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SORE BOOTED

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Former Honiara City Council Clerk Rence Sore. Photo: Charles Kadamana

HCC terminates controversial Clerk’s contract

BY ALFRED PAGEPITU

THE Honiara City Council (HCC) Executive Committee has terminated the contract of Rence Sore as City Clerk.

Deputy Mayor Francis Idu told Island Sun yesterday the decision was reached on Tuesday, with Mr Sore receiving the termination letter yesterday.

Sore is being investigated over allegations of corruption. However, Idu said HCC executive were in one-mind to get rid of him.

Sore did not return phone calls made to him last night for comment.

Deputy Mayor Idu said the executive is doing what former Mayor, Wilson Mamae hesitated to do.

“Seven Councillors have decided to terminated Sore after the Councillors Committee members meeting on Tuesday 6th April 2021 held at the HCC Chamber decide to terminate Sore’s contract as the Clerk.”

Idu said the decision is based on the grounds that there is sufficient evidence to terminate the City Clerk; one of the main reasons is illegal sale of Council land PN. 192010-33.

“HCC Legal team stressed that any decision to terminate the City Clerk must come with good grounds to avoid any repercussion.”

Idu said despite this the executive committee favoured terminating the City Clerk with immediate effect.

“There were two options that were considered, and that is either to suspend the City Clerk and allow for investigations to be carried out or to immediately terminate the Clerk.

“We the executive committee’s decision now is to terminate the appointment of the City Clerk immediately.

“During the discussion on the motion put forward to terminate the Clerk, Cr Eddie Siapu stated that it would be in the best interest of the Council and the public to terminate the City Clerk.

“Most of the councillors who joined the meeting shared the same sentiment that termination of the City Clerk needs to be done immediately to clear way forward for the council.

“The executive committee resolves to terminate the appointment of the City Clerk with the immediate effect based on reasons stated on April 6, 2021 meeting.”

Idu said the executive committee resolved to revoke and remove the City Clerk’s signature from the Council’s Bank Account, and resolution was passed by majority.

Meanwhile, Idu said they have appointed the current Deputy City Clerk to be the acting City Clerk until such time a new Clerk is appointed by the full Council.

Present at the meeting were Councillors Francis Idu, Dorah Huapii, Robert Oge, Mostyn Saferio, Clement Terewauri, Luciano Sade and Eddie Siapu.

Ex-officio present were Paul Inifiri, William Floyd and Vincent Kohata.

Malaita PS challenges Public Service over ‘unlawful’ suspension

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By EDDIE OSIFELO

MALAITA Provincial Secretary Fredrick Fa’abasua is challenging his suspension.

The province said Fa’asubua will initiate legal proceeding unless the Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Public Service, Nego Sisiolo “withdraws the unlawful suspension on him”.

Premier Daniel Suidani confirmed this in a statement yesterday after PS Sisiolo issued the suspension letter to Fa’abasua last Friday.

Suidani said Sisiolo accused Fa’abasua of financial allegations that were “untrue, and in the same letter, he ordered the suspension of our PS, effective immediately”.

“Unfortunately, in doing so, Sisiolo did not follow the process set out in the Public Service Act and its Regulations,” Suidani said.

“The Public Service Act and its regulations have a specific legal process set out, by which such accusations can be taken up and acted upon,” he added.

Suidani said this legal process provides the opportunity for natural justice, and this process was not, repeat was not, followed by Sisiolo.

He said the Public Service Act sets out a process by which any officer alleging misconduct and having supervisory responsibility over the PS must have a report about this accusation filed to the PS of Public Service. 

The PS of Public Service in turn must give a minimum period of seven days to the officer to respond.

“None of these steps have happened or if it had happened the PS has not been aware of it, and therefore our PS has decided to put these issues before the Permanent Secretary of Public Service for him to do the right thing by following the clear process that is set down.

“Soon these matters will be at court but for now I will say the following:

  1. PS Fa’abasua has been an exemplary public officer and a real servant to Malaita people.
  2. His hard work and integrity has led to the repayment of millions of dollars of outstanding debt left by previous provincial executives.
  3. His dedication and faithfulness have seen the charging of fair business licenses on the logging companies ripping our people’s land.
  4. His careful diligence has given pride and hope to the people of Malaita Province.”

Suidani said it is sad after all this work, two different ministries have tried to remove PS Fa’abasua from serving the people of Malaita Province.

