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Wairaha communities call for police to cull crocodiles 

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

Wairaha communities in West Are’are, Malaita province, are calling police to urgently respond to their call to cull the rising numbers of crocodiles in their area.

The communities say they are yet to see a police team hunt crocodiles along the Wairaha River.

The concerns arose after community members saw crocodiles along the Wairaha River multiple times, causing fear among the villagers. 

A concerned community member, Izzat Toisutahana, who has lost two family members to crocodile attacks, said their lives are now at stake.

She said the population of crocodiles in Wairaha has increased, and police should now be hunting to kill them. 

She also questioned why an agreement between their community leaders and the police has failed to see police action to cull the reptiles.

“So far, our community leaders have agreed and discussed with the police to come and hunt those crocodiles, but until today, we haven’t seen anything happening.

“This has caused great fear and is really affecting our normal life here at home. We now can’t cross the river by canoe or swim,” she said. 

In April, two women over 20 years old lost their lives in separate crocodile attacks along the river, prompting all villages nearby to take extra precautionary measures. 

The first incident occurred on April 3, when a 22-year-old girl was attacked, followed by her niece on April 21, 2026. They were from Paunanu’u village. 

Attempts to reach out to the Malaita Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Michael Ramosaea, were unsuccessful as he has a busy schedule.

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EU signals stronger investment partnership with Solomon Islands

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BY NED GAGAHE

The European Union (EU) has reaffirmed its commitment to Solomon Islands while signalling a shift towards greater investment-driven cooperation during a high-level visit to the country this week.

Speaking exclusively to the Island Sun at the conclusion of a three-day visit on Saturday, EU Ambassador to the Pacific Barbara Plinkert said the mission provided an important opportunity to engage with the new government and explore future areas of cooperation.

Ambassador Plinkert was accompanied by Peteris Ustubs, Director for Asia, Central Asia and the Pacific at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA), and Maurizio Cian, Minister Counsellor and Head of Cooperation.

“We are very pleased to be here as representatives of the European Union to meet with the new government,” Ambassador Plinkert said.

She said the visit, which had been planned for some time, focused on reviewing EU-funded projects and discussing future cooperation priorities with Solomon Islands leaders.

During their stay, the delegation met with Deputy Prime Minister Francis Sade, Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo, Energy Minister Derrick Manu’ari, Agriculture Minister Franklyn Derek Wasi in his capacity as Supervising Minister for Fisheries, and Provincial Government Minister Alfred Rimah.

The delegation also travelled to Malaita Province where they met Premier Elijah Asilaua and visited the proposed Bina Harbour development site, identified as a potential area for future EU support.

“It was a very fruitful visit. It was really good to understand a bit better the policy directions of the new government that are now evolving and being presented,” Ambassador Plinkert said.

She revealed that Solomon Islands remains one of the EU’s most significant development partners in the Pacific.

“Solomon Islands is the second-largest recipient of EU financing after Papua New Guinea among Pacific Island countries,” she said.

According to Ambassador Plinkert, the EU has committed approximately $46 million euros over the past four years to support development programmes in Solomon Islands, covering sectors such as climate resilience, water infrastructure, governance and sustainable economic development.

The Ambassador also highlighted Solomon Islands’ current role as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum and the importance of cooperation within the regional body.

“The European Union is a dialogue partner to the Pacific Islands Forum and we are preparing to participate in this year’s Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau,” she said.

The EU has formally applied to become a Strategic Partner of the Pacific Islands Forum, with a decision expected during the leaders’ meeting later this year.

“We look forward to the support of Solomon Islands in becoming a strategic partner in this important forum,” Ambassador Plinkert added.

She said that the EU and Solomon Islands share common positions on key international issues, including support for multilateralism, the rules-based international order and the principles of the United Nations Charter.

The Ambassador also expressed appreciation for Solomon Islands’ support for United Nations resolutions concerning Ukraine and for its continued engagement on global challenges such as climate change.

