CIP Honiara-Based Youth Marks International
Youth Day with Speech Competition
By John Chrisma
Solomon Star, Honiara
The Central Islands Province (CIP) Honiara-Based Youth Committee held its International Youth Day 2026 Speech Competition at Dreamcast Art Hub on Wednesday, 12 August 2026, as part of activities to mark International Youth Day.
The event was commemorated under the theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”
The speech competition was organised to give CIP Honiara-based students an opportunity to participate in the International Youth Day celebration while providing a platform for young people to speak openly about issues and concerns affecting youth in Central Islands Province and Solomon Islands as a whole.
Speech Competition Coordinator Danzo Kakadi said the committee chose a speech competition because it provides young people with an avenue to express their views and build confidence in public speaking.
He said young people are the future leaders of the country and should be given opportunities to develop their confidence, personal skills and a sense of ownership in discussing issues affecting their communities.
The competition featured 14 contestants, with seven competing in the Secondary School category and another seven in the University category.
All contestants represented their respective wards from Ngella, Savo and Russell Islands, with topics for the competition drawn from key issues affecting young people and the International Youth Day theme.
Kakadi said he was proud of all the contestants for having the courage to step outside their comfort zones and take part in the competition.
He encouraged the participants to view the competition not simply as an opportunity to win prizes, but as a chance to build confidence and develop their public-speaking skills.
“This speech competition is not about winning but it is about you building your confidence in public speaking. All of you are winners for speaking on your chosen topics,” Kakadi said.
He said this was the first time the CIP Honiara-Based Youth Committee had organised a speech competition, making the participation of all contestants particularly significant as it was also their first experience in such an event.
In the Secondary School category, Enei Kukutu, representing Ward 7 (Small Ngella), won the second prize of $500 while the first price goes to Benjamin Gadi representing ward 1 Sandfly walked away with $1000.
In the University category, Junior Aenasi Diosi, representing Ward 9 (Russell/Yandina), also took second prize of $500 while Rachel Malrina walked away with a first cash prize of $1000.
All participating contestants received consolation prizes and certificates of participation in recognition of their contribution to the event.
Kakadi also used the occasion to encourage young people across Solomon Islands to embrace challenges as opportunities for personal growth.
“My message to young people across Solomon Islands is: Take every challenge as an opportunity to learn, grow and build yourself.
“Be a good ambassador for your family, community, province and Solomon Islands,” he said.
The committee said the speech competition forms part of its efforts to encourage greater youth participation, leadership development and meaningful dialogue on issues affecting young people in Solomon Islands.
Photos Credited: Kakadi Danzo
CIP Honiara-Based Youth Marks International
Youth Day with Speech Competition
By John Chrisma
Solomon Star, Honiara
中央岛省(Central Islands Province,CIP)霍尼亚拉青年委员会于2026年8月12日星期三在梦幻艺术中心(Dreamcast Art Hub)举行了国际青年日演讲比赛,作为庆祝国际青年日活动的一部分。
该活动以“不同的背景,共同的愿望”为主题。
演讲比赛旨在为CIP霍尼亚拉的学生提供参与国际青年日庆祝活动的机会,同时为年轻人提供一个平台,让他们公开讨论影响中央岛省和整个所罗门群岛青年的问题和关切。
演讲比赛协调员丹佐·卡卡迪(Danzo Kakadi)表示,委员会选择演讲比赛是因为它为年轻人提供了表达观点和在公共演讲中建立自信的途径。
他说,年轻人是国家的未来领导者,应该获得机会来发展他们的自信、个人技能和讨论影响他们社区问题的主人翁意识。
比赛共有14名参赛者,其中7名参加中学组,另外7名参加大学组。
所有参赛者代表来自恩盖拉(Ngella)、萨沃(Savo)和拉塞尔岛(Russell Islands)的各自选区,比赛主题来自影响年轻人的关键问题和国际青年日主题。
卡卡迪表示,他为所有参赛者感到自豪,因为他们勇敢地走出舒适区,参与比赛。
他鼓励参与者将比赛视为不仅仅是赢得奖品的机会,而是建立自信和发展公共演讲技能的机会。
“这场演讲比赛不是关于获胜,而是关于你在公共演讲中建立自信。你们所有人都是在自己选择的主题上发言的赢家,”卡卡迪说。
他说,这是CIP霍尼亚拉青年委员会首次组织演讲比赛,所有参赛者的参与尤为重要,因为这也是他们首次参加此类活动。
在中学组中,代表第7选区(小恩盖拉)的埃内伊·库库图(Enei Kukutu)获得500美元的二等奖,而代表第1选区(沙蝇)的本杰明·加迪(Benjamin Gadi)获得1000美元的一等奖。
