BY NED GAGAHE

PRIME Minister Jeremiah Manele has highlighted the government’s strategic investments in the agriculture sector, underlining their role in driving economic growth and improving food security.

Speaking during the debate, PM Manele said the government is focused on export-oriented agricultural activities while simultaneously enhancing farmers’ purchasing power to strengthen domestic food security.

“As a government, we are intentional and deliberate in our strategy in the agriculture sector and in the allocation of resources,” he said. “We have not neglected food security; in fact, we have allocated nearly US$30 million for local food production and security through our partnerships.”

The Prime Minister highlighted the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock’s initiative to expand domestic rice production trials, which forms part of broader efforts to reduce the country’s rice import bill.

He also outlined several externally funded projects supporting local food production and nutrition, including:

• IFAD – Agriculture Investment for Market and Nutrition, with a budget of US$19 million over six years.
• FAO – Sustainable Transformation of Domestic Agri-food System, with a budget of US$3 million over three years.
• FAO – Food Systems Integrated Programme, with a budget of US$5 million over five years.
• UNICEF and Japan – School Meals Nutrition Project, with a budget of US$3.4 million over three years.

PM Manele said that the government’s approach is both intentional and deliberate, aimed at strengthening the agriculture sector, boosting exports, and improving food security for Solomon Islanders.

“Our initiatives are designed not only to support farmers but also to ensure that our people have access to nutritious and affordable food while reducing reliance on imports,” he said.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The national government, through the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI), is taking steps to establish the secretariat and board for the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) initiative.

Part of this effort includes the recruitment of a highly qualified CEO, who will be tasked with driving the SEZ’s development, a key initiative aimed at transforming the nation’s economic landscape.

The proposal marks the first major implementation of the SEZ after Parliament passed the initiative earlier this year.

Speaking in Parliament recently, the Minister for Commerce, Harry Kuma, confirmed that his ministry has secured budget funding to set up the SEZ board next year.

“We are currently in the process of establishing the SEZ secretariat and board. These must be set up first.

“Once the board is in place, they will recruit a world-qualified CEO to lead the initiative. We aim to recruit the CEO in 2026,” he said.

The Minister furthered that to begin the roll-out of SEZ, government will focus on locations that already have basic infrastructure in place, to minimize upfront costs.

“We will begin with areas where infrastructure exists, making it easier and quicker to establish operations and grow from there,” he said.

In a separate statement, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele described the SEZ as a breakthrough to attract investment and stimulate the country’s economic growth.

“The SEZ is designed to foster investment, streamline business processes, and create employment, especially in rural areas.

“These zones will offer tax incentives, infrastructure support, and customized regulations to attract both local and foreign investors, focusing on sectors like manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture,” he said.

Rex Ramofafia, the former Planning Minister and current Minister for Finance and Treasury, echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiment, noting that the SEZ will create a business-friendly environment, encourage investment, and bring economic opportunities to long-neglected areas.

“This initiative will not only create jobs and boost local businesses but will also help increase foreign exchange receipts and contribute to a more diversified and resilient economy,” Ramofafia said.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

• Minister declares December 9 Renbel Assembly meeting unlawful

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

A motion of no confidence against Rennell and Bellona Premier Derek Pongi has been ruled null and void, bringing an abrupt end to a brief period of political uncertainty in the province.

The ruling was made by the Minister for Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS), Wayne Ghemu, who declared the motion procedurally invalid after it was found to have breached key provisions of the Provincial Government Act 1997 and the Provincial Assembly Standing Orders.

In a letter dated 12 December 2025 and addressed to the Speaker of the Renbel Provincial Assembly, Jefter Tuhanenga, the Minister confirmed that the no-confidence motion, submitted by members of the non-executive group, failed to meet mandatory legal requirements.

The motion was submitted on 8 December 2025, with a meeting convened the following day. However, the Ministry noted that Standing Order 107 requires at least seven clear days’ notice before a motion of no confidence can be moved, including placement on the notice paper and public notice board at the provincial headquarters.

