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STILL DETERMINED

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Captain Samoa's Otete Kitiona and Solomon Islands head coach Daniel Barrett pose for a photo, Press conference and training sessions ahead of the FIFA Women's World Cup Qualifiers 2027, OFC Qualifiers, National Stadium, Honiara. Photo: Joshua Devenie / www.phototek.nz

Solomon Islands women’s national football team remains determined after 8-0 match with New Zealand Ferns

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Solomon Islands women’s national football team had a tough game with the heavily-fancied New Zealand Football Ferns in their second outing of the Oceania qualifiers with the Ferns winning the match with a 8-0 score.

Despite the defeat, the team remains determined after having played alongside experienced players.

Speaking after the match, head coach Daniel Barrett did not shy away from the reality of the result, describing the defeat as a reflection of the vast difference in professional standards between the two sides.

“Ah, it’s just a golfing class”, Barrett said candidly. “We’re talking about professional players that play in Europe. And our girls are from the Solomon Islands, so there’s a lot of difference in the way that girls are developed and prepared over time”.

The loss followed the day’s opening fixture which saw American Samoa edge Samoa 1–0, tightening the race behind tournament favorites New Zealand.

Despite the heavy scoreline, Barrett was quick to praise his players for their determination and resilience against one of Oceania’s strongest sides.

“They ran to the very end, tackled to the very end, fought to the very end. I think that deserves a lot of praise and a lot of credit”, he said. “Anyone here playing New Zealand is going to find it difficult”.

Barrett emphasized that the team’s refusal to give up reflected the character of the nation.

“They never gave up. They kept fighting to the very end because that’s the type of people Solomon people are. They never give up, they keep fighting, and they stuck together, more importantly”.

The coach also revealed that the national team is currently undergoing a transitional period, with several senior players nearing the end of their international careers.

“It’s no secret; we’re in a transition sort of period with the national team”. he explained. “A lot of our senior players, they’re not going to be here next World Cup campaign”.

Barrett, who is known for his development background in Australia, said the focus has already shifted towards grooming the next generation of players.

“You’ll see we’ve given young players an opportunity here… because we know that in time, we have to be able to replace these players with good young players”.

He acknowledged that fielding young, inexperienced players at this level naturally comes with mistakes, particularly under intense pressure from seasoned professional opponents.

“Young players are going to make mistakes, particularly under pressure. We need to give these young girls an opportunity to start to feel comfortable in international football. It’s part of development”.

 With one match remaining against Samoa, Barrett maintained that the team’s ambition remains unchanged.

“Every game we want to win, even tonight”, he said. “If we can bring the energy and effort that we brought tonight, I think we’ll do well in the Samoa game”.

He also expressed appreciation for the local supporters who turned out in less-than-ideal weather conditions.

“The people here have been fantastic by coming out and supporting the girls… if they can come out and support us for that last game, that’d be really good”.

Barrett dismissed suggestions that the team had regressed compared to previous campaigns, reiterating that all nations in the region are improving.

“All these nations now are trying to get better, and we’re trying to do the same as well. But this takes time”, he said.

While the 8–0 defeat serves as a stark reminder of the gap between Solomon Islands and Oceania’s powerhouse, the coach remains focused on long-term growth rather than short-term disappointment.

“We still try and win every game”, Barrett concluded. “But at the same time, we have to evaluate every single player and see if they’re improving as individuals — and are they players that we see we want involved with us in four years’ time?”

For now, the Solomon Islands women will regroup, refocus, and prepare for their final fixture — carrying lessons from a tough night against the region’s benchmark side.

Photo credit: SIFF

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New Zealand on top spot for round 3 qualifiers

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BY TONY IROGA

New Zealand is now moving on to the third stage of the qualifiers after beating Solomon Islands with a 8-0 victory at the National Stadium yesterday.

In yesterday’s face off, New Zealand continued to press relentlessly, and Foster’s shot was deflected into the net off Pia Vlok, giving Vlok her first goal for the Football Fans.

Milly Clegg added the final goal of the match, tapping in Lancaster’s precise cross to seal a comprehensive victory.