Last year in December the Ministry of Provincial Government demanded the removal of PS Fa’abasua back to Honiara.

Suidani said no reason was given in this demand and the PS kept serving the people of Malaita.

He alleged this current action by Sisiolo from Ministry of Public Service is similarly motivated. 

“He (Sisiolo) is trying to remove PS from Malaita Province, this time by trying to suspend him without any proper evidence put against the PS and without even complying with his own regulations.

“I am not sure of the real reason for these constant attacks on PS Fa’abasua, but the timing of this action by Sisiolo will have some severe effects on the people and province of Malaita,” he said.

Suidani said his Executive is scheduled to meet today Tuesday, March 16, to pass the budget for Malaita Province.

“If Sisiolo’s action succeeds, then our PS will be suspended when he should be helping the Executive pass this budget. Malaita Province will then have no budget to spend this year and this will have serious impact on the people of Malaita.

“In light of this seriousness, I appeal to Sisiolo for the withdrawal of the order to immediately suspend PS Fa’abasua. If he has genuine concerns for upholding the rule of law, I invite him to proceed as set out in the Public Service Act,” he said.

Suidani said the PS of Public Service without any good reason is attempting to discipline the PS of Malaita Province, yet he is allowing a person who has been found to be a foreigner by the High Court of Solomon Islands to continue holding senior sensitive political jobs in the Prime Minister’s Office.

“That person too has contravened the Electoral Acts of this country yet the leaders of this country including the PS of Public Service are turning a blind eye on that situation. 

“The PS of Public Service needs to explain that to the people of Malaita.  Why is he tolerating wilful and reckless behaviour by a foreigner and harassing a national without due process?” he asked.

However, PS Sisiolo said the suspension decision is due to serious allegations around unaccountable sum of government revenue in which the PS is alleged to have directly involved in.

“As part of protecting the credibility of the service and upholding better governance, my office deemed it is prudent to suspend the officer from duty to allow investigation into the allegations.

“As usual, the PS will be accorded natural justice process as we pursue the disciplinary process,” he said.

PS Sisiolo said the incumbent of the office of the provincial secretary is an extremely important public office because it administers service delivery that affects the affairs of the rural people.

“Therefore any decision that will affect the said office expected HR capacity is accorded thorough thinking,” he said.

A statement from the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) yesterday stated that the Provincial Secretary for Malaita Province is suspended based on allegations raised by former disgruntled Malaita workers.

“Based on documents submitted, the Ministry of Public Service (MPS) perused those matters reported by former employees. Based on the allegations, the MPS carried out a preliminary investigation and decided to suspend the Public Officer to give way for a full investigation.

“These cases were brought forward by concerned and aggrieved citizens and not in any way reflect any attempts by the MPGIS or the Solomon Islands Government to tarnish either the PS or the Malaita Provincial Government,” the statement said.

DREAM IGNITE

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OFC vice president John Kapi Nato urges unity, youth development and regional football pathways

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Newly launched Ghupo Wantoks FC has set its sights on building pathways for young footballers across Melanesia following an official launch at Iron Bottom Sound (IBS) Monarch Bar and Grill in Honiara on Saturday night.

The club’s launch brought together football officials, sponsors, former players, supporters and guests, with speeches centered on youth development, regional partnerships and long-term football ambitions.

Club owner and major sponsor John Kapi Nato — who is also the founder of PNG powerhouse Hekari United FC and current Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) vice president — described the launch as more than just the beginning of a football club.

“Tonight is not just a launching night of Ghupo Wantok FC, but it is a celebration of connection.

“It’s about unity and embracing the power and the beauty of football to bring all of us together,” Nato said.

Nato said the inclusion of the word “Wantok” in the club’s name reflected a broader Melanesian identity that would unite players and communities across the region.

“The club will represent all the Melanesian countries — Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and Fiji,” he said.

Speaking passionately about football development, Nato shared the early beginnings of Hekari FC in Papua New Guinea more than two decades ago, saying the club started with a vision to create opportunities for young people.

“We must go out and start connecting and bringing these young people in so we can give them aspirations and hopes.

“Football is more than a sport. It creates friendships, shared identity and opportunities for our youth,” he said.

Nato stressed that discipline, education and structured football pathways were critical to helping young players reach higher levels of the game.

“Today in world football, clubs are looking at young players aged 20, 22 and 23. That’s the dream every football club must have.

“That’s what Ghupo Wantoks FC must develop — the academy of young people,” he said.