在大学组中,代表第9选区(拉塞尔/扬迪纳)的初级·阿纳西·迪奥西(Junior Aenasi Diosi)也获得500美元的二等奖,而瑞秋·马尔里纳(Rachel Malrina)获得1000美元的首个现金奖。
所有参赛者均获得了安慰奖和参与证书,以表彰他们对活动的贡献。
卡卡迪还借此机会鼓励所罗门群岛的年轻人将挑战视为个人成长的机会。
“我对所罗门群岛的年轻人的信息是:将每一个挑战视为学习、成长和自我提升的机会。
“成为你家庭、社区、省和所罗门群岛的优秀大使,”他说。
委员会表示,演讲比赛是其鼓励青年参与、领导力发展和对影响年轻人的问题进行有意义对话努力的一部分。
Photos Credited: Kakadi Danzo
Solomon Islands side keeps semi-final hopes alive with commanding 3-0 win over AS Venus
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Central Coast FC has reignited their hopes of reaching the semi-finals of the OFC Men’s Champions League 2026 after a commanding 3-0 victory over AS Venus of Tahiti in Lautoka yesterday.
The Solomon Islands representative bounced back strongly from Monday’s narrow defeat to defend champions Auckland City FC, producing a dominant first-half display to put themselves in a strong position heading into their final group match.
OFC Media, in its match report yesterday, said Central Coast were determined to respond after their opening loss and did so in impressive fashion, controlling much of the contest and scoring three times inside the opening 24 minutes.
Barrie Limoki opened the scoring in the eighth minute after captain Javin Wae headed down a Rafa Lea’i corner, allowing Limoki to react quickest inside a crowded penalty area and fire home.
Lea’i then doubled the advantage in the 19th minute, finishing calmly after being released through on goal by Prince Tahunipue.
Central Coast struck again just five minutes later when another Lea’i corner was headed down by Wae, with Bobby Leslie turning the ball home from close range to make it 3-0.
The three-goal cushion at half-time gave Central Coast firm control of the match, allowing them to manage the second period while continuing to threaten on the counter.
OFC Media reported that AS Venus struggled to create clear opportunities against a Central Coast side that used its height and aerial strength effectively, with set pieces proving a major weapon for the Solomon Islands outfit.
Lea’i remained a constant threat after the interval and came close to adding a fourth, but twice failed to find the target from promising positions.
The victory now sets up a crucial final group match against New Caledonia’s AS Tiga Sport, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.
Auckland City FC currently sit on six points, while Central Coast and Tiga Sport will meet in a winner-takes-all encounter for the remaining semi-final spot.
Central Coast’s goal difference could prove decisive, having boosted their tally with yesterday’s three-goal victory.
“Goal difference will be on Central Coast’s side,” OFC Media said, highlighting the significance of the Solomon Islands side’s strong first-half performance.
Central Coast FC will enter their final group fixture knowing that victory will send them through to the semi-finals alongside defending champions Auckland City FC.
The 2026 OFC Men’s Champions League is being staged in Fiji from August 9 to 22, with the tournament bringing together leading clubs from across the Oceania region. Central Coast is representing Solomon Islands in the competition after their domestic and regional campaign earned them a place among Oceania’s top clubs.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
WHAT began with just $5,000 has grown into four years of involvement in the cocoa and copra industry for Malu’u-based entrepreneur, Lovelyn Saona.
Saona, 50, previously worked at the Mendana Hotel and Gold Ridge Mining before turning her attention to supporting farmers through commodity marketing.
She established Tefula Marketing, which initially worked with farmers in Honiara before she returned to Malu’u in North Malaita, where she expanded her involvement in cocoa and copra trading.
Today, Saona buys cocoa and copra from farmers and sells the commodities to the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA). She has also established an air dryer at Manaokwai, and is involved in planting cocoa trees and buying coconuts from farmers for copra production.
Saona said improving the flow of commodity trading remains important for farmers in rural communities. She calls on CEMA to ensure sufficient funds are consistently available to maintain buying and trading activities in the sector.