Ambassador Plinkert said discussions focused heavily on future cooperation and how the EU’s relationship with Solomon Islands is evolving.

She indicated that the EU is moving towards a more strategic partnership model that places greater emphasis on investment and economic opportunities alongside traditional development assistance.

The new approach, linked to the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, is expected to support major infrastructure and economic projects across the Pacific, including potential investments in Solomon Islands.

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EU signals stronger investment focus in Solomon Islands

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BY NED GAGAHE

The European Union has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthen cooperation with Solomon Islands, with future engagement expected to place greater emphasis on infrastructure investment, renewable energy and private sector development.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Island Sun, EU Ambassador to the Pacific Barbara Plinkert said discussions with government leaders confirmed that both sides remain aligned on key development priorities.

“I think from my side, just to reconfirm our strong partnership and that we are heading in the right direction with this partnership in the sectors of cooperation,” Ambassador Plinkert said.

She identified renewable energy, infrastructure development and the water sector as key areas that will continue to shape EU support in Solomon Islands.

“Renewable energy is one. Infrastructure will be one that we will be looking into more, and also the water sector,” she said.

The Ambassador said that the delegation visited an urban water and sanitation project supported by the European Union in partnership with other development partners under the leadership of the Asian Development Bank.

She said the visit provided an opportunity to confirm with the government that these sectors remain priorities under the current administration.

Beyond development cooperation, Ambassador Plinkert also highlighted the importance of political engagement between the European Union and Solomon Islands, particularly through the Pacific Islands Forum, where Solomon Islands currently serves as Chair.

“The European Union is and remains a stable and predictable partner,” she said.

She added that discussions with government leaders demonstrated a strong interest in renewing and strengthening ties with the European Union.

“We come out of these meetings very reassured and very optimistic as to the future direction of EU-Solomon Islands cooperation,” Ambassador Plinkert said.

Meanwhile, Director for Asia, Central Asia and the Pacific at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships, Peteris Ustubs, revealed that ongoing EU budget support is helping advance reforms within Solomon Islands’ energy sector.

“We have ongoing budget support to the government related to energy sector reform,” Mr Ustubs said.

He explained that discussions with the Ministry of Energy focused on how reforms could improve the sector and create greater opportunities for renewable energy generation and usage.

“There are things that could be improved in the energy sector which would allow more usage of renewable energy in the system,” he said.

Mr Ustubs said the European Union is now seeking to expand cooperation beyond traditional development assistance through its Global Gateway strategy, which promotes investment partnerships and private sector engagement.

“We are looking not only at the traditional forms of development cooperation but also looking at ways of bringing and cooperating more with businesses and enlarging our traditional cooperation with more investments,” he said.

The Global Gateway initiative is designed to attract investment, support private sector growth and finance strategic infrastructure projects across partner countries.

Mr Ustubs identified the proposed Bina Harbour development and the energy sector as areas with significant investment potential.

“In the context of Bina Harbour and the energy sector, we see potential,” he said.

He added that discussions with government leaders had provided valuable insights into the country’s development priorities and future direction.

“This was a very useful exchange with the government, allowing us to see the clear direction in which the government would like to go,” Mr Ustubs said.

He confirmed that the European Union will continue discussions with Solomon Islands following the visit as both sides explore opportunities to advance concrete projects and investment initiatives.

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Japan festival ‘Matsuri’ coming to Honiara

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BY TONY IROGA

On July 11, the Embassy of Japan and JICA Solomon Islands will host a Japanese cultural event titled ‘Japan Festival Matsuri’.

Matsuri means ‘festival’ in Japanese and the event will showcase craft activities and entertainment that will reflect the culture of Japan.

The event is open to the public, and admission is free of charge, a statement by the embassy of Japan said.

Visitors will be able to experience Japanese culture through a variety of booths, including opportunities to try on traditional summer outfit ‘Yuakata’ and take part in craft activities, along with calligraphy and other traditional cultural activities, the statement said.