He also highlighted the importance of stronger football cooperation between Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, including player exchanges, coaching development and youth tournaments.

“The sea must not be seen as a barrier, but a connection of dreams.

“We must create pathways for our young players so they can reach the next level of football in Europe or America,” Nato said.

Nato further encouraged club officials and stakeholders to remain committed to building the club for the long term.

“You want to build a club? It’s not easy.

“It must be collective work together, shared vision together and shared objectives together,” he said.

Meanwhile, Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) vice president Robert Seni congratulated Ghupo Wantoks FC and acknowledged the work being done by the club’s leadership.

“SIFF is very honored for the invitation received from Ghupo Wantok FC.

“The federation is always here and will always support football and anything to do with football,” Seni said.

Seni paid tribute to club president Mrs Vonnie JK Natto for her commitment and drive in football development.

“I wish everyone in the football family had the same drive that Vonnie has.

“I think if we have 10 of the likes of Vonnie, we should have been in the World Cup,” he said.

Seni also revealed that SIFF has been pursuing discussions with government authorities regarding possible tax rebates for football sponsors in Solomon Islands in an effort to encourage greater corporate support for clubs and football development.

“This time it’s very hard to get sponsors.

“We hope to pursue it with the new government now, at least to give some rebates for sponsors of football in Solomon Islands,” he said.

The launch programme featured entertainment, presentations, fundraising activities and acknowledgements to sponsors and supporters who contributed towards the event and the club’s development.

Special acknowledgements were made to John Kapi Nato and Vonnie Nato, Premier of Rennell and Bellona Province, Eric Sau’eha , MPs namely; Derrick Manuari, Morris Toiraena and Choilyn Yim Douglas, and Ropiko Energy’s Rolland Piko, Honiara City Council, Advance Technology Limited, Mr. John Taupongi, Nine-One field owner Sam, and the Ghupo Wantoks FC officials, managers, coaches and technical team for their support and hard work towards the successful launch.

Ghupo Wantoks FC, which is still in its early years of establishment, aims to develop young football talent while strengthening football links across the Melanesian region through partnerships, exchanges and long-term football programmes.

With support from experienced football figures and regional stakeholders, the club now hopes to build a lasting football legacy for future generations.

Photo credit: Richard Menanopo

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Three-day inclusive sports initiative identifies emerging athletes

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The successful staging of the inaugural “Play for Equity” Para Sport Program has marked another important step forward for disability inclusion and Para sport development in Solomon Islands.

Hosted by the Disability Women Empowerment Association (DWEA) from June 2–4 at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS), the three-day initiative brought together persons with disabilities from across the country to participate in sporting activities, leadership training and empowerment programs aimed at strengthening inclusion through sport.

The program was organized by DWEA — one of six organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) under the National Disability Forum Solomon Islands (NDFSI) — with support from development partners and sporting stakeholders.

Speaking to NSC Media, NDFSI volunteer Stephen Maerongo described the event as a milestone achievement for the country’s growing Para sport movement.

“This is the first event of its kind organised by DWEA, bringing together people with disabilities to participate in sporting activities while promoting inclusion, empowerment and unity,” Maerongo said.

The initiative combined sporting participation with educational and personal development sessions, including pre-evaluation and post-evaluation training designed to help participants reflect on their learning experiences throughout the program.

Participants included members of the Bethesda Disability Training and Support Centre (BDTSC) alongside representatives from various disability organisations under the NDFSI umbrella.

Apart from encouraging participation and confidence-building, the program also focused on identifying potential athletes capable of progressing into the Solomon Islands Para sport pathway.

“The program aims to empower people with disabilities, especially women and girls, and to demonstrate the potential that exists within our disability community.

“The program has also provided an opportunity for us to identify potential athletes who could become part of future national Para sport teams and represent Solomon Islands abroad,” Maerongo said.

Maerongo acknowledged the support of development partners including the Pacific Disability Forum (PDF), while also commending the National Sports Council (NSC) for assisting with the hosting of the event and transport arrangements.

“We sincerely thank NSC, which manages SINIS, for its positive response and support in hosting this program,”

“We also thank our partners, volunteers, coaches and participants whose commitment made the event possible. Without their support and willingness to work together, this program would not have been successful,” he said.

He added that the success of the inaugural program demonstrates the importance of stronger collaboration between disability organisations and sporting institutions in creating equal sporting opportunities for all Solomon Islanders.

