Home Blog

SORE BOOTED

Written by
Alfred Pagepitu
-
0
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

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
-
0

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.

‘VALUABLE EXPOSURE’

Written by
Admin
-
0

SICF President’s Manila invitation signals growing recognition for Solomon Islands Chess

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) says the invitation extended to its President Simon Chottu to attend the Closing and Awarding Ceremony of the WR Bughouse Championship 2026 in Manila, Philippines, reflects the growing recognition of Solomon Islands chess on the international stage.

Chottu was among distinguished guests of honour at the ceremony held at the Grand Hyatt Manila following the conclusion of the international championship earlier this week.

Speaking to SunSPORTS, Chottu described the invitation as a proud moment for both SICF and the country.

“It was a great honour for both the Solomon Islands Chess Federation and our country.

“Being invited as a Guest of Honour at one of the world’s premier Bughouse Chess events demonstrates that Solomon Islands chess is gaining international recognition,” he said.

He said the event also provided SICF with an important opportunity to strengthen relationships within the international chess community while showcasing the federation’s commitment towards developing the sport locally.

The WR Bughouse Championship brought together some of the world’s strongest Bughouse Chess players and officials from more than 20 countries.

According to Chottu, the championship exposed SICF officials and players to international standards in tournament organisation, sponsorship, event management and player development.

“The championship provided valuable exposure to international standards of tournament organisation, player preparation, marketing, sponsorship and event management.

“We also observed how countries are using technology, social media and strong development programs to grow chess participation,” Chottu said.

He added that such experiences will help SICF improve its own local tournaments and create more opportunities for Solomon Islands players.

Team Solomon, represented by Fred Resture and Aloysius Shanel, also competed during the championship and faced some of the world’s top Bughouse Chess players.

Although the team did not qualify for the final stages of the tournament, Chottu said their participation still helped raise the profile of Solomon Islands chess internationally.

“Team Solomon proudly represented our country alongside players from more than 20 nations,” he said.

“Although we did not qualify for the final stages, our participation demonstrated that Solomon Islands is committed to being part of the international chess family.”

Chottu also revealed that SICF held positive discussions with WR Chess and the National Chess Federation of the Philippines regarding possible future cooperation and development opportunities.

“We look forward to strengthening these relationships and exploring ways to bring more international opportunities to Solomon Islands players and officials,” he said.

He encourages young Solomon Islanders to take up the sport, saying chess can open doors to education, travel and international opportunities.

“My message to our young people is simple: dream big and believe in yourself.

“If you are willing to learn, practice and stay disciplined, you can compete on the world stage regardless of where you come from,” Chottu said.

The SICF President reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to developing pathways for more young Solomon Islanders to represent the country internationally.

The WR Bughouse Championship 2026 was held in Manila, Philippines, from June 1-2 and attracted 83 teams from 22 countries. The tournament featured the fast-paced Bughouse Chess format, where teammates compete simultaneously and captured pieces are transferred between boards during matches. Team Solomon Islands was represented by Fred Resture and Aloysius Shanel, accompanied by SICF President Simon Chottu as team official.

Photo: Supplied/Chess Explorer PH

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Ngafu returns home as Ohasio adds steel to Malaita Kingz defence ahead of new Telekom S-League season

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Malaita Kingz Football Club has boosted its preparations for the 2026 Telekom S-League campaign with the signing of former Rewa FC duo Norman Ngafu and Calvin Ohasio.

The club confirmed the arrival of the two players through its official social media platform this week, describing the signings as a major step to strengthen the squad for the new season.

Ngafu makes a return to the Kingz setup after spending six months with Fiji’s top club Rewa FC, while defender Ohasio also joins from the same side after previously featuring for Central Coast FC.

The return of Ngafu is expected to add more firepower to the Kingz attacking department, with the forward widely recognised for his pace, energy and eye for goal.

Club management said Ngafu’s overseas experience will bring added quality and depth to the squad.

“Norman’s return is a big boost for the club. His experience in Fiji will certainly help strengthen our attacking options this season,” the club stated.

Meanwhile, Ohasio is tipped to reinforce the defensive line with his speed, defensive awareness and ability to read the game.

The club also expressed confidence that the former Rewa defender will provide stability at the back as Kingz aim to challenge strongly for silverware this year.

“Calvin is a quality defender who has shown great maturity and discipline during his time in Fiji. We believe he will play an important role for the team this season,” the statement added.

The arrival of the duo comes as Malaita Kingz intensifies preparations for what is expected to be another highly competitive Telekom S-League season.

