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Road projects in Isabel progressing well

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

ROAD projects in Isabel Province are progressing well following the procurement of heavy machinery to support ongoing infrastructure development across the province.

Member of the Isabel Provincial Executive, Nathaniel Gudfraede, said machines for the construction of the Koge to Koregu road project are now stationed at Kaevanga awaiting an official groundbreaking ceremony before work begins.

He said the Tholana to Haevo road project is also making steady progress.

“Tholana/Haevo road has reached close to Salio at the moment. We are anticipating the road to reach Haevo before the end of this year,” he said.

According to Gudfraede, the Garaga road project is also advancing well and has now entered the stage where gravel is being laid on the road.

The road developments are seen as a major step forward for Isabel Province, the longest island in Solomon Islands yet without proper road access linking communities across the island.

Poor road access continues to make travel difficult for people while also slowing economic growth and limiting access to essential services and markets.

The need for improved infrastructure has become increasingly important as the province continues to experience large-scale logging activities and the emergence of mining operations.

Communities have raised concerns over the environmental risks associated with logging and mining, particularly pollution from chemicals used in the industries, which could threaten local livelihoods and natural resources.

Provincial leaders believe improved road access will help connect communities, improve transportation, and support economic opportunities for people throughout the province.

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IDA Report near completion in Western Province

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

THE Western Provincial Disaster Operation Committee is expecting to finalise the Initial Damage Assessment (IDA) report this week as recovery efforts continue following Cyclone Maila.

Speaking to Island Sun, Western Province Deputy Provincial Secretary Collin Potakana said the province is now focusing on the recovery process while relief assistance continues in some affected islands and communities.

He said the immediate priority is the compilation and finalisation of assessment reports gathered by teams deployed across affected areas in the province.

Potakana said the assessments are important because they will help authorities plan and facilitate the recovery process.

He said the main task now is to consolidate all the reports from teams deployed to different islands and communities affected by the cyclone.

According to Mr Potakana, about 90 percent of the assessments have already been completed, with only a few remaining communities yet to be covered.

He said assessment teams were expected to travel to central Ranongga, several communities in north Kolombangara, Vona Vona and parts of New Georgia to complete the remaining assessments.

“We will send teams to quickly conduct IDA on central Ranongga, few communities in north Kolombangara, Vona Vona and New Georgia island.

“This will complete the deployment to carry out the IDA,” Potakana said.

He said ongoing bad weather has continued to affect assessment operations, particularly in parts of central Ranongga, slowing down the process.

Potakana said the final report will provide a clearer understanding of the scale of destruction left behind by Cyclone Maila and guide the next phase of recovery efforts.

“This report will give a clear picture to plan the recovery phase, so this report is very important,” he said.

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Food distributions continue in cyclone-hit communities

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

FOOD distributions to cyclone-affected communities in Western Province continues as authorities work on long-term recovery plans following the devastation caused by Cyclone Maila.

Deputy Provincial Secretary Collin Potakana said a second round of food distributions has now been delivered to some of the worst-affected communities across the province.

“This second round of food distributions is purposely for communities left with nothing because their gardens were all destroyed by the cyclone.

“Understanding that communities are yet to recover their normal source of foods, it will take time for potato and cassava to grow and be ready for harvest. We are distributing food again to the most affected communities,” he said.

Potakana said communities in Simbo, South Ranongga and parts of Vella have been identified to receive the second round of assistance.

He added that the Western Province Disaster Operation Committee is also working closely with partners to distribute non-food items to affected communities.

However, Potakana said logistics remains a major challenge for the operation.

“We are still looking for ships to deliver these things for us. Our small boats are not fit for the current weather,” he said.

Cyclone Maila left widespread destruction across Western Province, damaging infrastructure, food gardens and other important community assets.

Communities directly hit by the cyclone continue to struggle as recovery efforts remain ongoing.

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SOMETHING FISHY

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Dead fish washed ashore at SINU marine school

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Around 30 to 40 dead bonito fish washed ashore at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Marine School compound yesterday morning.