“We hope to continue working together in the same spirit of unity, cooperation and inclusion as we plan future activities that will further support and empower persons with disabilities through sport and community engagement,” Maerongo said.

The Play for Equity Program also reflects the growing national push to strengthen Para sport structures in Solomon Islands as more organisations work to ensure persons with disabilities are given equal opportunities to participate in sport, develop their talents and pursue higher-level competition.

The National Disability Forum Solomon Islands (NDFSI) serves as the umbrella body representing Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) across the country and continues to advocate for inclusion, empowerment and equal participation opportunities through community programs, leadership initiatives and sport development activities.

Photo credit: NSC

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Corpus Christi celebration brings massive turnout in Honiara 

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

A massive gathering of Catholic faithfuls gathered yesterday for the country’s first-ever national celebration of Corpus Christi, marking the Year of the Eucharist under the theme “I am the bread of life.”

Catholic faiths attended the celebration yesterday, Photo by John Houanihau

Hosted by the Archdiocese of Honiara, the two-day event began on Saturday, June 6, with the main celebration held yesterday at the National Stadium.

The Corpus Christi procession making its way to the National Stadium yesterday, Photo by John Houanihau

Parishes from Ruavatu to Visale, along with those across the Honiara area, joined in the celebration.

They rested overnight at Holy Cross Parish and Don Bosco Henderson on Saturday, where students, lay people, priests, and deacons led programs of prayer, song, and confession. 

Yesterday, many Catholics gathered at Don Bosco and Holy Cross before processing together in prayer and song towards the National Stadium for the solemn Mass.

The solemn procession of the Corpus Christi, led by the priest to the altar, Photo by John Houanihau
The Gospel was brought forth in procession, honoring the living Word of God, Photo by John Houanihau
Tenaru School’s Form Six student choir singing during yesterday’s celebration, Photo by John Houanihau
Youths receiving their first Holy communion, Photo by John Houanihau
People with special needs were also part of the celebration, Photo by John Houanihau
Catholics gathered yesterday, embracing fellowship and celebration, Photo by John Houanihau

The stadium program opened with the Divine Mercy Chaplet, led by the Divine Mercy Group, followed by Taizé songs and reflections.

A Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament preceded the Eucharistic Celebration at 9:00am and the Holy Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Peter Chele, with the homily delivered by Fr. James Ereai.

The program concluded later in the afternoon.

Photo credit: John Houanihau

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‘Development projects strengthen Solomon Islands’ climate resilience’

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BY NED GAGAHE

The European Union (EU) says its investments in renewable energy, water supply and sanitation are helping Solomon Islands build resilience against climate change, even when projects are not directly classified as climate initiatives.

Speaking during an exclusive interview with the Island Sun following a three-day visit to Solomon Islands, EU’s Pacific Minister Counsellor and Head of Cooperation, Maurizio Cian, said climate change considerations are integrated across many EU-funded programmes in the Pacific.

“On climate change, we normally have a regional approach.

“We have a number of projects working on this area, including agriculture and nature-based solutions. But even projects that are not directly focused on climate change do take climate change into consideration,” Mr Cian said.

He referred to renewable energy projects as a key example of investments that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions while supporting sustainable development.

“Renewable energy is definitely something which contributes to reducing emissions when done in a proper way,” he said.

Mr Cian also highlighted the EU-supported water project in Honiara, saying it is designed to improve water security while delivering environmental benefits.

“The project tries to supply water to the whole city, which is no longer dependent on rainfall.

“It also seeks to improve wastewater treatment so that the environment benefits from the project as well,” he said.

He revealed that the EU has committed an additional contribution of approximately SBD300 million towards the water project and is awaiting formal approval from the Solomon Islands Government.

“We expect the government to sign very soon. It has been pending for quite a long time with the previous government.

“We hope this government will speed up the signing process and the implementation of the project,” Mr Cian said.

Director for Asia, Central Asia and the Pacific at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA), Peteris Ustubs, said the EU’s energy investments are also contributing significantly to climate adaptation and resilience efforts in Solomon Islands.

“Energy projects are a contribution to ensuring that climate change is taken into account.

“At the end, it is not only about energy supply, but also about how energy is generated,” Mr Ustubs said.

He said reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels and increasing the use of renewable energy sources will strengthen the country’s resilience while boosting economic independence.

“Making sure that the consumption of traditional fossil fuels in Solomon Islands can decrease and more renewable energy can increase makes the country more resilient to climate change.

