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China Police Sponsors Youth Crime Prevention Push in Solomon Islands

The China Police Liaison Team (CPLT) sponsored a crime prevention speech competition at Chung Wah School in Honiara on 21... The post China Police Sponsors Youth Crime Prevention Push in Solomon Islands appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Law & Security · 2026-08-25 Original ↗

Minister Wasi Calls for Innovative Financing at COP17

Solomon Islands calls for stronger, accessible financing to support land restoration, sustainable agriculture and drought resilience at UNCCD COP17. Solomon Islands calls for stronger, more accessible, and predictable financing to support land restoration, sustainable agriculture, and drought resilience at the 17th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat [...] The post Minister Wasi Calls for Innovative Financing at COP17 appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Politics & Government · 2026-08-25 Original ↗

U-19 SQUAD READY

Young Solomon Islands side heads to Samoa for regional championship BY RICHARD MENANOPO Solomon Islands’ national U-19 men’s football squad has been confirmed for the upcoming OFC U-19 Men’s Championship 2026 in Apia, Samoa. The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) announced the final squad yesterday, with the young national side set to depart Honiara this Wednesday, August 26, for the regional tournament. “The young warriors are heading to Apia, Samoa, from September 1st – 14th, and they’re ready to showcase their talent on the regional stage,” SIFF said in its announcement. The squad comprises of 23 players, including three goalkeepers, seven defenders, six midfielders and seven forwards. The goalkeeping department features Jayron Faiga, Junior Peter Mautou and Jerry Teno, while the defensive line includes Michael Horikura, George Keni, Benol Junior, Fisher Waita, Einstein Haawauri, Jack Lakapau, Javin Junior Uguti and Steward Apanial. Danford Fiumae, Calvin Wane, Kenndy Sihiu, Seltia Blake, Liam Jack Logai and Jeremy A’au make up the midfield group, while the attacking options are Jayrol Pati, George Ray, Ona Sabetian, Wilkinson Siosi, Ashley Kwaimasia and Jared Kegu. The team will be accompanied by six officials — Franco Ne’e, Gideon Omokirio, Harold Loea Nauania, Theodore Inomae, Mark Rongokavea and Robert Sanau. The OFC U-19 Championship runs from September 1 to 14, with Solomon Islands drawn in Group A alongside hosts Samoa, New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea. The young Solomon Islands side will open its campaign against Papua New Guinea on September 1 before facing New Caledonia on September 4 and Samoa on September 7. The tournament carries added significance, with the top two finishers earning qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2027. Solomon Islands will enter the competition hoping to build on their previous U-19 campaign in 2024, when they finished third after defeating Fiji 4-2 in the bronze-medal play-off. With the squad now locked in and departure scheduled for Wednesday, attention turns to Samoa, where the young Solomon Islands side will look to make its mark on the regional stage. For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-08-25 Original ↗

One point away

BY RICHARD MENANOPO Naha FC are on the verge of being crowned champions of the Solrais Women’s Premier League 2026, needing just one more point from their remaining match to seal the title after another dominant weekend performance. The latest official standings released by the Solrais Women’s Premier League (SWPL) show Naha firmly at the top with 46 points from 17 matches, six points clear of second-placed Frigates United FC and nine ahead of Henderson Eels FC. Naha strengthened their position with a commanding 23-0 demolition of Marist FC on Sunday, taking their season tally to 15 wins, one draw and just one defeat. They have also scored 104 goals while conceding only six, giving them a goal difference of plus-98. The SWPL said the title race is now “shaping up for an exciting finish”, with Naha needing just a single point to lift the trophy. Frigates United remain the closest challengers on 40 points from 16 matches after edging Henderson Eels FC 1-0 on Sunday. With two matches still to play, Frigates have six points available and could reach a maximum of 46 points if they win both remaining fixtures. That leaves Naha in control of their own destiny, with a draw in their final match enough to take them beyond Frigates’ maximum possible tally. Henderson Eels, meanwhile, remain third on 37 points from 16 matches and also have two games remaining. The Eels could finish on a maximum of 43 points and remain in contention for a top-two finish should results go their way. Behind the leading trio, Haura FC sits fourth on 27 points, followed by Geniagu United FC on 26 and RSIPF Royals FC on 23. At the other end of the table, Koliale FC has 17 points, while West Honiara FC, Ghupo Wantoks FC and Marist FC occupy the bottom three positions on eight, four and one point respectively. The latest round also saw Haura beat Koliale 3-0, RSIPF Royals defeat Geniagu United 1-0 and West Honiara overcome Ghupo Wantoks 4-0 on Saturday. With the championship now within touching distance, all eyes will turn to Naha’s final fixture, where a single point could be enough to officially crown them as SWPL 2026 champions. For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-08-25 Original ↗