Both players are expected to bring valuable experience from Fiji’s premier competition, with club officials hopeful that their exposure overseas will help lift the overall standard and competitiveness of the squad.

Malaita Kingz management has also welcomed both players into the club, expressing confidence that their presence will strengthen the team’s ambition of mounting a serious title challenge in 2026.

Ngafu previously featured for Kingz before his move to Fiji, while Ohasio earned recognition during his time with Central Coast FC before joining Rewa FC.

Their return to Solomon Islands football adds further excitement ahead of the new Telekom S-League season, which is expected to feature strong competition among the country’s top clubs.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Komasi and Jack Junior expected to strengthen Fiji club ahead of 2026 BiC Fiji FACT

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Two Solomon Islands footballers are reportedly set to join Fiji’s Navua FC during the Fiji Football Association mid-season transfer window ahead of the 2026 BiC Fiji FACT tournament in Labasa.

According to social media posts by Fiji football sources, Solomon Kings FC player William Komasi and Malaita Kingz FC midfielder Jack Junior are expected to strengthen the Navua squad for the second half of the season.

A post shared by Fiji Football Association stated that Komasi is currently serving a mandatory 30-day stand-down period and is expected to complete it in time to be eligible for the 2026 BiC Fiji FACT.

The post said Komasi will add further international experience to the Navua side.

Meanwhile, Fiji News Today reported that Jack Junior is also set to reunite with Fiji football after previously playing for Labasa FC.

The report described the Solomon Islander as “no stranger to Fiji football” and said he is expected to bring quality and experience to the Navua midfield ahead of the prestigious tournament.

Also expected to join the club is Vanuatu international goalkeeper Kaloran Firiam from Vanuatu United FC.

The possible moves continue the growing presence of Solomon Islands footballers in Fiji’s domestic competitions, with several local players having featured for clubs across Fiji in recent years.

The BiC Fiji FACT is one of Fiji’s major football tournaments organised by Fiji Football Association. The 2026 edition is expected to be held in Labasa later this year.

Photo credit: Solomon Kings FC

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

SICF to honour founding PM with national chess championship during Independence celebrations

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) has announced that it will host the Sir Peter Kenilorea Championship 2026 on July 7 as part of the country’s 48th Independence Anniversary celebrations.

In a notice posted on its official social media platform yesterday, SICF said the championship is being organised in honour of the nation’s founding Prime Minister, Sir Peter Kenilorea, while also promoting the continued development of chess in the Solomon Islands.

“The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) is honoured to announce that we will host the Sir Peter Kenilorea Championship 2026 on 7 July 2026 as part of the celebrations marking the 48th Independence Anniversary of the Solomon Islands,” the federation stated.

SICF said the tournament aims to promote “unity, strategic thinking, sportsmanship, and the continued growth of chess throughout the country.”

According to the federation, the event will feature teams and players from around the country competing in a spirit of friendship and national pride during the independence celebrations.

The competition will be held as a team tournament, with each side consisting of four players and one reserved player.

SICF also confirmed that official notation will be required for all participating players.

Registration for the championship will officially open on June 8, while further details regarding team registration, tournament format, venue and prizes will be announced later.

“The tournament will bring together teams and players from across the Solomon Islands to compete in a spirit of friendship and national pride as we celebrate our independence,” SICF added.

The federation is encouraging players, clubs and chess enthusiasts throughout the country to take part in the championship as part of the nation’s independence commemorations.

The Sir Peter Kenilorea Championship 2026 is expected to strengthen the profile of chess in the Solomon Islands while recognising the legacy and leadership of one of the country’s most respected national figures.

SICF continues to promote chess development under its “Chess for Growth” vision, with growing participation from schools, communities and provincial players in recent years.  

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Empowerment policy review and reporting workshop underway in Auki 

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

A workshop that aims to review Malaita Women’s Policy on empowerment and reporting took place at Green House, Auki, Malaita Province.

The two-day workshop’s objective is to produce an updated Malaita Provincial Women’s Policy that is responsive, inclusive, and aligned with national and global gender equality commitments. 

According to the programme, the specific objectives include assessing the implementation and impact of the current policy, identifying gaps, challenges, and emerging issues affecting women, strengthening alignment with national and international commitments, ensuring inclusive participation of stakeholders throughout Malaita, and developing a practical and implementable revised policy. 

The workshop provided a great opportunity for women to discuss the best ways to improve the policy to serve their interests.

It also helped to promote issues affecting women in the province that need to be addressed by responsible authorities.