“It also makes the country more sovereign, more independent and more prosperous because these are your own resources that you use for producing energy in the country,” he said.

The comments come as the European Union continues to expand its partnership with Solomon Islands through investments in renewable energy, water infrastructure, sanitation, and sustainable development initiatives that aim to support long-term climate resilience across the country.

Photo credit: EU

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SIMS issues strong winds number five

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has issued a strong wind warning for parts of the country.

The warning, issued at 4:00 pm yesterday, remains in effect for the waters of Rennell and Bellona, southern Makira, Western Province, Guadalcanal, Temotu Province, and the Russell Islands.

SIMS is also cautioning sea travellers and communities to take necessary safety precautions.

According to SIMS, a persistent southeasterly wind flow over the country is expected to generate east to southeast winds of between 20 and 25 knots across the affected areas.

Sea conditions are forecasted to be moderate to rough, with southeasterly swells reaching between 2.5 and 3.0 metres. Visibility is also expected to be poor in areas experiencing showers and thunderstorms.

The weather office said that the strong winds have the potential to impact lives and property and urged people living in the affected areas to take precautionary measures.

Sea travelers, particularly operators of small boats, have been advised to exercise extreme caution as the strong winds could produce dangerous wave conditions.

SIMS also calls on the public to share the warning information with people living with disabilities to ensure they are aware of the potential risks.

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UNICEF’s work in schools

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

UNICEF Solomon Islands through its WASH Programme over the past 2 years has upgraded WASH infrastructures in 26 schools in Central Islands Province and 39 Schools in Guadalcanal Province.

Erick Hale, UNICEF WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) Programme officer said these interventions have contributed to creating a healthy and safe school environment for children of Solomon Islands.

He said that access to water, sanitation and hygiene services have improved in these schools.

According to Hale, these school WASH infrastructure upgrades have reached over 12,000 (5,866 females and 6,606 boys) children and their teachers.

“This includes infrastructure design and construction, solar powered water pump and borehole,” he said.

He however said that approximately 64 percent of schools lack basic sanitation services, with only 36 percent with access to basic water services, and merely 17 percent with access to basic hygiene services.

He adds that this impacts negatively on creating safe school environment and consequently on learning outcome.

“Children spend a significant portion of their day at school, requiring adequate drinking water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services. Some schools often completely lack WASH facilities or have facilities that are inadequate in both quality and quantity.

“Water scarcity also caused school absenteeism, especially females, directly impacting on their learning and teaching. 

“It resulted in unequal learning opportunities, with particularly girls and children with disabilities being left behind,” he said.

Mr Hale further said that only two-fifths of schools (41 percent) provide a basic level of water service, while nearly half (47 percent) are at a limited level and 12 percent have no service.

“Only 5 percent of schools in the country have access to basic sanitation services and nearly half (49 percent) provide limited sanitation service. Alarmingly, 45 percent of schools reported having no sanitation facilities at all,” he said.

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‘Bina Harbour a Game-Changer for Malaita’

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BY NED GAGAHE

The European Union (EU) believes the proposed Bina Harbour Tuna Processing Plant has the potential to transform Malaita’s economy, create employment opportunities, and strengthen Solomon Islands’ position in regional fisheries development.

Speaking during an exclusive interview with Island Sun, Minister Counsellor and Head of Cooperation Maurizio Cian said the project could replicate the economic and social benefits already seen in Noro, Western Province.

“A month ago, together with a colleague from the European Investment Bank, we visited Noro and we could clearly see the positive impact that a processing plant has on the community in terms of health, education and economic development.

“If you have a similar project in Malaita, in Bina, it could lead to a transformation of the whole island,” Mr Cian said.

He said the development can help create jobs and economic opportunities for local people while reducing outward migration from the province.

“A lot of people have already migrated, and this project could help retain people and provide opportunities there,” he said.

However, Mr Cian said that the success of the project will depend heavily on implementation, quality management and securing suitable commercial partners.

“Like any project, it depends very much on how it will be implemented. Timing and quality are essential in guaranteeing success.

“A lot of details still need to be worked out to guarantee economic sustainability and to find the right private sector partnership for processing and exporting tuna,” he said.

He said the project has significant employment potential but warns that careful planning and strong partnerships will be crucial.

EU Ambassador to the Pacific, Barbara Plinkert, said the Bina Harbour project also aligns closely with the growing trade relationship between Solomon Islands and the European Union.

