BY LORETTA B MANELE

Solomon Islands Ports Authority’s (SIPA) Berth 1 Project is both timely and significant for the continuous growth of SIPA.

SIPA Chairman, Moses Virivolomo, highlighted this at SIPA’s Groundbreaking Ceremony of Berth 1 Redevelopment Project on Friday, December 19, 2025 at the Honiara Port compound.

In initial remarks, he said they look forward to working with the national government to ensure successful implementation and completion of the project.

Virivolomo expressed that next year, they will be celebrating and marking SIPA’s 70th Year Anniversary.

“And the project is truly a timely addition in signifying the continuous growth and success of SIPA to provide services to the people of Solomon Islands,” he said.

Virivolomo stated that over the years and decades, they have worked diligently to maintain the international network.

He said while they have faced challenges along the way, the continuous use of this port is a clear testament to the resilience, capability, and integrity of design and commitment by Solomon Ports in the continuous maintenance of the facility.

On this note, Virivolomo added that once the redevelopment of Berth 1 is completed, it will not only address challenges, but will also position SIPA board on a much stronger future, enhancing efficiency, safety, and competitiveness in many years to come.

Moreover, he said the redesign and reconstruction of this international terminal berth 1 is MR1 Operational Efficiency.

Virivolomo pointed out that through modern power handling systems, advanced IT and security infrastructure, and improved logistics flow, the design and deck of Berth 1 will strengthen and cater for key mobile trade.

He explained that by having a key mobile trade, it will not only increase productivity and faster turnaround time of vessels going out of port but will also prepare them to handle gearless vessels that visit our ports in the future.

The SIPA Chairman said secondly, there will be improvement in safety and compliance, meeting and exceeding international standards, including enhanced fire safety and emergency response systems.

“Thirdly, environmental stability. With great port principles, green energy lighting, improved waste management, and readiness for future renewable energy integration, this Honiara port is ready to take on challenges and reach good governance and green energy technology.

“Fourthly, future expansion. Ensuring that the port can accommodate growing carbon volumes and evolving shipping trades,” he said.

Lastly, Virivolomo stressed on “cost-benefit rationalisation”; ensuring value for money while maintaining performance and durability.

He said enhancements incorporated into this redevelopment will significantly improve carbon throughput, reduce vessel turnaround time, lower long-term maintenance costs, and strengthen Honiara’s ports competitiveness in the region.

Virivolomo in further remarks said they recognise that over the next few years, while construction is underway, there will be some operational impacts.

Henceforth, he said to mitigate such effects, Solomon Ports has extended the opening and operational hours of this port, container terminal and yard services from 8 am to 12 midnight, Monday to Friday.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

No project can last if it is not grounded in respect, transparency, participation, inclusiveness, fairness, cooperation and service to others.

Lazarus Alfred Rina, Member of Parliament (MP) for East Central Guadalcanal Constituency told parliament during the Sine Die Motion last week that these values guide all six strategies of community building.

“They ensure that our constituency grows not only in infrastructure but also in unity, leadership and social stability,” he said.

Rina encouraged all Members of Parliament to take these strategies and values with them.

“…grow participation, strengthen democratic leadership, address issues fairly, build community linkages, develop capacity and uphold the value that makes Solomon Islands strong,” he said.

Rina told the honourable house that if they commit to these principles in their constituencies over the next year, they will return to parliament in 2026 with communities that are more resilient, more united and more confident in their future.

He also thanked all Solomon Islanders who continue to support nation building through their daily work, their resilience and their commitment to peace and unity.

“As we prepare to conclude the year, let us reaffirm our shared responsibility to place people at the centre of development.

“Let us ensure that no community feels forgotten and that no household is left behind. Our vision for the coming year must be one of unity, hard work, inclusiveness and renewed commitment to transforming rural communities into centres of productivity and opportunity,” he said.

Rina extends his warm and heartfelt Christmas greetings to all Solomon Islanders, families, leaders, community leaders, public servants, private sector workers, women, youth, people with special needs and children.

“May this Christmas bring peace, joy and renewed hope across our islands,” he said.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

People of Gizo and Kolombangara gathered at Ringi on Monday to witness the official opening of the Gizo/Kolombangara Constituency (GKC) Mini Trade Expo, marking a significant milestone for the constituency.

The Expo, which will run over the next few days, features a range of activities including football and netball competitions, displays of arts and crafts, training and awareness sessions, as well as business networking opportunities.

Organised by the Member of Parliament for GKC, the Mini Trade Expo aims to strengthen community relations, promote business networking, and provide a platform for people to share ideas on potential economic development within the constituency.

The event also coincides with the official opening of the GKC Administration Office at Kolombangara, further enhancing service delivery and coordination within the constituency.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Member of Parliament for GKC, Jimson Tanangada, said the Expo is intended to provide an avenue for people within the constituency to showcase their talents and values for a common purpose — building a better life for all.