She also urges the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD) to strengthen farmer training, so producers can improve their farming practices and increase production.
Saona said CEMA’s role in the commodity sector remains important, particularly in providing a market for farmers and exporting their produce.
CEMA’s Farmers First initiative is designed to bring the organisation closer to rural farmers by strengthening commodity marketing platforms and improving farmers’ access to markets.
For farmers and local traders such as Saona, reliable market access remains essential to sustain production and ensure rural communities can benefit from cocoa and copra.
Her experience reflects how local entrepreneurs can serve as an important link between farmers and formal commodity markets, helping rural producers turn their agricultural produce into income.
Photo: Supplied
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Attorney-General Gabriel Suri says his directorship at Panatina Chemists Limited ended about eight years ago. “In fact I ceased to...
The post Suri Denies Conflict, Accuses Sogavare of ‘Witch-Hunt’ appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
Government Seeks $758.4 Million Supplementary Funding
The Government is seeking Parliament’s approval for $758.4 million in additional expenditure under the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill.
The proposed funding is intended to regularise spending already incurred through Contingency and Advance Warrants, as well as provide additional funding for programmes and activities that were not sufficiently covered under the original 2026 Appropriation.
According to the statement presented by Gordon Darcy, the supplementary expenditure includes $10 million in Contingency Warrants, $316.4 million in Advance Warrants and $432 million in additional expenditure. The additional expenditure covers recurrent and development spending, together with $75 million in budget support for services through to the end of 2026.
A significant portion of the funding is directed towards economic development. The Government has allocated $345.4 million, or 45 percent, towards inclusive economic development, job creation, tourism and fisheries investments, and support for farmers to increase cocoa production. Another $210.3 million, representing 28 percent, is allocated to the resource sector, with a focus on rural economic and social development.
The supplementary package also provides $102.7 million for key infrastructure development, including support for the Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement Project II and additional funding for road maintenance in Honiara, Malaita and Western provinces.
The social sector is allocated $141.7 million, or 19 percent of the supplementary funding. This includes support for RSIPF and CSSI operations, rehabilitation of school infrastructure, scholarships and school grants, as well as health programmes, water and sanitation facilities and recovery of provincial health facilities affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila.
A further $63 million is allocated towards strengthening institutions and public administration, including organisational improvements, statutory office operations and additional contractual positions aimed at improving government performance and productivity.
The Government says the additional expenditure will be financed through several sources, including an expected $300 million in additional SIG revenue, mainly from gold receipts, $316.4 million in donor budget support, around $100 million in general budget support and $45 million in disaster-related budget support.
Gordon Darcy said the Government remains committed to monitoring implementation of the 2026 Budget and ensuring sufficient funds are available to meet contractual commitments and mandatory obligations, while maintaining essential services.
The Supplementary Appropriation Bill has been commended to Parliament for consideration and approval.
[ENDS]///////
Construction works at Honiara International Port are progressing well, with the project entering an important stage towards the planned extension and upgrading of the International Berth 1 Wharf.
Current construction activities include the fabrication and installation of temporary works as a crane platform as well as a pile guiding frame to support the next stage of piling activities for the seaward extension approximately 30 meters of International Berth 1 Wharf.
These temporary structures are critical enabling works for the next phase of construction that form an important part of the construction methodology and are designed to facilitate safe, controlled and efficient piling operations. The crane platform will provide a stable and secure working area for positioning and operating heavy construction equipment in the marine environment, while the pile guiding frame will help ensure that the foundation piles are installed to the required alignment, depth and technical specifications, which are critical to the structural integrity and long-term performance of the extended wharf.
Once the temporary works measures are completed, the contractor will be able to commence the next phase of installing the permanent piles for the seaward extension. This will represent another important milestone in the delivery of the upgraded port infrastructure.
The approximately 30-metre extension of International Berth 1 will improve the berth's operational capacity and functionality as well as supporting the safer and more efficient handling of vessels and cargo that are anticipated to use the facility over the 50-year design life.
The upgraded wharf infrastructure being provided under LMCP, which also includes the provision of two new domestic rural wharves at Kirakira, Makira Province and Ahanga, in Rennell Bellona Province, will contribute to improving the efficiency and reliability of maritime transport services in Solomon Islands and current improvements to the Honiara International Port, both in terms of capacity and capability, will further strengthen its' role as the country's major international maritime gateway.