She said around 30 per cent of tuna processed in Noro is exported to European markets under the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between Solomon Islands and the EU.

“This is only possible because Solomon Islands has been a party to the Economic Partnership Agreement with the European Union since 2020, which provides quota-free and duty-free access to the EU market,” Ambassador Plinkert said.

She said the agreement allows Solomon Islands to export as much eligible tuna product as it can produce to the European market, helping strengthen local value-added processing.

“The Noro facility already demonstrates how processing on the ground in Solomon Islands strengthens the tuna fisheries value chain.

“Solomon Islands stands out as a very effective and successful example of how this can transform an economy and bring us closer together through trade,” she said.

Ambassador Plinkert said expanding processing capacity in Malaita could generate similar economic benefits for the province while increasing export opportunities to the European Union.

Director for Asia, Central Asia and the Pacific at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA), Peteris Ustubs, said the project should also be viewed from a regional development perspective.

He said the combined development of Bina Harbour and a tuna processing facility can open new opportunities for regional fisheries cooperation.

“The harbour development and processing facility could potentially enlarge opportunities for regional cooperation.

“There may be a specific role for Solomon Islands in bringing together greater cooperation related to fisheries across the wider region,” Mr Ustubs said.

He said the project will not only benefit the Solomon Islands economy but could also contribute to broader economic growth across the Pacific.

“Bina Harbour should be seen from many different angles as an important development project,” he said.

The comments were made during a three-day official EU visit to Solomon Islands, where senior European officials met with government leaders and stakeholders to discuss development cooperation, fisheries, infrastructure, renewable energy and economic growth opportunities.

Photo credit: Ned Gagahe

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EU reaffirms commitment to Solomon Islands development

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BY NED GAGAHE

The European Union (EU) has reaffirmed its long-standing partnership with Solomon Islands through a high-level official visit focused on strengthening cooperation in sustainable development, infrastructure investment, and economic growth.

Ambassador to the Pacific, Barbara Plinkert, and Director for Asia, Central Asia and the Pacific at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships, Peteris Ustubs, concluded a three-day visit to Solomon Islands from June 4 to 6.

During their visit, the delegation held discussions with senior government leaders, including Deputy Prime Minister Francis Sade, Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo, Agriculture and Livestock Minister Franklyn Derek Wasi, Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification Minister Derrick Rawcliff Manu’ari, and Provincial Government Minister, Alfred Lazarus Rimah.

Speaking to Island Sun in an interview, EU Ambassador to the Pacific, Barbara Plinkert said talks focused on shared priorities including climate resilience, green economic growth, infrastructure development, good governance, and strengthening democratic institutions.

The delegation also travelled to the proposed Bina Harbour development site and met with Malaita Premier Elijah Asilaua to discuss future investment opportunities.

Ambassador Plinkert described the EU as a reliable partner committed to supporting Solomon Islands’ development aspirations.

“The EU is a long-standing and reliable partner of the Solomon Islands, with deep experience across the priority areas of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent,” she said.

Solomon Islands remains the second-largest recipient of EU bilateral assistance in the Pacific, benefiting from programmes focused on climate change adaptation, water infrastructure, renewable energy, governance, and regional development initiatives.

A key focus of the visit was the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, which aims to increase strategic investment across the Pacific region. Under the initiative, the EU is exploring support for the development of port infrastructure and a tuna processing facility at Bina Harbour, a project expected to boost economic activity and employment opportunities in Malaita Province.

The delegation also highlighted the success of the Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Sector Project, which has provided access to clean and reliable water services for more than 79,000 people in Honiara and selected provincial centres.

The EU further acknowledged Solomon Islands’ active role in regional and international affairs, including its chairmanship of the Pacific Islands Forum from 2025 to 2026, its ratification of the Samoa Agreement in September 2025, and its support for key resolutions at the United Nations.

Both sides expressed confidence that cooperation will continue to expand in areas such as climate action, sustainable fisheries, renewable energy, resilient infrastructure, and inclusive economic growth.

The visit underscored the growing relationship between Solomon Islands and the European Union, as both partners seek to advance shared development goals and strengthen regional stability in the Pacific.

Photo credit: EU

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EU sees no slowdown under new gov’t

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BY NED GAGAHE

A high-level European Union (EU) delegation has expressed confidence that the recent change of government in Solomon Islands will not affect ongoing development projects, saying cooperation between the EU and the new administration remains strongly aligned.

