterday.
He said the Bibles would greatly benefit students and teachers by supporting religious programmes, classroom devotions and general assembly activities.
“Nothing can match this kind of gift when it comes to advancing the Gospel,” he said.
“We want to thank Pastor Colton for doing ministry work. He facilitated the donation of 100 Bibles from a donor in the United States, which include both the Old and New Testaments. Pastor Colton is also doing missionary work, and only God can reward him,” Fuato’o said.
Students of Auki CHS during the handover ceremony yesterday. Photo credit: Andrew Fuato’o.
The Principal also extended his appreciation to the donors in the United States for their generosity and support.
He added that the Bibles would benefit both students and staff by providing valuable resources for the school’s religious activities and Christian teachings.
Background of the Baptist Church
The modern Baptist movement emerged in the early 17th century. John Smyth, an English clergyman who separated from the Church of England, played an important role in its development.
In 1609, Smyth and his followers established a congregation in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, based on the belief that baptism should follow a personal and conscious profession of faith.
In 1612, Thomas Helwys and his followers established an early Baptist congregation in London. Helwys advocated religious liberty and tolerance for people of different religious beliefs, including those outside Christianity.
The Baptist movement expanded significantly over the following centuries, influenced by religious revival movements and missionary activities.
In 1891, the General Baptists and Particular Baptists in England united to form the Baptist Union of Great Britain and Ireland.
Today, Baptist churches are found throughout the world, with a particularly large presence in the United States, where Baptists represent one of the country’s major Christian traditions.
[Photo: Pastor Colton handover the Bibles to the Principal of Auki CHS yesterday. Photo credit: Andrew Fuato’o.]
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has issued a severe weather alert as southeast trade wind flow sweeps across the country.
Strong Wind Warning Number Ten was issued at 7:00am this morning, putting communities and mariners on high alert.
The SIMS said that southerly winds are surging between 15 and 25 knots. The system is generating treacherous marine conditions, with waves and southeast swells expected to reach peaks of 2.5 to 3.0 meters.
SIMS also warn that heavy rain showers and thunderstorms will cause poor visibility across affected waters.
The weather warning encompasses a vast portion of the nation’s maritime zones, including Temotu, Makira, Rennell/Bellona, Malaita, Guadalcanal, Central Province, East and Central Isabel, and the southern waters of the Western Province.
Disaster management and weather officials are strongly urging small boat operators and sea travelers to suspend travel plans.
The combination of rough seas, high swells, and sudden thunderstorms creates hazardous wave conditions that can easily capsize small vessels.
Residents in coastal and impacted provincial areas are advised to secure properties and take immediate precautionary measures to protect lives and infrastructure.
SIMS has made a special appeal to the public to ensure this safety information is shared directly with people with disabilities within their communities.
Authorities will continue to monitor the trade wind flow, with the next official weather bulletin scheduled for release at 4:00pm today.
by Ben McKay of AAP in Hobart, Tasmania Australia’s recently agreed treaty with Vanuatu will step up policing partnerships but not stop foreign military from setting up shop as domestic law already forbids it. The Nakamal Agreement, signed by leaders Anthony Albanese and Jotham Napat in Port Vila in June,...
The post Pacific Partner Pact Boosts Police, Not Military Ties appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
由 Ben McKay 报道,来自澳大利亚霍巴特,塔斯马尼亚
澳大利亚与瓦努阿图最近达成的条约将加强警务合作,但不会阻止外国军队在国内设立基地,因为现行法律已禁止此类行为。纳卡马尔协议于6月在维拉港由领导人安东尼·阿尔巴尼斯(Anthony Albanese)和约瑟夫·纳帕特(Jotham Napat)签署,......
该文章最初发表于 In-depth Solomons。
Isabel teachers introduced to game-based learning to make school Physical Education more practical, engaging and student-centred
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Physical Education teachers in Isabel Province are being introduced to new teaching approaches designed to make school sport more practical, engaging and focused on student learning.
The National Sports Council (NSC), in a press release published on its official website yesterday, said a Physical Education and Oceania Sports Education Program (OSEP) workshop was delivered in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) and Solomon Islands National University (SINU) in Buala from October 2–4.
Students participate in modified game activities while teachers observe and practice applying Game Sense teaching approaches on the field. Photo credit NSC.
The workshop brought together 16 Physical Education teachers, sports masters and community coaches from schools across the province, with training centred on game-based, tactical and Game Sense teaching approaches.
These methods encourage students to learn by actively participating in games, making decisions and solving problems, while developing their understanding of tactics alongside physical skills.