According to OFC, the result saw New Zealand maintain their dominance form in Oceania and now qualifies for Round 3 of the OFC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.

Grace Jale opened the scoring for New Zealand in the second half, finishing a move with a powerful strike to add the fourth goal.

Just moments later, Hannah Blake volleyed in a perfectly timed cross from Lancaster to extend the lead further, with Solomon Islands scrambling in defence.

Blake then completed her hat-trick after rounding goalkeeper Kofela, showing her composure and finishing ability in front of goal.

The second half began with New Zealand continuing to dominate possession, but Solomon Islands showed great discipline and resilience in defence, frustrating the Football Ferns with organised blocking and timely clearances.

They were able to hold New Zealand at bay for a period, keeping the scoreline unchanged and giving themselves a brief respite.

New Zealand, gradually found more space as fatigue began to affect the Solomon Islands players, allowing the hosts to start breaking through the defensive lines more often.

New Zealand will face fellow undefeated team, American Samoa, on Thursday while Solomon Islands will take on Samoa on the same day.

Photo credit: Tony Iroga

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Pacific regional immigration directors attend Border Management System workshop in Brisbane

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

Regional Directors of Immigration from Pacific Islands countries participated in a three-day Border Management System (BMS) Strategic Foundations workshop in Brisbane, Australia, from February 24-26, 2026.

A statement from Government Communications Unit (GCU) yesterday, said the workshop was funded by the Australian Department of Home Affairs and its aim was for participants to discuss shared objectives and opportunities for automated data sharing and the development of Advanced Passenger Information and Passenger National Record modules.

Countries represented at the workshop included the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, and Vanuatu.

GCU said the workshop was led by Australian Department of Home Affairs Regional Director, Mr Jim Anderson who emphasised on the importance of regional collaboration in combating organised crime.

The workshop is said to have focused on challenges such as drug trafficking, cybersecurity threats, and digital borders and key outcomes included establishing a PIDC Information Technology Working Group to lead regional BMS developments and fighting organised crime.

GCU said Solomon Islands is strengthening its national border security, having rolled out the first phase of BMS with Australia and Papua New Guinea in which the Australian Government funded SBD$18M for the Immigration BMS roll-out.

The statement said an online electronic visa system will be introduced by mid-March 2026, and this will allow travelers to apply and pay for visas online.

“Travelers and tourists travelling to Solomon Islands will access visa applications and make online payments through an ANZ online visa payment for Solomon Islands visas.

“A technical working group will assess digitising entries and exits in Western and Choiseul Provinces in April 2026, aligning border security with the government’s National Security Strategy,” GCU said.

GCU said representing the Solomon Islands Government at this workshop was Acting Director of Immigration, Mr Chris Akosawa.

Photo credit: GCU

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CIPG supports amendment of Dangerous Drugs Act

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Premier of Central Islands Province (CIP), Kenneth Sagupari, fully supports the amendment to the Dangerous Drug Act 2025 (DDA), but is concerned over the penalties outlined, describing them as too lenient.

The amendment introduced by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), include life imprisonment and a fine of SBD $15 million for offenders. A hearing on the amendment, facilitated by the Bill and Legislative Committee (BLC) took place last month.

In an interview with this newspaper, Premier Sagupari emphasized that his government fully backs the amendment, highlighting the significant threat posed by dangerous drugs to the future of Solomon Islands.

“My government supports the amendment because the future of the Solomon Islands is at risk due to the growing issue of dangerous drugs,” he said.

Sagupari also voiced concerns about the need for advanced technology to better monitor drug-related activities at the country’s borders.

He pointed to the recent discovery of several narco-submarines in the country as a clear indicator of drug trafficking activity entering the country.

“These narco-subs are commonly used for smuggling drugs, and their discovery highlights the reality of drug-related activity passing through our borders,” he said.

The Premier further argued that the proposed penalty of SBD $15 million fine is insufficient, given the scale of profits generated by drug traffickers.

“I believe the SBD $15 million fine is too soft – far too soft for drug dealers or anyone involved in this illegal business.

