BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

An Australian Paediatric Surgical Specialist Team from Canberra Hospital completed 26 life-changing surgeries at the National Referral Hospital (NRH) in Honiara during their April visit.

A statement from the Ministry of Health and Medical Service (MHMS) said working alongside local surgeon Dr. Stallone Kohia, the team reviewed 44 patients and carried out complex procedures, including emergency surgery on a four-day-old baby with a severe bowel anomaly.

MHMS said the infant is recovering well.

Dr. Kohia praised the visiting specialists for their ongoing support, noting that their missions not only improved patient care but also strengthened training for local doctors and nurses.

Senior Surgeon Dr. Celine Hamid highlighted the partnership’s impact, with nearly 378 children treated since the program began in 2015.

Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach welcomed the collaboration, saying it delivers immediate benefits for children while building local capacity.

MHMS said most surgeries carried out by the team focused on paediatric urology, particularly hypospadias correction, and all patients are reported to be recovering well.

The next mission is scheduled for October 10–19, 2026, with plans to expand outreach to provincial areas, prioritising burn treatment.

The team’s work was supported by donations from partners including the John James Foundation, Rotary Club of Hall, Johnson & Johnson, Omnigon, and Coloplast.

Photo credit: MHMS

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) says this year’s National Panpipe Festival (NATPAN) will be supported through partnerships with private sector organisations and community stakeholders.

Director for Culture and Tourism and NATPAN Chair, Dennis Marita, said the government is shifting from solely funding cultural events to encouraging broader community and business to participate.

“We are opening our arms to other stakeholders to come on board,” Mr Marita said in a press conference in Honiara, on Friday last week.

He said that the National Panpipe Festival, known as (NATPAN), will run from 1 to 5 July, and forms part of the country’s lead-up celebrations to Independence Day.

He adds that the event will feature traditional panpipe performances, cultural dances, exhibitions, symposiums and community activities focused on the preservation of bamboo music traditions.

“Venues being considered include the National Museum, National Art Gallery and areas near the Port Authority, Magic Land. We are waiting their confirmation,” he said.

He also highlighted that Solomon Telekom will assist with live streaming and documentation of the festival, while VFresh will donate water supplies for participants and organisers.

“Tourism Solomons will also support the promotion and publicity of the event. Apart from performances, the festival will include exhibitions showcasing different styles of panpipes from across the country, including demonstrations on bamboo cutting, tuning and instrument-making,” he said.

Mr Marita said that a symposium involving local experts, researchers and traditional panpipe masters is also planned to educate the public about the cultural significance and history of panpipe music in Solomon Islands at the event.

He said that ministry also plans to host a “bonfire talk story” session where performers from different provinces can share knowledge and cultural experiences.

“Looking ahead, the government hopes NATPAN will eventually grow into an international festival attracting performers and visitors from around the world. The long-term vision is for Solomon Islands to become globally recognised as a centre for panpipe culture and music,” Marita said.

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BY NED GAGAHE

The Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea are mourning the passing of Reverend Dr Sir Leslie Tanaboe Boseto, the first Indigenous Moderator of the then United Church in PNG and the Solomon Islands (UCPNGSI).

Sir Leslie passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of faith, leadership, and vision that shaped the Church and inspired generations.

Born on 17 April 1933 in Boe Boe village, Lauru Island, Choiseul Province, he rose to prominence as a spiritual leader committed to the growth and identity of the Melanesian Church.

In 1972, he made history as the first Melanesian to assume the highest office of the United Church—a role equivalent to the Moderator of the United Church in Australia.

From 1972 to 1980, Sir Leslie guided the Church through a critical transition from missionary-led structures to fully indigenous leadership. He championed reforms that ensured Melanesian culture and values were central to church governance and mission.

“Sir Leslie Boseto was a man of the people, a visionary, and a pioneer.

“He understood the unique needs of our communities and the importance of a Church that truly reflects Melanesian realities,” said Rev Dr John Kadiba of Darwin, Australia.

