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Wale warns of painful changes, calls for unity and discipline

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BY NED GAGAHE

Newly elected Prime Minister Matthew Wale has warned Solomon Islanders to prepare for difficult but necessary changes, saying his government takes office at a challenging time shaped by global uncertainty and economic pressures.

In his first address to the nation following his election, Prime Minister Wale appealed for unity, discipline and courage, stressing that Solomon Islands cannot escape the impacts of international geopolitical developments.

“We take government at a difficult time given what is happening throughout the world.

“We are not immune from the impacts of these geopolitical events. Therefore, your government will exercise discipline and prudent management to see us through these difficult times,” Wale said.

The Prime Minister said his administration would prioritise responsible governance but called on citizens to stand together as the country navigates the challenges ahead.

“I call on all Solomon Islanders to summon the strength and courage to stand united in the face of these difficulties,” he said.

Delivering one of the strongest messages of his maiden speech, Wale declared that “change is coming,” cautioning that reforms needed to reposition the country for growth may be painful.

“These changes are necessary and may be painful,” he said.

“I ask that you join with your government in putting your hand to the plough. Let us all unite and count the cost of effecting the changes that are necessary to position our country to flourish.”

The Prime Minister also issued a direct appeal to young people across the country, encouraging them to be ambitious and actively contribute to national development.

“I appeal to the youth of our country, be ambitious for yourselves and to be part of the growth we want to see in Solomon Islands,” Wale stated.

Faith and prayer featured strongly throughout the address, with the Prime Minister thanking Christians nationwide for supporting the country through prayer during recent political uncertainty.

“To all Christians who have daily prayed for our beloved Solomon Islands, your prayers have not been in vain.

“Please continue to intercede for our beloved nation,” he said.

Quoting scripture, Wale said national progress must be grounded in faith and humility, adding that Solomon Islands should recommit itself to God as the country enters a new political chapter.

“We rededicate our beloved Solomon Islands to Yahweh, the almighty God who reigns forever,” he said.

The Prime Minister concluded with the prayer of King Solomon, asking for wisdom and discernment to lead the country.

“So, give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this,” Wale said.

Photo credit: Ned Gagahe

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Wale promises change, says economy must work for all

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BY NED GAGAHE

Newly elected Prime Minister Matthew Cooper Wale has promised Solomon Islanders that change is coming, pledging to pursue reforms aimed at creating a more inclusive economy where all citizens benefit, not just a privileged few.

Speaking emotionally to local journalists outside Parliament House shortly after his election yesterday, Wale described his elevation to the nation’s top office as both an honour and a heavy responsibility.

“It’s a great honour and a wonderful privilege. This is a great country,” Wale said before pausing and adding, “Sorry, I’m still emotional.”

The new Prime Minister said serving the people of Solomon Islands is a responsibility he will not take lightly.

“To serve these beautiful people of this country, it’s a privilege that I would not take lightly,” he said.

Prime Minister Wale reflected on years spent advocating for reforms and national development, saying his government would now work to turn those ideas into action despite limited time and resources.

“I have said many things over many years, the things we must do for our country. I will do my utmost in that direction.

“Obviously we cannot do everything in two years. Obviously, we do not have much time,” he said.

The Prime Minister stressed he does not want his administration remembered for inaction and promised to make meaningful progress during its term.

“I don’t want to be accused of doing nothing. We want to do as much as possibly as we can in the short time with limited resources.

“But I promise you, change is coming. Give me a week or two and you will see,” Wale stated.

Wale thanked Solomon Islanders for remaining patient throughout weeks of political uncertainty and leadership negotiations that followed recent developments in Parliament.

“Well, I say thank you to all Solomon Islanders who have followed the process when leadership has been stuck for a number of weeks. It has come to a conclusion,” he said.

He called on citizens to unite behind national development efforts and urged people to become productive contributors to the country’s growth.

“Let us all bind together and everybody must work.

“If you have nothing to do, do something. Let us all be active in doing something,” Wale said.

The Prime Minister also outlined his broader vision for economic reform, saying the current system must change to ensure ordinary citizens have greater opportunities to participate and benefit.

“We want to create something in this economy of this country where everybody participates and benefits.

