BY LORETTA B MANELE

Opposition Leader, Matthew Wale has stressed on the initiative of having a fully fledged medical faculty at the Solomon Islands National University.

He raised this in parliament yesterday during discussion on the 2026 Appropriation Bill 2025, particularly on the Ministry of Health and Medical Services budget allocation which is SBD $728,507,879.

Initially, Wale raised that SINU already has a production line of nurses hence there is the supply of doctors.

On this note, he said with the size of our population and the growth rate, the level of experienced and qualified doctors in the postgraduate level is high already.

“We can have a fully-fledged medical faculty at SINU. So perhaps that needs to be, you know, a little bit of energy put behind that one.

“Again, I think there’s been some initiatives taken, but for a fully-fledged one, so that in 2027 we have a medical faculty up and running, so many students per year,” he said.

Wale also mentioned that other countries in the region like Vanuatu, Kiribati and Tuvalu would also be interested in this venture.

“So, there is already a need, a catchment for that.

“I’m just wondering whether the government wants to move in that direction and how quickly,” he said.

Minister of Health and Medical Services, Paul Popora Bosawai in response to this, agreed, pointing out that this is something we need in the region.

He also informed parliament that he is already in discussion about this with his Vanuatu counterpart and is also in discussion with his counterpart in Papua New Guinea.

“I’m already in discussion with the Vanuatu counterpart.

“Even my recent trip to Fiji during the WHO, we also explore who are interested, like for Fiji and PNG, they already have their faculty. 

“I’m also in discussion with my counterpart in Papua New Guinea, if we can increase the quota of our intake of our medical students there. So, these are some things that are in discussion,” he said.

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

Auki Police officers in Malaita Province have kick-started their high visibility operation for the approaching festive season.

This visibility operation is held specifically to crack down on social activities such as the fighting, stealing, selling of marijuana and the consumption of locally brewed alcohol (Kwaso) in public areas and communities. 

Malaita Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Michael Ramosaea, stated that they started the operation over the weekend with an awareness campaign in parts of Auki township.

He said the operation will cover all communities of Auki township and beyond. 

“Yes, we have started a high visibility operation in V3 and Sigitae communities over the weekend.

“During the operation, we chased a few youths along with older people who were grouped and involved in drinking in various locations,” he said.

Meanwhile, he appeals to the public of Malaita, especially Auki Township, that they will not tolerate anyone involved in these social activities.

He added that his officers are well-trained and equipped for the operation with full force.

“I call on everyone to treat this festive period with a good Christian heart and not to get involved in social activities that can disturb others,” he said.

Superintendent Ramosaea also encouraged community leaders and elders to work together with the police for a safer festive season and celebration.

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has an increase of around SBD 7 million dollars to cater for electricity for health facilities.

Health Minister Paul Popora Bosawai revealed this in parliament yesterday during discussion on the 2026 Appropriation Bill 2025 in response to Member of Parliament for East Are’Are Peter Kenilorea Jr’s who questioned whether the ministry has any plans to manage electricity consumption.

Responding to the question, Bosawai said there is an increase of around seven million dollars to anticipate for funding of our electricity bill covering our additional health facilities come 2026.

He added that this included the (CMC) Comprehensive Medical Center of which they are yet to understand the consumption load of electricity for that facility.

Bosawai said then there is the Naha Birthing Centre which they will be responsible to look after in terms of the electricity bill as well for Kilufi Hospital in Malaita Province.

“So basically, that accounting code specifically for the new facilities comes 2026 that we anticipate to open,” he said.

Meanwhile, Bosawai stressed that in terms of policy thinking on how to reduce cost of electricity, health is quite very expensive.

“I will not say expenditure, but an investment for our country. We’ve been in discussion with WHO to start putting solarization on our ministry, our health headquarters. That’s starting and, of course, then moves to other new health facilities.

“So, it’s already in discussion with WHO to help us with the solarization of health,” he said.

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BY BEN BILUA

Seghe

SEGHE came alive yesterday as people from far and near came together to celebrate Western Province’s Second Appointed Day.

A parade was on display to kick off the program, traditional dance, display of the province’s traditional wear and a good turn out of people who came to witness the event.

The celebration was extraordinary as the guest of honour was none other then Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.

He said yesterday was a significant day for Western Province and the national government to commemorate the province’s 42th Second Appointed Day.

Manele said he is honored to be invited by Premier Billy Veo to be the guest of honour for the celebration.