BHP Enterprise calls for stronger support for local businesses

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU BHP Enterprise is calling on the Government to strengthen support for locally owned businesses, saying the private sector has an important role in creating jobs and supporting economic growth in Solomon Islands. The local company has grown to three branches and currently employs approximately 45 Solomon Islanders. BHP Enterprise said its growth was based on a vision to create opportunities, provide employment, support local economic activity and contribute to national development. The company acknowledged that building and growing a business in Solomon Islands was not easy, requiring commitment, financial discipline and the willingness to continue despite challenges. It said its 45 employees represent more than just numbers on a payroll, with each job supporting families, providing young people with work experience and helping workers develop skills. BHP Enterprise said it wants to continue expanding and creating more sustainable employment opportunities for Solomon Islanders. The company also highlighted the wider contribution of local businesses to the economy. It said businesses helped keep money circulating in communities through the purchase of goods and services, payment of wages, rent, transportation, utilities and other operating costs. However, BHP Enterprise said local businesses continue to face challenges including rising operating costs, transportation and logistics difficulties, limited access to finance, competition, infrastructure limitations, regulatory requirements and the cost of bringing goods into the country. It said these challenges could make expansion particularly difficult for small and medium-sized enterprises. Despite these difficulties, the company said it continues to take risks, invest capital, employ people and contribute to the economy because it believes in the future of Solomon Islands. BHP Enterprise is calling for Government policies and practical support that will allow local businesses to survive, grow and compete. It wants better access to affordable business financing, stronger support for locally owned small and medium-sized enterprises and improvements to roads, ports, electricity, telecommunications and other infrastructure. The company also calls for fair and efficient taxation and business regulations, greater opportunities for local businesses to participate in Government procurement, skills development and training for workers, and policies that encourage local investment and expansion. BHP Enterprise said the private sector should not be viewed only as a source of taxation but as a partner in national development. “Government cannot create every job. Businesses cannot develop the country alone either. Government and the private sector must work together,” it said. The company said every local business that survives, expands and employs people helps reduce pressure on Government to provide employment for everyone. It said creating the right environment for businesses to invest could result in more businesses, jobs, skills and stronger communities. BHP Enterprise said it remains committed to responsible growth, creating more employment, developing its workers, supporting suppliers and contributing to the communities where it operates. “Support local businesses. Support local entrepreneurs. Support local employment. Strengthen the private sector. Strengthen Solomon Islands,” the company said. For feedback, contact: jhouanihau24@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-08-25 Original ↗

CEMA support gives Malaita cocoa farmer a fresh start

BY DOUGLAS VAHIA For 50-year-old cocoa farmer Berry Au of Kwaea Village in Northeast Malaita, cocoa farming has been more than a livelihood, it has been a way of life for more than three decades. Mr Au reflected on his long journey in the cocoa industry and the challenges that have made farming difficult over the years, particularly the high cost of transportation, limited access to capital, and inadequate storage facilities. Kwaea Village is located approximately 112 kilometers from Auki, making transportation a major challenge for farmers wanting to bring their produce to market. Au said the lack of sufficient capital to restore his cocoa plantation to its full potential also affected his ability to produce at levels, while the absence of proper storage facilities left farmers with limited options when timing their sales. Another major challenge, Au said, was the uncertainty surrounding cocoa buying prices, explaining that some buyers in Auki, would adjust prices without prior notice, making it difficult for farmers to plan their income. On several occasions, he said he found himself selling his cocoa at prices that left him with little or no profit. However, Au said his experience has changed positively since joining the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) last year. One of the major benefits, he said, has been CEMA’s transportation subsidy, which has helped reduce the cost of freighting his cocoa produce to market, describing it as a great relief given the distance between Kwaea and Auki. CEMA also recognised Au’s commitment to returning to cocoa farming after taking a break from the industry, and provided him with start-up capital. Although the assistance was modest, Au said it gave him the opportunity to restart his cocoa farming activities. The support also allowed him to purchase cocoa from other farmers in Kwaea and nearby villages, enabling him to become not only a producer but also a local buyer helping other farmers access a market for their produce. Au said CEMA’s steady buying price has been another significant benefit. Unlike the unpredictable price changes he experienced previously, he said CEMA’s consistent buying arrangements gives him greater confidence to continue investing in cocoa, allowing farmers to earn a reasonable income even when international cocoa prices fall. Looking ahead, Au is encouraging more farmers in his area to join CEMA and take advantage of the support available and calls on CEMA to continue expanding its network so more communities can benefit from reliable markets and other forms of assistance. He further appeals to the Solomon Islands Government to invest more in building the capacity of farmers, saying they need the knowledge, resources and support to increase production and make better use of opportunities in the agricultural sector. Au said supporting farmers is ultimately an investment in the wider economy, as increased production translates into more economic activity and greater tax revenue from cocoa. For Au, the future of cocoa farming depends on stronger partnerships between farmers, CEMA and the Government. After more than 30 years in the industry, his renewed commitment to farming reflects the potential for the Solomon Islands’ cocoa sector to grow when farmers are supported with access to markets, transportation, finance, and fair and predictable prices. Photo: Supplied For feedback, contact: diivee56@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-08-25 Original ↗

