BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

The Minister for Culture and Tourism, Mrs Choylin Yim Douglas has officially opened Phase One of the new Zaru Hotel in Gizo, marking a milestone for tourism development in Western Province.

A statement from Tourism Solomons said the hotel comprises of 16 guest rooms, has a fully equipped conference facility and commercial rental spaces.

This sets the hotel at a new level.

“…the new hotel is seen as establishing a new standard of hospitality infrastructure in Gizo and expected to play a role in helping to boost tourism, business travel and events in the Solomon Islands’ main tourism corridor,” said the statement.

Tourism Solomons said the addition of conference facilities is particularly significant, as it will open new opportunities for meetings, workshops, and small-scale events in Western Province, an area traditionally known more for leisure tourism than business travel.

Speaking at the launching of the hotel, Minister Douglas said Zaru Hotel will boost employment opportunities for local residents and stimulate increased spending in the local economy.

She also paid tribute to Zaru Hotel owner, Mr Jacob Kwan, saying that the development sends a clear message across the country that high-quality tourism infrastructure is achievable, and local investors can lead transformative projects.

“As the industry continues its recovery and transition toward long-term growth, projects like Zaru Hotel reflect a shift from resilience to renewal.

“What stands before us today is not just another accommodation facility. Zaru Hotel represents a significant step forward in raising the standard of hospitality in the Solomon Islands.

“This type of development is exactly what we need to boost both our domestic and international tourism.

“Tourism is a priority sector for economic growth and diversification. “We want to see more quality rooms. We want to see better standards. We want to see local investors taking the lead in shaping the future of our tourism industry,” she said.

Meanwhile, welcoming the news of this new hotel, Tourism Solomons’ Acting CEO, Dagnal Dereveke said the hotel is a timely and strategic addition to Western Province’s accommodation portfolio.

“Zaru Hotel strengthens Gizo’s ability to meet growing demand from both international and domestic markets.

“As we continue targeted marketing in Australia, New Zealand and other key source markets, having quality room stock in destinations like Western Province is critical.

“This development enhances our destination credibility and supports our message that the Solomon Islands offers authentic experiences backed by reliable, comfortable and affordable infrastructure,” he said.

Photo credit: Tourism Solomons

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Guest speaker of this years’ Choiseul province 35th Second Appointed Day, Joseph Pitakia calls for urgent solutions to critical development challenges as the province marks 35 years since its Second Appointment Day.

Speaking to the Lauru community in Honiara, yesterday at the national museum during the celebration to mark the event, Mr Pitakia said that shipping is a top priority of the province.

 “Reliable and affordable shipping is the lifeline of our provinces. Our farmers struggle to get cocoa, coconuts, and garden produce to Honiara, and high costs are stunting economic growth,” he said.

He said that roads, wharves, and electrification are the veins of development and Choiseul province must speak frankly about one of as one of their greatest challenges.

“Addressing shipping and infrastructure is not just an economic issue it is a matter of justice, opportunity, and survival for our people,” the guest of honour said.

He said that the message is clear and that is for Choiseul to thrive over the next 35 years, the province must act boldly, creatively, and in unity.

“Many capable business people at the village level are denied their right to run sustainable businesses. The cost of goods remains high and our economic growth is stunted. Addressing the shipping crisis is not just about infrastructure; it is about justice, opportunity, and economic survival. We must make this a top priority for the next 35 years,” he said.

He also put more emphasis on education and healthcare with more than 36,000 students from the province currently enrolled in schools and nearly 1,500 in tertiary education.

He said that investing in human capital is essential to build a prosperous future for the people of Choiseul province.

“To our future. Education is the most powerful weapon which we can use to change the world. Not only that, but to safeguard our freedom.

“Health is the foundation of our communities. We must ensure that every child has access to the necessary healthcare and nutrition to thrive and reach their full potential,” he said.

He also urges their leaders to lead with vision and courage; encouraging the community to explore local income-generating opportunities, including agriculture, forestry, and marine industries.

Photo credit: John Houanihau

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Although they come from different villages, clans and faiths, unity is the heartbeat of Choiseul (Lauru) province.

Ruth Liloqula made the statement whilst speaking at the Choiseul Province Hard Talk Forum at the Auditorium of the National Museum in Honiara on Tuesday, February 24, ahead of the province’s 35th Second Appointed Day celebration.

