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Norman Palmer Secondary School prepares for three-storey classroom block

诺曼·帕尔默中学为三层教室楼做准备

SIBC Education · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

MV Awka Incident must Trigger Urgent Action on Temotu’s Maritime Transport, Safety and Security

Peter Shanel Agovaka calls for urgent action on Temotu’s maritime transport, safety and security after the MV Awka incident. The Leader of the Independent Group in Parliament, Peter Shanel Agovaka, says the recent stranding of MV Awka in the waters of Temotu Province, between Vanikoro and Tikopia, must serve as a wake-up call for the [...] The post MV Awka Incident must Trigger Urgent Action on Temotu’s Maritime Transport, Safety and Security appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Law & Security · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

How Pacific Governments Are Cushioning the Fuel Price Shock

by Jesse Doyle The oil price spike triggered by the ongoing Middle East crisis has proven to be the most disruptive economic shock facing the Pacific and the world since the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent Devpolicy posts have examined the gap between Pacific renewable energy targets and actual delivery, and how,... The post How Pacific Governments Are Cushioning the Fuel Price Shock appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Business & Economy · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

Rising fuel prices put pressure on Solomon Islands Shipping Industry

燃油价格上涨给所罗门群岛航运业带来压力

SIBC Infrastructure · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

Ramofafia Leads Solomon Islands Delegation to IMF Meetings

Rexon Ramofafia leads Solomon Islands’ delegation to IMF and World Bank meetings in Bangkok to discuss development priorities. Minister of Finance and Treasury,Rexon Ramofafia, is leading the Solomon Islands delegation to the 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group (WBG) in Bangkok, Thailand, from 12 to 18 October [...] The post Ramofafia Leads Solomon Islands Delegation to IMF Meetings appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Business & Economy · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

Govt called on to address ‘high transport costs choking rural farmers’

BY DOUGLAS VAHIA A farmer in West Kwaio, Malaita province has praised CEMA for its deep commitment to helping farmers, and is calling on government to support CEMA in its operations to help farmers across the country. Justin is a young copra farmer from Malaita province in west Kwaio at Mawa village currently doing 11 years of farming. At 26 years old, preferring to be known simply as Justin, he started farming at a young age. He continues to operate his copra plantation, where he has a dryer situated within the plantation. Over the years, he has developed his operation, now selling his copra to the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA). Justin acknowledged the assistance he has received from CEMA, particularly the provision of bags and drums to support his farming activities. He noted he is looking forward to receiving nets as further assistance. He described farming as more than a profession; it is a way of sustaining livelihoods and supporting societies. “Transportation costs are the biggest challenge,” he said, reflecting on the heavy financial burden facing him and other local growers. Beyond his own plantation, Justin noted that farmers continue to face challenges, including a lack of basic farming tools. He identified unreliable and costly transportation as the biggest hurdle. Because of this, Justin is calling on the government to consider subsidising transportation costs for farmers to help reduce the burden of moving their produce to markets. He is also calling on the government to provide operational support to the CEMA buying centre in Auki so that it can continue assisting farmers and strengthening access to markets. Photo: Supplied For feedback, contact: diivee56@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Infrastructure · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