“We must change that kind of economy where only a few elites are benefiting while the rest are at the bottom. This has to change,” he said.

While acknowledging transformation will not happen immediately, Wale insisted his government is committed to beginning the process.

“We can’t achieve it overnight, but we must start from somewhere,” he added.

Photo credit: Ned Gagahe

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WALE SWORN IN AS NEW PM

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  • Promises discipline, accountability and change as he takes office after political shift

BY NED GAGAHE

Matthew Cooper Wale is the new Prime Minister of Solomon Islands following his victory in the Prime Ministerial election yesterday, ending days of political uncertainty after the successful Motion of No Confidence against former Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.

Mr Wale, Member of Parliament for Aoke/Langalanga and leader of the Solomon Islands Democratic Party, was officially sworn in at Government House by Governor-General Sir David Tiva Kapu shortly after securing victory in Parliament.

The 57-year-old veteran politician defeated rival candidate Peter Shanel Agovaka by 26 votes to 22 in a closely watched contest. Of the 50 Members of Parliament, 49 ballots were cast, with one member absent and one vote declared spoilt.

Addressing supporters and the nation outside Parliament House after his election, Prime Minister Wale acknowledged the enormous responsibility before him and pledged to govern with discipline and accountability.

“It is a great privilege indeed and an honour to be elected your Prime Minister today.

“I will not trifle with this privilege and the government that I lead will do its utmost to serve. Please help keep us accountable and responsible,” Wale said.

The new Prime Minister admitted his administration is assuming office during difficult times and warned Solomon Islanders that some decisions ahead may not be easy.

“We take government at a difficult time…but we will exercise discipline and prudent management,” he said, adding that changes needed to improve the country may be painful.

In a message aimed particularly at young people, Wale urged citizens to remain hopeful and ambitious, saying the country’s future depends on collective effort and national unity.

“Change is coming,” he declared, calling on Solomon Islanders to work together to build a stronger nation.

The Prime Minister also thanked churches and Christians throughout the country for their prayers during the political transition and ended his first public address with prayer.

Long Political Career

Mr Wale is no stranger to national leadership.

He entered Parliament in 2008 through a by-election following the death of former Prime Minister Bartholomew Ulufa’alu and has represented the people of Aoke/Langalanga ever since.

Later that year, he was appointed Minister for Education and Human Resources Development under former Prime Minister Derek Sikua’s government.

Following the 2019 National General Election, Wale became Leader of Opposition and gained prominence for advocating political reform, accountability, transparency and anti-corruption measures.

He was also among key figures pushing for leadership changes during the 2021 political unrest, filing a Motion of No Confidence against then Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare — although that motion was unsuccessful.

After losing the 2024 Prime Ministerial race to former Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, Wale has now returned to contest and won the nation’s top political office.

He was also appointed the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2025 New Year Honours which recognised his years of public and political service.

Photo credit: Ned Gagahe

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PADDLING FORWARD

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More than 30 athletes expected as ARO pushes growth of Va’a racing in Solomon Islands

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The ARO Outrigger & Canoe Club is anticipating a strong turnout for its upcoming Pentecost Sprints Regatta 2026 as excitement continues building within Honiara’s growing paddling community ahead of the May 25 event.

The regatta, which will be staged at DC Park, Iumi Water Sports Park, is expected to attract more than 30 paddlers from clubs and nearby communities across various divisions throughout the day.

Speaking to Island Sun, ARO Outrigger & Canoe Club President Ms Piuela Manuopangai said preparations are progressing well, with positive responses already received from paddlers and supporters.

“We are expecting a strong turnout for this year’s Pentecost Sprints Regatta, with paddlers and crews from a number of clubs around Honiara and nearby communities already confirming their participation.

“At this stage, we anticipate over 30 paddlers across various divisions throughout the day,” Manuopangai said.

The regatta will feature V1 sprint races over 250 metres and 500 metres, along with a 3-kilometre mixed relay event that aims to test speed, endurance and teamwork on the water.

Manuopangai said the competition is part of the club’s wider efforts to help grow and strengthen outrigger canoeing in Solomon Islands.