Development continues in Japuana Ward

BY NED GAGAHE Development activities continue across Japuana Ward 12, in Gao/Bugotu in Isabel with a number of projects and assistance programmes being implemented during the 2025–2026 financial year. Reports reaching Island Sun revealed that under the Provincial Constituency Development Fund (PCDF), mobilisation payment has been made for the Midoru Sea Wall, while a girls’ sanitation facility is being supported at Kalenga Community High School. The Ward Development Committee (WDC) is also supporting a range of community projects across the ward. Materials for the Lelegia Community Hall have already been purchased, while work is progressing on the Thathaje three-block classroom. Materials have also been purchased for the Vulavu Rest House and Talise Rest House. In the education sector, support is being provided to Kalenga Community High School through church hardware materials, while Koleta Primary School and Kalenga Primary School are expected to receive cash assistance. Church communities are also receiving assistance, with cash support being provided to Tanabosu Church, Kolohavi Church and Riudede Church. Hardware materials are being provided to Lilihigna Church. The Opi Water Supply Project is another initiative included under the WDC programme, highlighting the continued focus on improving access to essential services. Meanwhile, an NGO-funded initiative has prepared 900 knives and files for distribution across Japuana Ward. The projects cover key areas including education, water supply, sanitation, community infrastructure and livelihood support. With several projects already underway and others at the procurement or assistance stage, development activities are expected to continue across Japuana Ward, with the aim to deliver tangible benefits to communities and improve local facilities. Photo: Supplied For feedback, contact: gagahened@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Education · 2026-08-25 Original ↗

Maila recovery will take time, PS says

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU THE recovery process following Tropical Cyclone Maila will take time, David Hiriasia, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECCDM), said. Speaking at a press conference last week to update the media on the Government’s recovery efforts following the cyclone, PS Hiriasia said that while funding had been announced to support recovery, the funds could not be distributed immediately because each funding arrangement had its own processes. “A lot of funding has been announced, and people always refer to those funds, but they also have their own processes. One of the main funding sources was the supplementary appropriation, which Parliament had already passed,” he said He said the Government will continue with the allocation, but can seek additional funding if the approved amount is insufficient. “If it is not enough, then we request the Government to support with additional funds,” he said. Hiriasia said Maila’s severity had triggered disaster financing arrangements and support from development partners, including the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, Australia, New Zealand, and other partners. He said the Government is now working through the different processes to ensure assistance reaches affected communities. “It will take time, and we continue to ask our people in those affected areas to be patient with us and understand that we are prioritising these areas,” he said. Hiriasia also said the Government’s response to Maila was being guided by the national disaster plan, which provides for a whole-of-government approach. He said the plan was developed following the Gizo earthquake and tsunami and had continued to be refined based on lessons learned from previous disasters. “The current version, developed in 2018, is reviewed to identify gaps and areas requiring improvement,” he said. Hiriasia said new government structures, including Constituency Development Committees and Ward Development Committees, will also need to be incorporated into the disaster plan. “By including these changes, hopefully it will improve response and recovery in the future,” he said. He acknowledged that recovery from previous disasters had sometimes been delayed because of limited resources, with some disasters not receiving adequate recovery support. Mr Hiriasia said the Government will use lessons learned to improve its disaster response and recovery approach. He urges affected communities to remain patient as the Government continues to prioritise recovery needs and work through the required processes. For feedback, contact: jhouanihau24@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Disasters & Weather · 2026-08-24 Original ↗

