More than 180 participants from seven disability organisations take part in inclusive sporting activities at SINIS
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
More than 180 people from seven disability organisations came together at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) on Saturday for an inclusive day of sport and recreation.
The event, organised by the National Sports Council (NSC) in partnership with the National Disability Forum Solomon Islands (NDFSI), used sport to bring people with different abilities together in an environment focused on participation, interaction and enjoyment.
Moments from today’s Play for Equity Open Day at SINIS, where persons with disabilities came together to participate, connect and enjoy sport and recreation in an inclusive environment. Photo credit: NSC
Participants took part in a series of adapted activities, including seated basketball shooting, the Loop Game, Spoon and Tennis Ball Game, Over and Under Ball Game and Rob the Nest.
However, seated volleyball provided the main sporting activity, giving participants an opportunity to experience competitive-style sport in a format suited to their abilities.
NSC Director of Sports and Recreation Development Cameron Ngatulu said the event was an important step towards creating more opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate in sport and recreation.
Sitting volleyball in action during the Play for Equity Open Day at SINIS on Saturday. Photo credit: NSC
“People with disabilities are also members of our communities and our families, and they also need the space to participate in sports and recreation,” Ngatulu said.
He said the activities were adapted to accommodate participants from the seven disability organisations and it was encouraging to see them enjoying themselves, meeting new people and engaging in sport.
The event also placed particular emphasis on increasing the participation of women with disabilities, with elite para-athlete Rose Lydia of the Disability Women Empowerment Association among those taking part.
Lydia welcomed the turnout and said she was encouraged to see more people with disabilities coming forward to participate.
She particularly enjoyed the seated volleyball activity and supported calls for the programme to continue annually.
NDFSI Chief Executive Officer Casper Joseph Fa’asala described the gathering as an important opportunity for people with disabilities to come together through sport, saying the event demonstrated that sport can provide more than competition.
“This is a moment of grace for us, people with disabilities, having the opportunity provided by the National Sports Council and the Institute itself,” Fa’asala said.
The event brought together participants representing a range of disability groups, including people with hearing, visual, physical and psychosocial disabilities, amputees and para-athletes. Sign-language interpreters were also present to support communication and participation.
The Play for Equity Open Day was supported through the Play for Equity grant, funded by the Australian Government’s Team Up Program in partnership with the International Olympic Committee’s Olympism365 strategy.
The initiative is aimed at reducing barriers to participation and creating more opportunities for people of all abilities to engage in sport, recreation and community activities.
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
MALAITA Provincial Permanent Secretary George Eric has clarified that the waste storage area at Auki Market is intended as a waste-selection point, where suitable organic waste can be collected for gardening and landscaping.
PS Eric made the clarification following concerns and criticism directed at Auki Market management and the provincial administration over the waste storage area.
The area has attracted criticism from members of the public in and around Auki, with some accusing the provincial administration of failing to properly address waste management issues in the town.
Speaking to this paper, PS Eric said market employees had agreed to store suitable organic waste that could be used for gardening and landscaping purposes.
He said the province was also looking for a suitable site for a permanent waste disposal facility, with an environmental and social management plan and study currently underway.
“The market garbage at the Auki Market is a point for material selection. Organic substances can be used for mulching in farming and backyard gardens,” he said.
“Our Auki Town Council officers, workers and citizens have agreed to make use of it as organic nutrients for flower planting, beautification and landscaping of Auki town,” he said.
“In addition, backyard gardens can be used to plant our own vegetables, which also contributes to good health for us,” he added.
Asked about the proposed permanent dump site at Gwaigeo, PS Eric said the province had abandoned plans to establish the facility there following landownership and security concerns raised by tribes and settlers in the area.
“We can’t continue to settle a lease with one tribe. This is because of insecure claims over the landfill site, and it becomes a recurring issue involving multiple tribes,” he said.
PS Eric said the province was now considering an alternative site for the permanent waste disposal facility.
He added that an environmental and social management plan for the proposed new site was currently being prepared.
Construction of the new permanent dump site will be funded through the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF).
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BY CHARLES STENNETT
Pacific Islands Forum Leaders have endorsed new regional measures on kava, fisheries and labour, including the establishment of a dedicated Regional Labour Ministers Meeting to strengthen coordination on workforce and labour mobility issues.
Pacnews reported that leaders have endorsed the Kava Declaration, recognising kava as a unique Pacific cultural and economic asset and calling for stronger protection of its Pacific origins, traditional knowledge, cultural identity and heritage.
It said the declaration is intended to strengthen Pacific ownership of kava, expand value addition and market opportunities, and protect the interests of Pacific producers and communities as the product gains greater international trade exposure.
Pacnews reported that leaders said the declaration was an important step towards safeguarding the long-term interests of Pacific kava producers.
On fisheries, Leaders recognised the sector as a strategic asset of the Blue Pacific and backed a phased, Member-led consideration of the Regional Fisheries Development Fund feasibility assessment.