“As you know, parliament is in session and currently deliberating on the 2026 appropriation Bill.

“But it is equally important that I come and stand with my people of Western Province on this important occasion.

“Allow me to express my sincere gratitude to the Provincial Government and the Local Organising Committee for the warn welcome and courtesies accorded to me and my delegation.

“Like other province, for the people Western Province, this day represents the founding of the local government,” he said.

In his speech, Premier of Western Province, Billy Veo said it is very encouraging to see people turn up in numbers to mark the province’s important day.

He also called on all people to mark the important date, as the Western Day.

Provincial delegations who attended the celebration included; Isabel Province led by Premier Lawrence Hayward, Premier of Choisuel Province and his delegation, Premier of Central Province and Deputy Premier of Guadalcanal Province.

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) has outlined plans to executive its budget with ambitious programs that will contribute greatly to the economy of the country.

The Minister for Mines (MMERE), Derrick Manuari, recently highlighted this in parliament, as he acknowledged the allocation of MMERE in the 2026 budget.

He said in terms of budget for this year, with the support of the Appropriations Bill, the Ministry will deliver an ambitious and far-reaching programme.

The key priority programs include;

• Implementation of the Minerals Resources Bill 2025 and completion of national consultations
• Finalisation of the Water Resources Bill
• The operationalisation of the Independent Energy Regulator
• The amendment of the Electricity Act
• The completion of the Petroleum Legislative Review
• The development of a petroleum and biofuel refining policy,
• The construction and commissioning of the National Geochemical Laboratory
• The expansion of rural drilling and hydrological monitoring across provinces
• The rollout of Solomon Islands Energy Roadmap 2026 to 2030
• The drafting of the Energy Bill
• The ongoing institutional strengthening, including training, technical capacity building and improved digital systems

Manuari emphasized that the 2026 Appropriations Bill empowers the Ministry to fulfil its mandate and to continue building a transparent, resilient and modern resource governance system.

“Through the strengthened legislation, capable institutions and targeted investments, we are laying the foundation for a more diversified and prosperous economy.

“Our commitment is to ensure that minerals, energy, water and geological resources for our nation deliver meaningful and lasting benefits to every Solomon Islander today and for generations to come,” he said.

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) assures steadfast commitment behind reforming sectors within the ministry.

In light of that, the ministry announced its commitment towards amending the Electricity Act, which looks at strengthening the sustainability of the energy sector.

Speaking in parliament last week, Minister for Mines (MMERE), Derrick Manuari emphasized the significance of the energy sector to the country’s economy. 

“In 2025, the Ministry has finalised the drafting instructions for the amendments of the Electricity Act.

“And this is a foundational work towards establishing an independent energy regulator, preparatory work for the 2026 Electricity Tariff Review and development of Solomon Islands Energy Roadmap, 2026 to 2030.

“These reforms are fundamental to achieving government’s policy directive for a 25% reduction in electricity tariffs over the next three years, and to fortify the lasting sustainability of the energy sector,” he said.

The Minister noted that the Tina Hydro project is progressing well and expected to be commissioned by 2028.

Manuari also added that in terms of water resources governance, MMERE has completed drafting instructions for the Water Resources Bill.

According to the Minster, this is a transformative update that strengthens water protection, access and management.

And in 2026, national consultations will expand to provinces, ensuring a robust and widely supported legislative framework.

Moreover, he highlighted the work of the ministry to advance the petroleum and biofuel refining policy, which gears to improve national preparedness for future energy transitions.

“In partnership with SPC and USP, we are progressing work on Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion, OTEC, supporting Solomon Islands Blue Economy vision.

“I wish to say that over the past months, the Petroleum Division socialises the Petroleum and Biofuel Refining Policy and OTEC with three provinces thus far, and will continue to do so in 2026.

“This consultation is important not only to inform, but to gauge provincial participation and support in these reviews and developments,” the Minister said.

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

The “Maritime Silk Road Media Cooperation Platform” was launched in Guangzhou, China on Dec 1, 2025.

This was initiated by South Guangdong’s international communication media outlet under the Nanfang Media Group with media representatives from countries namely; Solomon Islands, Fiji, Vanuatu, Cambodia, Myanmar, Malaysia, Indonesia, Timor Leste and Egypt.

