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Seafarers Day celebration set for SINU

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BY TONY IROGA

The Solomon Islands Maritime College (SIMC) under the Faculty of Science and Technology at Solomon Islands National University (SINU) will host this year’s International Day of the Seafarer celebrations at the Ranadi Campus on June 25.

The event will bring together maritime students, industry stakeholders, government agencies, and members of the public to honour the men and women who work at sea, said SINU in a statement yesterday.

The annual event is expected to attract students, maritime professionals, industry partners, security agencies, and invited schools in a day dedicated to recognising the critical role seafarers play in supporting global trade and ensuring maritime safety.

This year’s global theme, “Carrying the World Trade, Carrying the Risk,” highlights the invaluable contribution of seafarers to international commerce while drawing attention to the challenges and dangers they face during their service at sea.

The celebration will begin with a formal parade and flag-raising ceremony involving SIMC students, staff, active seafarers, security personnel, and visiting school groups.

“The event serves as an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the dedication, sacrifice, and professionalism of seafarers who continue to keep global trade moving despite the many risks associated with life at sea,” the statement said.

The official programme will feature welcome addresses, keynote presentations, cultural performances, and student-led activities that aim to promote maritime education and awareness.

Among the highlights will be a special presentation titled “Girls at Sea,” which will showcase the increasing participation of women in maritime careers and encourage more young women to consider opportunities within the maritime sector.

SINU said the presentation reflects ongoing efforts to promote gender inclusivity and equal opportunities in the industry.

A significant part of the celebration will be a remembrance ceremony honouring seafarers who have lost their lives while serving at sea.

The ceremony will include prayers, a moment of silence, and a wreath-laying tribute at the waterfront jetty.

“This is an important opportunity for the maritime community to remember and pay respect to those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in one of the world’s most demanding professions,” SINU stated.

Another major attraction of the event will be the 2026 Seafarers Big Show, a live maritime safety and rescue demonstration designed to showcase emergency response procedures and practical maritime skills.

The exercise will simulate a distress situation at sea and demonstrate coordinated rescue operations involving maritime authorities and SIMC trainees.

SINU said the demonstration aims to increase public understanding of maritime safety operations while highlighting the importance of training and preparedness in responding to emergencies at sea.

Following the formal programme, guests will be invited to guided tours of SIMC’s training facilities, where they will have the opportunity to observe both academic and practical maritime training programmes.

Exhibitions will feature nautical studies, marine engineering, survival training equipment, and internationally recognised maritime short courses, with students and instructors conducting live demonstrations throughout the day.

Various maritime organisations and industry partners will also host information booths and displays, providing opportunities for students, professionals, and members of the public to engage with the maritime sector and learn about career pathways available in the industry.

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Onefala school appeals for help following razed classroom building

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

Onelafa Community High School (CHS) in East Fataleka, Malaita, is yet to have essential resources for its students after their newly constructed two-story building was destroyed by fire in 2021. 

The fire incident significantly impacted the whole school community and the provider’s morale to create a good learning environment for students.

The school is appealing for help from responsible authorities, government and donors.

The razed classroom was funded by the Government’s Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF), valued at approximately $1.5 million. 

In an interview with school principal, Alex Soloi, he said they are still waiting for the required resources for their students. 

He said they are managing with the limited resources that have been supplied to them.

“Until now, we haven’t fully recovered from the fire incident involving our new school building because our morale has been impacted and is really down after the building was burned.

“However, we are slowly managing to continue with the limited resources that we have, at least to keep teaching our students,” he said.

He said they should have received their final set of resources this year, but unfortunately the authority has sent them to communities affected by Cyclone Maila in the Western and Choiseul provinces.

When asked if there are any plans to build a new classroom to replace the burnt one, Mr Soloi said during their Parents Teachers Association (PTA) meeting, they planned to start building a new two-story building.

“Currently, we are starting a new one. It will go in a new direction, and not on the old burnt site,” he said.

He said the school also needs support from responsible authorities, non-government organisations and donors in areas such as water tanks, building materials, and necessary resources for the students.

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CBSI to celebrate 50 years of service

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BY NED GAGAHE

The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) will celebrate 50 years of resilience, service and progressive development this month as the country’s central financial institution.

Established in 1976, CBSI this year marks its Golden Jubilee under the theme “Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence.”