One of the participants, said the policy needs to be updated and must work effectively to protect the women in the province.

“Once it is updated and doesn’t serve us women in this province, then this could be a waste of time and money,” she said.

The workshop was facilitated by the Supervising Director for the Women’s Development Division (WDD) within the Solomon Islands Ministry of Women, Youth, Children, and Family Affairs, (MWYCFA) Vaela Devesi.

The workshop was attended by women stakeholders from government ministries, departments of the Malaita Provincial Government, and representatives from non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Kwasila association blesses piggery farm 

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

ABPO project recipient, Kwasila Piggery Farm Association has blessed their piggery farm yesterday in Larione, West Kwaio, Malaita Province.

This significant milestone marks a bottom-line effort to safeguard their piggery farm and to ensure the success of their project.

This was the first time such a blessing was held in the West Kwaio area for a business association. 

Speaking during the offered Mass, Fr Albert said the success of any business and project depends on togetherness and shared commitments.

He said that togetherness and the aim for one goal in good Christian faith can lead to success. 

“Togetherness is the most important thing when we want to do something. It is very vital to come together through discussion when we face barriers, doubts, and failures.

“It can also come once we have true faith in Christian life,” he said.

He warned that the division of ideas and mindsets can lead to failure along the journey to success in any business.

“Failure in business and projects like this can happen when we have different ideas and mindsets,” he said.

He encourages members of the Kwasila Piggery Farm Association to come together and work hard to achieve their goals.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

We must change our mindset: Sade

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY LORETTA B MANELE

Acting Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, Francis Sade said people must change their mindset in order to have sustainable development and long-term benefits.

He made the remark when he delivered his speech at a handover ceremony of materials from the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) from the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) to his people of Northwest Guadalcanal constituency at Mamara yesterday.

Materials handed over to people of Northwest Guadalcanal, Photo by Loretta B Manele

Building materials, tools and even small tractors were handed over to churches and schools of Northwest Guadalcanal with some recipients having already received their share of assistance.

-(Left to right) MALD Minister Franklyn Derek Wasi, MRD Minister Daniel Waneoroa and DPM, Francis Sade cutting the ribbon to mark the handover program at Mamara yesterday, Photo by Loretta B Manele

Present at the ceremony were people of Northwest constituency and Minister of Rural Development, Daniel Waneoroa and Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD) Franklyn Derek Wasi.

Sade in earlier remarks told his people that they are rich in resources, land and sea with strong capable people.

However, if they are to change anything, change must come from within.

“We must move from waiting and this is change in mindset we always talk about. You cannot change your situation unless you change your mindset.

“We need to change our mindset in order for any development to be sustainable and give us long term benefits,” he said.

The Deputy PM, who is also the Minister for Public Service said they must change their mindsets so that they can move from waiting to action, from dependency to self-reliance, from selling raw to adding value.

He emphasised that development does not begin with money but with thinking and that what they received is not just assistance but tools for transformation that will help change their situation.

Moreover, Sade said they are moving forward with a clear and disciplined plan, one that will restructure the economy and reposition people.

He said the constituency is not working alone on this but with the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Agriculture and other technical ministries so that together they can build and move forward.

Sade said with the Ministry of Commerce they are planning to develop a master plan that will give them more leverage for more development from the government and donors.

“Together we are building a master plan, a coordinated framework in direction for our development, a system that connects the government, private sector and our communities because real development is not isolated but a coordinated effort,” he said.

Photo credit: Loretta B Manele

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Poor sanitation continues to impact health and education in SI

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Poor sanitation and hygiene practices remain a major challenge, affecting the health, education and wellbeing of students across the country.

Erick Hale UNICEF WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) Programme officer highlighted this when he presented the country’s overview of sanitation landscape yesterday at the day-one of the UNCEF Solomon Islands & MASI WASH Media workshop.

He said that open defecation continues to be common in many communities, creating conditions that allow diseases to spread easily.   

Mr Hale said that children are among the most vulnerable, with studies showing that those living in areas where open defecation is practiced are more likely to suffer from stunted growth and other health complications.

“The problem is also affecting schools. Students and teachers frequently miss classes due to illness, while the lack of safe and private toilet facilities in schools often forces girls to stay home during menstruation,” he said.

He said that teachers also lose valuable teaching time when they need to care for sick family members.

“Diarrhoea remains one of the country’s most serious public health concerns. Poor water quality, inadequate sanitation and unsafe hygiene practices continue to contribute to outbreaks of the disease.

