THE Gizo Market Vendors Association has welcomed the proposed Market Ordinance currently under public consultation, describing it as a timely and much-needed development for Western Province.
In an interview with Island Sun, the association’s representative, Lauretta Nasala, said the province urgently needs a market ordinance to strengthen the enforcement of market rules and regulations.
She explained that while Gizo Market already has internal rules, enforcement has remained weak due to the absence of a legal framework.
“People understand that the market rules have no legal threat and they continue to ignore them. “Most times, those who breach the market rules walk free,” Nasala said.
She said the proposed ordinance will be a game changer, not only in protecting market facilities, but also in empowering market wardens to carry out their duties effectively.
Nasala added that the ordinance will establish a proper legal framework for regulating markets, ensuring public health and safety, promoting orderly operations, and strengthening urban governance.
“At the moment, we do not have an ordinance, so issues relating to breaches of market rules cannot be penalised.
“This is sad because we are trying our best to ensure the market is clean, food is healthy, and the general management of the market is easy, but we have been criticised for failing to take action,” she said.
Nasala revealed that in some cases, vendors who breached market regulations were arrested but later released because there was no law to support further legal action.
“We did arrest some vendors who broke the market regulations, but we just released them because there is no law that allows us to take the matter further,” she explained.
Nasala reiterated the association’s full support for the proposed Market Ordinance and called on stakeholders and the public to support the consultation process.
THE Lau/Mbaelelea Constituency officially handed over a new medical transport boat to Ndai Clinic on Monday December 1, 2025.
The project is a collaborative effort between the Chinese Embassy in the Solomon Islands and the Lau/Mbaelelea Constituency, led by Member of Parliament Hon. Ben Maenu’u.
The official handover ceremony took place at Rax Boy, with Mr. Gu Wenlong, Head of the Political Division of the Chinese Embassy, and Hon. Maenu’u present.
Mr. Gu Wenlong handing over the boat and engine to Hon. Maenu’u and his CDO Moses Lugitau.
The 21-foot round cabin fiberglass boat is equipped with a 40-horsepower Yamaha engine.
Constituency Development Officer (CDO) Moses Lugitau described the initiative as a sign of progress, hope, and promise fulfilled.
CDO Moses Lugitau delivering his speech.
“My brothers and sisters of Ndai Island, this medical transport belongs to you,” Lugitau said.
“It stands as a sign that our leaders are listening and working for the good of our people. Let us take care of it and use it well for the benefit of our families.”
He expressed gratitude to the Chinese Embassy for their generous support, which he said strengthens the ongoing partnership between the embassy and the constituency.
“The Constituency, under the leadership of MP Maenu’u, is committed to ensuring that the people of Lau and Baelelea receive the essential services they rightfully deserve,” Lugitau added.
He noted the importance of the new boat in improving healthcare access.
Unpacking the 40 Horse-power Yamaha Engine.
“Access to proper healthcare is a fundamental need, and with this sea transport, we are taking a major step toward addressing that need. No longer will our people of Ndai Island, Ward 12, face difficulties reaching medical facilities on the mainland of Malaita. It will also improve emergency response and referral cases to Malu’u or Kilufi Hospital.”
Lugitau explained that the office of Lau/Mbaelelea Constituency is guided by a clear development plan focused on the needs of its people.
“Our vision is for a stronger, healthier, and more prosperous future for the people of Lau/Mbaelelea Constituency,” he said.
Mr. Gu Wenlong presenting his remarks.
Hon. Maenu’u also thanked the Chinese Embassy for its support, acknowledging its vital role in improving essential services for his constituency.
Mr. Gu Wenlong meanwhile, expressed pride to the successful delivery of the mini project while commending the great commitment of MP Maenu’u towards Lau/Mbaelelea Constituency.
SI records dramatic rise in new HIV cases as Minister warns of growing threat
The Ministry of Health has raised a serious national alert after confirming a sharp and unprecedented spike in HIV cases across the country, marking the most significant jump in infections since early 1980s.