In a statement posted on their official Facebook yesterday, the Central Bank said over the past five decades, the bank has played a key role in maintaining economic stability, strengthening the country’s financial system and supporting Solomon Islands’ national development aspirations.

To commemorate the historic milestone, CBSI will host a series of activities throughout June and July that aim to promote financial awareness and strengthen engagement with the public.

The celebrations will begin with a nationwide Financial Literacy Campaign running from June to July.

CBSI will also host an Open Day on June 15, allowing members of the public to learn more about the role and operations of the country’s central bank.

A Governor’s Lecture and Forum are scheduled for June 17, where discussions are expected to focus on the country’s economic development, financial systems and future challenges.

The anniversary celebrations will conclude with an Official Anniversary Ceremony and Gala Dinner on June 18.

CBSI said the activities are intended to promote financial literacy, strengthen public trust and inspire future generations to contribute to the country’s economic growth and development.

The bank acknowledged the support of stakeholders, partners and the people of Solomon Islands over the years and reaffirms its commitment to serve the nation through sound financial management and economic leadership.

The Central Bank continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding monetary stability, regulating the financial sector and supporting inclusive economic growth across Solomon Islands.

Photo credit: CBSI

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Temotu praises new telecommunication towers

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BY NED GAGAHE

Premier of Temotu Province, Stanley Tehiahua, has expressed heartfelt appreciation and gratitude following the successful installation and commissioning of nine new telecommunications towers across the province.

The milestone project, delivered under the Solomon Islands National Broadband Infrastructure Project (SINBIP), is expected to significantly improve communication services for some of the country’s most remote communities.

The Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA), with support from the Government of the People’s Republic of China, officially commissioned the nine sites last week as part of the ongoing National Broadband Infrastructure Project.

The newly commissioned sites are located at Neo, Noaka, Banea, Asimboa, Emua, Anuta, Duff Islands, Buma and Manuopo.

With the completion of the new sites, the total number of commissioned SINBIP towers across Solomon Islands now stands at 144.

In a statement yesterday, Premier Tehiahua described the achievement as a historic moment for Temotu Province, saying it marks a transformative step toward connecting communities that have remained isolated for decades.

“For generations, the people of Temotu Province have faced considerable challenges in accessing reliable communication services because of our geographical remoteness and dispersed island communities.

“Today, we celebrate the realization of a long-awaited dream — a future where our people can communicate more effectively, access information more readily, strengthen economic opportunities, improve emergency responses, and participate more fully in national and global developments,” Tehiahua said.

Temotu Province, the easternmost province of Solomon Islands, presented major logistical and transportation challenges during the implementation phase of the project.

Among the newly commissioned towers, the Anuta site is considered the most remote under the SINBIP program, located approximately 1,087 kilometres from Honiara.

Project partners, including MCA, Solomon Islands Tower Company Limited, China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC), and Huawei Technologies, worked closely together to transport personnel and construction materials to the remote islands.

After lengthy sea journeys and extensive coordination efforts, the project team successfully completed the commissioning of all nine sites.

Premier Tehiahua acknowledged the commitment and cooperation shown by all stakeholders involved in delivering the project.

He extended special recognition to SINBIP, MCA, SITCo, CHEC, Huawei Technologies, the Solomon Islands Government, and the Government of the People’s Republic of China for their contributions.

“Your collective efforts have delivered a project that will have lasting and far-reaching benefits for the people of Temotu Province,” he said.

The Premier said the towers symbolize more than infrastructure development, describing them as a sign of inclusion, opportunity, connectivity and hope for the province.

He added that improved telecommunications services will greatly benefit schools, health facilities, businesses, churches, government institutions and families throughout Temotu Province.

The project is also expected to strengthen service delivery, improve access to information and technology, support economic growth, and contribute to the province’s long-term development aspirations.

“As Premier, I wish to acknowledge the unwavering support of the National Government and all development partners who have worked tirelessly to bridge the communication gap that has existed for far too long.

“This achievement demonstrates what can be accomplished through strong partnerships and a shared commitment to improving the lives of our people,” Tehiahua said.

He said the commissioning of the towers marks the beginning of a new chapter for Temotu Province.

“Today, we celebrate not only the commissioning of nine towers but the beginning of a new chapter for Temotu Province — a chapter where we are connected, informed, empowered and united with the rest of Solomon Islands and the wider world,” he said.