“These individuals make millions from trafficking drugs, and even if they are caught, they can simply pay the fine and walk away, leaving our people vulnerable to the growing drug problem,” he said.

He also noted that the Solomon Islands’ small population makes the country particularly susceptible to the risks associated with dangerous drugs.

In terms of CIP, Sagupari said its close proximity to Honiara is a concern should there be possible spread of dangerous drugs.

“For example, copane drug is already prevalent in my province. Whether produced in the province or transported from Honiara, the ease of drug movement from the capital to the province is highly possible,” he added.

Given the gravity of the issue, Premier Sagupari calls for constitutional amendments to allow for capital punishment for those involved in the dangerous drug trade.

He believes that only through harsher measures will the country be able to effectively curb the drug problem.

“These measures are necessary if we want to send a clear message that the Solomon Islands has zero tolerance for dangerous drugs,” Sagupari said.

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Case of a man accused of intimidation and molestation adjourned

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Magistrate Court has adjourned the matter of a man accused of three counts relating to intimidation and molestation charges yesterday.

The accused, Junior Paul Maenu (Pure) was charged with three counts of Intimidation and Molestation Contrary to section 231(1) of the Penal Code.

The matter was for mention yesterday, where the court was supposed to hear his plea – whether or not he pleads guilty to those 3 counts of charges.

Chief Principal Magistrate Ricky Lomea, in court yesterday asked Defence Counsel whether the defendant was in court or not.

Defence counsel Tukochi, informed court that he understands that the accused was supposed to be in court to make his plea, but his client was not in court so he sought for an adjournment.

Chief Principal Magistrate then asked the defence counsel to give reasons as to why he should allow an adjournment.

Mr. Tukochi informed court that that his client wasn’t feeling well to appear in court, because he was admitted for Asthma at the National Referral Hospital at the early hours of 4am, and was discharged at 7am yesterday.

Defence counsel informed court that he just received that confirmation via text message from his client. Thus, sought leave of the court for the matter to be adjourned to give ample time to speak with his client before his client can come to court to make his plea.

The matter was given a 7 days adjournment till 9 March at 9am for Mention.

The accused was excused of bail and hence, bail was extended.

The Chief Principal Magistrate then reminded the defence counsel that he must produce a medical report by or during the time the matter comes for mention on March 9 at 9am for plea.

It was alleged that the accused, Junior Paul Maenu (Pure) was at Maromaro market area, at Honiara on the 12th of November, 2025 where he intimidated three female persons namely; Salome Reuben, Elsie Gingari and Martha Pumai.

The particulars of the offence said that the accused intimidated them by possessing a pair of scissors and told them that they won’t be cooking there anymore and that he owned the place.

He then used a stone, throwing it at the Kaibar there before using an iron rod to chase the victims causing the fear and insecurity in them and they were lucky to escape him.

The accused was later arrested and taken to Naha Police station for questioning and was later charged.

The court is expected to hear the accused plea to these charges when the matter resumes on  March 9 at 9am for Mention.

PC Taromunia appears for the Police Prosecutions while Trevor Mark Tukochi, Senior Legal Officer from the Public Solicitors Office represents the accused.

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WE NEED PEACE

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Pacific leaders urged to stand firm in midst of global tensions

BY NED GAGAHE

One of the country’s top academic and Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Vice Chancellor, Professor Transform Aqorau has sounded a strong warning as tensions escalate in the Middle East, urging Pacific leaders to stand firm to protect the region as an “Ocean of Peace”.

Professor Aqorau said the growing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran is deeply alarming, with missiles flying, civilians caught in the crossfire, oil tankers reportedly struck, and the strategic Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most vital oil routes — now closed.

“Some leaders speak of success, but war never has winners. The real cost is paid by ordinary people,” Aqorau said.

He warns that while the fighting may seem far from Pacific shores, its consequences will not spare island nations.

If oil supplies from the Gulf are disrupted, global fuel prices are expected to surge. For Pacific Island countries heavily dependent on imported fuel, this would mean higher electricity costs, more expensive transport, rising food prices and an increased cost of living.

“Our already fragile economies could face another severe external shock,” he said.