Government sets new fuel prices

BY JOSES SAREN The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI) has set new maximum prices for petrol, diesel and kerosene, effective immediately. The Order, signed on August 12 and gazetted as Legal Notice No. 201, amends the Price Control (Application to Goods and Restriction of Prices) Order 1987 (Legal Notice No. 47 of 1987) and took effect on its publication in last week’s Extra-Ordinary Gazette on Thursday, August 20. Minister for MCILI Harry Kuma signed the Order, according to the notice. Petrol’s new wholesale price is 900.36 cents per litre ($9), rising to 1,123.87 cents per litre at retail ($11.24). Diesel’s new wholesale price is 1,008.95 cents per litre ($10.09), rising to 1,245.29 cents per litre at retail ($12.45). Kerosene’s wholesale price is set at 948.22 cents per litre ($9.48). It will not carry a fixed retail price. Instead, sellers face a maximum markup of 15 percent on packaged products such as tins and bottles. Break-bulk sales, such as large drums, carry a maximum markup of 20 percent. The Price Control (Application to Goods and Restriction of Prices) (Amendment) (No. 10) Order 2026 replaces the previous fuel pricing schedule. Minister Kuma said the changes followed consultations with the Prices Advisory Committee under sections 4 and 6 of the Price Control Act (Cap. 64). The new prices are maximum legal prices. Retailers cannot charge above them, though they may sell for less. For feedback, contact: josessaren@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-08-24 Original ↗

SINTA: Mid-year break is for students, not teachers

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU The mid-year school breaks are intended for students and should not be treated as an extended holiday by teachers, the Solomon Islands National Teachers Association (SINTA) says. Acting SINTA President Frank Robolite’e clarified this in an interview with Island Sun today, following concerns over teachers who have been returning late to their respective schools for the second semester. Mr Robolite’e said teachers are expected to return to their schools and resume duties when the second semester began, unless there were genuine circumstances preventing them from travelling. He said it is particularly concerning that at times, some teachers are still in Honiara or at their respective homes despite the second semester already having started. “It is not good for teachers to be absent from their respective schools at the beginning or second semester of the school year,” he said. Mr Robolite’e said teachers should not regard the first or mid-year term breaks as their main holiday because the school calendar provides specific breaks for teachers and students. He said the main holiday for teachers is normally at the end of the school year in December, when they have about six weeks of holiday. He explained that the school calendar provides shorter breaks during the school year. Mr Robolite’e said teachers are expected to remain at their respective school stations and participate in follow-up workshops or other professional activities when required. On the other hand, he also acknowledged concerns raised by teachers that their travelling allowance does not adequately cover the cost of returning to their schools after the mid-year break. The issue was raised by teachers following an earlier Island Sun report on their delayed return to schools, with some saying the travelling allowance provided to them is insufficient to meet the cost of travel. Mr Robolite’e said SINTA recognises the concern and had previously raised teachers’ employment and benefit concerns with the Government. He said the Government and SINTA began formal negotiations over teachers’ demands in July 2025, eventually reaching a Master Agreement signed in August 2025. Mr Robolite’e said the travelling allowance issue remains an important concern because the current arrangement does not always ensure teachers receive sufficient support to meet the cost of travelling back to their schools. He said the Government provides funds which are later distributed through education providers (EPs), but problems can arise when teachers do not receive the full amount. “This is where the problem comes in. If the education providers do not give the full amount to teachers, the teachers are the ones affected when it comes to travelling back to their schools,” he said. Mr Robolite’e said SINTA wants the travelling allowance to be paid directly into teachers’ bank accounts starting next year. He said this will allow the Government to better monitor the payments while ensuring teachers receive the funds intended to support their travel back to their schools. Mr Robolite’e said addressing the travelling allowance issue is important, but teachers should also meet their responsibility to return to their schools and resume teaching on time. He said genuine travel difficulties should be communicated to the relevant authorities rather than teachers remaining away from their stations without explanation. For feedback, contact: jhouanihau24@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Education · 2026-08-24 Original ↗

Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School receives new dining hall

BY RODRICK DESURI Auki Government officials officially handover and opened the new Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School dining hall on Friday. The new dining hall is worth around $4 million and it replaces the school’s dining hall which was engulfed by fire in 2019. The new hall will provide comfortable and enough space for students to enjoy their meals. During the handing over ceremony, Principal of the School, Alick Bebesia expressed appreciation to the National Government for continuing to support the education of young generation. He said education is a significant investment for the goodness of children of the Solomon Islands. “A good school gives a good place to learn, eat, play, prayer, grow, develop whatever character that can help to shape our children for the future. “As we officially received this facility today, we understand that this is not simply a building, it represents a place and opportunity for future of these students. It will help to provide and solve the need of the students and support our teachers to carry out important tasks,” he said. He added that with the new dining hall, the students will have a proper space to eat. He also thanks Ropiko Enterprise Ltd for constructing the dining hall. For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Education · 2026-08-24 Original ↗