CBRM workshop underway in Gizo

BY BEN BILUA GIZO A THREE-DAY Community-Based Resource Management (CBRM) workshop is underway in Gizo, Western Province, bringing together government officials, provincial representatives and community-based organisations to strengthen community-led management of natural resources. The workshop is co-organised by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and Nusatupe Innovation Hub. It aims to provide a platform for participants to share experiences and lessons from the implementation of CBRM initiatives, exchange knowledge and identify practical ways to address challenges facing community-led resource management. The workshop will also focus on identifying opportunities to strengthen collaboration among organisations and partners supporting CBRM initiatives across Western Province. Participants are expected to identify key threats facing marine ecosystems, assess existing solutions and their effectiveness, and recommend priority actions to improve the sustainable management of coastal and marine resources. The discussions will also identify priorities for communities and organisations, including the support, capacity and resources required to implement recommendations beyond financial assistance. Organisers aim to develop practical recommendations and priority actions that will guide future programmes and strengthen collaboration among communities, non-governmental organisations and the provincial government to achieve national objectives. A key outcome of the workshop will be the production of a State of Community-Based Coastal Resource Management in Western Province (2026) report. The report will consolidate information on the current status of CBRM, lessons learned, challenges, opportunities and priority actions identified through the workshop and supporting consultations. The findings are expected to provide a clearer picture of the progress and challenges of community-based coastal resource management in the province. Recommendations from the workshop will also contribute to a strategic plan to be implemented by respective communities, NGOs and the Western Provincial Government. The initiative is expected to help align the efforts of key stakeholders and strengthen community participation in protecting marine ecosystems and sustainably managing coastal resources for future generations. For feedback, contact: maetuana777@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

Tar-seal application work from Kwaibala to Oibola progresses

BY RODRICK DESURI AUKI The tar-seal road work covering five kilometers from Kwaibala to Oibola by the Trades Transformation Company Ltd (TTC) is progressing. Tar-sealing application road work started last month after vegetation clearance and the settlement of delayed matters. According to the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), the project is expected to improve road access for communities along the South Road by providing a safer and more reliable road surface for motorists, passengers, and pedestrians. MID said the Kwaibala–Oibola section forms part of ongoing efforts to improve road infrastructure and connectivity in Malaita, particularly for communities located along the South Road. “This road section is part of the efforts to improve road infrastructure connectivity in Malaita,” MID said. The Ministry stated that road users are urged to exercise caution when traveling through active construction areas and to follow instructions from roadwork personnel. The project is funded by the Australian Government through MID’s National Transport Fund, with TTC responsible for carrying out the road construction works. Photo credit: MID For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Infrastructure · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

Prime Minister Wale welcomes Leokana to GREAT Coalition

总理瓦莱欢迎莱奥卡纳加入伟大联盟

SIBC Politics & Government · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

SIMS issues strong wind warning number eight

BY TONY IROGA The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has issued Strong Wind Warning Number Eight, alerting maritime travellers and coastal communities across several provinces to brace for hazardous weather conditions. Released at 7am this morning, the warning covers the coastal and open waters of Temotu, Makira, Rennell and Bellona, Malaita, Guadalcanal, Central and East Isabel, and the southern waters of Western Province. According to SIMS, a persistent general southeast trade wind flow is driving southerly winds of 15 to 25 knots across the affected zones. Sea conditions are expected to range from moderate to rough with moderate southeast swells reaching between 2.5 and 3.0 meters. Forecasters have also warned of poor visibility in areas experiencing heavy showers and thunderstorms. “People living in those areas should take precautionary measures, as such strong winds have the potential to impact lives and properties,” SIMS said. Authorities are strongly urging sea travellers and small boat operators to reconsider travel plans and prioritise safety, noting that the rough wave conditions are hazardous for small crafts. Communities are also encouraged to ensure the safety information is shared widely, including people with disabilities. SIMS will issue its next update and strong wind warning at 4 pm today. For feedback, contact: tonyiroga8@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Disasters & Weather · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