The cause of the incident still unknown when Island Sun went to the site yesterday.

The dead fish were discovered along the shoreline at the school compound yesterday morning after a strong rotten smell spread across the area, affecting students, staff and security officers.

Senior Security Officer Timothy Sautu said the situation was first noticed shortly before 8am when security officers and students began searching for the source of the smell.

“We first saw one dead bonito fish near the shoreline, but later in the afternoon more fish continued washing ashore with the waves,” Mr Sautu said.

He said by the afternoon, an estimated 30 to 40 dead fish had been found along the shore.

Mr Sautu said the incident caused concern among people at the school, as the unpleasant smell spread throughout the compound.

He calls on responsible authorities to investigate the matter and determine the cause of the dead fish.

“We urgently call on the responsible authorities to come forward and find out the main cause of this huge number of dead fish,” he said.

Mr Sautu also suggested the fish may have not been dumped at sea by a fishing vessel before being carried ashore by ocean currents.

“There had been no reports of any capsized or sunken vessel linked to the incident,” he said.

The exact cause of the dead fish washing ashore remains unknown.

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Solomon Ports to mark 70 years of service

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BY NED GAGAHE

Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) will celebrate its 70th Platinum Anniversary on June 3 and 4, marking seven decades of service to the people and economy of Solomon Islands.

This year’s anniversary celebrations are expected to be larger than previous events as Solomon Ports commemorates its long-standing contribution to the country’s trade, shipping and economic development, a statement from Solomon Ports said.

As part of the celebrations, SIPA will host a Summit on June 3 at the National Aquatic Centre in East Honiara.

The summit will bring together key stakeholders, customers, development partners and members of the maritime and shipping sector to discuss the past, present and future of Solomon Ports.

The programme will include keynote speeches, historical exhibitions and panel discussions focusing on the evolution of the port over the last 70 years.

SIPA management will also provide updates on current and future developments which aim to improve port service and operations, including progress on the Ports Master Plan.

Panel discussions will reflect on the contribution of Solomon Ports to the economic growth of Solomon Islands, particularly its important role in facilitating domestic and international trade.

Additional discussions will focus on future opportunities for the port sector, including infrastructure development, digital transformation, partnerships and service improvement initiatives.

Panelists are expected to include former SIPA Chief Executive Officers, board members, representatives from the shipping and maritime industry, government officials, donor partners and members of the private sector.

The main public celebration will take place on June 4 at the SIPA Magic Land Compound behind the Millennium Terminal in Honiara.

The event will feature public exhibitions, historical displays, entertainment and community engagement activities throughout the day.

Celebrations are expected to begin with a parade involving Solomon Ports staff from all departments marching from the SMI grounds at Town Ground to the Magic Land area.

The programme will also include official speeches, live entertainment, performances by SIPA staff, interactive exhibitions and educational displays highlighting the history and operations of Solomon Ports.

Members of the public will also have the opportunity to participate in guided tours of the port terminal facilities to better understand the important role ports play in supporting trade, shipping and national development.

Students, schools and community members are encouraged to attend the event and learn more about the organisation’s operations and services.

The celebrations will also feature live band performances, fun activities, merchandise giveaways and interactive competitions with prizes.

Activities will begin at 8am and conclude at 4pm.

Solomon Ports encourages the public to attend and join in celebrating the organisation’s 70 years of service, partnership and progress with the people of Solomon Islands.

Photo credit: Solomon Ports

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Games countdown begins

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  • 2026 Solomon Games unveil logo and “Rise Together” theme

BY TONY IROGA UFUNONI

The countdown to one of the country’s biggest sporting events has officially begun following the unveiling of the official logo and theme for the 2026 Solomon Games by the National Sports Council (NSC).

The games will be held in Honiara from July 6 to July 10, with athletes from across the country expected to gather for the major multi-sport event.