The investment is also expected to support the country's growing trade and economic activities by providing improved port infrastructure capable of responding to future transport and logistics demands.
MID Acting Permanent Secretary, Mr. Mike Qaqara, said the continued progress of the works demonstrates the Government's commitment to improving critical transport infrastructure and supporting long-term economic development.
“The progress being achieved at Honiara International Port is encouraging and reflects the Government’s continued commitment to investing in infrastructure that supports the country’s economic growth and connectivity. The extension and upgrading of International Berth 1 will provide improved capacity and functionality for port operations and contribute to more efficient maritime transport services,” Mr. Qaqara said.
The International Berth Upgrade forms part of the broader infrastructure investment under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP), a flagship initiative led by the Solomon Islands Government and the Solomon Islands Port Authority, with financial and technical support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Solomon Islands.
The government aims to improve transport connectivity across the country by strengthening critical road and maritime infrastructure, thereby supporting economic growth, trade and improved access to essential goods and services.
The Solomon Islands Government remains committed to delivering sustainable and climate-resilient transport infrastructure that supports national development priorities and enhances the efficiency, reliability and safety of the country's transport systems.
THE ISLAND SUN FRONT PAGE
ISSUE 5676 | FRIDAY 14 AUGUST 2026
ZERO TOLERANCE ON TAX ABUSE
Government moves to tighten revenue collection and tackle exemptions, with income tax eyed to reduce ‘a little bit’: Finance Minister Lilo.
The Government is pushing ahead with major reforms to Solomon Islands’ tax system, with Minister of Finance and Treasury Gordon Darcy Lilo warning there will be zero tolerance on tax exemptions and abuse that are costing the country much-needed revenue.
Also on today’s front page
AFP strengthens SI maritime security with Naiad boats - The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force has received two Naiad vessels from the Australian Federal Police to boost maritime security capability. The vessels are part of a broader AUD $6.5 million (over SBD $33 million) Australian Government investment in maritime policing across Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.
Australia to hand over Lofung border and patrol boat outpost to Solomon Islands - Read the full story on page 9.
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ISLAND SUN FRONT PAGE
ISSUE 5676 | FRIDAY 14 AUGUST 2026
ZERO TOLERANCE ON TAX ABUSE
政府采取措施加强收入征收并处理免税问题,财政部长戈登·达西·利洛(Gordon Darcy Lilo)表示,所得税将被视为减少“少量”的手段。
政府正在推进所罗门群岛税制的重大改革,财政与财政部部长戈登·达西·利洛警告称,对免税和滥用行为将采取零容忍政策,这些行为正在使国家失去急需的收入。
Also on today’s front page
AFP加强所罗门群岛海洋安全,提供Naiad船只 - 所罗门群岛皇家警察部队从澳大利亚联邦警察处获得了两艘Naiad船,以增强海洋安全能力。这些船只是澳大利亚政府在所罗门群岛和瓦努阿图进行海洋警务投资的更大计划的一部分,总投资为650万澳元(超过3300万所罗门元)。
澳大利亚将向所罗门群岛移交Lofung边界和巡逻船哨所 - 请在第9页阅读完整故事。
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Australia and Solomon Islands move to deepen their partnership through a proposed comprehensive bilateral treaty and cooperation. Last week I was honoured to host Prime Minister Wale and ten Cabinet members to my residence for a reception, where I had the opportunity to thank over 200 guests – Members of Parliament, senior government officials, business, [...]
The post The Next Chapter of Our Partnership appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
The Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD) is inviting eligible contractors to bid for the 2026 Printing and Delivery of National Examination Papers, with tender documents now available and submissions due by 27 August 2026.
The contract will be awarded through the Government’s competitive tendering process, with all bids to be lodged at the Central Tender Board counter and opened in the presence of attending representatives.
✅Closing date: 27th August 2026
Check link for details: https://classified.islesmedia.net/.../ministry-of-education.../...
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Australia will hand over the new Lofung Border Outpost to Solomon Islands, strengthening border security and services. Honiara, 13 July 2026:& The Government of Australia will hand over the new Lofung Border and Patrol Boat Outpost in the Shortland Islands, Western Province, to the Government and people of the Solomon Islands on Monday, 17 August [...]