“This requirement was not met,” the Ministry said, rendering the process unlawful.

The Ministry further revealed that despite requests, the Renbel Provincial Assembly failed to submit supporting documentation, including the formal notice of meeting, to justify the process.

The ruling also highlighted a breach of Standing Order 111, which requires that a Premier facing a no-confidence motion be present and given the opportunity to respond to allegations.

In this case, the meeting proceeded in the absence of Premier Pongi, denying him the right to be heard.

The Ministry concluded that the failure to comply with these mandatory procedures meant the December 9 meeting and its outcome have no legal standing.

“As a result, Premier Hon. Derek Pongi remains the duly constituted Premier of Rennell and Bellona Province, and the motion of no confidence, as processed, cannot have legal effect,” Minister Ghemu said.

Responding to the decision, Premier Pongi thanked the people of Renbel Province for their support during the recent political turmoil.

“The motion tabled by other MPAs was deemed procedurally invalid, and therefore the result was considered null and void,” he said.

“It is my sincere hope that future proceedings will be conducted in a proper and lawful manner.”

However, reports from reliable sources indicate that the non-executive members are expected to lodge another submission this week, this time ensuring all legal and procedural requirements under the Provincial Government Act and Standing Orders are fully complied with.

The development indicates that while the immediate challenge has collapsed, political tensions within the Renbel Provincial Assembly are far from over.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

An eight-week training programme for youths was successfully concluded at Talakali Adventist Community, Malaita Province, on Thursday, December 11, 2025. 

The after-school programme aimed to help young people build confidence, learn new skills and understand the importance of becoming good role models in their families and communities. 

The programme ended with a graduation ceremony where the participants had the opportunity to receive certificates of participation. 

The event was attended by World Vision Malaita, mentors, community leaders, parents, children, and other supporters. 

The Malaita Provincial Youth Coordinator, Frank Samo, was the guest of honour at the ceremony. 

During the program, a total of eight mentors from the Malaita Youth Council took part in guided discussions, group activities, mentoring sessions, reflections, and social time with their peers. 

Key focusing topics included;

1) Helping young people build strong and positive relationships with mentors. 

2) Teaching youths how to become positive role models. 

3) Supporting personal growth and confidence. 

4) Encouraging safer, more peaceful, and united communities. 

According to one youth mentor, David Wairi, the programme used a 4-to-1 mentee-to-mentor ratio, allowing youths to receive close support from trained mentors.

It also teaches young people how to move away from harmful behaviors by choosing positive actions that can inspire others in their community.

He stated that community leaders and parents praised the program during the graduation, saying they have already seen positive changes in the youths who took part.

“The guest of honor encouraged the graduates to continue using the skills they learned to build a better future for themselves and their communities,” he said.

The training was funded by UNICEF and implemented by World Vision Solomon Islands, with strong support from the Malaita Youth Council, which helped coordinate activities in both communities.

The Radefasu and Talakali communities took part in the programme.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

Thirty women in Musukui, north of Malaita Province have successfully gone through fish bottling and food safety training.

The one-day training on Tuesday, December 9, was aimed at providing basic knowledge of fish bottling and food safety, which is very important for them as they are involved in daily roadside fish markets. 

According to Malaita Senior Fisheries Officer Mathew Isihanua, the training was conducted for the Ward 7 women’s association. 

He said that during the training, the women learnt a lot and were very excited for the training to come to their doorstep. 

“The women participants were all excited to attend the one-day training. They expressed their happiness for such an important training to happen at the community level,” he said. 

“They even want more training, especially in value addition, as it will support their daily roadside markets,” he added.

Meanwhile, the women acknowledged their provincial member for Ward 7, Hon. Mike Salega, for funding the vital training for them.

The training was the first of its kind in Ward 7, North Malaita Constituency, Malaita Province.