“The main purpose of hosting the Pentecost Sprints Regatta is to promote and develop outrigger canoeing locally while also bringing the paddling community together in a positive and competitive environment.

“Events like this are important because they create opportunities for athletes to gain race experience, build discipline, encourage teamwork, and inspire younger paddlers to get involved in the sport,” she said.

She added that the regatta is not only about competition, but also about creating opportunities and building a healthy sporting environment for the future of Va’a racing in the country.

Apart from the races, spectators can also expect a vibrant family-friendly atmosphere throughout the day, including music, food, refreshments and entertainment activities.

The club will also stage its fundraising raffle draw during the event to encourage greater community participation and support.

“The regatta is really about bringing people together — not only athletes, but families, supporters, and the wider community,” Manuopangai said.

Funds raised through the raffle will assist the club with equipment maintenance, race participation, training programs and future club development initiatives.

“Community support is extremely important to the club.

“Every contribution, whether big or small, helps us continue building the sport and supporting our athletes both on and off the water,” she said.

Meanwhile, organisers have assured that safety remains a top priority for the event.

Preparations include experienced steerspersons and officials overseeing races, safety boats on standby, and official race briefings for all participating crews.

Weather and water conditions will also be monitored closely throughout the regatta to ensure races are conducted safely.

The club recently farewelled one of its long-serving paddlers, Rebecca “Bec” Williams, who was acknowledged for her contributions towards helping shape the club’s culture and team spirit since its early beginnings.

“Bec has had a huge impact on ARO Club from the very beginning.

“Beyond her paddling, Bec has been someone who encouraged others, supported teammates, and helped shape the family environment within ARO,” Manuopangai said.

She added that although Williams has relocated to New Zealand, she will always remain part of the ARO family.

ARO Outrigger & Canoe Club is among the active Va’a and outrigger canoe clubs in Honiara and continues promoting paddling through training programs, community activities and local regattas that aim to develop the sport in Solomon Islands.

Photo: Supplied

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SI Hookin4Health empowering women

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BY TONY IROGA

Hookin4Health Solomon Islands says empowering women and supporting mothers is essential to shaping healthier homes, stronger communities, and a brighter future for young people.

This message was echoed by the Hookin4Health development officer Mrs Esmie Belo during a Mother’s Day program hosted earlier this week at the National Hockey Centre at the KGVI grounds in East Honiara.

“Empowering women and supporting mothers is essential to building healthier families, stronger communities, and a brighter future for our young people,” Belo said.

Belo said the session began with meaningful discussions and interactive group activities highlighting the importance of a “Happy Healthy Mother, Happy Healthy Relationship, and Happy Healthy Family” in building stronger homes and healthier communities.

“It was a valuable opportunity for mothers and women to come together, share experiences, encourage one another, and deepen their understanding of how to build healthy relationships and stronger families within their communities,” Belo said.

They were grateful to everyone who attended and made this program a successful and inspiring celebration of Mother’s Day.

“At Hookin4Health Solomon Islands, we believe that empowering women and supporting mothers plays a huge role in creating healthier families and a better future for our young people,” Belo highlighted.

Belo said the program highlighted a Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing mothers and women in the communities.

“We made a sincere appreciation to the Australia High Commission, Solomon Islands, Oceania Hockey Federation, Hookin4Health, Aspire Cains Community Limited, and the Solomon Islands Hockey Federation for their valuable support in making the program a success,” Mrs Belo said.

Photo credit: SIHF

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Kings FC targets stronger return after exit from OFC Pro League

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BY TONY IROGA

Solomon Kings FC have set their sights on a stronger comeback in next year’s OFC Pro League following their early exit from the OFC Pro League, with the club acknowledging the challenges faced during the campaign while remaining optimistic about long-term development.

The statement was shared after Solomon Kings FC bowed out of their OFC Pro League Challenger Group match on Wednesday this week in Auckland, New Zealand, during the 2026 season.

Solomon Kings FC have shifted their focus towards long-term development following their exit from the OFC Pro League Challenger Group match held in Auckland.

The Solomon Islands-based club bowed out of the competition after a challenging encounter, marking the end of their 2026 campaign.