The post AUSTRALIA TO HAND OVER LOFUNG BORDER OUTPOST appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
RSIPF receives two NIAD vessels from Australia to strengthen maritime operations and rapid response across Solomon Islands waters Solomon Islands police have received two NIAD vessels from Australia, aimed at strengthening the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force’s (RSIPF) ability to conduct maritime operations and respond to communities across the country’s coastal and inter-island waters. Minister [...]
The post New Australian Vessels Strengthen Solomon Islands Police Maritime Response appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Heavy Rain Warning Issued for All Provinces
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service has issued a Heavy Rain Warning Number One for all provinces, warning of possible flash flooding and landslides.
The warning was issued at 7:00am on Thursday, 13 August 2026.
According to the Meteorological Service, a trough is lying just north of Solomon Islands while a general south-easterly trade wind flow persists across the country.
Associated cloud, heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected to affect all provinces.
The Meteorological Service warned that localised heavy rainfall could result in flash flooding and landslides, particularly in communities located near hill slopes, large rivers, streams and low-lying areas.
Sea travellers have also been urged to take extra safety precautions, as heavy rain could significantly reduce visibility at sea.
The public is strongly advised to take necessary safety measures to avoid danger and possible loss of lives during the period of heavy rainfall.
People are also encouraged to share the warning with persons with disabilities to ensure they receive the necessary information and can take appropriate safety measures.
Heavy Rain Warning Issued for All Provinces
所罗门群岛气象局已发布强降雨警告编号一,警告可能发生的闪电洪水和山体滑坡。
该警告于2026年8月13日星期四上午7:00发布。
根据气象局的说法,一个低压槽正位于所罗门群岛以北,同时,整个国家仍然受到东南季风的影响。
相关的云层、强降雨和雷暴预计将影响所有省份。
气象局警告称,局部强降雨可能导致闪电洪水和山体滑坡,特别是在靠近山坡、大河、溪流和低洼地区的社区。
海上旅行者也被敦促采取额外的安全预防措施,因为强降雨可能会显著降低海上的能见度。
公众被强烈建议在强降雨期间采取必要的安全措施,以避免危险和可能的生命损失。
人们也被鼓励与残疾人士分享警告,以确保他们获得必要的信息并采取适当的安全措施。
SI CHESS FEDERATION BEGINS SCHOOL OUTREACH AT WOODFORD INTERNATIONAL
The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) together with Team Solomon Chess Squad preparing for the 2026 FIDE Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, conducted first school visit this afternoon at Woodford International School.
The visiting team members included:
Chris Kaitu'u
Abel Puia
Fred Resture
Junior Lui
Melanie Chottu
The visit formed part of SICF's ongoing Chess for Growth initiative and Team Solomon's preparations for the Olympiad.
It provided an opportunity for the SICF and chess squad to connect directly with young chess enthusiasts and encourage the next generation of Solomon Islands players.
During the session, Team Solomon players shared their personal chess journeys and reflections, speaking about their experiences, challenges, discipline and development through chess.
They encouraged students to continue learning and playing the game and to believe that young Solomon Islanders can progress from school and community chess to national and international competition.
A major highlight of the afternoon was the simultaneous chess exhibition, where Team Solomon players took on Woodford students across multiple boards.
The session gave students a rare opportunity to test their skills against players preparing to represent Solomon Islands on the world stage.
Woodford's chess trainer Myrtle Maesulia welcomed the visit on behalf of the Woodford Titans Chess Club:
"On behalf of Woodford Titans Chess Club, I am very honoured and privileged to have the Solomon Islands Chess Federation representatives and the Chess Squad themselves visit us today!
A very special day for the team as it has been a long wait on our part. We've requested a visit around 2024, and since then, there hasn't been one until now. Today is by far the best chess session we've had so far.
You guys literally made our day! Thank you to you all! Can't wait for our next session!"
SICF President Simon Chottu sincerely thanked Woodford International School, the Woodford Titans Chess Club, its chess trainer, teachers and students for the warm welcome and enthusiasm shown towards Team Solomon.
The Federation recognises that representing Solomon Islands at the Olympiad is about more than competing over the chessboard.
It is also an opportunity for our national players to inspire young people, promote chess development and demonstrate the pathway from grassroots participation to international representation.
As Team Solomon continues its preparations for Samarkand 2026, SICF looks forward to further school and community engagement and strengthening the Chess for Growth programme throughout Solomon Islands.
From the classroom chessboard to the world stage — the journey continues.