73 rescued as MV Akwa drifts in Temotu waters

BY DOUGLAS VAHIA ALL 73 passengers and crew members from the drifting MV Akwa have been successfully rescued after their vessel encountered difficulties in the waters of Temotu Province, Solomon Islands. The joint search and rescue operation, coordinated alongside the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), concluded safely this morning with all individuals brought ashore to Vanikoro. According an online statement from MV Helper 1, it arrived at the drifting location at approximately 9:00 pm on Sunday night to provide immediate assistance. The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Patrol Boat Gizo reached the scene at 11:00 pm and assumed on-scene command of the operation. At around midnight, Patrol Boat Gizo commenced towing the disabled MV Akwa. By the early hours of Monday morning, October 12, the operation had successfully progressed into the northwestern waters of Vanikoro. The safe transfer of all 73 passengers and crew members to MV Helper 1 was subsequently completed, and the rescue vessel transported them directly to shore. Passengers on board also shared updates online, confirmingthat they had arrived safe and sound. The Temotu Provincial Government has expressed its profound relief and gratitude for the successful outcome, commending the collective and coordinated efforts of the rescue teams that brought the distressing situation to a positive conclusion. The RSIPF Patrol Boat Gizo remains in command of the scene to ensure the continued safety of the vessel. Meanwhile, the provincial government stated that arrangements for transporting the rescued passengers from Vanikoro to Lata are being finalised and will be communicated to the public as soon as information becomes available. Photo credit: Premier of Temotu, Stanley Tehiahua For feedback, contact: diivee56@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Disasters & Weather · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

MV AWKA ADRIFT

Coordination for rescue operation underway BY DOUGLAS VAHIA The Temotu Provincial Government and maritime authorities are coordinating the rescue of 73 passengers and crew stranded aboard the drifting MV Awka. The vessel suffered a main engine failure at around 7:00 am on Friday, October 9, during its return trip from Anuta to Vanikoro when the mechanical problem occurred with the vessel drifting between Tikopia and Vanikoro for over three days. According to an online statement from the provincial government, rescue teams are planning the main extraction operation for this morning, depending on daylight and sea conditions. The immediate priority is to safely transfer all passengers and crew to assisting vessels, including the LC Plus 1 and the Chinese cargo ship Sunnine 3 , before attempting to tow the MV Awka to a safe harbor. Patrol Boat Gizo and MV Helper 1 are also responding to the scene. Emergency food and relief supplies have already been successfully delivered to the stranded ship. French and Australian Hercules aircraft dropped food, water and first aid supplies on Saturday afternoon, and Sunnine 3 dropped additional packages into the water at 8:00 am on Sunday, October 11. Responders faced challenges retrieving the supplies from the ocean due to high waves and roaming sharks. The ship’s operator, Ghaseali Shipping Company, reported that the situation on board is currently manageable and under control. The company stated that wind and ocean currents have naturally pushed the vessel 45 nautical miles closer to its destination of Vanikoro, where the LC Plus 1 is expected to help them arrive safely. The shipping company has emphasised that passenger safety is the absolute priority and no rescue movements will happen until conditions are safe. They have urged those on board to remain calm and follow the captain’s instructions, while asking the public to share information responsibly to avoid causing unnecessary panic. For feedback, contact: diivee56@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Disasters & Weather · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

KINGS KEEP TRIO

Mango, Keana and Leslie commit to 2027 OFC Pro League campaign BY RICHARD MENANOPO Solomon Kings FC have begun shaping their squad for the 2027 OFC Pro League season after confirming the re-signing of three Solomon Islands internationals — goalkeeper Philip Mango and forwards Don Keana and Bobby Leslie. The club announced the trio’s return in a post on its official social media platform, marking its first confirmed player re-signings ahead of the second edition of Oceania’s professional football competition. The announcement follows the club’s confirmation that Australian coach Ben Cahn will remain as head coach for the 2027 campaign, providing continuity as Solomon Kings prepare for another season against some of the region’s leading clubs. Mango, Keana and Leslie bring experience from the inaugural campaign, with their retention providing the club with a familiar group of players as preparations continue. Mango captained Solomon Kings during their first OFC Pro League season, featuring in all 14 regular-season matches, according to specialist football publication Oceania Football Center. Keana featured in 13 appearances during the inaugural campaign, while Leslie contributed two goals in the competition. Leslie also represented Central Coast FC in the 2026 OFC Men’s Champions League, scoring twice during the group stage. Their return provides Solomon Kings with experienced options in goal and attack as the club looks to build on its first season in the professional competition. The re-signings come as the club prepares for a second campaign following a fifth-place finish in the inaugural regular season, when it collected 18 points from 14 matches, with five wins, three draws and six defeats. Solomon Kings missed out on the semi-final play-offs in 2026, but will have another opportunity to challenge for honours under Cahn next season. The 2027 OFC Pro League is scheduled to begin on January 22, with Solomon Kings set to face Vanuatu United FC in the opening match. Honiara’s National Stadium will also host the competition’s final on June 6, giving local supporters the prospect of seeing the championship decided on home soil. The club is yet to announce whether further player re-signings or new additions will follow. Photo credit: Solomon Kings FC file For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