Sir Leslie’s tenure was marked by clarity, courage, and pastoral care. He encouraged theological reflection rooted in Melanesian culture, promoted unity across denominations, and strengthened the Church’s role in society. His vision for a locally led Church continues to influence leaders and congregations across the Pacific.

In recognition of his outstanding service, Sir Leslie was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2019 and received an Honorary Doctorate in Philosophy from the Pasifika Community University in Suva, Fiji, in 2025.

He is survived by his wife, Marama Lady Hazel Boseto, his children, grandchildren, and a wide network of church and community members whose lives he touched. Funeral arrangements are underway, with services expected to be held on Lauru Island, celebrating a life of faith, service, and transformative leadership.

In a message alongside Madam Wale, Cabinet Ministers, and staff of the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Prime Minister Matthew Wale described Sir Leslie as a towering figure in Solomon Islands’ history.

“It is with profound sadness that I, on behalf of the Government and people of Solomon Islands, extend our deepest condolences on the passing of Reverend Sir Leslie Boseto,” PM Wale said.

The Prime Minister highlighted Sir Leslie’s faith, humility, and unwavering commitment to serving the people, acknowledging his contribution as both a respected church leader and national figure who promoted unity, peace, and moral leadership.

“Throughout his years of service, Sir Leslie exemplified integrity, wisdom, and compassion. His contributions to both church and state have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come,” PM Wale stated.

“May his soul rest in eternal peace,” the message concluded.

Photo: Supplied

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

VICE Chancellor of Solomon Islands National University (SINU), Professor Transform Aqorau strongly emphasised that the country must begin investing more in human capital to improve its economic performance.

Speaking during his visit to the Western Provincial Government last week, Aqorau said greater attention must be on improving technical and vocational education across the country.

He said technical and vocational education is one of the best pathways towards building a sustainable and effective economic system.

Aqorau also said the country must now move towards a diversified economy that includes digital innovation and sustainable industries such as aquaculture, tourism and fisheries.

He said these sectors have the potential to attract investment and create employment opportunities for people in both urban and rural communities.

“All these can be achieved if we are to provide access to better education, especially in technical and vocational education,” Aqorau said.

He said the country’s economic system has remained largely unchanged since independence in 1978.

Aqorau said the economy continues to rely heavily on extractive industries such as logging and mining.

He described the industries as unsustainable and ineffective in driving long-term economic growth saying that both industries provide limited opportunities for local people when it comes to skilled employment.

“Most loggers and miners come with their technical employees, leaving unskilled jobs to locals.

“This is where investing in technical and vocational education is important,” Aqorau said.

He went on the say that local resource owners need be educated to help transform communities and return economic control to the people.

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UNICEF, MHMS coordinate WASH response

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The UNICEF Pacific Solomon Islands Humanitarian Situation Report #2 has highlighted extensive damage to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) systems across communities affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila.

This has raised concerns over increased health risks, particularly for children and women.

In Choiseul Province, assessments show that 33 of 76 water points have been destroyed, while a further 30 have been contaminated by seawater intrusion.

Based on the report, across 84 assessed communities, access to basic sanitation has been severely affected in 54 communities, with widespread open defecation reported.

In Western Province, island-level assessments covering Simbo, Ranongga, Rendova and Vella Lavella indicate that in some locations more than two-thirds of household toilets are no longer functional.

On Simbo Island alone, 39 of 54 water points have been damaged or are not working according to UNICEF report #2.

Schools and health facilities have also been heavily impacted, with WASH systems damaged in at least 16 closed schools and 11 health facilities.

UNICEF said that these conditions significantly increase the risk of waterborne disease outbreaks, especially among children.

It also notes that poor access to WASH services for girls can contribute to school dropouts and increase risks such as child marriage.

In response, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), with UNICEF support, has developed a WASH sector response plan that aims to strengthen coordination and address urgent gaps in water and sanitation services.

UNICEF is currently scaling up emergency assistance, including the distribution of supplies expected to support 700 to 1,000 households, benefiting an estimated 3,500 to 5,000 people.

The assistance includes 200 household water filters and 200 buckets with lids and taps, supporting safe drinking water for more than 1,000 people.