Rather than focusing solely on traditional instruction, the approaches place greater emphasis on students understanding how and why particular skills and tactics are used during play.
Participants gather on the field in a circle for debriefing and feedback following a practical exercise on game adaptation and decision-making. Photo credit NSC.
NSC said participants explored how the methods could be incorporated into the existing Junior Secondary Physical Education syllabus for Years 7 and 9, while ensuring lesson planning, teaching activities and assessment aligned with Solomon Islands’ Outcome-Based Education (OBE) curriculum.
During practical sessions, teachers worked in groups to develop lesson plans and adapt games to encourage participation, skill development and decision-making.
The training also examined how teachers could use questions and feedback to encourage students to reflect on their performance and improve their understanding of the games they play.
The facilitation team comprised David Houpere, SINU lecturer for Sport and Physical Education and lead facilitator; Carlson Hagemana, OSEP educator and NSC Provincial Sports and Recreational Supervisor; and Dexter Nebolo and Wilson Domi, principal education officers from MEHRD.
PE teachers and sports masters attend a classroom lecture on integrating new tactical teaching methods into the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) curriculum. Photo credit NSC.
According to NSC, participants’ reflections indicated improved understanding of game-centred teaching methods and how syllabus content could be adapted into practical lessons. Teachers also gained experience modifying activities for different age groups and skill levels.
The workshop included age-appropriate activities and resources developed through the Shandong Primary Physical Education initiative, with an emphasis on adapting activities to suit students’ abilities and the resources available at their schools.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts by NSC, MEHRD and SINU to strengthen Physical Education and community sport across the provinces. Continued mentoring and professional support have been recommended to help teachers apply the methods in their classrooms and provide students with more meaningful opportunities to participate in physical activity and sport.
[Photo: Participants and facilitators pose together during a practical outdoor session focused on student-centred Physical Education delivery. Photo credit NSC]
BY TONY IROGA
The Office of the Opposition has expressed deep sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences following the passing of the late William Bradford Marau, member of Parliament for Ulawa/Ugi Constituency.
In an official statement yesterday, Leader of Opposition Manasseh Sogavare paid tribute to the late MP’s extensive contributions to national politics and his home community.
“On behalf of the Official Opposition, I extend our deepest condolences to the family of the late Mr. William Bradford Marau and to the people of Ulawa/Ugi on his passing,” Sogavare said.
Highlighting a distinguished career in public service, the Opposition said that the late Marau served in the National Parliament for three consecutive terms starting in 2014.
“During his tenure, he held several key ministerial portfolios, including Minister for Justice and Legal Affairs, Minister for Lands, Housing and Survey, and Minister for Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration.
“Beyond his national parliamentary duties, Marau was widely respected as a traditional chief and community leader on Ulawa Island.
“His years of public service reflected his contribution to the people he represented and to our nation,” the statement said, adding that his passing is a profound loss to his wife, children, extended family, and all who worked alongside him.
Offering words of comfort during this time of mourning, the Opposition referenced scripture: “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” Philippians 4:7.
“May God give his family and all those mourning his passing strength and comfort during this difficult time.
May the soul of the late Mr. William Bradford Marau rest in eternal peace,” the Opposition said.
[Late William Bradford Marau, MP for Ulawa/Ugi Constituency. Photo supplied]
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Far away in the southern Solomon Islands lies Bellona, a beautiful island surrounded by bright sandy beaches and a rich cultural heritage.
But behind the beauty is a community facing a serious challenge – access to basic health services.
At Nuku Clinic in West Bellona, one nurse is doing his best to care for the island’s people despite limited space, shortages of medicines, poor facilities and the difficulty of travelling between Bellona and Honiara.
RN Nurse, Tamua Mau’eha, at the Nuku Clinic. Photos credit – Douglas Vahia.
For Tamua Mau’eha, 46, a registered nurse at Nuku Clinic, serving the people of Bellona is both a responsibility and a daily challenge.
Mr Mau’eha is from Tangakitonga village in West Bellona and has worked at the clinic for about three years.
Nuku Clinic is classified as a Rural Health Clinic, which means its services and facilities are limited compared with larger health facilities elsewhere.
But for Bellona, the clinic is extremely important.
It is the only medical facility serving the island.
‘The distance is a big challenge’
For nurse Mau’eha, geography is one of the biggest problems.
Bellona is far from Honiara, where medicines and other medical supplies come from.
When the clinic runs short of drugs or needs advice from health authorities, communication with Honiara can be difficult.
“The geographical location is a big challenge because we are far from Honiara, where the suppliers of medicines are,” Mau’eha said.
Transportation is another major concern.
