Government and HALO Trust renew partnership to continue addressing UXO threat

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The government, through the Ministry of Police, National Security & Correctional Services (MPNSCS), has renewed a vital Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The HALO Trust to continue nationwide efforts to address the legacy threat of unexploded ordnance (UXO) from World War II.

The renewed agreement, signed on Tuesday, extends collaboration through June 2026, reinforcing commitments to public safety, national security, and sustainable community development, a statement by MPNSCS yesterday said.

MPNSCS said this MoU renewal builds on the original partnership established in June 2023, which facilitated a comprehensive Non-Technical Survey (NTS) identifying contaminated areas and established a national UXO coordination mechanism.

The ongoing collaboration enables further surveying, enhanced capacity building for the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team, and strengthened national oversight with transparency and respect for Solomon Islands laws and cultural protocols.

MPNSCS Permanent Secretary Karen Galokale expressed deep appreciation for The HALO Trust’s professionalism and technical expertise, and the generous financial backing from the United States Government, supporting HALO’s work with a USD 3.6 million grant.

“This renewed MoU is not just about clearing remnants of conflict but about protecting lives and enabling national progress,” Galokale said.

Emily Davis, Programme Manager of The HALO Trust Solomon Islands, voiced enthusiasm for continuing the partnership.

“We are proud to support Solomon Islands communities through non-technical surveys and risk education to reduce the threat of unexploded ordnance.

“We thank the Ministry of Police, National Security & Correctional Services for their ongoing collaboration,” Davies said.

The MPNSCS statement said UXO contamination remains a serious hazard to life and development, particularly in former World War II operational zones.

The statement said that the partnership supports the National Security Strategy 2025–2028, prioritizing the safety and security of all Solomon Islanders and enabling safer land use for agriculture, infrastructure, tourism, and economic investment.

The MPNSCS said that the Solomon Islands Government and its partners reaffirm their shared commitment toward a UXO-free Solomon Islands, fostering safer communities and a resilient future for generations to come.

Photo: Supplied

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

The Network for the Indigenous Peoples Solomons (NIPS) extended its support to three communities in Isabel province through the delivery of solar systems to promote clean and sustainable energy.

Over the weekend, NIPS handed over the solar systems to community leaders of Koisisi, Lelegia, and Talise villages under the initiative “Empowering Isabel: Harnessing Solar Energy for a Sustainable Future.”

According to NIPS, the support forms part of the 2025 Inter-generational Climate Microgrant – Illuminates Solomon Islands’ Future project, which seeks to transition rural communities from conventional energy sources to renewable solar power.

“The initiative stands as a beacon of hope and progress, aiming to replace conventional energy reliance with clean, solar-powered solutions,” the statement from NIPS said.

The project focuses on equipping community halls that play crucial roles during gatherings and important events. NIPS said the move promotes both environmental awareness and cost-saving measures while advancing community energy independence.

Chief Wilson Doedoke of Talise Village, speaking on behalf of the three communities, expressed gratitude for the timely support.

“We are thankful that NIPS reached out to us. Our communities will have many activities this Christmas, and these solar systems will help us lighten up the community halls,” he said.

NIPS Coordinator and project recipient, Aydah Gwaen Akao, said the initiative marks the start of a long-term partnership.

“This is not just an immediate solution; it’s a commitment to a sustainable future, underscoring the enduring collaboration between local communities and international partners,” she stated.

Through this initiative, the communities of Koisisi, Lelegia, and Talise are poised to lead by example, demonstrating how clean energy can drive resilience, empowerment, and self-sufficiency across rural Solomon Islands.

Photos: NIPS

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Papua New Guinea Solomon Islands Business Council (PNGSIBC) and Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) comes with five strategic objectives.

SICCI Vice Chair Gordon Denty highlighted this during the PNGSIBC and SICCI, meet & greet event held at the Honiara Golf Club following the signing in Honiara last week.

“The number one is to facilitate the expansion of bilateral trade by reducing trade barriers and enhance the flow of Solomon Islands traditional exports such as cocoa, coconut and tuna into PNG markets while also expanding access for PNG goods and services here in the Solomon Islands.

“Number two is to promote cross-border investment by developing a transparent pipeline of opportunities connecting Papua New Guinea investors with high potential sectors such as agriculture, tourism, infrastructure and renewable energy,” Mr Denty said.

According to the SICCI Vice Chair the number three is enabling knowledge exchange by strengthening reciprocal learning and shared expertise, particularly in financial services.

He further said that number four objective is to advocate for shared interests through both country’s united voice to champion policies and regulations that foster a more favourable and seamless cross-border business environment between the two nations.

He said that fifth objective is the policy and framework collaboration which enables continual dialogue on policy frameworks and joint programmes that support priority sectors, particularly SME sector.

“Now to our SICCI members, this MoU is your gateway,” he said.

He said that the MoU opens new doors to partnership, reduces costs of doing business and provides reliable and trusted regional partners.