Despite the early exit, the club has described the experience as an important step in its ongoing development and preparation for future tournaments.

In an official statement, Solomon Kings FC said the 2026 campaign is part of a broader strategic plan that aims to strengthen the team’s performance ahead of the 2027 season.

“We see this year’s participation as an important learning phase for the players and technical team,” the statement noted. “Our focus now is on early preparation, improving player performance, and building a stronger squad for the 2027 OFC Pro League.”

The club emphasised that exposure to high-level competition in the region is essential for the growth of its players, particularly in terms of match experience, tactical discipline, and physical conditioning.

Team officials also highlighted that lessons from the 2026 campaign will be reviewed as part of their off-season planning process, with improvements expected in training programs, player development pathways, and squad depth.

Although disappointed with the early exit, Solomon Kings FC remains optimistic about the future and is committed to returning to the competition stronger and more competitive in 2027.

The club’s early planning approach signals a renewed focus on long-term success and sustained development within Oceania football.

The club also extends its appreciation to stakeholders and supporters who have backed the team throughout their campaign.

“We would like to sincerely thank the Prime Minister’s Office of Solomon Islands, Solomon Ports, Solomon Airlines, the Australia High Commission, Solomon Islands, Wolves, our loyal fans the Kings Army, Solomon Islands Victoria Association (SIVA), the Solomon Islands Brisbane Community, Our Telekom, and the Solomon Islands Football Federation for their continuous support to the team,” the statement said.

Photo credit: SK Fb Page

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HCC teachers gain valuable coaching and officiating skills through OSEP programme

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Physical Education (PE) teachers from schools across Honiara have completed a two-day coaching and officiating course that aims to strengthen sports development within schools and communities in the capital.

The Oceania Sport Education Programme (OSEP) Community Coach & Official (CC&O) training, facilitated by the National Sports Council, concluded on Tuesday at the Multi-Purpose Hall in Honiara after bringing together PE teachers from various Honiara City Council schools.

While the programme focused on improving coaching and officiating knowledge, participants also highlighted the wider impact sport can have on students and young people throughout the country.

One of the participants, Tuvaruhu Community High School sports master James Lee Hari’araha, described the training as both valuable and timely for teachers involved in school sports.

Hari’araha said the course had broadened his understanding of coaching and equipped teachers with practical skills needed to guide students in different sporting activities.

“The programme gives us teachers and sports masters more knowledge about different types of sports which we can run in our schools,” he said.

He explained that the training will help teachers become more effective coaches during school competitions and sporting events.

“When sports events come up, we will be able to tackle them properly by giving instructions and quality teaching to students in different sports,” Hari’araha added.

According to him, the training also reinforced the importance of physical education and sport in promoting healthy lifestyles among students and teachers alike.

He said sport plays a major role not only in physical fitness but also in helping young people stay engaged in positive activities.

“It contributes a lot to the well-being of teachers, coaches and students. It is also good for the development of sport inside schools and in Solomon Islands as a whole,” he said.

Hari’araha further noted that one of the most important lessons from the workshop was understanding the difference between good and bad coaching styles.

He stressed that good coaching was essential in helping young athletes grow and enjoy sport in a positive environment.

“The most important part we learned is good coaching. Many coaches know it, but sometimes they do not use it properly. That is one thing we will take back from this programme,” he said.

He also believes programmes such as the OSEP training can have a long-term impact on students by encouraging them to participate in sport and stay away from negative activities.

The training was conducted from May 11 to 12 after being requested by the HCC Sports Division as part of efforts to strengthen the capacity of PE teachers involved in school sports development.

HCC Sports Development Officer Chris Bakeua said the objective was to equip teachers with practical coaching and officiating skills that would support school sports programmes and preparations for the upcoming HCC Athletics Championship in June.

The training was facilitated by OSEP Master Educator and NSC Education Manager Atueta Balekana together with OSEP Educator and NSC Provincial Sports and Recreational Coordinator Carlson Hagemana.

Participants represented schools including Naha CHS, Koloale CHS, Honiara High School, Mbua Valley CHS, Vura CHS, St John CHS, Tuvaruhu CHS, Mbokona CHS, Panatina CHS, Mbokonavera CHS and White River CHS.