TEAM SOLOMON – SAMARKAND 2026
- Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF)
所罗门国际象棋联合会(SICF)与所罗门国际象棋队为准备2026年在乌兹别克斯坦撒马尔罕举行的国际象棋奥林匹克赛,今天下午在Woodford 国际学校进行了首次学校访问。
访问团队成员包括:
Chris Kaitu'u
Abel Puia
Fred Resture
Junior Lui
Melanie Chottu
此次访问是SICF持续开展的“成长中的国际象棋”倡议的一部分,也是所罗门队为奥林匹克赛的准备。
它为SICF和国际象棋队提供了一个与年轻国际象棋爱好者直接联系的机会,鼓励下一代所罗门国际象棋选手。
在活动中,所罗门队的选手分享了他们个人的国际象棋经历和反思,谈到了他们的经历、挑战、纪律和通过国际象棋的发展。
他们鼓励学生继续学习和参与这项运动,并相信年轻的所罗门岛居民可以从学校和社区的国际象棋走向国家和国际比赛。
下午的一个主要亮点是同时进行的国际象棋表演赛,所罗门队的选手在多个棋盘上与Woodford的学生对弈。
此次活动为学生们提供了一个难得的机会,可以与准备代表所罗门岛参加世界比赛的选手切磋技能。
Woodford的国际象棋教练Myrtle Maesulia代表Woodford泰坦国际象棋俱乐部欢迎此次访问:
“我代表Woodford泰坦国际象棋俱乐部,感到非常荣幸和自豪,今天能迎来所罗门国际象棋联合会的代表和国际象棋队的访问!
对团队来说,这是一个非常特别的日子,因为我们等待了很久。我们在2024年左右请求过一次访问,直到现在才实现。今天是我们迄今为止最好的国际象棋活动。
你们真的让我们的一天变得特别!感谢你们所有人!期待我们的下一次活动!”
SICF主席Simon Chottu真诚地感谢Woodford 国际学校、Woodford泰坦国际象棋俱乐部、其国际象棋教练、教师和学生们对所罗门队的热情欢迎和热情支持。
联合会认识到,代表所罗门岛参加奥林匹克赛不仅仅是围绕国际象棋棋盘的竞争。
这也是我们国家选手激励年轻人、促进国际象棋发展以及展示从基层参与到国际代表的路径的机会。
随着所罗门队继续为2026年撒马尔罕的准备,SICF期待进一步的学校和社区参与,并在整个所罗门岛加强“成长中的国际象棋”项目。
从课堂的国际象棋棋盘到世界舞台——旅程仍在继续。
团队所罗门 – 撒马尔罕2026
- 所罗门国际象棋联合会(SICF)
DPP Warns Public Over Sharing False Information Online
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has reminded members of the public to exercise caution before sharing or reposting information on social media, warning that the publication of false information can have serious consequences.
The ODDP reminder to the public on its social media platform comes amid a growing amount of information circulating on social media in recent days, with some claims being accurate, while others are rumours, false information, misinformation or what appears to be deliberate disinformation.
The ODPP said the law in Solomon Islands is clear when it comes to publishing false information about individuals where the information has the potential to damage their reputation.
Such publications can expose the person responsible to civil liability, including a possible defamation suit, and in some circumstances may also result in criminal prosecution.
The ODPP is therefore urging the public to think carefully before sharing or reposting information about individuals.
It advised social media users to first verify the source and ensure that information comes from a credible and identifiable source before passing it on.
The public should also check for evidence, as rumours and unverified claims should not be treated as established facts.
The ODPP further warned people to consider the consequences of what they share, noting that false claims can cause serious harm to a person's reputation, family and livelihood.
Importantly, the legal consequences may not necessarily be limited to the person who originally posted the information. Those who knowingly or recklessly share or repost damaging false claims may also expose themselves to legal consequences, depending on the circumstances.
The ODPP's message to the public is simple: when in doubt, don't post it.
If a claim cannot be verified, the safer course is to withhold it rather than contribute to the spread of potentially false or harmful information.
The ODPP is encouraging responsible use of social media and reminding the public that the freedom to communicate also carries responsibilities, particularly when information concerns the reputation and rights of other people.
GREAT Coalition strengthens PMO capacity with skilled appointments to improve policy coordination, reforms and government service delivery. Honiara, 13 July 2026: The Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet has strengthened the capacity of its Political Division to better support the implementation of the GREAT Coalition’s policy and development programmes. The move is part of [...]