It said the work will also consider broader activities linked to the East New Britain Initiative(ENBI), informed by the Forum Fisheries Agency(FFA) process.
Leaders stressed the need for greater Pacific participation across the fisheries value chain so that Members can secure more economic benefits from the region’s fisheries resources.
Pacnews reported that any development of the proposed fund and related initiatives must maintain national ownership, economic accountability and equitable access, while ensuring sustainability and consistency with existing fisheries governance arrangements.
It also reported that Forum Leaders have endorsed the establishment of a Regional Labour Ministers Meeting as a dedicated ministerial mechanism within the Forum architecture.
It said the labour and workforce governance had become strategic regional priorities, with growing implications for economic resilience, labour mobility, skills development, workforce sustainability and inclusive growth.
The new meeting is intended to provide dedicated political leadership on labour and workforce issues across the region whichh will complement the existing Forum Economic Ministers Meeting (FEMM) and Forum Trade Ministers Meeting (FTMM) rather than duplicate their roles.
The Labour Ministers Meeting will focus specifically on labour and workforce priorities.
Leaders said the three ministerial mechanisms would strengthen policy coherence, regional coordination and implementation of the Resources and Economic Development priorities under the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
A 120-metre seawall constructed by Exodus Construction has been completed as part of the Malu’u Market project, marking a significant milestone as construction moves into its next phase.
The completion of the seawall is another major achievement for the project, with work now shifting towards other on-ground construction activities.
The Malu’u Market is designed to boost economic activity in North Malaita by providing space for up to 140 vendors, as well as toilet and shower facilities for men, women and people with disabilities.
Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach said the project was another example of Australia’s commitment to delivering high-quality, climate-resilient and locally built infrastructure that could have a lasting impact on communities.
He said the project demonstrated how communities could work together to create spaces that support social activities and economic opportunities.
“Together we’re building a safe, comfortable and accessible place for social and economic activity in North Malaita for years to come,” he said.
Project Director Jeremiah Fonoota said a key feature of the project had been onsite mentoring and training aimed at upskilling the construction team, alongside efforts to strengthen relations with the local community.
“Our daily ‘toolbox sessions’ are one of the most important daily activities to inspire and guide the team about their contribution to nation-building in Solomon Islands,” Mr Fonoota said.
He said working closely with community members had enabled the project to use local quarry materials while also identifying community needs that the project could support.
These included improvements to the community market and playing field.
The contractor also excavated and cleared an access road to a local cemetery following requests from local landowners.
“Exodus contributed machinery and workers for three days to help level the playing field and supply gravel for the community market,” Mr Fonoota said.
The new market will also feature 43,000 litres of rainwater storage, solar lighting, and improved waste management and sanitation facilities.
The project is expected to provide a safer and more accessible space for vendors and the wider community while supporting economic activity in North Malaita.
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BY NED GAGAHE
JAPAN has provided JPY430 million (about US$3 million) to support electoral and democratic governance programmes in Solomon Islands.
The funding was provided to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for the Solomon Islands Democratic Governance and Electoral Assistance Project (SIDGEAP).
The contribution was formalised at a signing ceremony held at the Embassy of Japan in Honiara today.
It was attended by Japan’s Ambassador to Solomon Islands, Keiichi Higuchi, UNDP Resident Representative for the Pacific Office Munkhtuya Altangerel, and Chief Electoral Officer of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC), Jasper Highwood Anisi.
Japan’s Ambassador to Solomon Islands Keiichi Higuchi, UNDP Resident Representative for the Pacific Office Munkhtuya Altangerel, and SIEC Chief Electoral Officer Jasper Highwood Anisi attended the signing ceremony. Photo by Ned Gagahe.
The project is being implemented in partnership with SIEC and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP).
It is aimed at strengthening electoral institutions and supporting preparations for future elections that are inclusive, transparent and credible.
Ambassador Higuchi said free, inclusive and fair elections were essential to a stable democracy.
He said the successful delivery of the 2024 Joint Elections had earned praise for their transparency and credibility.
“Indispensable to any stable democracy is an election that is free, inclusive, and fair,” he said.
Ambassador Higuchi said Japan would work with UNDP and SIEC to strengthen facilities, provide technical training and expand civic education.
Japan’s Ambassador to Solomon Islands Keiichi Higuchi and UNDP Resident Representative for the Pacific Office Munkhtuya Altangerel sign the agreement, as SIEC Chief Electoral Officer Jasper Highwood Anisi looks on. Photo by Ned Gagahe.
He said the assistance would help ensure future elections, including the 2028 General Elections, were transparent, inclusive and trusted by citizens.
UNDP Resident Representative Munkhtuya Altangerel welcomed Japan’s contribution, saying it would build on lessons learned from the 2024 Joint Elections.
She said the support would help Solomon Islands improve its institutional, legal and operational readiness well before the next general election.