“In 2014, Solomon Islands recorded more than 4,000 diarrhoea cases and 27 deaths. A second outbreak between 2015 and 2016 resulted in more than 9,000 cases and 32 deaths. Health authorities also reported six diarrhoea-related deaths in 2021, with most cases involving children,” Hale said.

He said that more recently, the Ministry of Health confirmed another outbreak in Honiara and Guadalcanal in mid-2025, mainly affecting children between the ages of one and four.

“Diarrhoea is currently the second leading cause of death among children under five in Solomon Islands. Statistics show that nearly one in every 10 child deaths before the age of five is linked to the disease,” he said.

He said that the country also continues to face high rates of child stunting and malnutrition, conditions often associated with poor access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene services.

He said that investing in sanitation delivers significant benefits, despite these challenges.

“Research indicates that every dollar spent on sanitation can generate a return of about US$5.50 through lower healthcare costs, improved productivity and better health outcomes for communities,” Hale said.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Poor sanitation threatens SI tourism growth

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The continued practice of open defecation and poor waste management is threatening the growth of Solomon Islands’ tourism industry, a sector that contributes significantly to the national economy and employment.

Erick Hale UNICEF WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) Programme officer highlighted this yesterday during the UNICEF Solomon Islands & MASI WASH Media workshop.

Mr Hale pointed out that before the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism accounted for 10.5 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and generated an estimated $132.8 million in revenue.

He said that the industry also provided employment opportunities and foreign exchange earnings while supporting cultural preservation and environmental management across the country.

“However, inadequate sanitation and waste disposal practices are posing serious challenges to the sector. Open defecation in public areas, along coastlines, and near communities can create unpleasant odors and unsanitary conditions, discouraging visitors from travelling to some destinations,” Hale said.

He said poor waste management has also been identified as a major concern affecting visitor experience.

“Improper disposal of rubbish can damage natural attractions such as lagoons, coral reefs, and villages that are central to the country’s tourism appeal. According to the 2019 International Visitor Survey, “environment and rubbish” was rated as the least appealing aspect of the visitor experience in Solomon Islands, highlighting growing concerns about cleanliness and environmental management,” he said.

He warns that the country’s reputation as a tourist destination could be further damaged by the prevalence of water-borne diseases and the lack of adequate sanitation facilities.

“Health concerns may discourage potential visitors, while poor hygiene conditions could result in negative reviews and financial losses for tourism operators. Investing in proper sanitation infrastructure and effective waste management systems is essential to protect the environment, improve public health, and support the long-term growth of Solomon Islands’ tourism industry,” Hale said.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Veo calls on GREAT to improve Nusatupe Terminal

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

WESTERN Province Premier Billy Veo calls on the Government for Reform, Empowerment, Accountability and Transformation (GREAT) and the Solomon Islands Airport Corporation Limited (SIACL) to fast-track long-awaited plans to upgrade the Nusatupe Airport Terminal in Gizo.

Speaking during discussions with Prime Minister Mathew Wale during his recent visit to Western Province, Veo expressed frustration over the prolonged delay in implementing plans to improve the province’s main airport terminal.

“I’m really disappointed with the delay of plans to upgrade the terminal. It has been too long and this must be addressed,” he said.

Veo said the Western Provincial Government has already resolved land-related issues that had previously been cited as obstacles to the project.

He said the province has already addressed the land issue, which has been used as an excuse for delaying the groundwork.

Veo said the responsibility now lies with the Solomon Islands Airport Corporation Limited to respond and move the project forward.

He said Western Province is widely recognised as one of the country’s leading tourism destinations and that the current state of the Nusatupe terminal does not reflect its importance.

“We know that Western Province is one of the tourist destinations in Solomon Islands. Tourists visit our province every month.

“This is the reason why we want Nusatupe terminal to be upgraded,” Veo said.

He said improving the terminal will enhance the travel experience for visitors and support the continued growth of the tourism sector, which remains a key contributor to the province’s economy.

Veo also calls on the national government to consider upgrading Mono Airport into a second international airport in Western Province.

He said the province already has an existing runway at Mono, which was constructed during World War II and has the potential to be developed into an international gateway.

Veo said consultations with communities and resource owners have already been completed and the necessary documentation is now being prepared.

“We have completed consultations with communities and resource owners, and a document will be presented to the provincial executive for further discussion,” he said.

Veo said the provincial executive will endorse the proposal and a final submission will be made to the government through the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA).

He said the development of Mono Airport will open up new economic opportunities for the province, strengthen connectivity and support future growth in tourism and investment.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

123...1,660Page 1 of 1,660