In addition, Kitano Mendana Hotel will feature a booth introducing Japanese festival food culture.

The programme will also include a performance stage, with opportunities for visitors to enjoy and participate in the traditional Japanese dance, ‘Bon Odori’, the embassy statement said.

The event will be held at the Futsal Court next to the Multipurpose Hall, in Chinatown, Honiara from 11am to 2pm.

All are warmly invited to attend and enjoy this cultural event, the embassy said.

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‘NOTHING MISLEADING’

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Mines Minister Manuari says cancellation of gold dealer licences part of wider transition in reform and strengthening governance of gold sector

BY TONY IROGA

Government has refuted the Opposition leader’s accusation that it has misled the country in announcing that it had cancelled gold dealers’ licences.

Opposition leader Manasseh Sogavare had said over the weekend that despite government’s announcement that it had cancelled gold dealer licences there are still 10 active gold dealer licences.

“No show-cause process has been invoked, no lawful cancellation procedure has been activated, and no evidence has been presented that any of the statutory grounds for cancellation have been established,” Mr Sogavare said.

“The Prime Minister therefore owes the country an explanation. Solomon Islanders deserve facts, not headlines. If the Government intends to reform the gold trading sector, it must do so lawfully, transparently and honestly.

“It is a serious public misrepresentation on a matter affecting miners, dealers, investors, provincial stakeholders and public confidence in the administration of the law.

Sogavare called on the Prime Minister to immediately correct the record and tell the nation:

-Which specific Gold Dealer Licences have been cancelled.

-On what date each cancellation took effect.

-What statutory ground was relied on in each case.

-Whether each licence holder was issued a show-cause notice as required by law.

-Whether any appeal rights have been triggered under the Act.

“If the Prime Minister cannot provide those answers, then he should withdraw his statement and apologise for misleading the public,” Sogavare said.

In response, Mines Minister Derick Manuari said there was nothing misleading about government’s position, adding that ‘Government’s decision regarding Gold Dealer Licences (GDLs) forms part of a broader reform programme’.

Mr Manuari emphasised that due process is being followed and that the cancellation of licences is only one component of a wider transition aimed at reforming and strengthening governance of the gold sector.

“This is not simply about cancelling licences. The Government is implementing a comprehensive transition from the existing Gold Dealer Licensing regime to a new framework that will provide greater transparency, accountability, oversight and national benefit from our gold resources,” Manuari said.

He said Caucus has already endorsed the policy direction to transition away from the current Gold Dealer Licensing framework.

Manuari said necessary reforms also support the establishment of a State-Owned Holding Company (SOHC) that will facilitate Government participation, investment, oversight and strategic management of the sector.

“The cancellation of existing licences is the final step in a process that includes due diligence reviews, legal requirements, transitional arrangements, and the establishment of a stronger regulatory and commercial framework for the sector,” he said.

The Minister further clarified that since taking office, no new Gold Dealer Licences have been issued.

He said of the almost 40 licences previously issued, only 10 remain active.

Manuari said all other licences are currently undergoing compliance reviews and due diligence processes as part of the Government’s reform programme.

“The Mines Division is undertaking comprehensive compliance assessments of all active licence holders. These reviews are necessary to ensure accountability and to address longstanding mismanagement that have undermined effective regulation of the sector,” Manuari said.

“The current licensing framework has exposed Government to potential revenue leakage, under-reporting, illicit trading risks and broader governance concerns. These are issues that this Government is determined to address through meaningful reform.

“Absence of political will by successive governments to reform and strengthen governance in the sector has resulted in a lot of mess that we are now trying to sort out, and of all people, the Opposition Leader should know better.”

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DREAM IGNITE

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OFC vice president John Kapi Nato urges unity, youth development and regional football pathways

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Newly launched Ghupo Wantoks FC has set its sights on building pathways for young footballers across Melanesia following an official launch at Iron Bottom Sound (IBS) Monarch Bar and Grill in Honiara on Saturday night.