“I encourage all our members to remain engaged with SICCI, to explore and access the range of opportunities that will emerge through this collaboration.

“Together we can turn this agreement into tangible results for your enterprises.

“To our government, we deeply appreciate your continued support and vision and we look forward to working closely with you to ensure this private sector led initiative receives the enabling environment that it deserves to flourish.

“This partnership has long been a call for SICCI and we are delighted that it has finally come to fruition,” Mr Denty concluded.

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Papua New Guinea Solomon Islands Business Council (PNGSIBC) and Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) aims for a stronger partnership between two nations.

SICCI Vice Chair Gordon Denty said during the PNGSIBC and SICCI meet & greet event held at the Honiara Golf Club following the MoU signing in Honiara last week.

“Today, we are not only witnessing a fruition of shared vision and aspirations, but we are actively laying the foundation for a stronger partnership between our two nations. A partnership that will drive growth, prosperity, opportunity for both SI and PNG,” Mr Denty said.

He acknowledges the enduring government to government relationships, guided by the leadership of the two Prime Ministers, whose commitment has cemented the shared vision, which the two private sector institutions, the PNGSIBC and SICCI, formalised through the signing of a MoU.

“On behalf of the SICCI, I register our sincere appreciation to the Prime Ministers James Marape of PNG and the Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele of SI for their leadership and foresight in advancing this partnership,” he said.

He said that for far too long, the immense potential for trade and investment between the two economies remained underexplored while both nations family and political ties have been strong, thus commercial bridges needs reinforcement.

“MoU signing is indeed the architectural blueprint for building that bridge. This MoU lays the foundation for growing and strengthening our two economies. It represents a shared commitment to drive economic growth, build and expand trade, unlock investment opportunities and foster a more conducive environment for our enterprises to thrive,” Denty said.

He said that the MoU provides a strategic framework for deeper engagement between the private sectors of both countries, serving as a platform for dialogue, networking and collaboration and will translate into practical opportunities for trade, investment and innovation.

“Ultimately, it strengthens economic cooperation between PNG and SI to stimulate private sector growth and resilience,’’ Denty said.

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BY NED GAGAHE

Former Premier of Malaita Province, Daniel Suidani, has passed away yesterday morning at the National Referral Hospital (NRH) in Honiara.

The sad news of his passing was confirmed by his former advisor and close friend, Celsus Talifilu, who made the announcement shortly after his death.

“It is with deep sorrow and heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Honourable Daniel Suidani, Member of the Malaita Provincial Assembly for Ward 5, West Baegu/Fataleka, who passed away this morning at the NRH,” Talifilu said.

Following the news, tributes began pouring in from within Solomon Islands and abroad, with many describing Suidani as a fearless leader whose voice and principles shaped the country’s political conversation in recent years.

“The late Daniel Suidani will be remembered as a fearless leader who stood firm in his beliefs and defended the voice of his people. His legacy as a principled and outspoken Premier of Malaita will continue to inspire generations of Solomon Islanders,” one community leader said.

“It feels as if Malaita has lost one of her brightest sons.

“Suidani’s leadership was not just political, it was deeply personal to many of us who saw him as a true warrior for truth and justice,” said a grieving resident.

Another commentator reflected, “The nation mourns the passing of a man whose convictions shaped national discourse and drew global attention to Solomon Islands’ democracy. Whether admired or opposed, Daniel Suidani’s influence on the country’s political landscape is undeniable.”

Late Suidani first rose to prominence when he became Premier of Malaita Province in June 2019. During his tenure, he became widely known for his outspoken opposition to the Solomon Islands government’s diplomatic switch from Taiwan to the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

Under his leadership, the Malaita Provincial Assembly issued the “Auki Communiqué,” which called for a moratorium on investments linked “directly or indirectly with the Chinese Communist Party.”

His bold stance won him admiration from supporters, particularly in Malaita, but also drew criticism from within the national government.

In 2020, he announced plans for a provincial referendum on Malaita’s autonomy, an unprecedented move that underscored his determination to protect the province’s interests.

However, in February 2023, Suidani was removed from office through a vote of no confidence.

He was later disqualified from the provincial assembly after refusing to recognise the One-China policy. Despite these setbacks, his political career continued to resonate deeply with the people.

In 2022, he founded the Umi for Change Party (U4C), through which he continued advocating for transparency, good governance, and Malaita’s right to self-determination.

He was re-elected to the Malaita Provincial Assembly in April 2024, and in March 2025, the High Court ruled that his earlier dismissal from office had been unlawful, a decision seen by many as a vindication of his fight for justice.

Beyond politics, Daniel Suidani was regarded as a grassroots leader, a man who connected with ordinary people, built relationships with community chiefs, women, and youth, and grounded his leadership in indigenous values.

“He was a man of courage and conviction. Even when the pressure was great, he stood firm for what he believed was right for Malaita,” said one supporter.