An additional 500 collapsible water containers are being provided to assist about 2,500 people in communities facing disrupted water access.

So far, 516 WASH and dignity kits have been distributed in Western Province and 200 in Choiseul Province, supporting hygiene and menstrual health needs for approximately 3,600 people.

To address urgent sanitation needs, 1,000 SATO pans are also being deployed to restore emergency household sanitation for up to 5,000 people in areas with severe damage and high open defecation risks.

UNICEF says assessments are ongoing, with early findings pointing to urgent needs for rehabilitation of water systems in schools and health facilities, which are critical to restore services and ensure safe access for children.

Photo credit: UNICEF

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

The China Police Liaison Team (CPLT), together with the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), visited the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and hosted a poetry-sharing activity under the theme “Discovering the Beauty of the Solomon Islands through the Essence of Chinese Poetry.”

More than 70 teachers and students attended the event, which featured introductions to Chinese history, culture, and poetic traditions, a statement form RSIPF said.

CPLT members shared over 20 modern poems inspired by the landscapes and customs of the Solomon Islands, highlighting the friendliness, bravery, and sincerity of its people.

The team encouraged students to study diligently, think deeply, and explore the scenic and cultural beauty of the nation while striving for peace and prosperity.

The lively atmosphere saw participants enjoying poetry, traditional Chinese music, tea culture, and short videos showcasing Chinese civilization, the statement said.

Students expressed enthusiasm for the exchange, noting that it deepened their understanding of Chinese culture and strengthened ties between the youth of China and the Solomon Islands.

The event concluded with warm wishes for continued friendship between the two countries.

Photo credit: RSIPF

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BY NED GAGAHE

Prime Minister Matthew Wale has moved swiftly to restore the ban on dolphin exports, overturning a controversial regulation introduced by the previous government just days before last week’s prime ministerial election.

The Prime Minister on Saturday signed into operation the Fisheries (Prohibition of Export of Dolphins) Regulations 2026, effectively reinstating the country’s long-standing ban on dolphin exports.

The new regulation revokes the Fisheries (Prohibition of Export of Dolphins) (Repeal) Regulations 2026, which had been signed on May 14 by former Fisheries Minister Bradley Tovosia.

Government said the decision was necessary to protect Solomon Islands’ tuna industry from reputational damage and possible international backlash.

“This action sends a strong and unambiguous message: Solomon Islands will not compromise its fisheries standards or risk its economic lifeline for short-term decisions,” the statement from the Government said.

The statement said the Government remains committed to protecting the integrity of the fisheries sector while safeguarding national interests, employment opportunities and international partnerships.

The repeal was published in the Solomon Islands Gazette under Legal Notice No. 180 and was made under Section 129 of the Fisheries Management Act 2015.

Prime Minister Wale has now formally reversed the repeal through the newly enacted Fisheries (Prohibition of Export of Dolphins) Regulations 2026, restoring the prohibition on dolphin exports across Solomon Islands.

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

Solomon Islands National University (SINU) proudly participated in the 20th International Conference on Community-Based Adaptation to Climate Change (CBA20), held from 11–14 May 2026 in Manila, Philippines, under the theme “Local Solutions Inspiring Global Action.”

CBA20 brought together over 400 participants worldwide, including researchers, policymakers, and community leaders, a statement from SINU said.

SINU co-hosted a Health Session titled “Climate Change and Health Adaptation, Scaling National and Local Level Health Investments as a Critical Adaptation Response in Developing Countries,” alongside partners Save the Children (England), Women’s Climate Center International (East Africa), and CARE International Iraq.

SINU representatives highlighted key research, Nixon Panda presented on community-based water security planning, while Dr Hugo Bugoro showcased citizen science for malaria and dengue surveillance with Collin Benjamin who served as co-facilitator and rapporteur.

Discussions emphasised on climate-resilient health systems, citizen science, indigenous knowledge, and inclusive partnerships.

Mr Bugoro said our local knowledge is still one of the important ways we deal with climate change in our communities.

Through CBA20, SINU strengthened its global profile, demonstrating how Solomon Islands research contributes to climate resilience and public health solutions.

Photo credit: SINU

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