“Together, we are committed to accountable institutions and inclusive participation led and owned by Solomon Islanders,” she said.
Chief Electoral Officer Jasper Highwood Anisi said Japan’s assistance would help build on the credibility of previous elections.
He said the support would position SIEC to conduct future by-elections and the 2028 General Elections with greater transparency and inclusiveness.
Mr Anisi said reforms and innovations were being developed under SIEC’s Strategic Plan.
He said the aim was to ensure women, young people and persons with disabilities were not only participants in the democratic process but also leaders in shaping the country’s democratic future.
The new Japanese contribution also expands the group of development partners supporting the UNDP-led programme.
Japan joins Australia and the United Kingdom in supporting the current programme, while the European Union provided assistance during the previous electoral cycle.
Ambassador Keiichi Higuchi, SIEC CEO Jasper Highwood Anisi and UNDP Resident Representative Munkhtuya Altangerel in discussion before the signing at the Japanese Embassy. Photo by Ned Gagahe.
The partnership reflects Japan’s foreign policy priorities, including human security and a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.
Japan also has a longstanding partnership with UNDP in areas including governance, resilience and community safety.
The partners said cooperation would continue beyond the 2028 elections to support nationally led efforts to strengthen electoral institutions, promote inclusive participation and build public confidence in electoral processes.
The signing ceremony was moderated by UNDP Solomon Islands Programme Specialist for Inclusive Governance and Economic Growth, Solomon Kalu.
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by Ednal Palmer Students at Gifu Primary School in the remote Barana highlands of Guadalcanal have welcomed a new water,...
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BY NED GAGAHE
The United States has announced plans to provide four aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicles to Solomon Islands to strengthen safety at Honiara International Airport.
The announcement was made by US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau yesterday as he concluded a three-day visit to Solomon Islands, a media statement from the US Embassy said.
Mr Landau signed an agreement with Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela for the Peace Corps to return to Solomon Islands after a 26-year absence. Photo credit: US Embassy.
Mr Landau made the announcement during a meeting with Solomon Islands Airport Corporation officials at Honiara International Airport.
He said the US Department of State, working with the US Congress, intends to provide the four specialist vehicles to enhance airport safety for American and international travellers.
The announcement comes as Solomon Islands continues to prepare for increased international travel and tourism, with Honiara International Airport serving as the country’s main international gateway.
During his visit, Mr Landau also announced that the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) will assess the cost of rehabilitating the Solomon Islands Parliament building.
The Parliament building was constructed with US support in 1993 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Guadalcanal Campaign during World War II.
A group photo in Parliament building. Photo credit: US Embassy.
Mr Landau made the announcement during a visit to Parliament earlier in the day.
The proposed assessment is expected to determine the cost and scope of rehabilitation required for the building.
The Deputy Secretary of State’s three-day visit focused heavily on the historical relationship between the United States and Solomon Islands, particularly the shared history of World War II.
Mr Landau paid his respects at the Guadalcanal, Red Beach and Bloody Ridge memorials, remembering American, Solomon Islands and other Allied personnel who lost their lives during the Guadalcanal Campaign.
He also announced US support through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation for the preservation of the Bloody Ridge battlefield.
The support is intended to help preserve the historic site as a place of remembrance and continuing education for future generations.
The visit also resulted in a new agreement aimed at strengthening people-to-people links between the two countries.
Mr Landau being led by Clerk of Parliament inside the Parliament building. Photo credit: US Embassy.
Mr Landau signed an agreement with Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela for the Peace Corps to return to Solomon Islands after a 26-year absence.
The return of the Peace Corps is expected to create opportunities for renewed cooperation and exchanges between Solomon Islands communities and the United States.
Throughout the visit, Mr Landau highlighted the historical bonds between the two countries and outlined a vision for mutual progress in what he described as a free and open Pacific.
The latest announcements cover airport safety, infrastructure, cultural preservation and people-to-people cooperation, marking a broadening of US engagement with Solomon Islands.
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BY NED GAGAHE
THE Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants (ISIA) will host its third annual Congress on September 17 and 18 at Heritage Park Hotel, bringing together accounting professionals, Government, business and industry leaders to discuss the future of the profession.
This year’s Congress will be held under the theme, “Beyond Qualifications: Building a Workforce That Thinks, Leads and Creates.”
The theme reflects the changing role of accountants and finance professionals, who are increasingly expected to go beyond financial statements, compliance and reporting.
They are now required to understand technology, interpret data, manage risk, support good governance, communicate with decision-makers and contribute to the strategic direction of their organisations.
ISIA chief executive officer Pamela Naesol has made a direct call to employers and businesses to support the professional development of their accounting staff by allowing them to attend the Congress.
“I am making a direct call to employers and businesses to support the professional development of their accountants by allowing them to be part of the discussions at the Congress,” Ms Naesol said.
She said professional development was a shared responsibility between employers, businesses, Government and professionals themselves.
“When we raise professional standards, every stakeholder stands to benefit,” she said.