School principal calls for completion of school chapel

BY RODRICK DESURI Auki The Principal of Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School calls on the National Government to provide further financial support to complete the school’s unfinished chapel. Mr Alick Bebesia made the call during the handing over ceremony of the school’s new dining hall on Friday, August 21, 2026. He said the chapel is an important facility for the school and will require an additional $500,000 to have it completed. “There is another building that is very important for the school. It is the building that we are sitting in right now. This building is meant to be the school chapel,” he said. Mr Bebesia explained that the chapel only has columns and a roof, with no concrete slab or walls. He said the school administration had used part of the school fees to progress the construction to its current stage. “I want it to be completed by the end of this year, but it needs an additional $500,000,” he said. Mr Bebesia also thanked the National Government for funding the new dining hall, saying the facility will provide students and teachers with a safer and more suitable space for meals and other school activities. “As we all know, this project was funded by the National Government and it cost approximately more than $4 million,” he said. The new dining hall replaces the school’s previous facility, which was destroyed by fire in 2019. The paper understands that Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School is among the 1,583 schools that have received support from the National Government. For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Education · 2026-08-24 Original ↗

Gold Ridge welcomes SINU apprentices for 6-month practical training

BY DOUGLAS VAHIA GOLD Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) has welcomed 15 National Apprenticeship Training (NAT) students from the Solomon Islands National University (SINU), who have commenced their six-month practical training at the Gold Ridge Mine. According to GRML, the apprentices began their training on August 10 th with an induction and orientation programme conducted by GRML’s safety team. The programme was attended by Chief Labour Officer (Apprenticeship) from the Labour Division of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI), Mr. James Gatu, together with Labour Division officers Sam and Brian, as well as GRML management, department managers and supervisors. The students are undertaking Certificate I trade programmes in Heavy Mechanics and Electrical, with their practical placement providing an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real industrial environment. Welcoming the apprentices, GRML Mines Manager, Mr. Xiangwen Song, said the Company is pleased to support the programme and will work with the students to combine their existing skills and knowledge with practical experience gained at the mine. Mr. Song stressed that safety must remain the highest priority for the students throughout their training, noting the Company’s status as a mining enterprise means safety is always treated as the top priority. He also encouraged the apprentices to consider GRML as a potential future employer after completing their studies and practical training. The apprentices will be attached to two key GRML departments under the supervision of experienced managers and personnel. Heavy Mechanics apprentices will undertake practical training in the workshop and field operations, while electrical apprentices will be attached to the mill. During the placement, students will gain practical exposure to mining operations, equipment, workplace safety, maintenance procedures and the professional standards expected in the mining industry. GRML will support the apprentices with daily transportation between Honiara and the mine, and provide assistance with essential safety requirements, including appropriate personal protective equipment. The reopening of the NAT programme, through a partnership between SINU and MCILI, represents an important step in strengthening technical and vocational education in the Solomon Islands. The programme was relaunched in 2024, with the Government seeking to rebuild the country’s pipeline of skilled tradespeople through a combination of formal study and practical industry experience. GRML assured Labour Division officers that it will work closely with the students’ supervisors and the Division to ensure the practical training provides meaningful workplace experience, describing the apprenticeship programme as an important opportunity to contribute to the development of the country’s technical and vocational workforce. Mr. Song said the mining industry requires qualified tradespeople, including mechanics, electricians, engineers and other technical specialists, and that providing young Solomon Islanders with practical industry experience is an important investment to develop the country’s future workforce. GRML said it will continue to make a vital contribution to the national economy and local communities. In 2025, the Gold Ridge Mine generated around $3 billion Solomon Islands dollars (SBD) in revenue, accounting for 23 percent of national GDP, paying SBD$510 million in taxes and royalties, and employing around 1,000 staff, including more than 700 local employees, with indirect employment of more than 3,000 jobs. For feedback, contact: diivee56@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Education · 2026-08-24 Original ↗

NZ’s Seasonal Worker Program: Simplified Processes And Stronger Worker Protections

By Charlotte Bedford At the end of July, New Zealand’s Immigration Minister Erica Stanford took the stage at the annual... The post NZ’s Seasonal Worker Program: Simplified Processes And Stronger Worker Protections appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Politics & Government · 2026-08-24 Original ↗

Pacific Faces Deep-Sea Mining Threats as US-China Mineral Race Heats Up

By Tess Ikonomou of AAP in Canberra Commercial deep-sea mining in the Pacific could begin in months without policy guardrails... The post Pacific Faces Deep-Sea Mining Threats as US-China Mineral Race Heats Up appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Business & Economy · 2026-08-24 Original ↗