Speaking during World AIDS Day commemorations in Honiara yesterday, Minister of Health Dr Paul Bosawai revealed that the country has moved from detecting just one to two cases per year in previous years to eight new cases last year, and now a staggering 34 new cases in 2025 alone.
The surge brings Solomon Islands’ total number of HIV-positive to 79, with 27 deaths already recorded from advanced HIV disease.
“This is a worrying trend,” the Minister said. “The rise in new infections shows the virus is spreading faster than before. We must act now.”
Minister Bosawai said 25 of the 34 new cases recorded this year are men, with nine women also testing positive.
He said while the majority are currently on treatment, three individuals remain untreated, prompting the Minister to issue a direct and urgent plea for them to come forward.
“You are not helping yourself or your loved ones by hiding,” he said. “When you start treatment, your viral load drops, and you can live a long life. If you are listening today, please come to our health facilities.”
The Minister also linked the rise in cases to broader regional patterns, citing HIV outbreaks in Fiji declared last year and partly driven by intravenous drug use and the 11,000 cases reported in Papua New Guinea.
He said frequent travel between Solomon Islands and neighbouring Melanesian countries increases the risk of cross-border transmission.
The Minister also raised concerns over the growing threat of methamphetamine (“ice”) and other illicit drugs, which globally have contributed to rising HIV infections through high-risk behaviour and unsafe practices.
Beyond the numbers, the Minister used his address to condemn stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV, sharing his own experience as a medical trainee caring for an HIV patient.
He said that experience showed him the humanity behind the illness.
“They are Solomon Islanders like us,” he said. “Churches, communities, families – please do not push them away.”
Minister Bosawai said the Government, through the ministry supported by DFAT, WHO and SIPPA, is now working to update national HIV policies and strengthen testing, treatment and prevention services, including efforts to decentralise HIV services to provincial clinics and improve mother-to-child transmission prevention programs.
However, the Minister warned that the global funding crisis threatens to undermine progress unless partners continue to support the national HIV response.
“We cannot rely on domestic financing alone. We need sustained political leadership, international cooperation and a human right–centred approach,” he said.
For much of his life, Venda Solomon Imutu lived under a shadow not of his making.
Born with physical challenges, he grew up in a world that was often unkind—where whispers followed him, laughter cut deep, and rejection became a daily companion.
From primary school to high school, bullying and being treated as an outcast weighed heavily on his spirit. Yet beneath the scars of those years lived a quiet resolve that refused to be broken.
Venda Solomon Imutu receives his certificate
Last Thursday, that resolve carried him onto a stage—and into history.
Before a crowd of students, teachers, parents, and dignitaries at Tabaka Technical Institute, Imutu stood tall as his name was called.
The shy man who once felt invisible became the center of attention as he received his certificate in Automotive Engineering – this program is accredited program and national qualification recognised under SITESA – [Solomon Islands Tertiary Education Skills Authority].
As he made his way forward, the hall erupted in cheers and applause from his fellow graduands—a thunderous affirmation that he belonged.
For Imutu the moment was more than a graduation, it was redemption.
Venda Solomon Imutu delivers the speech on behalf of the graduating students.
Imutu’s journey to that stage was never easy. For more than 30 years, he says, he lived in an environment that made him feel “worthless.” Society labeled him as “disabled” and, in doing so, often stripped him of dignity, opportunity, and hope.
Yet even when the world tried to define his limits, Imutu quietly focused on his dreams.
At Tabaka, for the first time in his life, he says he felt truly accepted—not as a “special case,” not as an outsider, but as a student like any other.
In classrooms and workshops, he worked beside his peers. Teachers guided him with patience and respect. Among students, he found friendship instead of ridicule.
“Tabaka is a good school to start. “I feel more than at home when I’m studying here. Students and teachers respect who I am and the support was enormous,” Imutu said.
It was this environment of shared love and equal learning that allowed him not just to survive—but to thrive.
It is a true testament from “Worthless” to Worthy.
During his emotional speech, Imutu first thanked the school for recognizing his right to education—a right so often denied to people like him.