The post GREAT COALITION STRENGTHENS CAPACITY IN PMO TO DELIVER POLICY AGENDA appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
SPREP Executive Board Meeting in Samoa focuses on climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution and regional environmental action. 12 August 2026, Apia – The collective collaborative effort to cushion Pacific& communities against the impacts of the triple planetary crises of climate change,& biodiversity loss and pollution continues to be the core of the work of the [...]
The post SPREP BOARD REVIEWS PACIFIC ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES AND PRIORITIES appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Australia will hand over the newly-built AUD$60 million border and patrol boat outpost at Lofung in the Shortland Islands to...
The post Australia to Hand Over New Lofung Border Security Outpost appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
CURTIN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS DIGITISE SOLOMON ISLANDS GEOLOGICAL HERITAGE
Twenty New Colombo Plan Scholars from Curtin University have digitised more than 7,000 rock samples from across Solomon Islands, preserving a nationally significant geological collection and unlocking valuable geological data to support the country's future research and economic development.
During a four-week mobility program, the students worked in five teams to catalogue this unique collection of rock samples from the former Geological Survey rock shed, documenting an estimated 3.5 to 4 tonnes of material collected from thousands of locations across Solomon Islands in the 1970's.
The students also digitised geological maps and historical rock sample location records from the Geological Survey archives, achieving digital coverage of 99 per cent of the country and identifying the locations of 13,000 samples retained for future research.
This work has transformed an invaluable national asset into an accessible digital resource. For the first time, decades of geological information can be easily accessed and used by government agencies, researchers, educators, industry and development partners. The collection will help strengthen geological research, support evidence-based resource management and planning, and provide a rich learning resource for the next generation of Solomon Islands geologists, scientists and students.
The digitised collection is now available through the Solomon Islands Ministry of Mines and Rural Electrification’s online repository, ensuring that this important geological heritage is preserved and accessible for generations to come. The data is also expected to contribute to a forthcoming publication in Nature Scientific Data, further enhancing the international visibility and scientific value of Solomon Islands geological research.
The project demonstrates the power of international education partnerships to deliver practical benefits for national development while advancing scientific knowledge. By preserving and modernising a unique geological archive, the initiative provides Solomon Islands with tools and information that will continue to generate value long after the project has concluded.
Beyond its scientific contributions, the program provided students with hands-on experience in research, leadership, teamwork and cross-cultural collaboration. Working alongside Ministry staff, students developed a deeper understanding of Solomon Islands while building lasting professional and personal connections with local colleagues, communities and institutions.
The project forms part of Australia’s New Colombo Plan, a flagship initiative that strengthens knowledge, understanding and people-to-people links across the Indo-Pacific through study, internship and mobility opportunities. Through experiences such as this, the New Colombo Plan is helping to build enduring partnerships between Australia and Solomon Islands, creating lifelong professional networks and friendships that will underpin cooperation between our countries for decades to come.
By Alfred Pagepitu
Parliament has deferred consideration of the 2025 and 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bills after the required reports were not tabled in the House on Thursday.
Finance and Treasury Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo had moved both Bills for their second reading before Speaker of the National Parliament John Patteson Oti informed the House that Parliament could not proceed until the reports were formally tabled.
The 2025 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026 seeks to regularise 109.7 million dollars in expenditure incurred during the 2025 financial year.
Mr Lilo said the expenditure included 2.5 million dollars incurred under contingency warrants and 107.3 million dollars under advance warrants.
Explaining the purpose of the legislation, Mr Lilo said:
“This bill has been prepared in accordance with Section 102 (1) of the Constitution and Section 51 of the Public Financial Management Act of 2013.”
He said supplementary appropriation allows the Government to meet expenditures that exceed approved allocations or were not previously funded.
“The Minister of Finance can seek supplementary appropriation from Parliament, in addition to the Annual Appropriation Act, for expenditures exceeding the allocated sums.”
Mr Lilo said the legislation also provides for contingency warrants where there is an unforeseen need or where delays could be detrimental to the public interest.
“The Minister of Finance can issue a contingency warrant for an unforeseen need or for a purpose for which no sum has been appropriated.”
He also said the legislation allows the Government to utilise donor funding secured after the annual budget process.
2025 economic performance
Giving an overview of the country’s economic performance in 2025, Mr Lilo said the domestic economy grew by an estimated 3.7 percent, up from 2.7 percent in 2024.