He acknowledged that Gizo/Kolombangara Constituency faces geographical challenges, but emphasised that collective effort remains the driving force behind progress.

“I stand before you today with deep humility, pride, and a powerful sense of responsibility as we celebrate the Gizo Kolombangara Constituency Day under the theme: One constituency, one future, showcasing culture, talents and development,” Tanangada said.

He said the theme reflects the identity and shared vision of the people, reminding them that despite being separated by islands, communities and villages, their future is one.

“Our culture, talents and development aspirations must move forward together inclusively and purposefully,” he added.

Tanangada acknowledged the GKC constituency office, the local organising committee, participating businesses, and the people of Gizo/Kolombangara for their collective support in making the event possible.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

Gizo/Kolombangara Constituency (GKC) has officially opened its new constituency office at Kolombangara on Monday 22, 2025, marking a new era in constituency administration and service delivery.

Member of Parliament for GKC, Jimson Tanangada, described the opening as a major milestone in strengthening constituency governance and improving access to services for people at the rural level.

He said the establishment of the office demonstrates the constituency’s commitment to bringing governance closer to the people and ensuring effective and timely service delivery.

“Today I’m proud to announce the opening of the Gizo/Kolombangara Constituency Office in Kolombangara. This is a major milestone achievement in strengthening constituency governance and service delivery. This office is not just a building; it represents bringing governance closer to the people,” Tanangada said.

He explained that officers will be stationed at the new office to support community members with information, assistance, and access to constituency services.

According to Tanangada, the office will serve as a consultation centre for community development leaders, farmers, fishermen, women, youths, community-based organisations, and the private sector.

He added that it will also function as a hub for training, capacity building, and skills development to support local development initiatives.

“On a broader vision, this office will help organise the administration of constituency development programmes, ensure timely coordination of projects, and strengthen support services,” he said.

Tanangada said the office will enhance access to development information, funding opportunities, government programmes, and serve as a coordination point for business, agriculture, fisheries, and forestry support.

He emphasised that GKC remains committed to ensuring development is people-centred, transparent, and responsive to community needs.

Tanangada said that the constituency is decentralising its administration, believing that bringing services closer to the people will add value to development aspirations and support long-term economic growth within the constituency.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Without reliable data and clear reporting, government plans are in the dark.

Member of Parliament (MP) for South New Georgia/Rendova- Tetepare Constituency, David Gina, said this when he delivered his speech during the Sine Die Motion in parliament on Monday 15, last week.

He told the house that citizens cannot depend on parliament debates without evidence on matters of concern.

Gina said accountability weakens when results are not measured and published.

“Data system remains fragmented and poorly integrated into budgeting and oversight. Important national work has been completed, including the mid-term review of the national development strategy for 2016-2035 and the 2024 voluntary national review of the SDGs.

“These are solid achievements and they prove the technical capacity exists. The problem is that these tools are not embedded in day-to-day decision-making. Monitoring results rarely drive budget choices or program adjustments,” he said.

Gina further said that the consequences are visible.

“Auditor-General reports continue to highlight poor record-keeping, incomplete documentation and delayed audits, including for the economic stimulus package, COVID-19 funds and now the Pacific Game 2023 funds. Data gaps also undermine physical control,” he said.

He said that the development budget in 2024 contracted by 44 percent, from about $1.17 billion planned to roughly $657 million, projected without any warning of timely correction.

He said that revenue agencies report meeting targets, yet cash flow problems persist, pointing to gaps in how revenue, exemptions, debt servicing and expenditure data are brought together.

“Accountability is not about reports after the fact. It is about making performance visible as it happens. Until monitoring systems are operationalised and enforced across government, Parliament will continue to debate promises rather than results,” he said.

Gina adds that a modern state must know itself before it can serve its people well.

He said that investment in data reporting and accountability is not a luxury but it is the foundation of discipline, trust and effective governance.

“This is the standard this House must insist on as we conclude this House,” he said.

“This has been a demanding year, but also a meaningful one. I hope and pray that 2026 will continue to work together with us with mutual respect and shared sense of duty in service to our country and our people through our legislative responsibilities,” Gina said.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Member of Parliament (MP) for South New Georgia/Rendova- Tetepare Constituency, David Gina, said that repeated capitalisation of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) demands honest reflections.

Delivering his speech during the Sine Die Motion in parliament on Monday, December 15, 2025, Gina said that while public funds flow into these entities annually yet tangible returns remain thin or difficult to see.

He said that capital injections should drive growth and market access and not serve as life support.

“When Parliament approves capitalisation, it expects clear benefits to the economy and the public. Development Bank of Solomon Islands (DBSI) continues to receive government support as a key vehicle for financing farmers, small businesses and productive sectors,” he said.