University of Auckland launches Pacific research repository Measina o le Pasefika

Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland launched Measina o le Pasefika | Treasures of the Pacific, an online repository of Pacific research, at its General Library on 8 October.

Solomon Times Education · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

ADB and Australia commit US$12.85 million to new Pacific private sector phase

The Asian Development Bank has launched the fifth phase of its Pacific Private Sector Development Initiative, backed by US$12.85 million from ADB and the Government of Australia, in an announcement made in Sydney on 12 October.

Solomon Times Business & Economy · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

J-Ridge FC books national futsal super league spot

BY TONY IROGA Jackson Ridge’s very own J-Ridge Futsal Club has officially punched its ticket to the prestigious SIFF National Futsal Super League 2027, following a hard-fought victory 5-3 against Futsal GC in the Promotion-Relegation Playoffs over the weekend. Speaking exclusively to the Island Sun yesterday, J-Ridge Futsal Club team manager Mr. Jaydee Nomisasa expressed immense pride in the team’s historic milestone, emphasising that the achievement belongs to the entire community. “The victory marks a monumental chapter for our boys and our community,” he said. He said coming from the grassroots level to secure a spot in the premier national competition proves that with unity, hard work, and faith, our youth can achieve greatness beyond the neighbourhood. “The journey to the national stage was no walk in the park. Entering the season as clear underdogs, J-Ridge FC first had to conquer the Bulkshop Community League,” he said. After a shaky start that saw them drop four consecutive matches following an opening win, the team rallied together, navigating through a massive field of 32 teams before defeating Windy Hills in the Grand Final to claim the championship trophy. Revived by friends Michael Samani and Jaydee Nomisasa, the club was built to give young people facing local challenges such as limited employment and structured recreation—a sense of belonging and purpose. Nomisasa said that community spirit was further cemented during a celebration on 13 September, attended by notable figures including Minister for Women, Children, Youth and Family Affairs Mr. John Maneniaru, then Acting Australian High Commissioner H.E. Andrew Schloeffel, Bulkshop company directors, and Pastor Nacanieli Seru of SALT Community Outreach. Head Coach Milton Taolo praised the unwavering dedication of his players throughout the gruelling campaign. “People see the results, but they do not always see the work and sacrifice behind them,” Coach Taolo said. Taolo said winning the Community League gave them confidence, but the playoffs demanded another level of discipline. He added that the players understood what was at stake and gave everything for the team and the community. Captain Junior Boga echoed similar sentiments after securing promotion and said that the team carried the hopes of their families and supporters onto the court. What began as a humble community initiative to bring youths together has transformed into a national success story. “A lot of people may not have expected us to come this far, but we believed in each other,” Boga said. “We played for our families, our supporters, and Jackson Ridge.” He added that winning the Community League was special, but qualifying for the National Futsal Super League gives them the opportunity to represent their community on a bigger stage. As J-Ridge FC prepares for its debut in the country’s premier futsal competition next year, the club stands as a shining testament to what grassroots sports and community backing can achieve. Photo: Supplied For feedback, contact: tonyiroga8@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