Ms Naesol said the Congress remained the flagship event of the Institute and provided an important platform for the accounting profession to meet and network with business and industry leaders, as well as Government.
She said the event would allow stakeholders to discuss key issues affecting the profession and work towards collaborative and sustainable solutions to strengthen Solomon Islands’ financial management systems.
“The finance and accounting function is central to how an organisation plans, manages risk, reports performance and makes decisions,” she said.
“Investing in the professional development of accountants is necessary if we are to build an effective team to lead and strengthen our local organisations and institutions.”
The two-day programme will cover a wide range of issues, including economic development, public financial management, accounting standards, digital transformation, workforce capability, governance, financial reporting and transparency, sustainability and the future of the accounting profession.
The Congress will also feature perspectives from regional professional and standards-setting organisations, including the Australian Accounting Standards Board, Institute of Public Accountants and other regional professional accounting organisations.
ISIA said the event would provide Solomon Islands professionals with access to regional expertise and contemporary thinking without having to travel overseas.
Registration and programme information are available through the ISIA website.
Deputy Prime Minister(DPM) Francis Sade firmly rejected an ABC News report alleging that a message he received from the Australian...
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Netball coaches, umpires, officials and other leaders from around the country have been given an opportunity to strengthen their skills through an Australian Defence Force (ADF) Netball Association training programme in Honiara later this month.
The Solomon Islands Netball Federation (SINFED) has advised provincial netball associations of the opportunity, with each association encouraged to nominate one or two suitable representatives to take part in the coaching and umpiring sessions.
“The programme will provide an important opportunity for netball leaders to strengthen their coaching and umpiring skills while building stronger connections between netball associations in Solomon Islands, the Honiara Netball Association and the ADF Netball Association,” SINFED said.
The ADF Netball Association will be in Honiara as part of a Sports Programme scheduled for September 21–25, with netball included among the sports covered during the visit.
The netball-specific training sessions are scheduled for September 21–22 and September 24–25 at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS).
SINFED said the opportunity is open to coaches, umpires, officials and other netball leaders who are interested and available to participate.
However, the ADF team will not travel to the outer islands during the visit, making the nomination of provincial representatives particularly important for associations wishing to benefit from the programme.
Provincial netball associations have therefore been encouraged to identify suitable representatives and coordinate their participation in the Honiara-based sessions.
The Honiara Netball Association has also welcomed the initiative and encouraged its coaches, umpires and netball leaders to take advantage of the development opportunity.
Interested participants seeking further information and coordination can contact SINFED NDO Ms Doris Dolaiasi via phone or WhatsApp on the number provided in the federation’s notice.
The programme comes as another opportunity for netball stakeholders to develop their technical capacity, particularly in coaching and umpiring, while strengthening connections between Solomon Islands’ netball community and its regional counterparts.
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Minister for Mines and Energy Derrick Manu’ari has acknowledged that the ‘first come, first serve’ system in the application process for a mining/prospecting licence is a major weakness that needs to be addressed through legislative reform.
Mr Manu’ari made the statement today saying the existing Mines and Minerals Act is outdated and does not adequately reflect the Government’s commitment to giving customary landowners a stronger voice in decisions involving mineral development on their land.
Manu’ari said the concerns that have emerged over the current mining process have highlighted weaknesses in the law, particularly the system that allows applications to be considered on a ‘first come, first serve’ basis.
“We acknowledge that the issue that has arisen illustrates the flaws and weaknesses in the current laws, including the first come, first serve process,” Manu’ari said.
He said this is one of the key reasons Government is seeking to bring proposed amendments to the Mines and Minerals legislation before Parliament as soon as possible.
The proposed reforms are intended to give greater weight to the views and interests of customary landowners when determining who should be allowed to invest in and develop mineral resources on their land, he said.
The reforms would also create opportunities for stronger and more meaningful partnerships between investors and landowners, he said.
Manu’ari also clarified the legal position under the existing Mines and Minerals Act (Cap. 42), saying the law does not expressly require the Minerals Board to delay consideration of a Prospecting Licence (PL) application until customary land recording has been completed.
He said an objection from a landowner does not automatically cancel or prevent the consideration of a PL application under the current legislation.
“The Act establishes a two-stage process. The Board may first assess whether a PL application is acceptable. If acceptable, the Minister issues a Letter of Intent (LOI) subject to the applicant acquiring surface access rights,” he said.
“It is following the LOI that section 21 requires identification of the affected landowners or landholding groups and negotiations for surface access.”
Manu’ari said Government must clearly distinguish between what the current law provides and what needs to change.
He said customary landowners and the wider public must be properly informed about the legal process and warned against misleading interpretations of existing mining legislation.
“People and landowners must not be ill-informed. We have a responsibility to explain clearly what the current law provides and, importantly, why reform is necessary,” he said.
The Minister said the proposed amendments are therefore critical to strengthen Solomon Islands’ mining regulatory framework.