“Transportation is also a major challenge I face here. Medical services transportation is very important,” he said.
For the nurse, being the only staff member at the clinic also creates a heavy workload.
Everything has to be done by one person.
“It is tiring. Everything has to be done by myself. It is a big workload,” he said.
A clinic without enough space
The problems do not end with staffing and medicine.
The clinic itself is too small.
Inside Nuku Clinic Sink. Photo credit: Douglas Vahia.
Mau’eha said there is not enough space to properly accommodate patients, while storage facilities are also lacking.
There is no proper bed or dedicated space for patients who need to be admitted.
There is also no proper facility for childbirth.
In some cases, deliveries have to take place at the homes of pregnant women.
“Here we used to go to the respective house for childbirth,” he said.
Many pregnant women instead travel to Honiara for delivery, but that comes at a cost.
For families already living in a remote island community, travelling to town for medical care can be expensive and difficult.
Nuku Clinic building. Photo credit: Douglas Vahia
The clinic also lacks proper sanitation.
There is no proper toilet, no reliable water facility and no proper dumping site.
Mau’eha also raised concerns about community support and the lack of adequate staff accommodation.
There is only one staff house, and it is old.
He said he has already raised the challenges with the Member of Provincial Assembly, who is also the Deputy Premier, and hopes improvements will come.
A clinic serving the whole island
Ramsey Sokaika Puia, the Nuku Clinic caretaker. Photo credit: Douglas Vahia.
Ramsey Sokaika Puia, 47, from Nuku’Angoha village in West Bellona, is the caretaker of the clinic.
He knows the history of the facility.
According to Mr Puia, the Nuku Clinic was built by the European Economic Community after the devastating cyclone that struck Rennell and Bellona Province in 1999.
Since then, he said, little improvement has been made to the building.
Yet the clinic continues to serve the entire island.
Puia said the clinic provides medical services to more than 2,000 people across four wards.
Inside the clinic, space not enough. Photo credit: Douglas Vahia
That makes Nuku Clinic more than just a small rural facility.
For the people of Bellona, it is their main place to seek medical help.
Puia and his family have tried to improve the condition of the clinic and its staff accommodation.
But much of the responsibility has fallen on community members.
From a drinking place to a protected clinic
In the past, the clinic area and old staff house were also used by youths as a place to drink and consume alcohol and socialise.
The area was vulnerable to vandalism.
Puia and his brothers decided something had to be done.
They applied for assistance through an Australia partnership programme and managed to fence the clinic compound.
He said the support helped secure the facility.
Puia also acknowledged the contribution of his brother, Smith Kaitu, saying that without his help they would not have been able to secure the clinic.
A call for action
For the people of Bellona, Nuku Clinic remains an important part of island life.
But the challenges facing the clinic are difficult to ignore.
An ageing building, limited space, medicine shortages, transport problems, poor sanitation and inadequate staff accommodation all affect the ability of health workers to provide services.
Old Nuku Clinic Staff house. Photo credit: Douglas Vahia
And with more than 2,000 people depending on the clinic, the need for improvement is urgent.
Puia is calling on the responsible authorities to take action.
“As a caretaker and community member, I kindly call on the responsible authorities to take this seriously and develop and improve our clinic for our people and generations to come,” he said.
Bellona may be far from Honiara, but its people should not have to feel far from basic healthcare.
For the nurse working alone, the caretaker protecting the facility and the thousands of people depending on it, Nuku Clinic is more than a building.
It is the island’s lifeline.
And its future matters to everyone who calls Bellona home.
*Reporting for this story was supported by Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS).
Minister of Finance and Treasury Rexson Ramofafia says Solomon Islands’ participation in the 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank Group (WBG) provides an opportunity to advance discussions on the country’s development priorities. These include building a resilient economy, improving essential infrastructure and public services,...
The post Ramofafia Takes Country’s Development Agenda to World Bank Meetings appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE Western Provincial Government (WPG) has acknowledged the Community-Based Resource Management (CBRM) Forum, describing community participation as a way forward in protecting and sustainably managing the province’s marine resources.
Speaking at the forum, WPG representative Jacob Mazini said marine resources in Western Province continue to face increasing pressure from human activities and natural threats.
He said protecting marine resources required more than government policies and regulations, stressing the need for strong partnerships between government, communities, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other stakeholders.
“It requires strong partnerships between government, our communities, NGOs and all stakeholders working together,” Mazini said.
He said community-based resource management is an important strategy for protecting and managing natural resources, given that local communities are the custodians of these resources.
Mazini said empowering communities, involving them in decision-making and equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills will enable them to play a leading role in protecting the marine environment for future generations.