Temporary lane closures for streetlighting works along Mendana Avenue

门丹纳大道临时封闭以进行街道照明工程

SIBC Infrastructure · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

ALL 73 PASSENGERS AND CREW SAFELY RESCUED FROM MV AKWA

Temotu Provincial Government Commends National, Regional and International Partners for Successful Rescue Operation The Temotu Provincial Government is pleased to announce the successful rescue of all 73 passengers and crew members aboard MV Akwa, following a coordinated maritime search and rescue operation involving the Solomon Islands Government, regional partners, international allies, maritime operators, and humanitarian stakeholders. 73 passengers and crew members aboard MV Akwa The passengers and crew have been safely transferred to MV Helper 1and transported ashore at Vanikoro, bringing an end to a challenging maritime emergency that began after MV Akwa experienced mechanical difficulties while travelling between Tikopia and Vanikoro. According to reports received by the Provincial Government, RSIPF Patrol Boat Gizo reached the location of the drifting vessel at approximately 11:00 p.m. on Sunday 11/10/2026 , while MV Helper 1 arrived earlier at approximately 9:00 p.m. At around midnight, Patrol Boat Gizo commenced towing operations, and by the early hours of Monday morning the rescue operation had progressed into the northwestern waters of Vanikoro. The safe transfer of all passengers was successfully completed shortly thereafter. The passengers and crew have been safely transferred to MV Helper 1 “This successful outcome reflects the collective commitment of many partners who placed the safety and wellbeing of human lives above all else,” the Temotu Provincial Government stated. Captain and his dedicated team in the wheelroom The rescue operation followed a challenging period at sea for those aboard MV Akwa. After the vessel experienced mechanical difficulties during its voyage between Tikopia and Vanikoro on a windy Friday morning (2/ 10 /2026), the vessel drifted in open waters for several days while passengers and crew awaited assistance. The Provincial Government extends its deepest gratitude to international governments and organizations that responded swiftly during this emergency. The Government of France is acknowledged for its timely aerial assistance, which delivered vital medical supplies, food, water-making equipment, and other essential resources to those stranded at sea. The Government of France is acknowledged for its timely aerial assistance The Government of Australia is also commended for deploying the Australian Challenger aircraft to support emergency supply operations, demonstrating strong regional cooperation and solidarity. Special appreciation is extended to the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the operators of the cargo vessel Sunnine 3, which altered its planned voyage to provide food, water, and other emergency supplies to passengers aboard MV Akwa. “Thank you, China. Thank you, Sunnine 3.” The Government of Vanuatu and the operators of MV Helper 1are also recognized for their direct contribution to the operation and their critical role in safely transporting rescued passengers to Vanikoro. MV Helper 1 The Temotu Provincial Government further acknowledges the outstanding efforts of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), particularly the crew of Patrol Boat Gizo and the Search and Rescue Division, for their leadership, professionalism, and coordination throughout the operation. At around midnight, Patrol Boat Gizo commenced towing operations Recognition is also extended to all Solomon Islands Government agencies and personnel who provided logistical, administrative, and communication support during the rescue response. The Government also thanks the owners and operators of LC Plus 1 for remaining on standby in accordance with directions from the Rescue Coordination Centre and for demonstrating readiness to assist if required. Special acknowledgement is extended to Dr David Raja, Dr Mataki, Chief Moumudou, and members of the rescue coordination network and WhatsApp group for their tireless efforts in sharing information, coordinating support, and maintaining communication throughout the emergency. The Provincial Government sincerely thanks the families, churches, communities, relatives, friends, and members of the public who remained patient, hopeful, and prayerful throughout the difficult period. Nurse John Tua communicating the transfers very sick, children and old people to the Helpr-1. The Government recognizes the emotional strain experienced by families awaiting news of their loved ones and expresses gratitude for the encouragement and solidarity shown during the rescue effort. While the rescue operation has successfully concluded, arrangements for the onward transportation of rescued passengers from Vanikoro to Lata are still being finalized. Further updates will be provided as information becomes available. The Temotu Provincial Government notes that this operation has demonstrated the power of regional solidarity, international cooperation, humanitarian assistance, and unity during times of crisis. The Government extends its heartfelt gratitude to every organization, government, company, rescue personnel, volunteer, and individual who contributed to the successful rescue of those aboard MV Akwa. The thoughts and prayers of the people of Temotu remain with the rescued passengers and crew as they recover from this experience. “When human lives are at risk, cooperation, compassion, and collective action can overcome even the greatest challenges.” Source : Temotu Provincial Government