He said reform should ensure customary landowners have a stronger voice in mineral development decisions and greater opportunities to benefit from mining activities taking place on their land.
Government’s push for legislative reform comes as concerns continue to grow over how mining applications are processed and the extent to which customary landowners are involved in decisions affecting their traditional land.
For Manu’ari, the current controversy has underscored the need to fix the weaknesses in the law rather than relying on a system that may not adequately protect landowner interests.
Photo credit: NPSI
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands U-19 men’s side has marched into the semi-finals of the OFC U-19 Championship after overcoming host Samoa 2-0 in their final group match yesterday at the Samoa Football Headquarters in Apia.
The victory secured the Solomon Islands’ place in Friday’s semi-final, but the players were quick to acknowledge that the win did not come easily against a determined home side.
Speaking to OFC Media after the match, Solomon Islands players Steward Apaniai and Wilkinson Siosi credited teamwork, communication and mutual support for helping the side secure the crucial three points.
“It was a really hard match because Samoa wanted to win at least one match in this tournament,” Siosi said.
He added that the Solomon Islands players stayed together and supported one another throughout the contest.
“As boys, we worked together, supported each other, and communicated well. That is how we achieved these three points,” Siosi said.
For Apaniai, the result is a reward for the team’s collective effort after a demanding encounter.
“First I would like to thank the Almighty for giving strength to us boys in the game today,” Apaniai said.
“Regarding the performance of the team today, we really worked hard to fight for three points. Working together as a team, we achieved this victory today,” he added.
With the group stage now completed, attention has immediately shifted to the semi-final, where the young Solomon Islands side will have little time to rest before returning to action on Friday.
Apaniai said the team will use the short turnaround to identify areas that needed improvement, while also taking personal responsibility for his own performance.
“For the next game, I need to improve myself in all areas on the field, including my tactics. I need to work on my mistakes from today,” he said.
Siosi echoed the same message, saying the team will review its performance against Samoa before preparing for the knockout stage.
“Qualifying for the semi-final was not easy, but we will go back, review the mistakes we made today, and improve for the semi-final,” Siosi said.
The players also used the opportunity to acknowledge the support of Solomon Islands fans, both those who travelled to watch the team and those following from home.
Apaniai thanks supporters for their encouragement and prayers, while Siosi also expressed his appreciation for the continued backing.
“To all the supporters back home, thank you for your prayers. See you in the next game. Go Solo, go!” Apaniai said.
The 2-0 victory over Samoa concludes Solomon Islands’ group-stage campaign and sends the side into Friday’s semi-final with a place in the tournament final now within reach.
Photo credit: OFC Media
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The Land Use Forum establishment workshop held yesterday at the Baha’i Centre in Auki, Malaita Province, aims to help provinces strengthen their planning and decision-making for the future.
This was highlighted by Deputy Director of the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Meteorology (MECDM), under the Environment Conservation Division and the Enhancing Resilient Ecosystems and Representative Protected Areas in Solomon Islands (EREPA) programme, Trevor Maeda, during the closing of the workshop yesterday.
Mr Maeda said the establishment of the Land Use Forum will provide provincial-level oversight, governance and strategic direction for planning, risk management and wider engagement in sectors related to natural resources.
He commended participants for their active participation and contributions during the workshop, saying their involvement is a positive sign of a willingness to work together moving forward.
“Your views and opinions raised during the workshop are very important and have been noted and taken into consideration as the ministry moves forward with you,” he said.
“This workshop is not to benefit anyone else, but it will help us all in moving forward and making good decisions for our future generations,” Mr Maeda said.
During the workshop, participants were divided into two groups and given the opportunity to develop draft frameworks for provincial land forums.
The group discussions focused on how the forums could be established, how they will operate and be governed, the roles of different sectors, and who will be responsible for overseeing and supporting the forums.
The workshop concluded with participants having contributed to the development of ideas and recommendations that aim to establish effective Land Use Forums at the provincial level.
Mr Maeda said the contributions made during the workshop will provide an important foundation for continued discussions and future planning.
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The Malaita Provincial Government’s Social Services Division has questioned how effective the province’s land ordinance is in guiding land management and serving the people of Malaita.
The concern was raised by Social Services Division representative Eddie Omokirio during a one-day Land Use Forum discussion and workshop held at the Baha’i Centre in Auki yesterday.
Mr Omokirio said for a provincial land ordinance to effectively safeguard land and support development, it must be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect changing circumstances.
“Like we here, I don’t see the executive updating the land ordinance frequently.
“And you imagine, for how many years now, this hasn’t been updated. We still use the old ones,” Mr Omokirio said.
He said there appears to be very limited progress in reviewing provincial legislation relating to natural resources and land management.
“As I could think, it may be one or two, but it is the fisheries sector. Thanks to Provincial Fisheries Management,” he said.
A provincial land ordinance is a localised law enacted by a provincial assembly or local government body to regulate land use, resource management and, where applicable, matters relating to customary land within its administrative boundaries.
