ADRA RESPONSE TO EL NINO DROUGHT BY PROVIDING WATER TO GIZO HOSPITAL
The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Solomon Islands through its Emergency Response Team has responded to the ongoing El Niño drought by providing emergency water supplies to Gizo Hospital in Western Province.
This morning, ADRA staff from the Kukudu Sub-Office collected water from Kukudu Water Supply and transported it to Gizo Hospital to support patients and hospital staff affected by water shortages as the country experiences drier-than-normal
weather conditions.
Poloso Bulehite, an ADRA volunteer supporting the team in Kukudu, said the team delivered 30 containers of fresh drinking water to the hospital.
“We filled 30 containers with fresh drinking water and transported them to the hospital in a hospital truck. At the hospital, we asked patients and staff to bring their
containers, which we filled with fresh drinking water,” Mr. Bulehite said.
“We are happy to be part of this El Niño response by providing fresh drinking water for hospital staff and patients,” he added.
ADRA Solomon Islands Country Director, Mr. Leyn Eliezer Gantare, said: “ADRA is a humanitarian organization to help and support the affected people in needs.
“The recent TC-Maila has given bad impacts and affected to some of the communities in Western Province, but the global summertime takes longer at this time and affected our environment included shortage of water.”
“Let’s stay connected in prayers asking God to give rain as our current needs for our survival, Mr Gantare said.
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Solomon Islands health authorities and partner agencies recently gathered for a simulated disease outbreak exercise to test how rapidly the country can detect, assess, and report potential public health threats. The initiative, dubbed Exercise Crystal 2026, took place on 24 September as part of a regional simulation coordinated by the...
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by Lloyd Loji* Solomon Islands is scheduled to graduate from the UN list of Least Developed Countries (LDCs) on 13 December 2027. The prospect has prompted considerable discussion at home, much of it asking whether external assistance and preferential treatment will fall away once the country graduates. A closer look...
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A visit to Kunlun Tech in China explores how AI filmmaking could bring Solomon Islands kastom stories to the screen.
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NDFSI reviews a draft disaster plan to improve emergency preparedness, response and protection for people with disabilities. The National Disability Forum Solomon Islands (NDFSI) is holding a two-day workshop in Honiara to review and validate a draft Disaster Preparedness and Response Plan aimed at protecting people with disabilities during emergencies. The plan seeks to strengthen [...]
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
WESTERN Province continues to stand out as one of the Solomon Islands’ leading tourism destinations, attracting international visitors with its spectacular underwater world, snorkelling opportunities and World War II wreckages.
According to a report published by Business Advantage PNG, the province’s marine attractions remain a major drawcard for tourists, while a smaller proportion of visitors are attracted to activities such as hiking, birdwatching, deep-sea fishing and surfing.
The iconic Marovo Lagoon, recognised as the world’s largest saltwater lagoon, remains one of the country’s must-see destinations for visitors seeking unique marine and nature-based experiences.
The report highlights the Solomon Islands’ exclusive accommodation options, particularly those offering what is described as “barefoot luxury”.
These include low-impact island retreats such as Fatboys Resort, which provide visitors with privacy and a rustic experience while allowing them to enjoy the natural surroundings.
Visitors can access these retreats by boat or through private airstrips, with fishing, diving, surfing and hiking excursions available from their accommodation.
Tourism Solomons Head of Corporate Services, Dagnal Dereveke, told Business Advantage PNG that the country’s tourism marketing strategy reflects its commitment to offer genuine adventure experiences in a natural environment.
“We are focused on delivering high-value, low-impact adventure experiences that appeal to a discerning global audience in niche areas (like diving, surfing, hiking),” he said.
The country’s tourism board is positioning the Solomon Islands as the Pacific region’s “last true great adventure frontier”, targeting travellers seeking authentic, uncrowded and nature-based experiences.
Meanwhile, the Solomon Islands’ tourism industry is continuing its recovery, with international visitor numbers approaching pre-pandemic levels.
Figures for 2025 show that 28,458 international tourists visited the country, representing a 13 per cent increase compared with 2024.
The figure brings international visitor arrivals close to the 2019 benchmark of almost 29,000 tourists annually, before the COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted global travel.
Looking ahead, the Solomon Islands Government has set an ambitious target of attracting 100,000 international tourists annually by 2035.
Achieving this goal will require sustained growth of approximately 15 percent a year, placing greater importance on tourism promotion, improved visitor experiences and the development of sustainable tourism products.
For Western Province, its rich marine biodiversity, historic World War II sites, lagoons and island-based accommodation remain important assets in attracting international visitors and strengthening the country’s tourism industry. –
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
PEOPLES Republic of China has donated SBD100,000.00 towards Tutupeka church project at Marovo, Western Province.