Sunday Isles Disasters & Weather · 2026-10-12 Original ↗

Manufacturers call for temporary relief as fuel costs threaten investment

BY JOSES SAREN Manufacturers are calling for targeted government relief and more predictable energy costs, warning that rising fuel expenses are threatening investment and the long-term competitiveness of local industries. Qila Tuhanuku, representing Solbrew and the manufacturing sector, said electricity and fuel-related expenses had increased well beyond the levels businesses could reasonably absorb. Speaking at a public accountability forum organised by the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) and the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) at SINU’s Kukum Campus on Friday, Tuhanuku said the pressure extended across manufacturing supply chains. She said the cost of electricity, diesel, freight, imported raw materials, packaging and machinery parts had all been affected by rising fuel prices. Tuhanuku cited electricity costs as one example of the pressure facing manufacturers. She said the rate had risen from $5.55 in July 2025 to $7.83 in May 2026, an increase of about 45 per cent. She also reported a 59 per cent increase in the cost of diesel for Solbrew’s backup generator between January and May this year. Tuhanuku said annual cost increases of two to four percent were more manageable for businesses, but increases at the current level were difficult to sustain. She warned that companies could remain open while cutting back on equipment upgrades, infrastructure and technology investment to meet immediate operating expenses. This could undermine the future growth of manufacturing, even if businesses continued operating in the short term. Tuhanuku said manufacturers need temporary measures to help them manage costs until the Tina River Hydropower Development Project and other energy reforms could ease pressure on electricity prices. She proposed targeted tax relief or support for selected sectors, alongside a review of electricity tariffs and demand charges affecting productive industries. She also called for incentives to encourage businesses to invest in renewable energy, including tax relief and faster approval processes for qualifying projects. Tuhanuku said businesses need greater certainty over electricity costs to make long-term investment decisions, particularly when industrial machinery and infrastructure require substantial capital. She warned that rising business costs could also reduce consumer spending, putting additional pressure on companies’ revenues. When households spend more on transport, fuel, housing and food, they have less money available for other products, she said. The forum brought together representatives from manufacturing, fisheries, maritime transport, delivery and logistics, and power generation to discuss the impact of rising fuel prices. Tuhanuku said the response needs to go beyond short-term crisis management and include a plan to strengthen local industries, improve energy security and accelerate the shift towards renewable energy. Photo credit: Joses Saren For feedback, contact: josessaren@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Disasters & Weather · 2026-10-11 Original ↗

