BY LORETTA B MANELE

The airfield upgrade in Santa Cruz, Temotu Province is advancing steadily towards completion, marking a step in improving connectivity, safety and climate resilience of the Solomon Islands aviation sector.

A statement from the Project Support Team (PST) of the Second Solomon Islands Roads & Aviation Project (SIRAP2) yesterday said the upgrade delivered under SIRAP2 is funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA), with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) as the contractor and Egis as the construction supervision consultant.

Recent progress is said to include the application of prime coat on the final sections of the runway (CH1+260 to CH1+330).

Shoulder treatment for the phase 1 works is also noted as “complete” except for areas near the temporary terminal building.

Meanwhile ongoing works include;

– rock revetment at the eastern end, with geo-bag installation reaching eighth of ten layers and scheduled for backfilling in mid-November 2025

– sealing of the remaining runway, with pre-coasting of aggregate underway with remaining materials expected to arrive in the coming week

Meanwhile, construction of the new terminal building and installation of airfield ground lighting are to commence shortly.

Alwyn Danitofea, MCA Permanent Secretary commended the project team for their commitment.

“The progress at Santa Cruz Airfield reflects the strong collaboration between all stakeholders- from the project support team to the contractor, the supervision consultant, and the local community. Once completed, this upgraded infrastructure will greatly enhance connectivity, safety, and economic opportunities for the people of Temotu Province,” he said.

Apart from this project, the statement mentions that SIRAP2 is also involved in other projects, namely;

– construction of the Noro Roads and four new bridges in Malaita

– upgrades to Honiara and Munda Airports and Suavanao Airfield in Isabel Province

– investments in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces

– maintenance of regional airports

– rehabilitation of 21km of East Road between Baratolo and Atori

– sealing of 12km of North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction

Photo: Project Support Team (PST), SIRAP2

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

The completion of the Noro Fisheries MCS Building is an initiative that aligns with our national fisheries vision.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele expressed the sentiment whilst speaking at the official handover of the Noro Fisheries Monitoring Control and Surveillance (MCS) Building and Noro Data Centre in Noro, Western Province on Monday, November 10, 2025.

He said completion of the building is a direct reflection of the government’s commitment to ensure that Solomon Islands continues to exercise sovereign control and stewardship over our fisheries and aquatic resources.

“This initiative is firmly aligned with our national fisheries vision— A sustainable fisheries sector that contributes to the socio-economic needs of all Solomon Islanders.

“This vision stands as the cornerstone of our fisheries development strategy, and it underpins our belief that true sustainability requires both responsible management and effective enforcement of our laws,” he said.

The Prime Minister went on to state that the protection and preservation of our marine resources are vital for our nation’s future.

Vital in the sense that the country’s marine resources provide livelihoods, income, and food security for our people.

He said to safeguard these resources, we must ensure that our monitoring, control, and surveillance capabilities are strong, modern, and strategically located.

“…..and that is exactly what this facility in Noro represents,” he added.

Speaking of the Noro Data Centre, Manele said this marks another transformative step forward but this time in the digital sphere.

“It supports the Government’s Digital Transformation Agenda and National ICT Policy, which aim to modernize public service delivery, improve access to government services, and bridge the digital divide across our islands.

“Our digital vision is clear.

“Empowering Solomon Islands with inclusive, resilient, and innovative digital infrastructure that drives economic growth, enhances social well-being, and ensures equitable access to digital opportunities for all citizens,” he said.

Manele noted that the establishment of this Data Centre embodies that vision and is a cornerstone in the effort to build a digital future that serves every Solomon Islander, no matter where they live.

Photo: Supplied

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BY NED GAGAHE

Leader of Opposition and Solomon Islands Democratic Party (SIDP) Parliamentary Wing Leader, Matthew Wale, has admitted that the “fee-free education policy” introduced during the Derek Sikua-led government was a terrible failure.

Mr Wale, who served as Minister for Education when the policy was implemented, made the admission during a recent SIDP podcast series.

He recalled that while the policy initially appeared promising, it quickly became problematic as schools began introducing various fees that made education even more costly for parents.

“During the initial stage of implementation, it looked like it was going to work well. But then schools came up with all kinds of fees, it doubled up or even got worse. So now, looking back, the evidence is clear that the policy was a failure,” Wale said.

He explained that despite the challenges, the government at the time continued with the policy, though its effectiveness was questionable.

“The test of that policy is simple, if a parent does not pay a fee, then the child is not allowed to attend class. Right now, that is still happening,” he said.