The issue comes as Malaita continues to address challenges surrounding customary land management, land security and development.
Rather than focusing solely on introducing a new standalone land ordinance, Malaita Province has also been working with the national government to implement the Customary Land Recording Framework.
The framework aims to improve the recording and recognition of customary land interests, strengthen land security and help reduce disputes.
The discussions highlighted the importance of keeping provincial laws and ordinances relevant, particularly as Malaita faces increasing demands for secure land management, economic development and protection of customary rights.
Mr Omokirio said regular review and updating of the province’s land laws will be important if they are to effectively guide development and protect the interests of Malaita’s people.
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BY TONY IROGA
PRIME Minister Matthew Wale has revealed that the proposed roll-out of free education from Early Childhood Education (ECE) through to Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and TAFE carries an additional estimated cost of $1.1 billion.
Mr Wale made the revelation in Parliament yesterday when he moved for the House to adjourn sine die, saying the Government has serious concerns about some of the assumptions and foundations used in the costing.
“We have a total costing that the ministry had given, which is $1.1 billion of extra money just for the free education roll-out from ECE to SINU and TAFE.
“We have serious questions on some of the premise, the foundations of the costing, and so we have given back to the sector, ministry and plus the sector to look at it so that what is going in the budget is what we see as realistic and reasonable and the administrative tools and instruments to implement,” Mr Wale said.
Wale said the Government is waiting for the ministry and relevant sectors to review the figures before the matter returns to Parliament.
“Once we are clear on it, we will have a bipartisan discussion about what is in and what is not in before it comes back to the House,” he said.
PM Wale also praised the work of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), saying the committee plays an important role in parliamentary oversight.
“I am really pleased with the efficiency with which the Chairman runs the Public Accounts committee,” Wale said.
He said sufficient time must be provided for the PAC to scrutinise the budget and for ministries to appear before the committee to explain their work programmes.
“We want to forward the budget and have ample time for the PAC to do its work and for the ministries to come and explain their work programmes,” he said.
Wale said the PAC’s work should not be viewed as partisan politics but as an essential function of Parliament.
“It is not partisan politics or anything like that. It is an essential core function of parliamentary oversight and we must embrace it,” he said.
He also calls for stronger parliamentary scrutiny of new Government policies, saying ministers responsible for policy changes should appear before the PAC to explain the reasons behind those changes.
“When there are policy shifts, the minister should come and sit down before the PAC Committee because the minister is in charge of the policy,” Wale said.
“When the policy is bedded down and just ongoing, the officials can answer, but when there is new policy, it needs to be the policy head that explains the shift and policy.”
Wale said such a process will allow more issues to be dealt with at the PAC level before the budget reaches the Committee of Supply.
He also said he hopes Parliament will reconvene before Christmas after ministries are given sufficient time to finalise the budget process.
“I did not want to wish everyone Christmas because I am hoping we will come before Christmas.
“I am just giving time for the ministries to finalise the budget process to come to a conclusion and hope that we will come back before Christmas,” Wale said.
Wale then moved that the current meeting of Parliament be concluded and the House adjourn sine die.
“Therefore, I move that at the adjournment of Parliament on Monday, 7th September 2026, the present meeting shall be concluded and Parliament shall then stand adjourned sine die,” he said.
Photo: Supplied
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BY CHARLES STENNETT
Twenty-two educational institutions in West Makira Constituency (WMC) will be receiving 3000-litre water tanks each worth $100,000 through a funding from the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
Thanking the PRC for the assistance during a ceremony last week, WMC Constituency Development Officer (CDO) Selwyn Aharo described the assistance as placing the health, dignity and future of children at the forefront of their development assistance.
“Your willingness to extend this financial grant directly addresses one of our most critical needs and by funding these water tanks, you have chosen to place the health, dignity, and future of our children at the very forefront of your development assistance,” Mr Aharo said.
He acknowledged that while water is life, clean drinking water and accessibility is the foundation to children’s education.
“Water is life, but clean water in our schools is the bedrock of education. We cannot expect our students to thrive, focus, and excel if they do not have access to basic, clean drinking water and sanitation. By prioritizing the education sector through this grant, the PRC is directly investing in the human capital of our constituency. This support ensures that our schools remain safe, healthy, and hygienic environments where our future leaders can grow,” Aharo said.
Under this funding, WMC is supplying water tanks to six secondary schools, thirteen primary schools and one Vocational Training center.
Aharo said the assistance supports the entire spectrum of the local learning ecosystem.
“Whether it is our young children starting their primary education or our youth gaining valuable vocational skills at the RTC, this project leaves no one behind,” the CDO said.
Attending the ceremony were the Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification and MP for West Makira Constituency, Derrick Manuari as guest of honour, representatives of PRC, MID and schools’ receiving the water tanks.
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The importance of reading and writing will be highlighted at the National Trade Show this week as Solomon Islands joins the world to mark International Literacy Day.