The support was facilitated after the community seeked asssistance for their church project from the Chinese Embassy in Honiara.
Community Spokesperson, Kenny Jerry said Tutupeka church was built from bush materials and has been deteriorating.
He said the donation will help them build a brand-new church with roofing irons and comfortable furnitures.
“The generous financial assistance provided by the PRC Embassy comes at a time when our community desperately needed a new permanent church building to replace our old traditional leaf house church building, which often leak during rainy time.
“Our church’s roof has been leaking and there have been constant repairs in the past.
“This support is a game changer,” Jerry said.
He acknowledged China for recognising the need of his people and for responding positively.
Community elder, Johny Amos shared similar sentiments saying that God’s providence comes in many different ways, and God has used the generous giving of PRC to fulfil His purpose for his community.
“On behalf of the Tutupeka SDA Church building committee, we thank PRC Embassy for their great help toward our new church building” he said.
Amos said construction work is now moving to the next stage and they are determined to see that their new permanent church building is completed in the near future.
He said having a permanent church building is a longtime dream and desire of a small community and now that dream is becoming reality.
In December 2025, the PRC Embassy handed over funding assistance of SBD100,000 to the community to start the church building project after they approached the Embassy for financial assistance.
Since then, the small community has been busy constructing their new church and has now reached a stage where the main foundation of the building has been completed.
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
A malnutrition health team from Kilu’ufi Hospital is conducting food and nutrition awareness programmes in communities across West Kwaio, Malaita Province.
The awareness programme began on Friday, October 23, and will continue throughout this week aim to support rural communities through nutrition education and health services.
The programme focuses on food and nutrition awareness, as well as health check-ups for babies aged six months and children under five years old.
According to Lesley Foinagwa, the team began its outreach at Takwaisae village on Friday, October 23.
Foinagwa said the programme focuses on babies aged six months and children under five, with health check-ups provided as part of the outreach.
He said the awareness programme will continue throughout the week, with the team planning to visit other communities across West Kwaio.
He said the health team also encourages parents, especially mothers, to maintain balanced diets, provide nutritious food for their children and practise proper nutrition at home.
The outreach aims to raise awareness of proper nutrition and promote the health and well-being of babies and young children in rural communities.
Photo credit: Lesley Foinagwa
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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
St Joseph’s Tenaru National Secondary School’s long serving teacher, Madam Theresia Hou received the Long Service Award during the school’s graduation ceremony last Friday in recognition of her service of more than three decades at the school.
Speaking to students’ during the school graduation ceremony on Saturday, Madam Hou reflected on her career spanning over 30 years at the school and emphasised on the role of teaching as a public service rather than a pursuit of financial wealth.
“Being a teacher is not a profession where you will get wealth, it is all service,” Madam Hou said. “The one richness of being a teacher is that you touch many, many lives.”
Madam Hou arrived at St. Joseph’s Tenaru as a young mother and raised her children and grandchildren within the school’s Marist community.
Throughout her tenure, she taught multiple generations of students, many of whom have gone on to become community leaders, professionals, and members of the school’s board.
During her address, she acknowledged the influence of the Marist brothers, priests, sisters, and school leaders including former principals on her professional development.
She credited the school’s spiritual environment, centered on regular Mass and scripture studies, as central to the school’s identity.
Looking toward the future of education in the Solomon Islands, Madam Hou advocated for expansion of the school’s educational model across the country.
“Why not have more Tenarus somewhere else? Why would we just focus on Tenaru? Why can’t we have one in Malaita and one in somewhere else in the Solomons?” she asked.
The ceremony concluded with Madam Hou expressing gratitude to education authorities, colleagues, and the Marist community for their support throughout her 30-year tenure.
Photo credit: John Houanihau
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
A three-day training workshop for provincial fisheries officers from across Solomon Islands is underway in Auki, Malaita Province.
The training continues today and will conclude tomorrow Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
The workshop aims to equip fisheries officers with skills in using the Check-in on Status Tool, a key monitoring tool used to assess the progress and effectiveness of Community-Based Resource Management (CBRM) initiatives in local communities.
Senior Research Analyst at WorldFish’s Auki office, Meshach Sukulu, told Island Sun News yesterday that the training aims to build the capacity of fisheries practitioners and improve the monitoring and implementation of CBRM programmes.
Sukulu said the officers attending the workshop were selected based on their active involvement and engagement in CBRM activities within their respective provinces.
He said participants represent provinces across the country, except Rennell and Bellona Province and Central Province.
Sukulu said the workshop was made possible through the Pathways 2 Project, which supports efforts to strengthen community-based fisheries management across Solomon Islands and the wider Pacific region.