The club’s launch brought together football officials, sponsors, former players, supporters and guests, with speeches centered on youth development, regional partnerships and long-term football ambitions.

Club owner and major sponsor John Kapi Nato — who is also the founder of PNG powerhouse Hekari United FC and current Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) vice president — described the launch as more than just the beginning of a football club.

“Tonight is not just a launching night of Ghupo Wantok FC, but it is a celebration of connection.

“It’s about unity and embracing the power and the beauty of football to bring all of us together,” Nato said.

Nato said the inclusion of the word “Wantok” in the club’s name reflected a broader Melanesian identity that would unite players and communities across the region.

“The club will represent all the Melanesian countries — Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and Fiji,” he said.

Speaking passionately about football development, Nato shared the early beginnings of Hekari FC in Papua New Guinea more than two decades ago, saying the club started with a vision to create opportunities for young people.

“We must go out and start connecting and bringing these young people in so we can give them aspirations and hopes.

“Football is more than a sport. It creates friendships, shared identity and opportunities for our youth,” he said.

Nato stressed that discipline, education and structured football pathways were critical to helping young players reach higher levels of the game.

“Today in world football, clubs are looking at young players aged 20, 22 and 23. That’s the dream every football club must have.

“That’s what Ghupo Wantoks FC must develop — the academy of young people,” he said.

He also highlighted the importance of stronger football cooperation between Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, including player exchanges, coaching development and youth tournaments.

“The sea must not be seen as a barrier, but a connection of dreams.

“We must create pathways for our young players so they can reach the next level of football in Europe or America,” Nato said.

Nato further encouraged club officials and stakeholders to remain committed to building the club for the long term.

“You want to build a club? It’s not easy.

“It must be collective work together, shared vision together and shared objectives together,” he said.

Meanwhile, Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) vice president Robert Seni congratulated Ghupo Wantoks FC and acknowledged the work being done by the club’s leadership.

“SIFF is very honored for the invitation received from Ghupo Wantok FC.

“The federation is always here and will always support football and anything to do with football,” Seni said.

Seni paid tribute to club president Mrs Vonnie JK Natto for her commitment and drive in football development.

“I wish everyone in the football family had the same drive that Vonnie has.

“I think if we have 10 of the likes of Vonnie, we should have been in the World Cup,” he said.

Seni also revealed that SIFF has been pursuing discussions with government authorities regarding possible tax rebates for football sponsors in Solomon Islands in an effort to encourage greater corporate support for clubs and football development.

“This time it’s very hard to get sponsors.

“We hope to pursue it with the new government now, at least to give some rebates for sponsors of football in Solomon Islands,” he said.

The launch programme featured entertainment, presentations, fundraising activities and acknowledgements to sponsors and supporters who contributed towards the event and the club’s development.

Special acknowledgements were made to John Kapi Nato and Vonnie Nato, Premier of Rennell and Bellona Province, Eric Sau’eha , MPs namely; Derrick Manuari, Morris Toiraena and Choilyn Yim Douglas, and Ropiko Energy’s Rolland Piko, Honiara City Council, Advance Technology Limited, Mr. John Taupongi, Nine-One field owner Sam, and the Ghupo Wantoks FC officials, managers, coaches and technical team for their support and hard work towards the successful launch.

Ghupo Wantoks FC, which is still in its early years of establishment, aims to develop young football talent while strengthening football links across the Melanesian region through partnerships, exchanges and long-term football programmes.

With support from experienced football figures and regional stakeholders, the club now hopes to build a lasting football legacy for future generations.

Photo credit: Richard Menanopo

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Three-day inclusive sports initiative identifies emerging athletes

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The successful staging of the inaugural “Play for Equity” Para Sport Program has marked another important step forward for disability inclusion and Para sport development in Solomon Islands.