The province marked its 35th Second Appointed Day yesterday at the National Museum’s auditorium in Honiara.

“We share one identity as sons and daughters of this province. Our strength lies in standing together whether in times of joy or in moment of challenge,” she said.

Mrs Liloqula said that unity is the anchor that keeps the province steady as they face the tides of change.

“This unity however threatened by the misuse and abuse our worthy customs for personal interest. How has unity help the province overcome challenges in the past 35 years, and how can we continue to strengthen it in the years ahead?” she asked.

In terms of honouring the province, she said the journey has been long and meaningful.

“We honour the courage of our ancestors who safeguard our land, traditions, and our dignity. We remember the resilience of our people who endured hardships, yet never lost hope. But do we have them today and is it intact or do we need to do what we can to endure its survival,” she said.

Mrs Liloqula said that the 35th Second Appointed Day of the province is a symbol of self-determination, a reminder that Choiseul chooses to stand tall, chart its path and celebrate its identity for all its people.

She said that along the way the province has built schools and communities, raised leaders and nature generations.

“Each step of our journey is a lesson and each milestone is a gift to the future. Progress is the fruit of unity,” she said.

Photo credit: John Houanihau

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

China Police Liaison Team (CPLT) Deputy Commissioner, Yang Jian says China stands ready to support Solomon Islands in combating drug crimes.

He made the statement at the hearing of the Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Bill 2025 before the Bills and Legislation Committee (BLC) in parliament on Tuesday this week.

Deputy Commissioner Jian said during China’s own drug control experience in international corporation practices, they supported the establishment of a sound legal framework to fight transnational drug trafficking.

On this note, he said CPLT commends the Solomon Islands government for upgrading its drug control legislation.

Deputy Commissioner Jian said the proposed increase in maximum penalty is necessary and effective to deter serious drug offences and it is in line with international norms and China’s strict anti-drug policy.

“The government of PRC stands ready to strengthen corporation with Solomon Islands in combating drug crimes and is willing to provide the necessary assistance to provide support for capacity building, law enforcement corporation and drug control governance,” he said.

He said the Dangerous Drugs Amendment Bill 2025 is an important step in drug control and the CPLT supports the bill and stands ready to support the Solomon Islands in its implementation and regional anti-drug corporation.

Photo credit: RSIPF

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

A trial involving a man accused of housebreaking has already started and is expected to complete by Friday 27^th February at the Central Magistrate Court.

The defendant Mr. Patrick Pambo was charged with one count of housebreaking contrary to section 300 (a) of the penal code.

The offence carries 14 years of imprisonment.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge and the matter is now before Principal Magistrate Felix Hollison for trial.

The complainant is Mr. Philip Da’agi.

It was alleged that on the night of incident (19th September 2025) around 4am, the complainant and his wife were sleeping in their house.

The wife was sleeping in the living room facing the front door. The complainant was sleeping inside their room.

The complainant’s wife then heard someone poking their door trying to open it. The door was locked. Suddenly she saw the door being pushed opened.

She quickly identified the defendant as Patrick Pambo.

The defendant then grabbed a Samsung phone that was charging.

The complainant’s wife tried to grab the adaptor that was charging the phone and yelled out the complainant’s name for help. The complainant woke up and advanced towards the door.

He saw the defendant pull the Samsung phone from the adaptor before escaping. He also identified him as Patrick Pambo.

The complainant and his wife came out and also noticed the door of their canteen was opened. Their canteen was one meters away from the house.

They noticed that a phone and cash around $500 to $600 was missing. The Crown alleged the defendant also stole the phone and the cash.

The trial before the court on Monday centered around two issues.

Firstly, whether or not the defendant broke in and entered the complainant’s dwelling house on the 19th September 2025 and stole a Samsung mobile phone.

Secondly, whether or not the defendant broke in and entered the complainant’s canteen (shop) on the 19th September 2025 and stole a phone and cash about worth $500 to $600.

On Monday, the prosecutor informed the court on how he proposes to prove the case.

Prosecuting Counsel Oiofa, informed the court that he intends to call and rely on four prosecution witnesses (PW) and that five statements to be tendered by consent, within it has evidence (exhibits) entailing a Record of Interview between PC Stephen Melomi and Patrick Pambo dated 25th September 2025 and Photographic evidence and sketches of the house with view to establish the elements of the offence charge.

PW1 was called on Monday this week. PW1 is the complainant, Mr. Philip Da’agi.