“For almost 30-plus years, people regarded me as disabled, and I lived hopelessly in that environment. “But today I am somebody. The training and qualifications I received are shaping my present and my future,” he said.
Imutu also expressed gratitude to the Australian Government for sponsoring his studies and believing in his potential when many others did not.
But perhaps his most powerful words were reserved for parents across the Solomon Islands.
“If there is anyone in your community or family with a similar disability like me, please do not deny them what they want to pursue in education,” he pleaded. “Give them a chance.”
Imutu’s story is not just a personal victory—it is a piercing reflection of a national reality.
Across the Solomon Islands, many people living with disabilities remains trapped on the margins of society.
Despite policies that promote inclusive education, the lived reality often tells a different story. Too many children with disabilities are kept out of classrooms.
Some parents, driven by fear, stigma, or lack of resources, stop their children from going to school altogether.
Venda Solomon Imutu prouding shaking hand with parents after his graduation.
As a result, a large portion of our population is left behind—excluded from education, employment, and meaningful participation in national life.
Imutu is living proof of what becomes possible when that barrier is removed.
With a trade, a qualification, and confidence in his abilities, he now stands ready to contribute to the economic development of the country. Not as a burden. Not as a charity case. But as a skilled worker with dignity.
When Imutu lifted his certificate on that stage, the applause that followed was not just for a graduate—it was for every struggle he endured in silence.
Every insult he carried. Every lonely walk to school. Every night he doubted his worth.
In that moment, the boy once pushed to the edges of society stood at its center.
His story reminds us of a simple but powerful truth: disability does not mean inability. What truly disables people is not their condition—but a society that refuses to give them a chance.
Venda Solomon Imutu was given that chance. And he turned it into triumph.
Principal of Tabaka Technical Institute, Joash Lawrence applauds Imutu’s desires to learn together with the other normal student.
Principal of Tabaka Technical Institute Mr Joash Lawrence.
He said Imutu’s achievement is a testament that other people with disability can achieve their dreams if opportunities and support systems are available.
“I suggest, the national government should look for some alternatives to create a pathway for such graduates.
“Instead of paying constituency, the bilateral grant support fund or CDF to those may with skilled graduates like Venda,” Lawrence said.
LANDOWNERS of Korona on San Jorge Island are questioning among themselves who authorised Sunrise Investment Limited to harvest tubi trees in the area.
According to documents sighted by Island Sun, the Korona land is traditionally owned by three tribes — Thavia, Posamogo and Nakmiru Funei.
However, some representatives of the tribes say they were shocked when logging operations began without any prior consultation.
Chief and tribe leader from Talise village, Paul Fota, said landowners were confused when the logging company arrived at Korona.
“There was no consultation carried out at all before the operation started. This is the doing of a few selfish and greedy individuals who only care about their own pockets and not the people,” he said.
Fota said landowners already have strong suspicions about who facilitated the operation, but their main concern is where to seek justice and proper legal advice.
“Due process, as required under our laws and regulations, has not been followed. This is not a decision made by landowners,” he added.
Island Sun understands that concerns have intensified following revelations that the same company had previously been convicted for illegal tubi logging in the area between 2018 and 2019.
In December 2020, the owner of Sunrise Investment Limited, Richard Kong Sing Ngea, pleaded guilty to illegal tubi felling at the Honiara Magistrate’s Court. The company was fined SBD$50,000, the maximum penalty for the offence.
Later that same year, the Foreign Investment Division also imposed a SBD$1 million fine on the company and two other Malaysian logging firms in Isabel Province for breaches of their investment licences.
In a move that shocked landowners, the government — on advice from the Attorney General — later ordered that 10,000 cubic metres of seized tubi logs be returned to Sunrise Investment Limited for export.
This year, the government again granted a logging licence to the same company to harvest tubi at Korona.
The approval followed a gazette notice issued around October 2025, which lifted restrictions on the export of tubi — a species once listed as endangered in Solomon Islands.