Rising fuel prices push up shipping and delivery costs

BY JOSES SAREN Rising fuel prices are increasing the cost of moving goods around Solomon Islands, putting pressure on shipping operators, delivery businesses and customers who depend on supplies reaching the provinces. Kitchener Wheatley, vice chair of the Solomon Islands Maritime Transport Association, said higher fuel prices had increased vessel operating costs, maintenance expenses and freight movements. Speaking at a public accountability forum organised by SICCI and MASI at SINU’s Kukum Campus on Friday, Wheatley said shipping operators are monitoring fuel consumption, improving voyage planning and reviewing freight rates to manage the increases. He said the additional costs could flow through the supply chain, affecting the prices of basic goods transported between destinations. Wheatley called for targeted fuel-related tax relief for domestic shipping operators, particularly those serving remote provinces such as Temotu, Rennell and Bellona, and the Shortlands. He said temporary relief could help contain freight and passenger fares while easing pressure on businesses and consumers. Wheatley also proposed greater investment in wharf facilities, fuel infrastructure, vessel maintenance and inter-island transport systems. He said incentives for more fuel-efficient vessels and technologies could reduce operating costs over time. He further suggested establishing a task force to monitor fuel market developments and prepare responses before price increases placed additional pressure on the economy. Meanwhile, John Wanofafia of delivery and logistics company CabIt said higher fuel prices had forced the business to adjust its delivery charges. Wanofafia said CabIt introduced last-mile delivery services in 2023 and initially charged $10 per kilometre for scooter deliveries. As fuel costs rose, the company changed its scooter pricing to a $30 service fee plus $7 per kilometre. For vehicle deliveries, it charges a $50 service fee plus $10 per kilometre, he said. Wanofafia said the business had introduced scheduled and bulk deliveries to help customers reduce costs by combining orders rather than paying for separate trips. He also reported growing demand for deliveries to the provinces, as some customers preferred to have medicines, supplies, cargo and other goods sent to them rather than travel to Honiara. However, he said higher transport costs remain a challenge, particularly when CabIt relied on independently owned vehicles to move large cargo and construction materials. Wanofafia called for fuel support for local transport owners and logistics providers, as well as a national logistics network linking businesses, manufacturers and delivery operators. He said better coordination and shared storage facilities could help improve the movement of goods between businesses and their customers. The two representatives made their recommendations during the forum on the economic effects of rising fuel prices, which brought together five industry sectors. Their proposals focused on reducing immediate transport costs while improving the efficiency and reliability of domestic shipping and goods distribution. Photo credit: Joses Saren For feedback, contact: josessaren@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Infrastructure · 2026-10-11 Original ↗

Western Province expecting new provincial secretary

BY BEN BILUA Gizo WESTERN Province is expecting to welcome a new Provincial Secretary later this month, following a vacancy in the province’s top administrative position since the passing of former Provincial Secretary late Patrick Toiraena earlier this year. Premier of Western Province, Billy Veo, made the announcement when he spoke to the media last week, expressing confidence that the appointment would be confirmed this month. Veo said the absence of a Provincial Secretary had affected the province’s ability to advance some of its planned activities and development priorities. “We have lots of work to do but sadly we cannot carry some of the plans because we are without a Provincial Secretary. “I’m certain that our Provincial Secretary will be appointed and start working later this month,” he said. Veo said the position has remained vacant following the passing of Toiraena, whose death created a significant gap in the province’s administrative leadership. He said the Provincial Secretary plays a key role in coordinating the provincial administration, implementing government policies and ensuring development programmes are carried out effectively. Veo’s announcement has raised expectations that the appointment of a new Provincial Secretary will help strengthen the provincial administration and enable the government to progress with its outstanding plans and priorities. The province is now awaiting the formal announcement of the appointment, which is expected to provide renewed administrative leadership for Western Province. For feedback, contact: maetuana777@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-10-11 Original ↗

Road development reaches Niumanda

BY BEN BILUA Gizo ROAD development on Gizo Island has reached Niumanda, improving travel conditions and providing a more comfortable ride for passengers. Premier of Western Province, Billy Veo, said the road improvement is part of the SBD2 million funding provided by the national government through the Ministry of Infrastructure and Development (MID). He said the Western Provincial Government is now awaiting additional funding from MID to continue road development from Niumanda to Sagiragi. Veo said the provincial government will also allocate another SBD1.5 million from its Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF) to upgrade feeder roads within Gizo town. “The second phase will be funded by the Province’s PCDF worth $1.5 million,” he said. Veo said the plan is to upgrade the road from Corner Shop to the new Lauru Valley road, as well as feeder roads in West Gizo. He also highlighted the role of the Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement (CAUSE) project in improving road infrastructure in central Gizo. Veo said the CAUSE project will support tar-sealing work from Gizo Police Station to the Bank South Pacific (BSP) area. He said the project will also support concrete road improvements from Corner Shop to the 49 Junction and Tower areas. Veo said the road improvement initiatives demonstrates the government’s commitment to upgrade infrastructure and improve accessibility for communities across Gizo. He said the government is working hard to ensure that development projects deliver lasting benefits to the people. “We are working hard so that we leave something behind,” Veo said. For feedback, contact: maetuana777@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Infrastructure · 2026-10-11 Original ↗