He added that participants are expected to develop practical skills in using the Check-in on Status Tool to monitor and assess the progress of CBRM initiatives in their respective provinces.
The three-day training workshop is supported through partnerships between government agencies and development organisations.
Photo credit: Meshach Sukulu
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Naka’s men target defending champions after 10-5 opening win as World Cup hopes gather pace
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
SOLOMON Islands’ Bilikiki boys face their biggest early test at the OFC Beach Soccer Men’s Nations Cup 2026 when they meet defending champions Tahiti today, seeking to build on their impressive opening win over New Caledonia.
The James Naka-coached side opened with a convincing 10-5 victory over New Caledonia on Saturday at Aorai Tini Hau in Tahiti. The hosts also made a strong start, demolishing Vanuatu 18-1.
The match is scheduled for 1pm Solomon Islands time today, with both teams aiming to strengthen their position in the four-team round-robin competition.
It will be streamed live and free on the Oceania Football Confederation’s official YouTube channel.
Forwards Erick Wanega and Adrian Mara led the Bilikiki’s opening performance with hat-tricks.
New Caledonia struck first through Jean-Pierre Ayawa, but Wanega replied almost immediately. Goals from Mara, Roy Mafane and goalkeeper Roy Funusui gave Solomon Islands a 4-1 lead at the end of the first period.
The Bilikiki maintained their attacking momentum in the second, adding five goals to take a 9-3 advantage into the final break. Wanega completed his hat-trick with two quick goals, while Ramsy Melo also scored twice.
New Caledonia fought back in the final period, but Mara completed his hat-trick as the Bilikiki reached double figures and secured all three points.
Speaking after the match, Naka acknowledged the challenge but welcomed the result.
“The first match is always the toughest. We picked up late in the match after conceding first, but overall, it was a good match and we got the three points, which is what really matters,” Naka said, according to a report published by Solomon Star.
He said improvements are needed before they face the hosts.
“Tahiti is one of the favourites in this competition, and for us, there are a few things that we have identified to work on to be well prepared to meet them,” he said.
The challenge is significant for the Bilikiki, who are seeking their first OFC Beach Soccer Men’s Nations Cup title since 2013. Solomon Islands has won the competition four times and share the record for most titles with Tahiti, but have lost their last three finals to the hosts, including a narrow 3-2 defeat in Honiara in 2024.
Naka, a former regional beach soccer star and the tournament’s all-time leading goalscorer with 34 goals, brings extensive experience to the campaign. He has featured in every edition since the competition began in 2006.
The 2026 tournament also offers a place at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2027, raising the stakes for both teams.
The Bilikiki will face Vanuatu in their final round-robin game on Thursday, October 29, at 11am Solomon Islands time. The top two teams will advance to the October 31 final, while the other two will contest third place.
Photo credit: Shane Wenzlick / Phototek.
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China has dispatched a breast-surgery specialist to work at the National Referral Hospital (NRH) in Honiara, partnering with local clinicians to establish the country’s first dedicated breast-care unit and deliver hands-on clinical training. Dr Zhang Shiyong, an Associate Chief Physician in breast surgery, was deployed as part of the 5th...
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Solomon Airlines has announced discounted fares on its international routes to and from Honiara, Brisbane, Auckland, Nadi, Port Vila and Santo, bookable until 2 November 2026 for travel through to September 2027.
The Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) today joined the global Pinktober initiative by hosting a breast cancer awareness programme in tribute to its late Deputy Chief Electoral Officer, Christina Joanna Mitini.
Speaking at the event, Chief Electoral Officer Jasper Highwood Anisi said the cause was deeply personal for the Commission.
“We remember with love and gratitude our late Deputy Chief Electoral Officer, Christina Joanna Mitini, whom we lost to breast cancer. By wearing pink today, we express our collective support for breast cancer awareness and for the people whose lives it touches,” he said.
Mr. Anisi explained that the programme’s theme, “Vote Your Health, Early Detection Saves Lives,” was a call for staff to give their health the attention it deserves.
“As an institution that encourages citizens to make their voices count, today we also encourage our staff to make time for their health and wellbeing,” he said.
He added that solidarity must continue beyond the programme.
“We can show it by listening without judgement, respecting privacy, supporting colleagues who need time for medical care, and offering practical help to families facing difficult circumstances,” he said.
Breast cancer survivor Ms. Yvonne Ogaoga also shared her personal testimony during the programme.
“Your willingness to speak helps build understanding and encourages a more open and caring conversation,” Mr. Anisi said in response to her remarks.
Mr. Anisi further reminded male colleagues that the cause concerns them too.
“We have a role in supporting our wives, mothers, sisters, daughters, friends, and colleagues. Let us listen, learn, and walk alongside them with compassion,” he said.