Aqorau said that the region is already grappling with immense challenges like climate change, rising sea levels, drug-related issues, mental health pressures, youth unemployment, diabetes, slow economic growth and rapidly growing populations.

“At a time when we are dealing with so many pressing issues, we do not need more global instability, we need peace,” he said.

He reminded leaders that Pacific nations have declared the region an “Ocean of Peace”, grounded in unity, sovereignty, dialogue and non-militarisation.

“This is not just symbolic. It is strategic, our islands have suffered before from global power rivalries and war. We know the long shadows they cast,”Aqorau said.

As global power dynamics continue to shift, he urges Pacific countries to deepen solidarity and cooperation among themselves.

“Our strength is in regional unity. Our security must be rooted in development, climate resilience and human wellbeing — not militarisation,” he said.

Aqorau said that war diverts vital resources away from essential services.

“War diverts resources from schools to weapons, from hospitals to missiles, from climate action to destruction. Peace creates the space for progress,” he said.

For the sake of future generations, he said, Pacific nations must hold fast to their commitment to peace.

“For the sake of our children — their health, their education, their future — the Pacific must stand firm as an Ocean of Peace.

“In a world drifting toward conflict, let us choose stability. Let us choose cooperation. Let us choose peace,” he said.

Photo: Supplied

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Methamphetamine across Pacific exposes national enforcement and legal gaps

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Methamphetamine trafficking and use are becoming a rising concern across the Pacific, with recent cases and official statements from Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa and the Solomon Islands highlighting both the scale of the threat nationally and existing significant institutional gaps.

Based on a number of news articles from around the Pacific region between 2025 and 2026, it indicates that Pacific Island countries are countering the issue of drug trafficking networks while also struggling to strengthen legal, border control and the public health limitation within respective pacific island jurisdiction.

A news article published by Radio New Zealand in June 2025, reported the arrest of police officers in Papua New Guinea following a meth-related raid. A senior office quoted that authorities were “actively separating the bad apples from the good”. However, this is also an indication of how vulnerable Pacific Islands authorities can be compromised when facing such issue related to meth. Such issues can undermine the trust of the public to responsible agencies in tackling such issues.

Moving on to Fiji, news in relation to meth trafficking has become a recurring topic. According to a report by the ABC News, a high court judge describes those involved as “Sophisticated drug cartels”.

The statement speaks loudly for itself as it indicates that it is an organised international operation. Respective authorities have increased border surveillance and prosecutions; however, experts caution that continuous pressure and intelligence-sharing with other pacific countries will be critical to preventing Fiji from becoming a transit location for meth distribution within the Pacific.

Moreover, in Tonga, an ABC Pacific report in January 2026 highlighted a judge’s warning that meth poses an “existential threat to life in Tonga”. Such statement coming from Tonga’s judiciary stresses the emerging danger of the drug to its social and economic wellbeing.

Socially, community leaders in Tonga have raised issues arising from the use of drug including family breakdown, theft and youth vulnerability related to the consumption of meth. Law enforcement agencies continue to pursue importation and distribution cases however with limited resources.

In addition, reports from Samoa by RNZ in December 2025 had shown that their responsible authorities have seized meth twice within two days where customs and police remain committed to identifying and crackdown on drug networks.

Responsible authorities in Samoa have mentioned that there are attempts to move methamphetamine through Pacific entry points where traffickers test multiple routes including our cargoes, maritime freight and postal services as well.

Now moving into the Solomon Islands, in August 2025, the Director of Public Prosecutions in Solomon Islands warned publicly that existing legislation contained gaps, noting that under current law, possession or manufacture of methylamphetamine was not clearly criminalised in some contexts.

Also, reports of several narco boats occurring within a year in Solomon Islands waters raises a concern as well highlighting distribution network of drugs within the territory’s borders.

There was also discussion about urgent law reform. Legal experts have since called for updates to drug schedules, clearer definitions, and strengthen investigative powers to match modern trafficking approaches in relation to meth distribution.