Gizo water crisis worsens

BY BEN BILUA Gizo THE water crisis in Gizo, Western Province, is worsening as the prolonged dry spell continues to disrupt daily life, forcing some schools to temporarily close while others shorten classes due to water shortages. Premier of Western Province, Billy Veo, said the situation is becoming increasingly difficult for communities already struggling to cope with the lack of reliable water supply. He linked the prolonged dry conditions to the El Niño phenomenon, which the national government announced earlier this year, warning that it could further threaten the livelihoods of vulnerable communities across the province. Veo questioned the government’s preparedness and response to the situation, saying communities in Gizo were already experiencing the serious consequences of the dry spell. “I don’t know what the government’s plan is to respond to El Niño. “Those in Honiara do not feel and experience the impact of El Niño. We in the provinces do, especially here in Gizo,” he said. Veo said the worsening water shortage had placed additional pressure on residents, with people forced to collect water from wells every morning, afternoon and evening to meet their household needs. He said the crisis has also affected essential services, particularly schools and healthcare facilities. Veo said some schools had temporarily closed, while others had reduced class hours because of insufficient water supplies. He also revealed that water trucks had delivered water to the hospital more than five times a day to refill its tanks, highlighting the growing demand for water to maintain essential health services. Veo warned that without urgent intervention, the situation could deteriorate further, placing more pressure on communities and disrupting important public services. He calls on the national government to step in immediately and identify practical solutions to address the water shortage before the situation becomes more severe. Veo stressed that authorities should not wait until the crisis escalates before taking action, criticising what he described as a recurring pattern of delayed responses to emerging problems in the country. “The government should step in now and look for solutions. Don’t wait until it’s getting worse. This has been a practice in our country,” he said. The worsening situation has renewed concerns over Gizo’s vulnerability to prolonged dry conditions and the need for reliable water infrastructure and effective disaster preparedness measures. With residents continuing to depend on wells and water deliveries to meet their daily needs, urgent and coordinated action is needed to ease the pressure on households, schools and health facilities. For feedback, contact: maetuana777@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Infrastructure · 2026-10-11 Original ↗

Solomon Islands congratulates Fiji on its 56th Independence anniversary

BY CHARLES STENNETT Prime Minister Matthew Wale had sent a congratulatory message to the government and the people of Fiji on behalf of the Government and people of Solomon Islands, on Fiji’s 56 th Independence anniversary. The Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) said Fiji and Solomon Islands have long standing and cordial relationship and are members of regional organizations. “As members of the Melanesian and pacific family, Solomon Islands and Fiji share longstanding bonds of friendship, cultural ties and solidarity” Prime Minister Wale said. He said through the cordial relationship, friendship and mutual understandings both countries are committed to strengthening their relationship. “We remain committed to strengthening our partnership and working together to advance regional peace, stability, prosperity and the well-being of our peoples. “On this special occasion, I wish the Government and people of Fiji a happy Fiji Day, and continued peace, unity and prosperity,” Wale said. Fiji Day is commemorated on October 10 th and it was in 1970 that Fiji gained independence from British colonial rule. It represents sovereignty, self-determination, and the shared future of the Fijian people. For many locals, the day is both reflective and joyful, honoring the journey of the nation while celebrating its progress. Photo credit: OPMC For feedback, contact: charsstennett@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Culture & Entertainment · 2026-10-11 Original ↗