It was facilitated by the Senior Fisheries Officer in Auki and funded by the Ward 7 Provincial Member, Mike Salega.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The Auki police officers, along with the Malaita provincial security officers, are working together to ensure that Auki town is safe leading up to the festive season.

The operation started last week and is mainly aimed at reducing the behaviour and attitude associated with alcohol consumption that usually occurs during the festive season. 

Malaita Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Michael Ramosaea, said that the operation began last week and will end next year.

He said that every day they patrol Auki town and beyond. He said that with Christmas and New Year celebrations approaching, they will ensure that people can move freely and safely. 

“Our operation started last week, and our aim is to cause no harm to anyone, but for everyone to enjoy their Christmas safely,” he said.

“We don’t want a celebration that will lead to someone being hospitalized and sad afterward. So, we try our best to make sure everyone is safe,” he said.

PPC Ramosaea is also appealing to the public of Auki to respect the law and refrain from social activities that can disturb your neighbors.

He stated that anyone found drinking alcohol in Auki town or at home and causing a disturbance will be arrested by the police and charged.

“I call upon my beloved brothers who have a habit of drinking in Auki to please pay for your beer and drink it at home. Once we see anyone drinking in town, we will arrest them on the spot, and they will not be released,” he added.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

By RODRICK DESURI

Auki

The opening of the Development Bank of Solomon Islands (DBSI) Branch in Auki is not just an expansion of its services but a transformative step for Malaita Province. 

This should ease the unending banking and financial difficulties and frustrations faced by the citizens of Malaita Province. 

During the official opening, Malaita Provincial Premier Elijah Asilau’a said that the purpose of the branch is to provide smooth access to banking services. 

“This is one of the greatest challenges for small businesses and rural communities across the Solomon Islands,” he said. 

He said there are many ideas and business opportunities, but his people lack access to banking services like loans and advisory services. 

“Too many promising ideas fail to materialize because people simply cannot access the loans, the advisory services, or the financial products they need to begin or expand their ventures,” he stated.

“I hope this branch changes that to provide better financial products to our rural people. It opens the door to hope and strengthens our economic foundation,” he added.

In the meantime, the Premier said that the presence of the Development Bank of Solomon Islands in Auki is more than a financial service, it is a catalyst.

He stressed that it will provide the tools, the confidence, and the support needed to harness potential investment opportunities across Malaita.

“Like the Bina Harbour Tuna Processing Plant, the Suava Economic Growth Centre, and potential economic activities in the Malaita regions,” he said.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

BY MORRIS NAFU

THE Solomon Island Meteoritical Service has issued a low depression warning with red and orange alert to Temotu Province and parts of Solomon Islands as slow-moving tropical low depression, designated TD03F, is poised to bring heavy rains, thunderstorms, and strong winds in the area.

The system, with a central pressure of 1003 hectopascals, was located near ten degrees south latitude and 168.8 degrees east longitude approximately 230 nautical miles (425 km) northwest of Anuta Island in Temotu Province.

Forecasters expect it to drift south eastward toward Tikopia and Anuta Islands.

Statement urges Residents of Anuta and Tikopia Islands should prepare for winds up to 35 knots within the next 12 to 18 hours, accompanied by rough seas and moderate swells of 2.5 to 3m.

 Coastal flooding is a potential risk in these areas. Elsewhere in Temotu waters and northern waters of Malaita Province, including Ontong Java and Sikaiana, strong winds of 20 to 33 knots are anticipated, with moderate to rough seas and 2.5m swells.

Widespread heavy rain and thunderstorms are forecast for Temotu Province and the northern parts of Choiseul, Isabel, and Malaita Provinces.

Such conditions could trigger landslides and flooding in communities near hill slopes, large rivers, streams, and low-lying areas.

SIMS is urging sea travellers to prioritize safety, noting that heavy rain may reduce visibility.