As we understand, here in the Solomon Islands the Bills & legislation committee held hearings for responsible agencies to amend the Dangerous Drugs Act (Cap. 98) covering issues of penalties for those caught under the drug distribution.

Therefore,despite different national contexts, some of the common issues discussed among jurisdiction within pacific island countries include;

Border vulnerabilities; where Pacific nations manage vast maritime zones with limited surveillance capacities. This would be made effective with the right technology and regional cooperation to monitor and respond to distribution network of drug traffickers.

Outdated legislation; most of the drug laws within Pacific Island countries are outdated and need to be upgraded to effectively respond to the emerging drug crises currently occurring in the region.

Official integrity risks, also another common issue, is evident in that Meth trafficking can expose corruption risks within enforcement systems such as the case in PNG.

Also, there is limited rehabilitation services where most pacific island countries rely heavily on policing responses, with fewer organised treatment and prevention programmes for drug victims.

Data limitation is another common issue in relation to the issue in the Pacific Island countries where comprehensive, up to date national data on meth use is not available in each jurisdiction. The sentiment by opposition leader of the Solomon Islands Matthew Wale that “we’re living in the dark” referring to responsible agencies’ lack of data for decision making during the Bills and legislation committee is a classic example.

Going forward,governments across the Pacific have reaffirmed their national commitments to strengthening border controls and regional collaboration. However, enforcement alone will not be effective with limited technical ability to monitor and track, unavailability of technology and under-resourced authorities will always pose a gap within enforcement approach in the Pacific Island region.

In most of the Pacific Island countries jurisdiction, such as the Ministry of Health in Solomon Islands emphasise the need for prevention campaigns, youth engagement programmes, community education and rehabilitation services alongside criminal prosecutions in partnership with responsible agencies.

As methamphetamine cases continue to surface in courts and at border checkpoints, Pacific Island countries face mounting pressure to update existing laws, strengthen institutional responses and coordinate responses beyond national boundaries through regional partnership.

Photo credit: Supplied

WOMEN DETERMINED

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Solomon Islands team photo during FIFA Women's World Cup Qualifiers 2027, OFC Qualifiers, Solomon Islands v American Samoa, National Stadium Honiara. Friday 27 February 2026. Photo: Joshua Devenie / www.phototek.nz
  • Two crucial matches remain for Solomon in OFC qualifiers

BY TONY IROGA

Solomon Islands women’s national football team have two crucial matches remaining in Round Two, Group A of the FIFA Women’s World Cup – OFC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.

Group A matches are currently underway in Honiara, with Solomon Islands hosting the competition.

The Solomon Islands senior women’s side is sitting in third place after going down 0-1 to American Samoa women’s national football team in their opening match on Friday, February 27 2026 at 5pm at the National Stadium.

They will now face regional powerhouse New Zealand women’s national football team in their second match today at 5pm.

Their final Group A match will be against Samoa women’s national football team on Thursday, March 5 2026 at 5pm at the National Stadium.

The two remaining matches will determine whether Solomon Islands progresses to Round Three.

Team captain Ileen Pegi said the squad is preparing well for their next game against New Zealand.

“Unfortunately, we lost the game as we have never played against American Samoa before and were not familiar with their style of play,” Pegi said.

She added that the team is working hard to correct mistakes, improve their style of play and stay focused for the remaining matches.

According to the Oceania Football Confederation, the top two teams from Group A and Group B will advance to Round Three, scheduled to be played in New Zealand across two venues in April 2026.

Round Three will see the Group A winner face the Group B runner-up on 12 April 2026 at FMG Stadium Waikato at 12:00pm.

On the same day at 4:00pm, the Group B winner will meet the Group A runner-up.

The winners of both semi-finals will then clash in the final on 15 April 2026 at North Harbour Stadium at 7:00pm.

The four nations will compete in a knockout format, with the Round Three winner securing direct qualification to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The runner-up will advance to the inter-confederation play-offs.

The upcoming two matches are now vital for Solomon Islands as they aim to keep their World Cup dream alive.

Photo credit: OFC Media

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Solomon side holds strong after eight OFC matches

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BY TONY IROGA

Solomon Kings FC remain in third place on the table with 14 points after eight competitive matches in the OFC Pro League.