Maneniaru defends BLC report as Mineral Resources Bill debate deferred

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU Former Bills and Legislation Committee (BLC) chairman and Member for West Are’are, John Maneniaru has defended the committee’s work on the Mineral Resources Bill, saying its report is complete and thorough. Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, August 18, Maneniaru, said the committee worked hard within the timeframe provided and did not cause delays to the Government’s legislative process. His comments followed Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification Derick Manu’ari’s motion to adjourn the second reading debate on the Mineral Resources Bill to Monday, September 7, 2026. Maneniaru said he felt obliged to clarify the work undertaken by the former BLC during his time as chairman. “I think it would be a mess-up for me not to mention anything about the work and what happened during my time as the chairman of the BLC. The report from my committee is complete. It is thorough. There are no excuses. We really worked hard on it during the time they gave it to my committee,” he said. He said the committee had been under pressure to complete its report so the Government could proceed with the Bill. Maneniaru acknowledged that the committee was unable to undertake consultations at the provincial level because of limited resources. However, he said technical stakeholders, including Guadalcanal Province, Gold Ridge Mining and provincial premiers, had participated in discussions, with their views included in the committee’s report. He maintained that the committee had consulted the stakeholders available to it. Former Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele while acknowledging the work of the former BLC, said the new committee should also examine amendments proposed to the Bill. Manele said he understood that at least nine or 10 amendments had been proposed by the Minister and highlighted by Prime Minister Mathew Wale during the sitting. He said it is important for the new BLC to consider those amendments alongside the report already before Parliament. The second reading debate has been deferred to September 7, allowing the new BLC further time to examine the committee’s report and proposed amendments. Photo credit: NPSI For feedback, contact: jhouanihau24@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-08-24 Original ↗

Parliament debates government response to stray dogs

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU The issue of stray dogs and who is responsible for removing dogs killed on public roads was questioned in Parliament, with MPs calling for a coordinated government response. Leader of Opposition Manasseh Sogavare raised the issue on the floor of Parliament on Monday 17 August, questioning who would be responsible for cleaning up the remains of dogs killed on public roads. Mr Sogavare directed his question to Minister of Infrastructure Development (MID) Ricky Fuo’o, saying the issue remains a challenge even when he was in government. He asked what would happen when motorists hit stray dogs on public roads and who would take responsibility for cleaning up the remains. Minister Fuo’o in his response said the Government hopes the Road Transport Board (RTB), once its responsibilities were established, will have a role in road maintenance and cleaning. However, he urged motorists not to deliberately hit dogs and to drive carefully. Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Paul Bosawai, said responsibility for stray dogs falls under the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), particularly its public health and safety functions. Mr Bosawai said he had raised the same issue when he was Minister of Health, particularly in cases where people accidentally hit dogs on the road. He also called for an animal rights policy to ensure dogs are properly treated, noting that Honiara may already have by-laws dealing with stray dogs. Meanwhile Prime Minister Matthew Wale said he was concerned about the issue and had previously discussed it. Mr Wale said the problem involved several government agencies, including the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Home Affairs, MID, Honiara City Council (HCC) and provincial governments. He said discussions had included measures to control dog reproduction and called on communities to take responsibility for their dogs. He also criticised HCC, saying residents were required to pay dog licence fees but questioned whether the council was providing the services expected in return. Mr Wale said the Government needs a more coordinated policy response to the stray dog problem. The issue is also covered under the Honiara (Dogs) (Amendment) Ordinance 2023, which amended the Honiara (Dogs) Ordinance to strengthen rules on dog registration, stray dogs and penalties. Under the amendment, HCC has powers to deal with dogs that are unregistered or unclaimed after the prescribed period. Registered dogs carrying council identification can also be dealt with if their owners fail to claim them within the required period. The amendment also increased penalties for breaches of the ordinance, including fines and imprisonment for certain offences. The ordinance was passed by Honiara City Council (HCC) on November 13, 2023, and assented to by the Minister for Home Affairs on the same day. For feedback, contact: jhouanihau24@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-08-24 Original ↗

Malou Clinic without nurse, community calls for health worker

BY RODRICK DESURI Auki People in Malou community in South Malaita, Malaita province are calling on health authorities to urgently deploy a nurse to their local clinic after they have been without one for some time. The community appeals to the Afio Area Health Centre and Kilu’ufi Hospital to recruit and assign a nurse to serve at the Malou Clinic. Senior nurse, Cliff Sanau made the call on behalf of the community, saying Malou urgently needs a nurse because the community is located far from other nearby health facilities. He said the community has already demonstrated its commitment to improving access to healthcare by taking up the initiative to build the clinic. “The Malou community itself built the clinic years back. Currently, the clinic is still equipped with essential medicines, but it is operating without a nurse. “The only need here is the completion of the staff house, but honestly, the people here really need a nurse to serve them,” he said. He said the Malou Clinic serves a population of around 300 people, including children, young people, adults and elderly residents. He urges health authorities to consider the community’s request and to ensure that a nurse is deployed to the clinic as soon as possible to provide much needed basic healthcare services to the people of Malou. For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Health · 2026-08-24 Original ↗