“As Western Provincial Government, we recognise the importance of strengthening community participation, improving coordination among stakeholders and ensuring that our resource management initiatives contribute to sustainable livelihoods and resilient communities,” he said.
Mazini said Western Province’s coastal and marine resources are among its greatest assets, providing food for families, supporting livelihoods, creating economic opportunities and forming an important part of local culture and identity.
He welcomed the proposed State of Community-Based Resource Management in Western Province report, saying it will help the provincial government and its partners better understand progress made, ongoing challenges and areas requiring greater attention and support.
Mazini said the forum provided an important opportunity for participants to share experiences, discuss challenges and identify practical priority actions to improve community-based coastal resource management across the province.
“I encourage all participants to contribute openly, share lessons from your work and identify practical actions that we can take forward together.
“Let us ensure that the discussions during this forum lead to stronger partnerships and meaningful outcomes for our communities,” he said.
Mazini thanked the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), WorldFish, participating organisations and communities for their continued commitment to protecting and sustainably managing Western Province’s natural resources.
[Photo: Jacob Mazini delivers his speech during the opening of the forum. Photo supplied]
BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The Malaita Provincial Government Secretary has urged the Auki transport services operators to form an association.
The provincial secretary, Peter Herehura, reiterated the assurance during the first-ever meeting held with the transport operators at the Green House this afternoon.
Herehura said forming an association will help enhance the service and can avoid unnecessary fare hikes, as currently experienced by the Auki residents.
“I asked them to form associations for taxis and buses so that collaboration can be enhanced and no ad-hoc fare hikes, like what has been experienced, can occur,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mr. Herehura encouraged the transport operators to work together to address the transport issues affecting the residents.
He also acknowledged them for their positive response and for agreeing to approve certain fares and resolutions to address the issues.
“I encourage them to work closely together to address transport issues in Auki and nearby communities,” he said.
“I am thankful that everyone has agreed and approved certain fares and come up with a resolution,” he said.
Auki town residents have currently raised concerns and frustrations over the unstable and overcharging passenger fares.
This also triggers the provincial government’s intervention.
[Photo Caption: Auki fleet who provide transport services in Auki town, Malaita Province. Photo supplied.]
Junior Kurukuru U12 trials set for tomorrow as SALT targets Australian Nationals opportunity
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Promising young futsal players have been given another opportunity to progress towards international competition, with Sports and Leadership Training (SALT) scheduled to conduct Junior Kurukuru Under-12 boys’ trials in Honiara tomorrow.
The trials will take place at Friendship Hall from 2pm to 4pm on Tuesday, October 13, as part of preparations for the 2027 Mitre National Futsal Championships in Queensland, Australia.
In a notice shared on its official social media platform, SALT said the selected schoolboys were identified by its leaders based on their performances in the Bulk Shop School Futsal League.
SALT said the selection process was conducted fairly, without what it described as a “wantok system or favouritism”, while encouraging teachers to inform the selected students and ensure they attend the trials.
The initiative forms part of SALT’s Futsal Development and Pathway Program, which aims to nurture young talent and prepare future Solomon Islands representatives through early exposure to competition outside the country.
The proposed opportunity would give the young players a chance to experience a higher level of futsal and develop their skills against competitors from Australia’s established futsal system.
The 2027 Mitre National Futsal Championships will run from January 12 to 16 at the Gold Coast Sport and Leisure Centre in Carrara, Queensland, according to Football Australia. The competition includes boys’ divisions from Under-12 to Under-16, alongside several men’s and women’s categories.
SALT’s latest announcement builds on its broader school and community futsal development work in Solomon Islands.
In April, the National Sports Council reported that SALT, NSC and Bulk Shop were working together to support school and community competitions, training and development pathways, with Friendship Hall serving as a central venue for the programme.
Beyond competition, the programme aims to use futsal to develop discipline, teamwork and leadership among young people while identifying talent capable of progressing to higher levels of the sport.
SALT has called on schools to support the process by ensuring the selected boys are informed of the trials, as the organisation continues its stated mission of “Developing Talent. Building Character. Creating Pathways.”
BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The Auki public transport service providers have met with the Malaita Provincial Government to discuss and approve stable, reasonable, and affordable fares to charge for the services provided.
The meeting was significant for both parties to establish a stable, reasonable, and affordable fare for the residents of Auki Town and Malaita Province as a whole.
It will also address concerns and complaints raised by the residents about the unstable and overcharging fares currently affecting all residents of Auki Town.
During the meeting, the transport service providers and the Malaita Provincial Government discussed and, agreed and approved a few passenger fares.