PW1 was at his house at Rifle Range, White River area when the defendant broke and entered their house stealing a Samsung mobile phone, another phone and cash between the values of $500 to $600.

In Court, PW1 gave evidence on oath as to how he came to identify the accused, how long he knew the accused, how long he kept the accused under observation and the light or visibility at the time of identification.

PW1 gave evidence to the effect that he knew the defendant since 2019 as the defendant was a member of their community at Rock valley, Rifle range area, west Honiara.

The complainant said that he came to identify the accused when his wife and the defendant were wrestling with the mobile and charger that was stolen.

PW1 said he saw the defendant pulling the Samsung phone from the adaptor before escaping. That was when he identified him as Patrick Pambo.

PW1 continued to tell the court that he was able to identify the accused accurately because their house has a 2 feet bulb above the main door. Thus, he kept him under observation for about 24 seconds.

When asked by court how the visibility was like, he responded by saying, that the light was bright enough in the sense that if he were to read a book, he would be able to clearly see the words in the book.

Defence counsel Tukochi made objections to court on that – stating that the defendants’ responses are contrary to facts given to Police at the time of questioning.

But his objections were ruled out by Principal Magistrate and prosecution was allowed to proceed on as that line of questioning was relevant for identification purposes.

On Tuesday 24^th February 2026, the court heard the Examination in Chief and Cross Examination of PW1.

It follows, the Examination and Cross Examination of PW2 and PW3 will set to continue today  when the trial resumes.

Trial has been adjourned for today, Thursday 26^th February 2026.

Oiofa Jeremy from the Office of Director of the Public Prosecutions is prosecuting the matter and Trevor Mark Tukochi from the Public Solicitors Office represents the defendant.

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Lauru community marks 35 years of unity and progress

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The people of Lauru, living in Honiara came together to celebrate the 35th Anniversary of Choiseul Province’s Second Appointment Day yesterday.

The celebration was held at the National Museum’s auditorium in Honiara under the theme “35 Years of Unity and Progress: Honouring Our Past, Shaping Our Future.”

Speaking at the event guest of honour Mr Joseph Pitakia described the gathering as a family reunion of the Lauru community, paying tribute to ancestors, elders, and all who have contributed to the province’s journey.

“Honourable Leaders, President of Lauru Association, Elders, Chiefs, beloved sons and daughters of Lauru, friends and well-wishers, and especially the nearly 3,000 Lauru people who call Honiara home a very good morning to you all. Today, we gather not come just as a community, but as a family united in heart, spirit, and purpose.

“We gather here to mark and celebrate another milestone of our beloved Choiseul Province. Thirty-five years of journeying together, of standing as one, of building, learning, and growing. Our theme today speaks powerfully to this journey: 35 Years of Unity and Progress: Honouring Our Past, Shaping Our Future,” he said.

Mr Joseph Pitakia also acknowledged the Hard Talk Forum, held on Tuesday 24 which brought together representatives of women, youth, and men to discuss the province’s achievements and challenges.

He said that such platforms are vital for inclusive dialogue, critical thinking, and analysis, in order to provide strategic guidance and direction for the province to progress for the next 35 years.

The forum’s communique, he said, would guide future community strategies.

Mr Pitakia also shared special recognition to the East Choiseul Constituency Organising Committee for coordinating the event, the Honiara City Council for their support, and the customary landowners of Guadalcanal Province for their hospitality and stewardship.

His address also underscored the importance of preserving Lauru culture and Christian faith as pillars of identity.

“Let us acknowledged and thank God for bringing us this far. It is also a time to honour the wisdom of our ancestors, the courage of our elders, and the hard work of every Lauru man, woman, and youth who has contributed to our story. Honouring our past strengthens our unity and gives meaning to our future,” he said.

Photo credit: John Houanihau

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Federation launches orientation programme at Burns Creek

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Solomon Islands Cricket Federation has taken another bold step to revive the once-fading sport of cricket, launching an orientation programme at Burns Creek School in Honiara last week.

The launching programme attracted more than 300 enthusiastic students who were introduced to the fundamentals of the game in what organisers describe as an inspiring and educational session.

Cricket, a colonial sport introduced to Solomon Islands decades ago, was once popular among older generations. However, over time, interest waned and the sport slowly faded from mainstream attention. Today, under renewed leadership, the game is regaining its footing.