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SINU wins land ownership case

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BY TONY IROGA

Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has welcomed a landmark High Court ruling confirming its ownership of a key parcel of land at Panatina, ending a legal dispute over the property and reinforcing the university’s plans for future development.

The ruling, delivered in Civil Case No. 504 of 2023, declared that the university is the lawful registered owner of Fixed Term Estate Parcel 192-002-131, commonly known as PN131, located at Panatina in East Honiara, a statement by SINU on its Facebook page on Monday this week said.

Court also granted a permanent injunction preventing the defendant and associated individuals from re-entering, occupying, using, constructing on, or otherwise interfering with the land without the university’s prior written consent.

In addition, the Court awarded SINU $500,000 in damages for trespass and ordered legal costs in the university’s favour, the SINU statement said.

The defendant’s counterclaim, which included applications for rectification of the land register, overriding interest and adverse possession, was dismissed in its entirety, the statement said.

SINU said it respects the Court’s decision and recognises the importance of the rule of law in resolving land disputes.

SINU Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau described the judgment as a significant outcome not only for the university but also for the integrity of registered land ownership in Solomon Islands.

“This judgment confirms SINU’s lawful title and provides certainty over land that is important to the future development of the university.

“SINU will proceed carefully and lawfully in implementing the Court’s orders. We remain committed to acting responsibly, respecting due process, and ensuring that university land is protected and used for the benefit of students, staff, and the people of Solomon Islands,” Aqorau said.

The judgment is expected to strengthen SINU’s ability to manage and develop its Panatina Campus, which remains one of the University’s most important assets for future expansion and educational growth.

Following the Court’s decision, SINU said it will now undertake the necessary legal and administrative processes to ensure compliance with the judgment and secure the land for future university purposes.

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33 SHIPMENTS

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PROBE BEGINS

-Mines Minister Manuari announces start of investigation into missing bauxite exports in Rennell mining

-Missing ores estimated value at $288 million, tax loss estimated at $4.3 million

BY IRWIN ANGIKI

The GREAT government has announced the beginning of investigations into the controversial missing 33 shipments of bauxite from Rennell island, Renbel province.

Minister for Mines, Energy & Rural Electrification (MMERE), Derick Manuari said the Attorney General’s Chambers with support from the Mines Division are leading the process, a statement by the PM Press Secretariat yesterday said.

Attorney General Gabriel Suri, on Monday, June 1, wrote to the Director of Mines to initiate investigation into the 33 shipments of bauxite (minerals) by Asia Pacific Investment Development Ltd and Bintan Mining SI Ltd, the statement said.

The scandal involved 33 shipments of bauxite which companies, Asia Pacific Investment Development (APID) company and its subcontractor Bintan Mining Solomon Islands Ltd (BMSI), had not paid government taxes, landowner royalties and payments to the Renbel province for.

The missing shipments represented estimated unpaid tax of $4.3 million, unpaid royalty of $3.4 million, unpaid fees to the Renbel province of $864,558, and unpaid fees towards community development estimated at $2 million.

Current minister of Foreign Affairs, Rick Hou, was prime minister at the time when the 33 shipments went missing – from November 28, 2017 and January 22, 2019.

And, the new Attorney General, Gabriel Suri’s law firm represented APID.

The announced investigation into the 33-shipment saga is a step forward following the commission of inquiry (COI) launched by Minister Manuari on May 13 last year when he was Mines Minister under the former government, the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT).

Minister Manuari in making the announcement yesterday said this signals a decisive move by the GREAT coalition to restore integrity in the mineral sector.

Manuari said that the Government’s actions are grounded in law and reform, the statement from the PM Press Secretariat said.

Manuari said the GREAT Coalition is taking firm and necessary steps to overhaul a sector long plagued by weak oversight and lack of accountability.

“These reforms are about safeguarding national interests, strengthening transparency, and ensuring Solomon Islanders receive the full benefits from their natural resources,” he said.

Manuari said many of the current challenges stem from years of inaction and lack of political will by previous governments to implement meaningful reforms.

“We are now doing the hard work that should have been done long ago and putting in place strong systems, tightening oversight and building a modern, accountable framework for managing our mineral resources,” he added.

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DEVELOPING SOCCER

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Hekari FC president Vonnie Puia Nato unveils ambitious academy and elite football vision for Solomon Islands

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

GHUPO Wantoks FC has declared its intention to help transform football development in Solomon Islands after officially launching its programme on Saturday night at the Monarch Bar and Grill in Honiara.