Tubi is a rare tree species found only in two provinces in the Solomons group: Isabel, where Korona is; and Choiseul, to the country’s west.
The rich, dark hardwood is sought after mostly by Asian countries for furniture and is being advertised at $US2, 300 (SBD$18,110) per tonne in some online markets in 2020.
Since it was a rare and endangered tree species, the Solomon Islands Government has been restricting its from felling and export until this year.
Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS) Jimson Tanangada has called on communities across the country to strengthen responsibility and work closely with police to curb the rise of viral youth street-fighting videos circulating on social media.
Speaking during the Prime Minister’s press conference on Friday November 28, 2025, Minister Tanangada responded to a question regarding the growing trend of teenagers engaging in street confrontations filmed and shared online.
The Minister said the behaviour is unacceptable and must not be tolerated.
He highlighted the Government’s existing Community Policing Programme, stressing that it is designed for communities to take ownership of law-and-order issues at the local level.
“The first line of responsibility we want to see is that communities take ownership—ensuring that our people, including young people, abide by the law,” Tanangada said.
He added that many communities already have their own bylaws under the programme, and the Ministry takes such rules seriously.
Tanangada said he has instructed officers from both the Ministry and the RSIPF to strengthen community policing operations and address the issue with urgency.
“We call on community leaders to take responsibility and ensure such behaviour does not happen in our communities,” he said.
The Minister noted that young people often misuse social media for attention, leading to activities that compromise safety and community harmony.
“As far as I am concerned, I do not want to see this continue. We appeal that we must put a stop to it,” he emphasized.
Tanangada said the RSIPF will take the necessary measures to prevent the spread of such activities and maintain peace and order in all communities.
INVESTORS both locals and foreigners are showing interest to establish their business at Noro, Western Province.
Clerk of Noro Town made the revelation during an interview with Island Sun over the weekend.
Gavin Totu believes that the are influx of investors showing interest to operate at Noro is because of the newly opened infrastructure and services at Noro.
“Recently we witnessed the opening of the Ministry of Finance and Treasury, Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources and also the new Police Station at Noro.
Noro Police Station
“Now the road has improved and I strongly believe the investors are attracted to these developments,” he said.
Totu said Solomon Power is already established at Noro improving the access to reliable electricity to businesses and residence.
He said Noro offers a full-package and opportunity for investors to flourish as services are readily available.
Island Sun understand that good security and reliable access to essential services are two of the most critical factors driving successful investment in any developing economy.
Without these foundations, investors both local and international face high risks that can discourage business growth and long-term development.
Busiest part of Noro town.
A safe environment protects physical assets, workers, and business operations from theft, vandalism, and conflict-related disruptions.
Furthermore, stable security also encourages tourism, trade, and industrial development, creating a ripple effect across the wider economy.
Equally important is access to basic services such as water, electricity, roads, telecommunications, and health facilities.
Good road networks ensure the smooth transport of goods and workers, while dependable water supply supports both households and industrial activities.
Together, strong security and reliable service delivery send a powerful message that a community or country is ready for business.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has outlined the Government’s priorities ahead of next week’s parliamentary debate on the 2026 National Budget, declaring that the country’s development agenda is firmly focused on driving economic transformation and strengthening national unity.
Speaking during his fortnightly press conference with local media on Friday November 28,2025, PM Manele said the 2026 Budget carries the theme “Accelerating Economic Transformation – Resourcing the Resourced to Drive Economic Growth and Sustainable Development.”
He said the Budget is anchored on six core development objectives that will guide national planning and parliamentary deliberations:
Promoting transformative and sustainable economic growth;
Maintaining an affordable and realistic national budget;
Safeguarding fiscal stability;
Improving service delivery through quality and targeted spending;
Strengthening national unity and empowering people; and
Advancing good governance and accountability.
“These objectives highlight the areas that will be central to parliamentary discussions and the continued work of Government in the coming year,” Manele told reporters.
The Prime Minister said the Budget reflects the Government’s intention to balance fiscal responsibility with investment in key productive sectors, social services, and provincial development.