In a statement announcing the launch, NSC revealed the official identity of the Games under the theme “Rise Together,” describing it as a symbol of unity, movement and national pride for all Solomon Islanders.

The newly unveiled logo features three sweeping brushstrokes in gold, blue and green colours representing the national flag of the Solomon Islands.

Together, the strokes form an unfinished circle symbolising continuous movement, connection and the rising spirit of the nation.

NSC said the design reflects athletes, communities and provinces coming together as one people, united through sport and national pride.

The handwritten “Solomon Games” identity was also highlighted as an important feature of the logo, adding what organisers described as a “human touch” that represents dreams, pride and shared sporting experiences across generations.

Officials say the “Rise Together” theme is more than just a slogan, but a national call encouraging Solomon Islanders to unite through sport, support local athletes and stand together as one nation ahead of the Games.

Organisers believe the Games will not only celebrate sporting excellence but also strengthen national unity and community spirit throughout the country.

“The journey to the Games has begun, one nation, one movement, one spirit,” the statement said.

The 2026 Solomon Games is expected to become one of the biggest national sporting celebrations on the country’s sporting calendar this year.

Photo credit: SIBF Fb page

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Chess tournament registrations surge ahead of Sunday showdown

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands Chess Federation has recorded a major rise in player registrations and online engagement ahead of its Chess Tournament 2026 this Sunday at Outback Holiday Resort in Rove.

Updates shared through the federation’s official social media platform this week confirmed that registrations increased rapidly over the past two days, forcing organisers to close entries earlier than expected due to overwhelming response.

In its first registration update posted yesterday, the federation confirmed that 49 players had already signed up for the tournament, consisting of 45 male players and four female players.

“Registration is still open, and we especially encourage more interested female players to join the tournament,” the federation stated.

Organisers also remind players to verify their names and spelling details before entries close, noting that registrations were important for Swiss pairing arrangements and online arbiter setup coordinated from Sydney, Australia.

However, in a later update, the federation confirmed registrations had jumped to a total of 88 players, including 82 male players and six female participants.

“Registration has closed yesterday evening at 8pm, due to overwhelming amount of registrations,” the federation announced.

Meanwhile, the federation also reported strong growth across its social media platforms ahead of the tournament.

According to Facebook analytics shared yesterday evening, the federation’s page recorded nearly 40,000 views and more than 1,000 interactions within the last seven days.

“In just 7 days, our page reached nearly 40,000 views with over 1,000 interactions, a huge sign that chess is alive and growing in the Solomon Islands,” the federation stated.

The federation thanks players, parents, supporters and followers for supporting the growth of chess in the country.

Tomorrow’s competition will be played under a rapid 20-minute format over eight rounds, while the featured Challenge Match between Junior Lui and Fred R is also expected to attract strong interest.

Island Sun previously reported that the tournament venue was shifted from White River School to Outback Holiday Resort as preparations intensified for what is shaping up to become one of the federation’s biggest local competitions in recent years.

Photo: Supplied

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High School Basketball League heats up with crucial fixtures tomorrow

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BY TONY IROGA UFUNONI

The 2026 High School Basketball Competition will continue tomorrow at the Multi-Purpose Hall in Honiara, with school teams set to battle for crucial points in another exciting round of fixtures organised by the Solomon Islands Basketball Federation.

According to the match schedule released on the SIBF official Facebook page, action will begin at 12pm in Pool A when Honiara High School girls take on Burns Creek School girls.

The second match at 1pm will feature the Honiara High School boys facing Burns Creek School boys.

Pool B matches will then follow at 2pm with White River School girls meeting KGVI School girls, before the final game at 3pm between White River boys and KGVI.

The competition continues to attract strong interest from schools across Honiara as students showcase their basketball skills while also learning important life values through sport.

SIBF said the league is not only focused on competition, but also on promoting teamwork, respect and safe spaces for young people through game-based activities.

The federation highlighted that the social messaging component is fully integrated into each session, helping students understand the importance of treating others fairly both on and off the basketball court.