He said that DBSI secured $50 million from the National Provident Fund, a significant sum, approved on the understanding that it would expand access to credit and support production on the ground.

“Yet, when we look at the evidence, our concern emerges,” Gina said.

He said that recent growth in agriculture has been driven largely by high world price and donor funded projects, not by a noticeable expansion of domestic credit.

“This leads to a simple but important question for Parliament. Are repeated capital injections into DBSI translating into real lending to farmers and small businesses? There is also a practical constraint that cannot be ignored where many rural farmers face serious challenges in providing loan security.

“The CBSI loan guarantee scheme has now been fully utilised. Once that safety net is gone, what options remain for farmers who are productive but lack assets? If DBSI is to fulfil its mandate, government must explain how credit will reach rural producers in the absence of guarantees,” he said.

He said that capitalisation risks benefiting the balance sheet, not farmers otherwise, an issue Parliament must confront honestly.

“CEMA presents a similar concern. It is regularly cited as a Centre of Export Marketing Authority and market access. Yet, Parliament receives little clear reporting on volume benefits or financial returns. If public funds are used to capitalise CEMA, we must be able to see whether it is adding value beyond what private traders are already doing,” Gina said.

He said that in a context of rising debt, servicing and tight development budget, capitalisation with a clear performance benchmark is a risk the country cannot afford.

He said that support to SOEs must be tied to measurable outcomes, transparent reporting and consequences for underperformance.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

BY SYLVANA TEKUMAHA

Member of Parliament for West Guadalcanal, Mary Daniella Zae Garu has called for stronger support for agriculture, women and youth and coordination.

She made call whilst contributing to the Sine Die Motion in parliament last week.

Garu stressed that there needs to be stronger support in the agricultural sector given that it is the backbone of the country’s economy.

“If government can help our rural people, people can be financially stable even at the rural level,” she said.

Garu also raised that women and youths need to be empowered for they are drivers of growth, noting the social issues young people involve in and the need for improvement in this area.

She added that there also needs to be improved coordination between the government, provinces and communities, including strengthening chiefly systems and community policing to maintain peace in the village

Garu further recommended the establishment of an agriculture bank to support farmers, fishermen and foresters, saying access to affordable finance remains a major challenge.

“Commercial banks do not suit rural realities, and an agriculture-focused bank can help farmers move from subsistence to commercial production,” she said.

She said this investment can empower people, strengthen food security, create employment and build a resilient economy.

“To the people of West Guadalcanal, I reaffirm my commitment to continue working with you, listening to you, and advocating for a development that truly improves lives.

“I am proud to say that the GNUT Government have included the Lambi road for tar sealing in the 2026 national infrastructure budget. This is a great achievement for West Guadalcanal,” she said.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

BY GREGORY HAKA

The People’s Republic of China (PRC) through Rural Sustainable Development Programme (RSDP) handover road machineries worth of SBD 1.5 million to East Central Guadalcanal Constituency (ECGC) on Wednesday, December 17, 2025.

The handover ceremony of machineries marks a new era for the people of East Central Guadalcanal Constituency (ECGC) after decades of experiencing deteriorated road conditions, a statement by the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) last week said.

During the handover ceremony, Member of Parliament for East Central Guadalcanal Constituency, Lazarus Alfred Rina expressed deep gratitude to the PRC government and its people for their generous support through the RSDP.

He emphasised that the machineries will play a crucial role in transforming road conditions within his constituency.

“Our people have long cried for improved roads, and today, we celebrate this milestone,” said Rina.

He further highlighted that partnership and collaborations with the communities is key to achieving tangible development outcomes.

Rina also acknowledged resources owners for allowing their resources during emergency repairs on roads especially gravels which demonstrate community cooperation.

The handover ceremony was also attended by counselor Li Qinghua from the Chinese Embassy in Honiara.

In her remarks, she highlighted China’s commitment to supporting Solomon Islands’ socio-economic development through projects like RSDP.

Li emphasised that road infrastructure is one of the most fundamental factors in economic and social development, one which is highly recognized in the Chinese proverb: “If you want to be rich, build roads first”.

She said the RSDP is not just a development project but a partnership rooted in empowerment, with the aim to enable local communities to become self-reliant.

“China’s support extends beyond infrastructure; it includes capacity-building and training programs designed to transfer knowledge and skills to Solomon Islands’ citizens, thus fostering sustainable development,” she said.

Counsellor Li reaffirms PRC’s dedication to strengthen the country’s infrastructure and socio-economic resilience through its various development support in Solomon Islands.

The ceremony was witnessed by chiefs, community leaders, men, women, youths and MPAs within ECGC, reflecting broad community support for the project.

Photo: Supplied

For feedback, contact: [email protected]