The Oceania Sport Education Programme (OSEP) is a regional initiative supported across Pacific countries to strengthen sports education, coaching, officiating and community participation in sport. In Solomon Islands, the programme is regularly facilitated through the National Sports Council to support capacity building for teachers, coaches and sports administrators.

Photo credit: NSC

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SICF holds training to RCDS in Honiara

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BY TONY IROGA

The Solomon Islands Cricket Federation (SICF) successfully conducted a special cricket training program for Red Cross Development School in Honiara in partnership with the Equity Fund under the Australian Government support program.

SICF’s main goal is to continue spreading the game of cricket throughout the country and ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn and play cricket regardless of their background.

In an interview with Island Sun yesterday SICF president Sajeewa Liyanage said the training session was a one-hour program conducted yesterday and it is a six weeks program that takes place every Thursday from 11:30am to 12:20 pm.

“The children actively engaged in all cricket activities and clearly enjoyed learning the game in a fun and inclusive environment,” Liyanage said.

Liyanage said a large number of girls also participated in the session, highlighting the federation’s commitment to promoting equal opportunities in sports for everyone.

“The session was conducted by Head Coach Mr. Madalakanda together with players from the national cricket team, who shared their knowledge, skills, and passion for the sport with the young participants,” Liyanage said.

The federation highly appreciates the outstanding support provided by the school administration and extends special thanks to Principal of Riffle Range school Mrs. Luisa for giving this wonderful opportunity to introduce and develop cricket among the students.

Photo credit: SICF Fb Page

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SIPPA brings vital reproductive health awareness to Titiana community

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

The Solomon Islands Planned Parenthood Association (SIPPA) yesterday carried out an awareness program at Titiana Community in Western Province, focusing on reproductive health and related issues.

Topics discussed during the outreach included sexual reproductive health, family planning, education, and public awareness.

Speaking to the media, SIPPA Clinic Manager Mrs. Hiulyn Vozoto said the team was deployed to Western Province in response to Cyclone Maila, as communities often face increased risks following disasters due to shortages of essential needs and services.

She said the outreach aims to bring sexual reproductive health services directly to communities.

“Our focus is to provide sexual reproductive services, including family planning, as well as education and awareness programs,” Vozoto said.

She explained that post-disaster situations can increase the risk of sexual abuse and other harmful behaviours.

“During post-disaster periods, there is a high risk of sexual abuse due to lack of needs and wants. Circumstances might lead to bad decisions that would put individuals at risk,” she said.

Vozoto stressed that sexual reproductive health services are just as important as other medical services provided at hospitals and clinics.

“People often see reproductive health services as not important. However, there are reproductive diseases that can put lives at risk, therefore these medical services are very important,” she said.

“As individuals, we must also care for our reproductive health, and this is where SIPPA comes in to help.”

According to Vozoto, many people still fail to recognise the importance of reproductive health, a situation she believes places the wider population at risk.

She said the program at Titiana was successful, with both men and women attending and participating in the awareness sessions.

Vozoto added that the SIPPA team is expected to travel to Ranongga soon to conduct similar outreach programs.

Photo credit: Ben Bilua

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Bilgram Mission Extension distributes gift boxes to children in Malaita

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The Bilgram Mission Extension has distributed gift boxes to the communities in Malaita province. 

The Bilgram Mission is a charitable organisation with a mission to support children. 

The Malaita regional team, representing the team in Honiara, conducted the distribution of gift boxes on Wednesday this week at the SSEC Sigitae compound. 

Chairman of the Malaita Regional Team, Malcom Moli, said the distributed gift boxes were allocated according to certain communities. 

He said they will then be distributed to specific age categories after the recipients have undergone training sessions. 

“This gift box will be distributed according to three age categories: the first will be for children aged two to four years, the second for five to nine years, and the third for ten to fifteen years old.

“So, if you are one year old, you will not be eligible.

“And also, the team on the ground has been made aware that our partners must train before distribution. So, for whoever will receive these gifts, they will have to train in public ministry and witness the evangelism, and after receiving discipleship,” he said.

He explained that after the training, receiving gifts, and discipleship, there will be a graduation for all candidates. 

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