Dash 8 repairs delayed, mounting pressure to Solomon Airlines

By Agnes Menanopo Solomon Airlines’ 32-seat Dash 8 has been in Cairns, Australia, for repairs for several months, far longer than the eight weeks originally expected. The airline’s largest domestic aircraft was sent to Cairns for a regular scheduled check required every two years. However, its age and difficulties sourcing parts have extended the repair period. Speaking to SIBC News, Solomon Airlines Chief Executive Officer Matthew Findlay said the aircraft is taking much longer to repair because it is an older model and parts are increasingly difficult to obtain. “They actually don’t make that aircraft anymore. And so, getting parts for repairs to this aircraft is very difficult because they just simply don’t make them. “We have to obtain these parts from other suppliers around the world, and getting those parts here to the Solomons, of course, takes time. “And that’s why the extended period of why this aircraft is out of service, which is compounding our challenges with the two Twin Otters that are left in our fleet domestically,” Mr. Findlay said. The prolonged absence of the Dash 8 is putting additional pressure on the airline’s domestic operations, which are currently relying on two 19-seat Twin Otters. Mr Findlay also revealed that another aircraft owned by Solomon Airlines has been in California, United States, awaiting repairs. “One aircraft that we still own is marooned in California, waiting to be repaired, and that’s something that’s been the case for the last two and a half years. “It saddens me that that aircraft is still in California and is unable to be repaired,” the CEO said. Mr Findlay said the airline is now exploring funding options either to repair the aircraft in California or secure additional aircraft to strengthen its domestic fleet. “There are opportunities for us to secure funding to either get that repaired or secure other aircraft to supplement our fleet, and that is the process that we’re starting now. “It takes time to secure this aircraft,” Mr Findlay said. He said Solomon Airlines wants the Dash 8 back in service as soon as possible, but maintaining its ageing aircraft remains a challenge because of difficulties sourcing parts and skilled labour. ENDS// The post Dash 8 repairs delayed, mounting pressure to Solomon Airlines first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .

SIBC General News · 2026-08-24 Original ↗

PRIVATE VIEW: GREAT Government Urged Build Permanent Offices to Save Millions

BY CAMPION OHASIO, DIGITAL CREATOR Please GREAT Government can you also start the process of building permanent Government Offices and Homes for Solomon Islands government workers. Every year, the Solomon Islands government spends millions and millions of dollars paying rent. It pays rent for government offices and rental for housing its workers. For many decades, past governments have used public money to pay private landowners and landlords every single month. Many citizens see this as a huge waste of money because it is. Instead of paying endless rent, that money could go toward better schools, cleaner clinics, better roads, and development. The government is here to stay. Public servants will always need places to live and work. Running the country’s property needs like a temporary arrangement makes no sense at all Why investing in permanent, government-owned buildings and housing is the best long-term decision: Some examples are; (a) Massive Long-Term Savings When you rent, the money is gone forever. When you build, you pay a high cost upfront, but eventually, the project is paid off. After that, the government stops paying high monthly rent bills, saving millions of dollars every single year. (b) Money Saved Can Go to Health and Education Every dollar not paid to private landlords can stay in the national budget. This money can hire more doctors, buy medicines for regional clinics, build classrooms, and fund scholarships for students. (c) Creation of Value and Wealth (Assets) Land and buildings are valuable assets. By constructing its own properties, the government grows the nation’s wealth. These buildings belong to the public and increase the country’s overall financial standing. (d) A Strong Signal of National Stability and Progress Permanent, well-constructed public buildings show both citizens and international partners that the country is stable, organized, and planning for the future. It builds national pride and projects strength. (e) Smart Planning for Future Generations The government and its workers are not going anywhere. Investing in permanent infrastructure today solves a problem for decades to come, leaving a solid foundation for future generations rather than handing them a heavy burden of endless debt and rent bills. Moving from constant renting to building permanent infrastructure requires clear planning and honest management, but it changes a continuous cost into a long-term benefit for all citizens and the nation.