The celebration will be held at the National Trade Show tomorrow, September 9 under the 2026 theme, “Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity”, a statement by Solomon Islands Teachers Association of Government (SITAG) yesterday said.
International Literacy Day has been observed globally since 1967, when the United Nations designated September 8 as a special day to promote literacy and highlight its importance to individuals, communities and national development.
This year’s theme closely aligns with the National Trade Show theme, “Innovating Today for a Sustainable Greater Solomon Islands Tomorrow.”
Organisers said the two themes share a common focus on building a better and more sustainable future for Solomon Islands through knowledge, skills and innovation.
The International Literacy Day programme is being organised by the Community Education and Skills for Independence (COESI), Literacy Association of Solomon Islands (LASI), Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development and Solomon Islands Teachers Association of Government (SITAG).
The programme will showcase literacy activities being carried out across the country and highlight how literacy education is changing the lives of Solomon Islanders.
Literacy classes are available for children, young people and adults, with lessons delivered in local languages, Solomon Islands Pijin and English.
Organisers said learning to read and write can build confidence, improve people’s sense of self-worth and encourage them to continue learning.
Literacy also helps people to access important information, develop employment skills, understand environmental issues and participate more effectively in community discussions and decision-making.
It also enables people to read religious materials, including the Bible, while gaining knowledge that can contribute to improved livelihoods and opportunities.
The organisers said literacy remains an important foundation for national development, benefiting not only individuals and families but also communities, the environment and the country’s future prosperity.
Members of the public are encouraged to attend the celebration at the National Trade Show and learn more about literacy programmes and their impact across Solomon Islands.
Those unable to attend can also follow the event through the National Trade Show’s Facebook page.
The celebration will highlight the message that literacy empowers people, strengthens communities and contributes to a more prosperous and sustainable Solomon Islands.
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BY CHARLES STENNETT
Parliament has passed a resolution that provides the constitutional authority for Government to continue expenditure required to maintain public services at the commencement of the 2027 financial year while the 2027 Appropriation Bill is being prepared and considered by Parliament.
Government used its numbers yesterday to steamroll the motion through parliament amid protest by the leaders of Opposition and Independent, and Public Accounts Committee for it to be withdrawn.
Minister for Finance and Treasury Rexon Ramofafia moved the motion in Parliament yesterday to issue monies from the Consolidated Fund to meet necessary public expenditure pending the coming into operation of the Appropriation Bill 2027 and give the Government sufficient time to complete the preparation of the 2027 Budget estimates and the Appropriation Bill.
The resolution sought to ensure the continued provision of public services at a level not exceeding that of the previous financial year, for a period of up to four months from the beginning of the 2027 financial year, or until the Appropriation Act 2027 comes into operation, whichever occurs earlier, Parliament explained in a statement yesterday.
Parliament said that in moving the Motion, Ramofafia explained that the Government intends to approach the preparation of the 2027 Budget differently and requires sufficient time to undertake the necessary preparations.
Ramofafia said the Government wants to do things differently, emphasising the need for adequate time to prepare the 2027 Appropriation Bill, which he indicated will involve a significantly larger set of budget estimates compared with previous appropriations.
Leader of Opposition Manasseh Sogavare, Leader of Independent Peter Shanel Agovaka, and the Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee, Paul Bosawai, all called on the Finance Minister to withdraw the Motion.
Their concerns raised during the debate centred on the proposed duration and the need for Parliament to maintain appropriate scrutiny and oversight of public expenditure through the annual appropriation process.
However, when put to the vote, the Motion was passed by the National Parliament. The ‘aye’ outnumbered the ‘no’ votes.
Parliament is now adjourned sine die or until a date is set for the next meeting.
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Government set to lose revenue amid decision to respect Bills & Legislation Committee recommendation to delay minerals resources bill
BY TONY IROGA
Government is projected to forego around $1 billion in revenue after it chose to respect the Bills and Legislative Committee’s recommendation to delay the minerals resources bill.
In a rare show of good governance and leadership, GREAT government has decided to delay proposed amendments to the Bill and allow consultations to be carried out.
The amendments outline one of government’s main revenue sources, and would have given much needed revenue to fund the reforms which GREAT is pushing for.
Speaking during the sine die motion in Parliament yesterday, Prime Minister Matthew Wale said Government accepts the Bills Committee’s recommendation to allow further consultation before proceeding with the amendments.
“We respect the view of the Bills Committee and have accepted it, to allow further consultation over the next two months or so,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the additional consultations will also cover concerns raised in petitions submitted by landowners of Gold Ridge.
Despite the projected revenue loss, Wale said Government respects the committee’s recommendation and is prepared to use the additional time to consult further on the proposed amendments.
Wale also told Parliament that Government intends to recall Parliament before the end of the year if possible to consider and pass the 2027 National Budget.
He said, however, that the sine die adjournment will give the Government flexibility if the budget process takes longer than expected.