“With these developments and priorities in mind, my government will continue its work across sectors and provinces as Parliament considers the Budget and other national programmes,” he said.
PM Manele encouraged the public to follow the Budget proceedings closely, noting that the national plan for 2026 is designed to respond to ongoing challenges while positioning the country for long-term stability and growth.
Parliament is expected to reconvene today (Monday 1st December 2025) after it was put on special adjournment on Monday November 24 to allow Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to conclude its final inquiry and complete its report, including recommendations on the 2026 Appropriation Bill 2025.
The Budget debate is expected to dominate parliamentary business this week.
CHIEFS of Lelegia and Talise villages in Isabel Province have thrown their support behind Opposition Leader Matthew Wale’s call for the government to seize and halt all mining licences across the country.
Speaking on behalf of the chiefs, Talise Village representative Paul Fota described Wale’s call as genuine, citing the uncontrolled mining activities within the Thousand Ships Bay area.
He said mining operations have destroyed large parts of the once beautiful and resource-rich environment in the Bugotu region.
Fota said the damage done is enormous, and rehabilitation efforts will not be able to fully address the impact.
“We are with Matthew Wale. Our country is yet to pass the Mineral Resource Bill, and we are still relying on an outdated mining act.
“There is also a lack of compliance because our ministries are weak and there is little government support for proper checks and balances on mining sites,” he said.
Fota further alleged that some mining companies are infiltrating rural communities and bribing people to gain access to land and resources.
“Negotiations are happening behind closed doors in villages and this must stop because it puts innocent lives at risk,” he said.
Fota added that poverty is driving people to agree to mining deals.
“There are no proper income-generating opportunities in rural areas. When money is offered, desperate landowners sign. Sadly, it is the people who suffer in the end,” he said.
During a recent Public Accounts Committee hearing, Wale called for an immediate moratorium on all mining activities until a full review and amendment of existing mining laws is completed.
He urged the government to stop issuing new licences and temporarily close existing operations to allow a thorough review of how the mining sector is managed in the best interest of the country.
Wale warned that without strong action, Solomon Islands could face a crisis worse than what has been experienced in the logging sector, where resource owners lose while investors walk away with huge profits.
Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services Jimson Tanangada says the Government is taking strong, coordinated steps to address security concerns surrounding the Suffrage Wharves and the rising threat of illicit drugs entering the country.
Speaking during the Prime Minister’s Press Conference with local media on Friday November 28, 2025, Tanangada acknowledged the public debate and media scrutiny over the wharves in recent months.
He confirmed that a multi-agency taskforce, led by the Ministry of Finance and supported by the Prime Minister’s Office and other key departments, has completed its report on the matter.
“The report has now been finalised. It will come to Caucus on Tuesday (December 2, 2025),” Tanangada said.
He said the Government is anticipating the report’s recommendations, which span several sectors including policing and customs.
“We cannot pre-empt what is in the report, but we look forward to addressing this very important issue, especially in terms of security considerations and drugs potentially entering our country through the ports or other channels,” the Minister told journalists.
Tanangada said that once Caucus and Cabinet review the report, the Government will act on the recommendations and determine how best to strengthen national security at the wharves.
The Police Minister also expanded on the Prime Minister’s remarks, stressing that the government is taking the entry of illicit drugs into Solomon Islands very seriously.
He revealed ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Health to repeal or review the Drugs Act, aiming to strengthen the legal framework and introduce tougher penalties.
“We are supporting the Ministry of Health to make the necessary repeal or review of the Drugs Act… so we have strong punitive measures against people involved,” Tanangada said.
He added that the Minister of Health has already signed off on the process, which will not only enhance police powers but also ensure courts can impose harsher sentences on individuals involved in drug trafficking, smuggling, or sale.
“It will not come easy on them. This Government is serious about addressing the entry of illegal drugs into our country,” he stressed.
Tanangada reaffirmed that law enforcement agencies—particularly the RSIPF—will continue to tighten surveillance and enforcement as part of the Government’s broader national security strategy.