Wale said the SIDP’s education policy aims to ensure true free education, where no child is deprived of classroom time simply because their parents cannot afford school fees.

“We want true free education, not a so-called fee-free system where a child is sent home because parents can’t pay,” he stressed.

He highlighted that the new Education Act now makes schooling compulsory for all children aged six and above, meaning parents are legally required to send their children to school or face penalties.

“The Act stipulates that failure to comply will result in a warning, fine, or even prosecution,” he said.

Wale said the SIDP’s policy will ensure that all children remain in school regardless of their parents’ financial situation.

“Education is a public good, it must be delivered to everyone. The education of a child benefits not only the parents but all of us, because it helps build a productive and meaningful society,” he said.

He added that while parents have responsibilities to support schools, their failure to do so must not punish the child.

“If a parent fails to pay the development fee or contribute to school work, which is an issue between the parent and the school, the child must not be punished for it,” he said.

Wale said the SIDP will push for reforms to ensure every Solomon Islands child has access to classroom learning every single day.

“We will change that. We want all Solomon Islander children in the classroom every single day as long as they are able,” he affirmed.

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

The Experts Focus Group (EFG) met at the Ministry of Finance and Treasury’s (MoFT) Conference Room yesterday.

A statement from the Government Communication Unit (GCU) said the meeting was for EFG to validate the Federal Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) Study.

The meeting chaired by Secretary to the Prime Minister, Dr Melchior Mataki, brought together key experts from various government agencies.

The EFG reviewed and endorsed the study’s rationale, objectives, methodology, analytical framework, key assumptions, data requirements, and work plan.

They also suggested refinements to strengthen the analytical focus and stakeholder consultations is said to commence soon.

“The Experts Group emphasised the importance of ensuring reliability, integrity, and credibility in the data collection and analysis process.

“The final report will inform the national dialogue on federalism, and its accuracy and trustworthiness are crucial,” said GCU.

GCU says this meeting marks an important step in the CBA study which aims to provide a thorough analysis of the proposed federal system of government.

As mentioned, stakeholder consultations will begin with the Honiara City Council.

Photo: GCU

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

PREMIER of Western Province, Billy Veo, urges police officers based in Noro to step up in their performance and deliver effective law enforcement following the official opening of the new Noro Police Station.

Speaking during the event, Veo said the new police station, along with other logistical support recently provided, has equipped Noro Police with sufficient resources to carry out their duties efficiently.

He highlighted that the new building compliments the fleet of vehicles handed over to police during the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting earlier this year.

“I understand Noro Police have also been recipients of a number of vehicles during the recent vehicle handover held during the Pacific Island Forum retreat held here at Noro.

“With all these resources, we would therefore expect Noro Police to step up its roles and responsibilities in dealing with law-and-order issues here in Noro and in other surrounding communities,” Veo said.

Veo said he expects to see a decline in anti-social behaviours, illegal black markets, gambling, domestic and gender-based violence, and other law and order issues in the township and nearby areas.

At the same time, the Premier appeals to both the police and the general public to respect and care for the new facilities and other government properties.

“These facilities and resources do not just appear from thin air. The funds we received to build these important infrastructures are hard-earned money of the Australian people.

“The least we can do by way of our appreciation is to fully utilize these facilities, and to also look after them to ensure they continue to serve us well into the future,” Veo said.

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PM says this marks a new chapter

BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

PRIME Minister Jeremiah Manele says the opening of the new Noro Police Station marks a new chapter of safety, confidence, and opportunity for the people of Noro and Western Province.

Speaking at the official opening program in Noro, Western Province yesterday, Manele said the new facility not only enhances the beauty of Noro but also brings real meaning to public safety and community confidence.

“Today is not only about opening a new building. Today is about opening a new chapter of safety, confidence and opportunity for the people of Noro and Western Province.

“For the public here, this police station means something very real; a mother can sleep at night knowing help is close, our people can walk home safely, and businesses can invest with confidence,” he added.

Manele said the completion and opening of the Noro Police Station is a landmark investment that underscores the Government’s commitment to strengthen national security, support law enforcement, and improve public safety.

He said the new facility is part of the Government’s broader effort to modernise and professionalise the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) to meet the changing needs of communities and the country’s evolving security environment.

“We recognise that safe and conducive working environments are essential to effective policing. Our police officers deserve facilities that support their work to protect lives, uphold law and order, and build public trust,” Manele said.

The Prime Minister also highlighted that the new police station contributes to two key pillars of the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) — Infrastructure Development, Unity and Stability.