“If it is next month or the following months, we will come back, but if it is also January or February, we will still come back,” Wale said.
He stressed that the adjournment is not aimed at avoiding parliamentary scrutiny.
Instead, he said, Government needs sufficient time to complete important work before Parliament resumes.
“We want to give ourselves the adequate time to be able to get these important instruments in place and then we come back,” he said.
Wale also praised the work of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), describing parliamentary financial oversight as an essential function.
“It is not partisan politics or anything like that. It is an essential core function of parliamentary oversight and we must embrace it,” he said.
He said ministries should be given adequate time to appear before the PAC and explain their programmes, particularly when introducing new Government policies.
Wale said Government remains committed to parliamentary oversight while using the adjournment period to complete its legislative and budget priorities.
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by Georgina Maka’a “It’s not my intention to cause fear. I made a very stupid mistake.” These were the words...
The post ‘I Made a Stupid Mistake’: Australian Man Remanded After Honiara Armed Threat Incident appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
PM Wale says Bloody Ridge must preserve wartime history, honour the fallen and serve as a place of remembrance and peace. Prime Minister Mathew Wale today participated in national commemorations at the Bloody Ridge National Historical Park, Guadalcanal, marking 84 years since the decisive battles of the Guadalcanal Campaign during the Second World War. In [...]
The post PM Wale: Bloody Ridge Must Be a Place of Remembrance and Reconciliation appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY TONY IROGA
Leader of the official Opposition Group, Manasseh Sogavare has questioned whether the Government has made adequate financial and policy preparations to implement its flagship Free Education policy nationwide in 2027.
Mr Sogavare raised the issue in Parliament today while contributing to the motion on the resolution moved by the Minister of Finance and Treasury and MP for Fataleka, Rexon Ramofafia.
He said the Government’s own statements indicate that its implementation will require additional funding and significant preparations.
Sogavare added that these preparations include classrooms, teachers, laboratories and adequate teaching and learning resources.
“Free Education is not a policy that can be delivered simply by continuing the expenditure of the previous year,” he said.
Sogavare said the policy will require a new appropriation, a clear policy framework, full costing, recurrent financing and proper implementation arrangements.
The Opposition leader said the implementation will involve education authorities, school boards, church-run schools, provincial authorities, teachers, parents and students.
He also warned that parents should not be led to believe that nationwide Free Education will automatically begin in January 2027 if the necessary funding has not been approved through the 2027 Budget.
He said existing education services and programmes could continue under the interim authority, but a major new nationwide policy will require appropriate parliamentary funding.
“Parents across Solomon Islands are listening closely. Many have already begun to make decisions about the education of their children for 2027. They need certainty, not slogans,” Sogavare said.
He said parents need clear answers on what exactly will be covered under the policy which include whether tuition, boarding, transport, uniforms and learning materials will be covered.
Sogavare also questioned whether schools will receive grants on time and whether there will be enough classrooms, teachers and teaching materials to support the policy.
Photo credit: NPSI
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Captain fires Solomon Islands into semi-finals and seals Group A top spot in Apia
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands captain Jayroll Patty struck twice as the Solomon Islands U-19 men’s team secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory over host Samoa today to finish top of Group A at the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Apia.
Patty delivered at crucial moments, scoring once in each half to settle a competitive encounter at the Samoa Football HQ and send Solomon Islands through to Friday’s semi-finals.
OFC Media reported that Patty opened the scoring in the 20th minute, finishing into the bottom-right corner with his left foot after being set up by Wilkenson Siosi.
The captain then completed his brace in the 90th minute, breaking into the penalty area before rounding the Samoan goalkeeper to put the result beyond doubt.
The two goals take Patty’s tournament tally to five in his last two matches, following the hat-trick he scored in Solomon Islands’ previous outing against New Caledonia.
The victory also means Solomon Islands have topped their group for the third time in six editions of the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship, according to OFC Media.
Despite controlling much of the match, Solomon Islands were made to work for the result as Samoa showed plenty of fight in front of their home supporters.
Solomon Islands played in good pace while Samoa relied on strong encouragement from the home crowd. The hosts also created opportunities, with one of their best chances coming in the first half when a shot struck the left post.
Solomon Islands led 1-0 at the break before continuing to press for a second goal after the restart. Samoa’s goalkeeper was also called into action to deny another Solomon Islands attempt, while the Junior Bilikiki continued to threaten from set pieces and open play.
The second goal finally arrived late, with Patty again finding the decisive touch to cap a strong individual performance and secure all three points.
OFC Media described the result as enough to send Solomon Islands into the semi-finals, where they will face the runner-up from Group B on Friday.
New Caledonia also booked their place in the last four after thrashing Papua New Guinea 7-0 earlier in the day, finishing alongside Solomon Islands as Group A’s two semi-finalists.
For Solomon Islands, attention now turns to the knockout stage and another step towards their ambition of reaching the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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