Island Sun understands that in early 2021 when Suidani was Premier he had been suffering from chronic and increasingly severe headaches, described by doctors as “throbbing” pain in the frontal and temporal region which required advanced scanning and treatment outside the country.

The condition was described as a “probable brain space-occupying lesion” — a term referring to a suspected mass in the brain.

Due to the complexity and seriousness of his condition, Mr Suidani travelled to Taiwan for further diagnosis and treatment.

The trip, however, drew political attention at the time, as it occurred amid tensions between the Malaita Provincial Government and the national government over diplomatic relations with China and Taiwan.

The national government reportedly deemed his overseas trip “unauthorised,” saying it contravened the country’s One-China policy.

Further details regarding funeral arrangements will be made known in due course.

Photo: Supplied

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BY NED GAGAHE

The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and the Solomon Islands–Australia Partnership have launched a major new initiative to strengthen teacher training and improve education standards across the country.

The launching ceremony was held at SINU’s Panatina Campus Lecture Theatre on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

The event brought together key representatives from the Australian High Commission, the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD), Catalpa, and the University of Melbourne to celebrate a shared vision of preparing workforce-ready teachers who can deliver high-quality education to children across the nation by 2033.

Among those in attendance were Permanent Secretary of MEHRD, Dr Franko Rodie, Australia’s Deputy High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, the Dean of the Faculty of Education and Humanities, Dr Patricia Rodie, and SINU’s Pro Vice-Chancellor Academic, Associate Professor Dr Eric Katovai.

Speaking at the event Mrs Rodie described the partnership as “a true reflection of what can be achieved through shared vision, commitment, and collaboration”.

She highlighted the ongoing review of the Bachelor of Teaching (Pre-Service) curriculum and the design of a new Teacher Training Facility that aims to give trainee teachers more hands-on, practical learning experiences.

Pro Vice-Chancellor Katovai said the partnership marks “a milestone moment” for SINU and for teacher education in the Solomon Islands.

He said the initiative aligns closely with SINU’s Academic Master Plan 2026–2030 and national education priorities, emphasising quality, inclusivity, and innovation in teaching and learning.

“Although today we celebrate the launch, much has already been achieved.

“Through the Stronger Education Together (SET) initiative, our faculty has begun reviewing the teaching curriculum with support from Catalpa and the University of Melbourne, upgrading ICT tools for educators, and planning the development of a state-of-the-art Teaching Laboratory at SINU,” Katovai said.

The new Teaching Laboratory will simulate real classroom environments to help trainee teachers bridge the gap between theory and practice.

The partnership will also focus on strengthening mentoring systems, building research capacity, and supporting SINU to generate locally relevant evidence to inform education policy and practice.

The launch concluded with the unveiling of the partnership photo, student performances, and closing remarks by Dr John Sisiolo.

Rodie said the day was not just the beginning of a program, but strengthening of a commitment — to our teachers, to our children, and to the future of education in the Solomon Islands.

Photo: SINU

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

A sanitation project that aims to eliminate open defecation in Marava community, Ranongga Island, Western Province, has come under heavy criticism for being incomplete and ineffective.

Three years after the initiative was launched, residents say the project to make Marava a “No Open Defecation” zone has failed to achieve its goal due to the lack of water supply.

In an exclusive interview with Island Sun, community member Denty Aqolo expressed frustration, saying that while toilet houses were built, they remain largely unusable.

“This is the reason why I said the project is incomplete. These people constructed flush toilets, but there is no water supply. How can we use these toilets without water?” Aqolo questioned.

He said residents are forced to carry water from nearby streams just to flush the toilets – a daily burden that defeats the project’s purpose.

“This development adds to our hardship instead of solving the problem,” Aqolo added, calling for future projects to include proper water infrastructure.

He also said the Marava Community has no water supply so people use a nearby stream to collect water.

Aqolo said there are potential water sources close to Malole village suitable to provide enough water for the community.

He calls on other donor partners to help his community with a water supply project.

Niubare Community Chief, Rodrick Tikera, shared similar concerns, noting that many of the toilets built under the same initiative in his community also lack water connections.

“I don’t know what happened to the project. It’s been over three years now and no one came back to finish it,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of Niubare and Marava women, Magaret Tikera said keeping a household without proper water supply is a huge challenge.

She said women have to walk to the streams to collect water for cooking, drinking and also for the toilets.

“It has been very difficult and painful for us women to do this job every year. Sometimes I wonder whether there is a government or leaders to help us,” Tikera said.

She said water is important not only for the toilets but for daily household chores.

A billboard at Malole village identifies the project as being funded by Australia Aid and the European Union, with support from the Solomon Islands Government and Western Provincial Government.

The Marava case highlights a broader issue that while donor-funded projects are often rolled out across Solomon Islands, questions remain about their planning, implementation, and long-term sustainability.

*Reporting for this story was supported by Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS)

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