Quoting Scripture, Mr. Anisi said:
“As Galatians 6:2 teaches us, ‘Carry each other’s burdens.’ May that spirit guide how we care for one another within SIEC.”
He concluded by honouring the memory of Christina Mitini.
“In Christina’s memory, let us strengthen a workplace where people feel supported and where health and wellbeing matter alongside the work we do. Today, SIEC stands together in remembrance, in solidarity, and in support of this cause,” he said.
The SIEC Pinktober Tribute Programme stands as a moment of remembrance, solidarity, and commitment to health and wellbeing, honouring the memory of Christina Mitini and supporting all those affected by breast cancer.
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
Rufoki Community High School (CHS) has thanked workers from Superfly Limited for the successful installation of a 6kW off-grid solar power system on Saturday, October 24, 2026.
Rufoki is one of 17 schools in Malaita Province to benefit from an initiative for schools led by Superfly Limited in partnership with Save the Children and SOLKAS.
Rufoki Community High School Principal, Godfrey Angisia said the project had brought light to both the secondary and primary school sectors, benefiting not only the school but also the wider Rufoki community.
“Our sincere appreciation and heartfelt gratitude go to SOLKAS and Superfly Limited for lighting up the entire school,” he said.
“This is more than just a lighting project. It is a remarkable facelift for Rufoki Community High School and the wider Rufoki community,” Angisia said.
He said the new solar lighting system had brought renewed hope, created a better learning environment and provided students with greater opportunities to use the school’s learning resources.
Angisia added that the system would help strengthen students’ ability to study and improve their academic performance.
“With this development, our students can now utilise the available learning resources more effectively, strengthen their studies and work towards improving their academic performance,” he said.
He also acknowledged Superfly Limited, SOLKAS and Save the Children for their contributions to the school’s development in the province.
“To Superfly Limited, SOLKAS and Save the Children, thank you for being part of this positive transformation. Your contribution will be remembered as an important step towards improving the learning environment at Rufoki Community High School,” he said.
Angisia expressed hope that the partnership would continue to support the development of the school, empower students and create a brighter future for the Rufoki community.
Meanwhile, Superfly Limited workers have also completed the installation of solar power systems at other schools across Malaita Province as part of the initiative.
[Photo caption: Rufoki Community High School light up after the successful solar system installation on Saturday. Photo credit: Andrew Danstone Doddy Fiusi]
Munda’s 1,000-kilowatt solar power plant is commissioned, boosting renewable energy and reducing reliance on imported diesel. The Asian Development Bank (ADB), in partnership with the Solomon Islands Government and Solomon Power, celebrated a major milestone on Thursday, 22 October, with the official commissioning of the Munda Solar Power Plant. The facility is the largest installation [...]
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
DESPITE teacher shortages and low student enrolment, Ruru Community High School in East Fataleka, Eastern Region of Malaita Province, has graduated 22 students this year.
The graduates comprised 12 Form Three students and 10 Form Five students who completed their studies at the school.
School chairman Blake Gua said the school had faced a difficult academic year, particularly with teacher recruitment and student enrolment.
He described the situation as “critical” during his remarks at the school’s graduation ceremony on Friday, October 23.
Gua said the school had been operating with a low number of teachers and students, creating challenges for the school community.
Despite these difficulties, Principal Ismael Oiomea said teachers and school coordinators had made extra efforts to prepare students for their national examinations.
“Though this year we don’t have an agriculture teacher, with my staff and coordinators’ commitment, we have managed to assist our students to prepare for their examinations,” he said.
Oiomea acknowledged the commitment of the teaching staff, saying their efforts had helped students continue their studies despite the challenges faced by the school.
He also appealed to members of the surrounding community to support students by maintaining silence around the school during the examination period.
“I just call on the good people of this community, please be silent around our school until half past 12 pm. We must respect our students so they can do their examinations to the best of their ability,” he said.
The graduation of the 22 students highlights the determination of the school community to continue providing education despite staffing and enrolment challenges.
SIMA advances certification process while preserving Solomon Islands’ maritime heritage The Solomon Islands Maritime Authority (SIMA) has achieved another significant milestone in its efforts to preserve and revitalize the traditional shipbuilding heritage of Langa Langa Lagoon, with MV Grace successfully arriving and docking at Honiara Wharf this week for the technical assessment and certification activities. [...]
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Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare questions the government’s drought response as El Niño impacts worsen across Solomon Islands. The Parliamentary Opposition questions the GREAT Government’s preparedness as drought crisis deepens across the country. While acknowledging the Government’s activation of the National Drought Contingency Plan through the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), leader of the Official Opposition, [...]
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