“Our domestic economy will grow by about 3.7 percent in 2025.”
He attributed the improved performance primarily to strong growth in the industry sector, which expanded by 6.1 percent.
Mining and quarrying activity increased by 48.5 percent, driven by higher mineral production and exports.
Mr Lilo said mining remained a key contributor to economic growth.
“The mining sector remained a key driver of our economic growth in 2025.”
He said mining exports were estimated at around 3.2 billion dollars, with Gold Ridge mining contributing significantly to the sector’s performance.
However, the Minister said the logging industry weakened substantially in 2025.
“The logging industry weakened substantially in 2025, with a significant decline in revenue, exports and harvesting activity.”
He said this highlighted the need for greater economic diversification.
“This underscores the urgent need for economic diversification to reduce reliance on this unsustainable sector.”
The 2025 fiscal year recorded a deficit of about 768 million dollars, with Government expenditure reaching around 5.1 billion dollars, compared with total revenue receipts of about 4.4 billion dollars.
Mr Lilo said external budget financing of approximately 967 million dollars resulted in an overall surplus of around 199 million dollars.
He said Government revenue collection performed strongly during the year, with total Solomon Islands Government revenue reaching approximately 4.1 billion dollars.
This exceeded the revised budget by around 289 million dollars, or 7.5 percent.
How the supplementary funding was spent
Mr Lilo said the 109.7 million dollars in supplementary expenditure was distributed across several sectors.
Around 25.6 million dollars was spent in the social sector, supporting provincial and church health authorities, rural water, sanitation and hygiene projects, mass immunisation and provincial infrastructure projects.
The productive sector received approximately 18.8 million dollars, supporting agricultural investments, market and nutrition projects, cybersecurity, provincial airport upgrades and the Bina Harbour tuna processing plant project.
A further 21.7 million dollars was allocated to the resource sector as budget support for implementation of the Tina River Hydropower Development Project.
The fundamental sector received approximately 41.2 million dollars to support capacity building for audit and statistics, the hosting of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting and child protection programmes.
Mr Lilo said 2.5 million dollars under contingency warrants was approved for the National Parliament to upgrade critical computer hardware and software.
2026 economic outlook
Turning to the 2026 economic outlook, Mr Lilo said the International Monetary Fund projected global economic growth of 3 percent in 2026, compared with 3.4 percent in 2025.
He said global inflation was expected to increase from 4.1 percent in 2025 to 4.7 percent in 2026, before easing in 2027.
Mr Lilo identified geopolitical tensions, including the conflict in the Middle East, as major risks to the global economy.
“The conflict in the Middle East has disrupted oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz.”
He said oil prices remained about 25 percent above conflict levels, warning that further escalation could increase commodity prices and worsen inflation.
“A renewed escalation in the Middle East conflict could push commodity prices higher and worsen inflation.”
The Minister also warned that small island developing states could face slower growth because of higher energy costs, weaker tourism and reduced remittance income.
“Risks remain tilted to the downside.”
Bills deferred
Mr Lilo commended the Public Accounts Committee for its scrutiny of the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill, and thanked the committee secretariat, government officials and ministries that participated in the hearings.
He then commended the 2025 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026 to Parliament for consideration and debate.
However, following the Minister’s presentation, Speaker John Patteson Oti informed the House that the required reports had not yet been tabled.
“I have been informed that the report on the Supplementary Appropriations Bill is yet to be tabled.”
The Speaker said Parliament could not proceed with consideration of the Bills until the reports were formally placed before the House.
“Therefore, Parliament cannot proceed with or to consider the reports as tabled until the reports are placed on the table as soon as they are ready.”
Parliament subsequently adjourned and is expected to resume at 9.30am on Friday, 14 August 2026.
[end]
The post Parliament defers consideration of supplementary appropriation Bills over outstanding reports first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
Australia responds to illicit drug trafficking ‘shame’ with stronger security partnerships
Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner Krissy Barrett has described illicit drug trafficking through the Pacific as “Australia’s shame” and said Australia is strengthening security partnerships with Solomon Islands to combat organised crime.
She said the two new vessels gifted to Solomon Islands by AFP as part of a broader AUD $6.5 million (over SBD $33 million) Australian Government investment in maritime policing across Solomon Islands and Vanuatu are just one way how we fight back together against criminals who think they are untouchable.
Read more
https://theislandsun.com.sb/australia-responds-to.../