“It also directly supports the implementation of our National Development Strategy (NDS), particularly Objective 5: ‘A unified nation with stable and effective governance and public order.

“For GNUT, investment in law and order is not just about policing; it is an investment in economic security, public confidence, and national stability,” Manele said.

He thanked the Government and people of Australia for funding the new facility through the Australia–Solomon Islands Policing Partnership Program (RAPPP), and acknowledged the role of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and local contractors.

“I also acknowledge AFP Commander Hall O’Maehgher, Ms. Susan Tarplee, and your team for your professional leadership in implementing this project, together with the local contractors and workers who have delivered a facility that truly meets modern standards. Tagio tumas for your continued friendship and support,” he said.

Premier of Western Province, Billy Veo, described the new police station as a worthy and historic investment in the province’s development.

He said the establishment of a modern police station in Noro is fitting, given its status as the second most important township in the Solomon Islands.

“Noro serves as an important mini-town hosting the only tuna processing facility, the country’s second international seaport, and the second international airport at Munda,” Veo said.

“Given Noro and Munda’s status as a second gateway into the country, police presence is also vital. We have seen increases in transnational crimes in recent years — drug smuggling, money laundering, illegal importation and exportation of prohibited goods like arms, human trafficking, and more. It is extremely important that these facilities are protected and kept secure — hence constant police visibility is important,” he added.

Veo said the new station will go down in the history of Noro township as a milestone achievement that will boost police operations and community safety.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Western Province, I would like to thank the Australian Government for its continuous support and assistance, especially in terms of infrastructure development.

“Your investments in projects and initiatives that touch the very lives of our citizens are deeply appreciated, and we look forward to our continued partnership in the years ahead as we strategically address issues that continue to affect the lives of our people,” he said.

Photo: Supplied

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BY NED GAGAHE

Ministry of Infrastructure Development’s (MID) Central Project Implementation Unit (CPIU) has announced that asphalt sealing works on the Down Kola Road (Graveyard Stretch) are progressing steadily by local contractor, EMCO.

According to a statement from MID, EMCO began the sealing works on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, and continued operations late into the night to ensure steady progress on one of Honiara’s most heavily used road sections.

“We are proud of EMCO’s proven capacity in asphalt works, supported by their modern fleet and experienced road crews,” MID said in a statement.

MID also extended appreciation to motorists and the public for their patience and cooperation during the ongoing road improvement works.

“A big thank you to all road users for observing traffic control during this road improvement phase,” the statement added.

The Down Kola Road sealing is part of a broader urban road improvement programme being implemented through funding support from the Australian Government under the National Transport Fund (NTF).

In a related update, the Ministry confirmed over the weekend via its official Facebook page that specific maintenance work on West Honiara’s sealed Lot 1 roads has now reached Mbuburu Road and is progressing towards the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) Area in Mbokona.

The Lot 1 contract also includes Guppy Street, Island Jetty Road, Lengakiki Road, and the road leading to the Ministry of Mines and Forestry.

This road project, MID said, is funded through the National Transport Fund, with contribution from the Solomon Islands Government.

MID reaffirms its commitment to improve Honiara’s road infrastructure through timely maintenance and quality upgrades, ensuring safer and smoother travel for all road users.

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

A 40-year-old man from West Kwaio, Malaita Province, has died after eating poisonous fish (pufferfish or balloon fish) last week.

The tragic incident occurred on Friday, November 7, 2025, after the man reportedly consumed the fish during a diving trip.

A witness told Islands Sun Auki that the victim’s relatives rushed him to Sinamuari Clinic, but he was later pronounced dead upon arrival.

Island Sun understands that this case now accounts for three people who have died from pufferfish poisoning in Malaita Province.

In 2021 two people died after eating poisonous fish at Niutakwa village in Kolombangara Island.

Speaking to this paper, Elizabeth Koi, a local woman who has experience and knowledge in preparing the fish, said the balloon fish has been a known killer for many years.

“Balloon fish is the most poisonous fish. Many people have died from eating it.

“It can only be eaten safely if prepared by people who know how to remove the poisonous parts from the fish organs,” she added.

Meanwhile, scientific reports confirm that pufferfish contains a potent neurotoxin called tetrodotoxin, found mainly in the liver, ovaries and other organs.

The toxin is highly lethal, even in small amounts, causing symptoms such as numbness, paralysis, and in severe cases, death.

Experts warn that cooking does not destroy the toxin, and since there is no known antidote, treatment for poisoning is limited to supportive medical care.

Photo: Supplied

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