According to the agreed and approved passenger fares:
Taxi operators are to continue charging $10 for one kilometer.
Bus operators are to charge $3 for adults and $2 for students from Auki to Kilu’ufi.
For bus operators running from Auki to Kilusakwalo, they are to charge $4 for adults and $3 for students.
Meanwhile, the Malaita Provincial Government urged the transport service providers to follow and charge their passengers according to the approved fares.
The provincial government also reminds the operators not to overcharge their passengers, as they have agreed on the applicable fares and may face penalties .
“The notice refers to the Road Transport Act (Cap. 131), which provides the framework for regulating public service vehicle fares and charges through the relevant authorities,” it said.
“Operators who breach regulations made under the Road Transport Act may face penalties,” it stated.
The first conviction for penalties includes a fine of up to $2,000, imprisonment for up to two months, or both.
The second or subsequent conviction may result in penalties, including a fine of up to $3,000, imprisonment for up to three months, or both.
[Photo: Transport services providers attending the meeting today. Photo supplied]
BY TONY IROGA
The ruling Government for Reform, Empowerment, Accountability and Transformation (GREAT) Coalition has restored its parliamentary standing back to 33 members with the official inclusion of South Choiseul MP, Mr. Tozen Leokana.
Mr. Leokana officially joined the GREAT Coalition today, bringing a welcome boost to the government benches following the recent passing of the late Mr. William Marau.
In an official statement released today, the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) confirmed the political alignment, highlighting Prime Minister Mr. Matthew Wale’s formal welcome of Mr. Leokana’s decision to support the coalition’s broader policy platform.
“I welcome Mr. Leokana. His experience in the education sector will be an asset in advancing the Government’s education policy,” Wale said.
The Prime Minister added that he looks forward to working closely with Mr. Leokana and integrating his expertise into the wider Government and Caucus machinery to drive national development forward.
Expressing his readiness to serve, Mr. Leokana said that he looks forward to working within the administration and actively supporting its policy objectives for the country.
With the inclusion of the South Choiseul MP, the GREAT Coalition numbers are lifted back to a stable parliamentary majority of 33 members.
[Photo: PM Wale welcome MP Mr. Tozen Leokana today. Photo credit: OPMC]
BY CHARLES STENNETT
Work to install anchor bolts for street light pole foundations along the Mendana Avenue as part of ongoing works by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) through the Land and Maritime connectivity (LMCP) starts 12 th October to the 30 th.
A statement from MID said this will result in temporary inner-lane closures to make way for these installation to continue uninterrupted.
The streetlight installations will be between Town Ground to Honiara City Council Round about.
The statement said Guadalcanal Electrics Ltd (GEL), is carrying out the works to improve road lighting and enhance safety for motorists, pedestrians and other road users.
It said the works will be carried out during daytime hours and will progress section by section to minimize traffic disruption.
Work on the first section, from Town Ground to Heritage Park, HP, will begin on the 12 th to the 16 th of October, followed by Heritage Park to the Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA), and Hot Bread area from the 19 th to the 23 rd of October.
The final section, from SIPA/Hot Bread to the HCC Roundabout, is scheduled for 26–30 October 2026 adding that the timeframe may be adjusted depending on weather conditions and site requirements.
Permanent Secretary for MID, Mike Qaqara, said the temporary traffic arrangements were necessary to allow the streetlighting works to proceed safely while minimising disruption to the travelling public.
“Motorists and other road users are urged to exercise patience and caution when travelling through the affected sections of Mendana Avenue. We ask the public to follow all traffic signs, observe the temporary speed limits and cooperate with traffic management arrangements to ensure the safety of workers and road users,” Mr. Qaqara said.
During the installation period, the inner lane will be temporarily closed at designated installation sites which may result in eastbound and westbound traffic directed to merge into the outer lane before approaching each work zone and return to normal two-lane traffic after passing the affected area.
The statement said all work zones will be securely barricaded and clearly marked with traffic signs, cones and other appropriate safety devices.
A temporary speed limit of 20 km/h will apply within the work areas, with speed limit signs installed on both approaches.
Motorists are advised to approach the affected areas with caution and follow all traffic signs and instructions.
The statement said, MID and LMCP apologize for any inconvenience caused and thank motorists, businesses and the general public for their patience and cooperation while these essential streetlighting works are undertaken.
Road users are encouraged to plan their journeys accordingly and remain alert to changing traffic conditions along Mendana Avenue.
The road upgrade and improvement works are being implemented under LMCP with financial support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Solomon Islands Government.
[Photo: GEL Team working on cable for post lights. Photo supplied]