Sunday Isles Politics & Government · 2026-08-24 Original ↗

Pests threaten food gardens in Ranongga

BY BEN BILUA Gizo COMMUNITIES in Ranongga are facing a new threat to their food gardens, with a wave of pests damaging vegetables and root crops. The emerging problem has added to the challenges already faced by communities recovering from the devastation caused by Cyclone Maila. Silas Reuban, an elder from Mondo Community, said the pests were aggressively feeding on crops, creating another struggle for people trying to restore their food gardens. He said residents had noticed new pests feeding on vegetables and potato leaves—some of which had not been seen in the area before. “After the cyclone, we witnessed pests invading our gardens. It’s like we are competing to survive. While we try to plant our gardens, these pests destroy them. “This is a new thing. We did not see some of the pests feeding on plants before,” Reuban said. He said people in Mondo Community continued to work hard to recover from the damage caused by Cyclone Maila, but the pest outbreak was making their efforts more difficult. Similar problems have also been reported in Lale Community, where residents are experiencing pest damage to their food gardens. The emergence of the pests has raised concerns about food security in the affected communities. Biosecurity teams are being urged to carry out an immediate investigation to identify the pests, determine the cause of their spread and provide appropriate measures to protect food gardens. For feedback, contact: maetuana777@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Disasters & Weather · 2026-08-23 Original ↗

Coral planting training held in four communities in West Are’are

By RODRICK DESURI Auki Coral planting training has been conducted in four communities in Ward 24, West Are’are, Malaita Province, to strengthen local efforts to protect and restore coral reefs. The one-day training was held in each of the four communities including; Taarutona, Pipisu, Haurapi and Uhu, last week. The training was facilitated by Auki Senior Fisheries Officer Mathew Isihanua and implemented by Malaita Fisheries with funding support from the UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme. The programme provided community members with practical knowledge and skills in coral planting and reef restoration, with a focus on protecting marine biodiversity, fisheries resources and the livelihoods of coastal communities. Participants attending the coral Training at Pipisu and Haurapi, West Are’are. Photo credit: Mathew Isihanua Mr Isihanua said participants took part in practical activities, including the preparation and installation of coral structures as part of efforts to restore damaged reef areas. He said the training was well received, with participants and other community members actively taking part in the activities. “The participants were really happy and enjoyed the training. Not only the participants, but other community members also took part,” Mr Isihanua said. He said the initiative demonstrated the importance of community-based conservation and the role local communities can play in protecting their marine environment. He added that locally led reef restoration efforts would help ensure marine resources are protected and preserved for future generations. Photos from the coral Training at Pipisu and Haurapi, West Are’are. Photo credit: Mathew Isihanua. For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Environment & Climate · 2026-08-23 Original ↗

Malaita commends GREAT government for continued support in Education

By RODRICK DESURI Auki The Malaita Provincial Government has commended the GREAT Government for its continued support towards strengthening education and human resource development in the province. Education remains one of the most powerful instruments for empowering people, creating opportunities and preparing the younger generation to participate meaningfully in the social and economic development of the nation. Premier of Malaita Province, Elijah Asilau’a, made the remarks during the signing ceremony of the Agency Agreement and Provincial Education Board Agreement between the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD) and the Malaita Provincial Government on Friday, August 21. Premier Asilau’a said the agreements would provide Malaita with an important framework for cooperation, administration, funding, compliance, technical assistance and advisory support from the Ministry. “On behalf of the people of Malaita, I acknowledge and commend the Solomon Islands GREAT Government for its continued commitment to strengthening education and human resource development as a foundation for national transformation,” he said. “Education remains one of the most powerful instruments for empowering our people, creating opportunities and preparing our young generation to participate meaningfully in the social and economic development of our nation,” he added. He said the agreements would further strengthen the administration of the Malaita Education Provider Office and the Malaita Education Coordination Office, while promoting greater coordination among the government, churches, communities and other education providers. Meanwhile, Minister of Education and Human Resource Development, Stephen Kumi, assured the Malaita Provincial Government and education partners that the Ministry would continue to work closely with the province during the transition. “MEHRD remains committed to supporting Malaita through this transition. Through the Agency Agreement, the Ministry will provide ongoing technical and operational support to the Malaita Education Provider Office, including strengthening capacity in school operations and teacher management,” he said. The signing marks an important step towards strengthening provincial participation in education administration and improving coordination between the national and provincial governments. For feedback, contact: rodrickdesuri50@gmail.com Editor: irwin2angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Education · 2026-08-23 Original ↗

How NHA Bypassed The Rules To Deliver The Pacific Games

By Ofani Eremae The National Hosting Authority (NHA) created a special procurement system to speed up the delivery of the... The post How NHA Bypassed The Rules To Deliver The Pacific Games appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Sports · 2026-08-23 Original ↗