The Solomon side secured an impressive 2-0 victory over Bula FC on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Melbourne Stadium, Australia, to maintain their top-three standing.

So far this season, Solomon Kings have recorded four wins, two draws and two losses.

They opened their campaign with a narrow 1-0 win over Hekari United FC on 18 January 2026 in Auckland, New Zealand, collecting their first three points of the competition.

On 24 January, Kings were held to a 0-0 draw by Tahiti United FC in their second match. They then suffered a 0-1 loss to Bula FC on February 1.

In their fourth outing on February 4 in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Kings settled for another 0-0 draw against South Island United.

The fifth match saw Kings bounce back strongly with a 3-1 victory over Auckland FC on February 7 in Port Moresby.

On 22 February, they defeated Hekari United 2-1 in Melbourne but went down 0-2 to Vanuatu United FC on 25 February at the same venue.

Their latest 2-0 win over Bula FC on February 28 marks their fourth victory of the campaign, keeping them firmly in third place as the competition intensifies.

Meanwhile, Round Four of the OFC Pro League has been confirmed for Honiara, with Solomon Kings FC to host matches from 14 to 19 March 2026.

Round Five is scheduled for Suva, Fiji, from 11 to 18 April, while Round Six will be staged in Auckland, New Zealand, from 6 to 13 May 2026.

Round Six will feature both the Leaders’ Group and Challengers’ Group, followed by a playoff match on Sunday 17 May, semi-finals on Wednesday 20 May, and the grand final on Sunday 24 May 2026.

Photo credit: OFC Media

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Community fights back against crime

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

Chiefs and elders of Olepetu and Kuava communities in Western Province have taken a firm stand to restore law and order following two shocking murder cases that rocked the province last year and earlier this year.

Over the weekend, the communities officially launched their new bylaws in the presence of officers from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), marking what leaders describe as a new chapter for both villages.

Thirty men and women have been appointed to form the Crime Prevention Committee (CPC), which will be responsible for enforcing the bylaws.

The Olepetu and Kuava bylaw consists of 26 rules, covering offences ranging from minor nuisances to serious crimes such as arson and violence.

Chairperson of the Olepetu/Kuava CPC, Mr. Nelson Lekelalu, told Island Sun that Kuava had been at the centre of two murder cases, prompting leaders to act decisively to prevent further crimes.

“It’s time to fight back against crime for a better today and future. We want to erase the crimes that were painted and hanging over our community’s name.

“It is our commitment to ensure our children live in a peaceful environment,” he said.

Lekelalu said the committee will take the bylaws seriously, warning that anyone who breaches the rules will face penalties as stipulated.

Officer-in-Charge of Community Policing in Western Province, Sergeant Alick Alesena, described the launch as a milestone achievement for the communities.

“Over the years, our community has faced various law and order challenges, but today marks a very important and historical occasion for Olepetu and Kuava community.

“This occasion represents a major milestone and a significant achievement to promote peace, order and responsible living within our community,” he said.

Alesena acknowledged that police alone cannot effectively address all law-and-order issues across communities and that CPCs serve as the “eyes and ears” of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force at the community level.

He said the bylaws reflect shared responsibility and collective commitment to creating a safer and more orderly environment for residents of Kuava.

Acting Provincial Police Commander for Western Province, Superintendent Wilken Miriki, said the bylaws blend traditional values with the realities of modern living to ensure customs continue to guide communities away from unwanted activities.

“This is the beginning of a new chapter. We are placing a beacon – one that will guide us towards peaceful living, mutual respect and shared responsibility.

“This bylaw is a commitment we make to ourselves and to the future generation,” he said.

Miriki calls on community members to change their mindset and embrace positive change for a better future where people can live in peace and harmony.

He also acknowledged the chiefs, community leaders, women, youths and children for their commitment to the initiative and warned residents to respect CPC committee members at all times.

The launch signals a united effort by Olepetu and Kuava to reclaim their communities’ reputation and ensure lasting peace for future generations.

Photo credit: Ben Bilua

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