Hosted by the Disability Women Empowerment Association (DWEA) from June 2–4 at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS), the three-day initiative brought together persons with disabilities from across the country to participate in sporting activities, leadership training and empowerment programs aimed at strengthening inclusion through sport.

The program was organized by DWEA — one of six organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) under the National Disability Forum Solomon Islands (NDFSI) — with support from development partners and sporting stakeholders.

Speaking to NSC Media, NDFSI volunteer Stephen Maerongo described the event as a milestone achievement for the country’s growing Para sport movement.

“This is the first event of its kind organised by DWEA, bringing together people with disabilities to participate in sporting activities while promoting inclusion, empowerment and unity,” Maerongo said.

The initiative combined sporting participation with educational and personal development sessions, including pre-evaluation and post-evaluation training designed to help participants reflect on their learning experiences throughout the program.

Participants included members of the Bethesda Disability Training and Support Centre (BDTSC) alongside representatives from various disability organisations under the NDFSI umbrella.

Apart from encouraging participation and confidence-building, the program also focused on identifying potential athletes capable of progressing into the Solomon Islands Para sport pathway.

“The program aims to empower people with disabilities, especially women and girls, and to demonstrate the potential that exists within our disability community.

“The program has also provided an opportunity for us to identify potential athletes who could become part of future national Para sport teams and represent Solomon Islands abroad,” Maerongo said.

Maerongo acknowledged the support of development partners including the Pacific Disability Forum (PDF), while also commending the National Sports Council (NSC) for assisting with the hosting of the event and transport arrangements.

“We sincerely thank NSC, which manages SINIS, for its positive response and support in hosting this program,”

“We also thank our partners, volunteers, coaches and participants whose commitment made the event possible. Without their support and willingness to work together, this program would not have been successful,” he said.

He added that the success of the inaugural program demonstrates the importance of stronger collaboration between disability organisations and sporting institutions in creating equal sporting opportunities for all Solomon Islanders.

“We hope to continue working together in the same spirit of unity, cooperation and inclusion as we plan future activities that will further support and empower persons with disabilities through sport and community engagement,” Maerongo said.

The Play for Equity Program also reflects the growing national push to strengthen Para sport structures in Solomon Islands as more organisations work to ensure persons with disabilities are given equal opportunities to participate in sport, develop their talents and pursue higher-level competition.

The National Disability Forum Solomon Islands (NDFSI) serves as the umbrella body representing Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) across the country and continues to advocate for inclusion, empowerment and equal participation opportunities through community programs, leadership initiatives and sport development activities.

Photo credit: NSC

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Corpus Christi celebration brings massive turnout in Honiara 

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

A massive gathering of Catholic faithfuls gathered yesterday for the country’s first-ever national celebration of Corpus Christi, marking the Year of the Eucharist under the theme “I am the bread of life.”

Catholic faiths attended the celebration yesterday, Photo by John Houanihau

Hosted by the Archdiocese of Honiara, the two-day event began on Saturday, June 6, with the main celebration held yesterday at the National Stadium.

The Corpus Christi procession making its way to the National Stadium yesterday, Photo by John Houanihau

Parishes from Ruavatu to Visale, along with those across the Honiara area, joined in the celebration.

They rested overnight at Holy Cross Parish and Don Bosco Henderson on Saturday, where students, lay people, priests, and deacons led programs of prayer, song, and confession. 

Yesterday, many Catholics gathered at Don Bosco and Holy Cross before processing together in prayer and song towards the National Stadium for the solemn Mass.

The solemn procession of the Corpus Christi, led by the priest to the altar, Photo by John Houanihau
The Gospel was brought forth in procession, honoring the living Word of God, Photo by John Houanihau
Tenaru School’s Form Six student choir singing during yesterday’s celebration, Photo by John Houanihau
Youths receiving their first Holy communion, Photo by John Houanihau
People with special needs were also part of the celebration, Photo by John Houanihau
Catholics gathered yesterday, embracing fellowship and celebration, Photo by John Houanihau

The stadium program opened with the Divine Mercy Chaplet, led by the Divine Mercy Group, followed by Taizé songs and reflections.

A Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament preceded the Eucharistic Celebration at 9:00am and the Holy Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Peter Chele, with the homily delivered by Fr. James Ereai.

The program concluded later in the afternoon.

Photo credit: John Houanihau

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‘Development projects strengthen Solomon Islands’ climate resilience’

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BY NED GAGAHE

The European Union (EU) says its investments in renewable energy, water supply and sanitation are helping Solomon Islands build resilience against climate change, even when projects are not directly classified as climate initiatives.

Speaking during an exclusive interview with the Island Sun following a three-day visit to Solomon Islands, EU’s Pacific Minister Counsellor and Head of Cooperation, Maurizio Cian, said climate change considerations are integrated across many EU-funded programmes in the Pacific.

“On climate change, we normally have a regional approach.

“We have a number of projects working on this area, including agriculture and nature-based solutions. But even projects that are not directly focused on climate change do take climate change into consideration,” Mr Cian said.

He referred to renewable energy projects as a key example of investments that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions while supporting sustainable development.

“Renewable energy is definitely something which contributes to reducing emissions when done in a proper way,” he said.

Mr Cian also highlighted the EU-supported water project in Honiara, saying it is designed to improve water security while delivering environmental benefits.

“The project tries to supply water to the whole city, which is no longer dependent on rainfall.

“It also seeks to improve wastewater treatment so that the environment benefits from the project as well,” he said.

He revealed that the EU has committed an additional contribution of approximately SBD300 million towards the water project and is awaiting formal approval from the Solomon Islands Government.

“We expect the government to sign very soon. It has been pending for quite a long time with the previous government.

“We hope this government will speed up the signing process and the implementation of the project,” Mr Cian said.

Director for Asia, Central Asia and the Pacific at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA), Peteris Ustubs, said the EU’s energy investments are also contributing significantly to climate adaptation and resilience efforts in Solomon Islands.

“Energy projects are a contribution to ensuring that climate change is taken into account.

“At the end, it is not only about energy supply, but also about how energy is generated,” Mr Ustubs said.

He said reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels and increasing the use of renewable energy sources will strengthen the country’s resilience while boosting economic independence.

“Making sure that the consumption of traditional fossil fuels in Solomon Islands can decrease and more renewable energy can increase makes the country more resilient to climate change.

“It also makes the country more sovereign, more independent and more prosperous because these are your own resources that you use for producing energy in the country,” he said.

The comments come as the European Union continues to expand its partnership with Solomon Islands through investments in renewable energy, water infrastructure, sanitation, and sustainable development initiatives that aim to support long-term climate resilience across the country.

Photo credit: EU

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SIMS issues strong winds number five

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has issued a strong wind warning for parts of the country.

The warning, issued at 4:00 pm yesterday, remains in effect for the waters of Rennell and Bellona, southern Makira, Western Province, Guadalcanal, Temotu Province, and the Russell Islands.

SIMS is also cautioning sea travellers and communities to take necessary safety precautions.

According to SIMS, a persistent southeasterly wind flow over the country is expected to generate east to southeast winds of between 20 and 25 knots across the affected areas.

Sea conditions are forecasted to be moderate to rough, with southeasterly swells reaching between 2.5 and 3.0 metres. Visibility is also expected to be poor in areas experiencing showers and thunderstorms.

The weather office said that the strong winds have the potential to impact lives and property and urged people living in the affected areas to take precautionary measures.

Sea travelers, particularly operators of small boats, have been advised to exercise extreme caution as the strong winds could produce dangerous wave conditions.

SIMS also calls on the public to share the warning information with people living with disabilities to ensure they are aware of the potential risks.

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