The newly established club, backed by Papua New Guinea football powerhouse Hekari FC, aims to compete in the Telekom S-League while also building football academies and pathways for young players across the country.

Club president Vonnie Puia Nato, who also serves as president and manager of Hekari FC, said the club’s vision goes beyond simply competing in local football.

“We are here to be part of developing football in our country.

“At the end, this is for our country. We are helping to develop more players for our national team,” Mrs Nato said.

Speaking during the launch, Nato shared her experience helping build Hekari FC into one of Oceania’s most successful football clubs.

She said discipline, commitment and hard work will become the foundation of Ghupo Wantoks FC.

“Discipline is paramount.

“There is no way you and I can succeed with bad habits while expecting success to come,” she stressed.

Nato revealed that Hekari FC, which competed at the FIFA Club World Cup in 2010, will help guide the new club’s development.

“Ghupo FC is owned by Hekari,” she explained during a one-on-one interview after the launch.

“Now we call it Ghupo Wantoks FC so that we can have every part of the province to be part of it.”

She also outlined plans to establish football academies in Honiara and Renbel Province.

“I want to establish six academies in Renbel — two in West Rennell, two in East Rennell, and two in Bellona.

“We have to start somewhere,” Nato said.

Nato said her long-term goal is to create opportunities for local footballers to progress into elite competitions, including the professional environment at Hekari FC in PNG.

“PNG Hekari is now competing in the professional league, and I would love to see some of our people eventually become part of Hekari FC in PNG,” she said.

The club has already assembled a 25-player squad for the upcoming season, including PNG professional league player Nathaniel Eddy from Hekari FC.

Meanwhile, newly appointed head coach Joel Moffat Konofilia confirmed the club intends to compete in the Telekom S-League.

“I intend to participate in the S-League, which is the highest competition in the country.

“We’ve prepared for more than 14 years now. We are ready to go,” Konofilia said.

Konofilia added that the club intends to introduce its own football identity and philosophy.

“Omega football philosophy is our football.

“We are ready to display at Lawson Tama,” he said.

He also confirmed plans for football academies through future partnerships with Hekari FC and Solomon Kings.

Nato used the launch to call for unity and support from football stakeholders, stressing that Ghupo Wantoks FC is not only for Rennell and Bellona people, but for the entire country.

“Ghupo Wantoks is not only a Bellona or Rennell team.

“It is a team for the country,” she said.

Ghupo Wantoks FC is a newly established football club linked with PNG football powerhouse Hekari FC. The club plans to field senior men’s, women’s and Under-18 teams this season while targeting long-term football development through academies and elite competition pathways in Solomon Islands.

Photo credit: Richard Menanopo

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Provincial teams expected as SICF pushes nationwide growth of chess

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) is expecting more than 100 players to participate in this year’s Sir Peter Kenilorea Championship following the official opening of registrations for the annual Independence tournament.

The championship, which will be held on July 7 as part of Solomon Islands’ 48th Independence celebrations, is expected to attract up to 20 teams from across the country.

SICF President Simon Chottu told Island Sun that early interest in the competition has already been encouraging.

“We are expecting up to 20 teams from across the Solomon Islands. With each team consisting of four players plus one reserve, we anticipate more than 100 players participating in this year’s championship,” Chottu said.

He said teams from Western Province and Rennell and Bellona have already shown interest, with SICF hoping more provinces will join the tournament.

“Registration officially opened today and we have already received strong interest from chess clubs, teams and individual players forming teams for the event,” he said.

The annual championship honors the legacy of Solomon Islands’ founding Prime Minister, Sir Peter Kenilorea, while promoting strategic thinking, sportsmanship and youth development through chess.

Chottu said the tournament also serves as a platform for national unity and intellectual competition during the country’s Independence celebrations.

“The championship honors the legacy of the late Sir Peter Kenilorea, who brought our country to independence. Hosting this event during the Independence celebrations promotes national unity, intellectual competition and the development of strategic thinking among our people and young talented youths,” he said.

He added that local interest in chess has grown significantly since the appointment of the federation’s new executive earlier this year.

“Since the establishment of the new SICF Executive in March 2026, federation membership has increased from around 22 members to more than 100 active members.

“Our recent national rapid tournament attracted 94 registered players, demonstrating growing public interest in the sport,” Chottu said.