The Basketball 4 Good program supporting the competition is funded through the Australia Solomon Islands Partnership and the Australian High Commission in Solomon Islands under the Team Up program.

The continuation of the competition follows the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the Honiara City Council and the Solomon Islands Basketball Federation earlier this month to strengthen cooperation in hosting the 2026 High School Basketball Competition.

The agreement was signed on May 1 by HCC City Clerk Justus Denni and SIBF Secretary General Uriel Matanani.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Mr Denni said HCC is pleased to continue partnering with SIBF, adding that the competition plays an important role in promoting healthy lifestyles, youth participation in sport and basketball development among students in Honiara.

The agreement also confirms HCC’s continued support in allowing its sporting facilities to be used for the competition, which officially opened on May 10.

SIBF acknowledges the important contribution of schools, teachers, coaches, parents, officials and volunteers who continue to support the growth and development of basketball among young people in Solomon Islands.

Photo credit: SIBF Fb page

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Registration deadline nears as HNA finalises new team divisions

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Honiara Netball Association (HNA) has officially finalised the grading results for new teams seeking participation in the 2026 HNA League season following grading matches held on Thursday at the Multipurpose Outdoor Court in Honiara.

In an update posted on its official social media platform, HNA confirmed that participating teams have now been placed into their respective divisions based on performances displayed during the grading matches.

According to the finalised grading outcomes, Division A will feature Marist Tesa 1, Western Magic and West Rennell.

Division B consists of Manawai, Marist Tesa 2, Sunrise and Woodford 2.

Meanwhile, Division C includes Ranosi, Sewa 3, Hale 2 and Isa 3.

HNA also used the update to remind participating clubs that registration for the 2026 season will officially close on Wednesday 27 May.

“Teams that have not yet submitted their final team lists are strongly advised to do so before Wednesday 27th May. This will allow the Executive Committee to finalise the official fixtures for the league proper,” the association added.

The association thanks participating teams for their cooperation and expressed anticipation for an exciting 2026 season ahead.

The grading exercise follows an earlier announcement by HNA on May 17 confirming that all new teams applying to participate in the 2026 league season will undergo grading matches to determine their division placements.

Teams were also instructed to bring their own bibs or team uniforms for the assessment matches held on Thursday afternoon at the Multipurpose Outdoor Court in Honiara.

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Market linkage workshops end in Malaita

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BY RODRICK DESURI

AUKI

A series of market linkage workshops that aim to strengthen Agribusiness Producer Organisation (ABPO) farmers in Malaita Province has successfully concluded.

The workshops were conducted over four days in two separate locations, with sessions held in Auki and Malu’u in North Malaita.

The programme focused on equipping farmers with practical knowledge and skills to improve marketing opportunities and strengthen the resilience of their agribusiness operations.

According to a media release issued yesterday by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD), the final workshop in Malu’u concluded successfully with participants encouraged to take advantage of the opportunities provided.

The ministry stated that strengthening market linkages is not only important for business growth but is also to improve livelihoods and support the development of rural communities.

“Strengthening market linkages is not only about business growth, but also about improving livelihoods, creating opportunities for farmers and contributing to the broader development of rural communities,” the statement said.

Permanent Secretary for MALD, Samson Viulu, also encouraged participants to use the knowledge gained from the workshops to strengthen the sustainability of their businesses.

Mr Viulu reminded participants that although the SIART Project will conclude later this year, farmers must continue exploring ways to ensure their agribusinesses remain resilient and sustainable.

“I encouraged participants to make use of the workshop and explore ways to ensure their businesses remain resilient and sustainable beyond the conclusion of the SIART Project later this year,” he said.

Representatives from the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA), the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI), and the Ministry of Finance and Treasury also attended the workshops and delivered presentations to participants.

Organisers said the workshops provided an important opportunity for farmers to strengthen their understanding of marketing, business development and sustainable agribusiness practices.

Photo credit: MALD

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