With a Bangladesh national now serving as SICF President, the federation has been rolling out affiliated grassroots programmes across schools in Honiara, with the aim to reignite passion for the bat-and-ball game among young Solomon Islanders.

Head Coach Mr Madalakanda led the Burns Creek session, delivering a comprehensive video presentation that explained the rules, spirit and global reach of cricket.

“Over 300 students participated, and our Head Coach, Mr Madalakanda, delivered a fantastic video presentation that made the program both educational and enjoyable”, SICF stated in its recent post.

The federation further acknowledged the support of the school administration and extended their heartfelt thanks to the school principal and staff for their tremendous support.

Students were not only introduced to the basics of batting, bowling and fielding, but were also encouraged to see cricket as a pathway to greater opportunities.

The strong turnout at Burns Creek signals growing interest in the sport’s revival. With structured school programs now being implemented, SICF believes cricket can once again thrive — this time with a new generation carrying the torch.

“SICF is confident that this initiative will further the development of cricket in the Solomon Islands, opening doors to better opportunities for our youth. Together, we are building the future of cricket in our nation”, the federation stated.

The Burns Creek launch forms part of a broader grassroots strategy that aims to rebuild cricket from the ground up. If the momentum continues, cricket may soon reclaim its place on local sporting calendars — not just as a memory of the past, but as a sport of the future.

Photo: Supplied

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

THE Minister of Culture and Tourism has emphasised that tourism goes beyond physical infrastructure, highlighting the importance of people, quality services and national pride in welcoming visitors.

Speaking during the opening of phase-one of Zaru Hotel in Gizo, Choylin Yim Douglas said buildings form only part of what makes the tourism industry thrive.

“I encourage the management and staff of Zaru Hotel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, hospitality, and customer care, so that every guest who stays here becomes an ambassador for Gizo and for our nation,” she said.

Mrs Douglas said the Government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for tourism investment across the country.

“To other potential investors, let this be your encouragement. We are committed to improving infrastructure, strengthening policy frameworks, and working collaboratively with provinces and the private sector to grow this industry,” she said.

She also congratulated developer Jacob Kwan for the achievement, saying his hard work had come to fruition.

“It is now my great honour and pleasure to officially declare Zaru Hotel open for business,” she said.

In his remarks, Premier of Western Province, Billy Veo, acknowledged the cooperation between the provincial government and Mr Kwan from the start to the completion of the project.

He said Kwan demonstrated determination and that the Western Provincial Government commends him for the achievement.

“On behalf of the Western Provincial Government, I want to present this certificate to certify that this building is open for business,” Veo said.

The opening of Zaru Hotel’s first phase marks another milestone for tourism development in Gizo, with leader’s hopeful the project will help boost local economic activity and strengthen the province’s position as a destination for visitors.

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

ZARU Hotel Management acknowledges its partners for their support in the completion of phase-one of the Zaru Hotel project.

Speaking on behalf of the management, Judith Kwan said the success of the project was made possible through strong collaboration and collective partnerships.

She said patience, resilience and cooperation among stakeholders enabled the project to progress despite challenges.

“This project has not been without its challenges. Like many other developments in our country, it requires commitment. Today’s opening is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, determination and belief in local investment,” Mrs Kwan said.

She acknowledged the support of the Western Provincial Government, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, contractors, suppliers, financial partners and the local community whose cooperation made the development possible.

Kwan said the Zaru Hotel project was born from a vision to contribute meaningfully to the growth of tourism, business and employment opportunities in Western Province, while providing quality accommodation that reflects both comfort and local identity.

She said phase-one of the hotel delivers 16 guest bedrooms, a conference facility and two commercial spaces that can be leased for a souvenir shop, convenience store or handicraft business.

“These spaces are intentionally designed to encourage local entrepreneurship, supporting small businesses and ensuring that the benefits of tourism extend directly to our people,” Kwan said.

She said the hotel’s long-term plans include expanding its capacity and services, strengthening Gizo’s position as a key tourism and business hub in Solomon Islands.

Kwan acknowledged the Minister of Culture and Tourism, invited guests and community members who attended the opening ceremony.

“Today is truly a significant and proud moment for us as we officially open Phase One of Zaru Hotel here in Gizo. Your presence means a great deal to us, and we sincerely thank you for taking the time to celebrate this milestone together.

“We look forward to welcoming visitors, hosting meetings and events and working alongside local businesses to grow together,” she said.

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