The competition will be played in a team format featuring four players and one reserve per side across four rounds under a one hour and 30 minutes time control.

Winning teams will receive cash prizes, trophies, medals and certificates, while special awards are also expected for outstanding individual performances.

Chottu encourages spectators and supporters to attend the championship once the official venue is confirmed.

“Chess is a spectator-friendly sport that allows people to observe strategic competition and learn from experienced players. We want to make chess competitive and an entertaining sport,” he said.

The Sir Peter Kenilorea Championship is one of SICF’s major annual tournaments and forms part of Solomon Islands Independence celebrations each year.

The event honors the country’s founding Prime Minister while supporting the continued development of chess throughout the Solomon Islands.

Photo credit: Richard Menanopo

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Acting Vice Chancellor says SINU league could help uncover future national football talents

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Soccer League 2026 was officially launched on Friday at the SINU Kukum Campus, with university leaders describing the competition as a platform to nurture sporting talent, student wellbeing and campus unity.

The launch ceremony featured a colorful parade by participating teams representing SINU’s five faculties ahead of the start of competition matches this week.

Speaking during the official opening, SINU Acting Vice Chancellor Associate Professor Eric Katovai acknowledged the university’s Campus Life, Welfare and Sports Department for organising the tournament and promoting active sporting participation among students and staff.

Katovai said the competition could become an important pathway for students with sporting potential to progress further in their football careers.

“For some of you participating in this league, this may be the beginning of something much greater.

“You may discover talents that could take you to provincial, national, regional or even international levels,” he said.

He encouraged young players and staff members participating in the competition to take the opportunity seriously and use the league to develop their abilities both on and off the field.

“Many successful sporting careers begin on fields just like this one. I encourage our students and young staff members to give their very best and see where their abilities may lead them in the future,” Katovai said.

While stressing the competitive aspect of the tournament, the Acting Vice Chancellor said the wider purpose of the league is to strengthen relationships within the university community.

“The SINU Soccer League is an opportunity to foster teamwork, discipline, leadership, friendship and a strong sense of community across our university.

“Sport is not only about winning. It is also about the relationships we build, the respect we show one another and the lessons we learn both on and off the field,” he said.

Katovai also reminded participants to uphold good sportsmanship throughout the competition by respecting teammates, opponents, match officials and supporters.

The SINU Soccer League will feature both men’s and women’s divisions and is expected to run throughout June before concluding with prize presentations for the winning teams at the end of the month.

Competition matches are scheduled to begin on Monday, June 8, at the SINU Kukum Campus.

The launch ceremony was attended by Pro Vice Chancellor Corporate Dr William Parairato, BICS Manager Samson Bisafo, National Sports Council representative Mr. Atu, SINUSA President, as well as SINU staff and students.

The revival of organised sports competitions at SINU comes as the university continues efforts to rebuild campus sporting culture following its transition from the former Solomon Islands College of Higher Education (SICHE). Organisers say the league also aims to promote student health, social interaction and participation in structured sporting activities across the university community.

Photo credit: SINU Fb page

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Socialisation workshop held in Auki 

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The Ministry of National Planning and Development Coordination successfully held their one-day socialisation consultation in Auki, Malaita Province, on Monday, June 8. 

The workshop will help the ministry identify possible ways forward for integration of feedback into the Solomon Islands National Infrastructure Investment Pipeline (SINIIP), coordination mechanisms between national and provincial levels, and upcoming processes and timelines. 

The workshop aims to facilitate effective socialisation, consultation, and awareness of the Solomon Islands National Infrastructure Investment Pipeline (SINIIP) Dossier in Malaita Province by engaging key stakeholders, including provincial authorities, community leaders, development partners, NGOs, and the private sector.

It will also enhance understanding of priority infrastructure projects, gather local insights and feedback, strengthen coordination, and promote inclusive participation in the planning and implementation process.

One of the participants during the consultation, Frank Samo, appreciated the consultation, saying the initiative is a better option that the ministry should carry out.

He also said that the national aid coordination funds shouldn’t be included in the Rural Constituency Development Fund (RCDF) since tangible developments haven’t been seen from it.

“Once the Ministry of National Planning and Development Coordination sends through the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF), there will be tangible developments that can be managed in the wards in terms of infrastructure and utilities.

“This is because before the implementation, we can go down to the communities and find out what their real projects are that benefit them,” he said.

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