Motorists are advised to exercise extreme caution on roads and avoid attempting to cross rivers or large streams of unknown depth.

“People should take precautionary measures as the bad weather associated with this tropical low poses threats to lives and properties,” statement said.

For the latest updates, residents are encouraged to tune into SIBC and other media outlets.

This developing situation highlights the importance of heeding meteorological warnings in the region, where tropical systems can rapidly intensify.

Authorities are monitoring the low closely for any escalation.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

• Parliament to reconvene tomorrow for final sitting of 2025

BY NED GAGAHE

Parliament will reconvene at 9.30am on Monday, December 15, 2025, to begin debate on the Motion of Sine Die, following a move by Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele to bring the final sitting of the year to a close.

The motion, moved by the Prime Minister on Thursday, December 11, proposes that Parliament adjourn sine die on December 17, 2025, marking the end of parliamentary business for the year.

Speaking in Parliament, Prime Minister Manele thanked Members of Parliament, parliamentary staff, Standing Committees and the Office of the Speaker for their collective work throughout 2025.

He highlighted major legislative achievements passed by the House during the year, including the Special Economic Zone Act, the National Building Standards Act, public service reforms, and the 2026 Appropriation Act.

The Prime Minister said the passage of the 2026 Budget signals the beginning of an intensive year ahead, urging Ministers and Permanent Secretaries to immediately begin implementation once warrants are issued.

He called for stronger focus, discipline and preparedness as ministries roll out development programmes in the new year.

Prime Minister Manele also acknowledged the important oversight role of Parliament’s Standing Committees, noting the active engagement of the Public Accounts Committee and the Bills and Legislation Committee. He encouraged other committees to make greater use of Question Time to raise issues affecting citizens.

“This is a key part of ensuring transparency and keeping the concerns of our people at the centre of parliamentary scrutiny,” he said.

The Prime Minister further recognised the contributions of public servants, teachers, police officers, provincial authorities, private sector partners, non-government organisations, churches and development partners for their continued support to national development throughout the year.

As the House prepares to adjourn sine die, Prime Minister Manele encouraged Members of Parliament to reflect on the work undertaken in 2025 and return in January with renewed energy and commitment.

At the conclusion of the debate next week, Parliament is expected to adjourn sine die. The term, derived from Latin meaning “without a day,” indicates that no date is set for the next sitting. Once adjourned, Parliament will only reconvene when formally summoned under constitutional or standing order requirements.

Prime Minister Manele said that he has deliberately held back his Christmas greetings, saying he will deliver them when winding up the Sine Die Motion on Wednesday.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

By RODRICK DESURI

Auki

Renovations on the Sinamuari Clinic in West Kwaio, Malaita Province, is progressing and is close to completion.

The completion of the staff house will support and boost service provision at the clinic by providing another room for a new nurse to serve.

Registered nurse Maxly Ruma’a at the clinic said staff house is what they have long cried for.

He said it will help accommodate a nurse closer to the clinic, allowing them to serve sick patients at quicker.

“We have only two staff houses. So, it means we have only two nurses serving here, but this is still not enough for us when there is an outbreak of any sickness,” he said.

“So, by looking at the new staff house when it is completed, it will provide space for another nurse to come and help us here.”

He stressed that another challenge they face is the population of the clinic’s catchment area, which is around 2,000 people.

Hs mentioned that with the staff house, it will bring another nurse to help them.

“We have many people in our clinic catchment area from our experience. With the new nurse coming in, we will serve people day and night when they come for medical treatments,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ruma’a lauded Australia for funding the new staff house for Sinamuari clinic.

“I thank the Australian government for funding this staff house. This is what my people need for a new nurse to come and stay close to our clinic,” he said.

“This will boost our services here whenever any emergency cases or sick patients knock at our doorstep,” he added.

The Sinamuari staff house is one of the funded projects by the Australian Government under the Australian Solomon Islands Community Partnership Programme.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]