Speaking during an exclusive interview with the Island Sun, EU Ambassador to the Pacific, H.E. Barbara Plinkert, said discussions with government leaders had been reassuring and indicated a shared commitment to existing development priorities.

“We don’t have any impression of that sort,” Ambassador Plinkert said when asked whether the transition to the new government would slow down EU-funded projects.

“First of all, this government is in place only since a few weeks. What we understand is that the new government policy will come out sometime soon when the Prime Minister returns from his initial visits to Australia and New Zealand.”

She said discussions held during the visit showed a strong level of alignment between both sides.

“From what we heard in our discussions, we are very aligned. So, we don’t expect any slowing, rather reinforcement of our cooperation,” she said.

The Ambassador said that Solomon Islands appears to be broadening its engagement with international partners while strengthening existing relationships.

“What we understand is that Solomon Islands is opening the space for wider partnerships now and really looking towards strengthening the existing partnerships even further. That is, of course, something that we very much welcome,” she added.

Director for Asia, Central Asia and the Pacific at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships, Peteris Ustubs, echoed the ambassador’s comments, saying the delegation received strong assurances from government leaders.

“I think we received very strong reassurance that our priorities are completely identical with the priorities of the new government,” Mr Ustubs said.

He highlighted the energy sector as one area where cooperation remains closely aligned, particularly in relation to budget support and development assistance.

“That is very important for us to take into account, including in the context of budget support and related cooperation in that sphere,” he said.

While acknowledging that any change of government brings a period of adjustment, Mr Ustubs said there was no indication that implementation of EU-supported programmes would be affected.

“Every transition is a transition, but at the same time there was a full alignment.

“I’m quite confident that the projects we have will continue, and on the projects we discussed, there will be full steam forward in terms of implementation,” he said.

The EU delegation’s visit focused on reviewing existing cooperation programmes and exploring future areas of partnership, including renewable energy, infrastructure development, fisheries, and economic growth initiatives.

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Projects are more than materials and infrastructure: Waneoroa

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

Projects given to constituencies through the Constituency Development Program are more than materials and infrastructure, says Daniel Waneoroa, Minister for the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD).

He made the remark whilst speaking at the handover ceremony of materials, tools and small tractors to Northwest Guadalcanal constituency at Mamara last week.

Waneoroa said the handover is a significant achievement and one that demonstrates a shared commitment to improving the lives and livelihoods of people.

“As the Minister responsible for Rural Development, I am encouraged to witness the positive impact that the Constituency Development Program continues to make in our rural communities.

“These projects are more than just materials and infrastructures,” he said.

The Member of Parliament for North Malaita said the projects are also a representation of opportunities for economic growth, community empowerment and improved living standards.

He said the Ministry is mandated to facilitate and coordinate rural development initiatives throughout the Solomon Islands.

Hence, he said for the Constituency Development Program, they work closely with all 50 constituencies to ensure that development reaches people in a transparent, accountable and effective manner.

The minister said their vision is to empower Solomon Islands towards self-sufficiency, improved livelihoods and sustainable development.

He also highlighted the importance of being responsible in the use of the resources.

“I would also like to remind all beneficiaries and constituents of the responsibilities under the Constituency Development Fund Act 2023.

“The Act provides the framework for proper management and use of public resources.

“As recipients and constituents of these projects, it is your responsibility to ensure that these assets are used for the intended purposes, maintained properly and protected for the benefits of the wider constituency,” he said.

Waneoroa stressed that development is a share responsibility, and pointed out that while government provides support and resources, communities must take ownership of projects to ensure they continue to deliver benefits for years to come.

He said the success of the Constituency Development Program depends on the collective efforts of government, constituency leaders and the people themselves.

Waneoroa also made an assurance to the people of Northwest Guadalcanal constituency.

“I also wish to assure the people of Northwest Guadalcanal that the government remains firmly committed to rural development.

“Under the leadership of Honorable Matthew Wale and the GREAT government, rural development will continue to be a national priority.

“Our goal is to ensure that every constituency and every community has the opportunity to participate meaningfully in the development of our country and to benefit from the nation’s growth,” he said.

Waneoroa also reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with all constituencies in the delivery of the Constituency Development Program in 2026.

He said they will continue to work closely with the Members of the Parliament, the Constituency Development Committees, constituency offices and communities to strengthen accountability, improve service delivery and maximize benefits of CDF investments throughout the country.

Photo credit: Loretta B Manele

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