South’s Editor-in-Chief, Zhao Yang speaking at the ceremony announced a plan embodying six initiative points namely;

-regular joint media coverage

-joint production initiatives

-a coordinated response mechanism for major news

-cross-platform content sharing,

-a sustained dialogue mechanism

– exploration of new business and cultural collaboration.

Yang expressed that they look forward to working with their media partners to develop a more detailed and in-depth corporation.

He added that they would also like to explore areas such cultural exchanges across the region.

The launching program also catered to discussions between media representatives and Mr Yang about future collaborations.

This platform launch concluded a two and a half days tour around different sites relating to areas such as art, history, planning, agriculture and energy.

Media representatives got to see first hand artifacts depicting Chinese culture and relations with others regions in terms of trade, China’s innovation in agriculture, historical sites and a talent park to name a few.

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) is proposing significant marketing strategies to reform the tourism sector of the country.

High on this strategic reform is the rebranding of the tourism sector of the country.

Speaking on the debate of the 2026 Appropriation Bill 2025 in parliament last week, Minister for Culture and Tourism, Choylin Yim Douglas, said having returned to pre-COVID visitor numbers, MCT’s marketing strategy will transition from recovery of growth.

“In 2026, we will adopt a more expressive and targeted marketing approach in which we will explore new markets, while strengthening partnerships with our core long and short-haul markets.

“A key activity in this new phase is the rebranding of Solomon Islands, with cabinet’s recent approval for us to revert to our original global destination brand, Solomon Islands, the Happy Isles.

“The decision is not merely a marketing exercise but a strategic reportioning of our nation,” she said. The Minister noted the Happy Isles carries deep historical and emotional significance,” she said.

She added that it defined Solomon Islands on the world tourism stage for many decades and positioned our country as a warm, peaceful and culturally rich destination.

“By returning to this original brand, we are restoring our powerful national identity that resonates both locally and globally.

“But more importantly, this is also a nation-building agenda directly aligned with priority objective number four of this bill, promoting peace, unity and security,” Douglas said.

She said rebranding to the name “Happy Isles” is also a call to all Solomon Islanders to uphold and live with the values of peace, respect, kindness and unity.

“It values define who we are as a people. For a tourism destination, branding is not only what we promote abroad, it is how we build at home. We must live and champion the brand.

“We must cultivate an environment where visitors genuinely feel welcome, safe and embraced by our natural warmth.

“Friendly attitudes, peaceful communities, respect for diversity and pride in our culture are key ingredients in building a truly successful tourism industry,” the Minister said.

Moreover, she noted that global travellers today are seeking authentic, peaceful cultural experiences.

“Our rebranding aligns perfectly with what the world is looking for and it positions Solomon Islands to compete more effectively in the international market. But a brand can only be powerful if it reflects reality.

“That is why this rebranding must be owned, not just by government, but by every Solomon Islander.

“From our business community to our chiefs, youth, students, women and leaders, let us not repeat the events that brought negative perception about our country and we must move forward.

“As we roll out this campaign in 2026, we will be working closely with government ministries, communities, provincial governments, private sector partners and schools to promote behavioural change and awareness.

“In doing so, we hope to reinforce the message that tourism thrives where peace thrives and that every citizen plays a role in making Solomon Islands a truly happy isles,” the Minister said.

Photo: Supplied

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) has an allocation of SBD $46.4 million in the 2026 budget, which will focus on strengthening the tourism sector in the country.     

Minister for Culture and Tourism, Hon Choylin Yim Douglas announced the budget, when contributing to the 2026 Appropriation Bill 2025, in parliament last week.

She said the ministry is pleased that its budget allocation for 2026 remains at the same strengthened level as 2025.

“Our priorities for 2026 will continue to build on the momentum established this year under three programs,” the Choylin said.

The Minister outlined the breakdown of the SBD $46.4 million budget as follows;

• SBD $22 million allocated for tourism development and institutional strengthening program
• SBD $14.2 million allocated for national tourism product development program
• SBD $10.2 million allocated for national cultural heritage and tourism infrastructure program.

She said the main focus will be on strengthening the accommodation supply chain, developing new cultural, natural and heritage-based tourism products.

Ms Choylin added the budget will also look at improving visitor experiences, working with partners to enhance air, land and sea connectivity.

She said it will also prioritise development in key tourism hubs, Honiara, Munda, Tulagi and Auki, to target quick wins and address low-hanging opportunities.

Photo: Supplied

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) has assured commitment in reforming the tourism sector by empowering the private sector to take the lead in driving tourism growth in the economy.

The statement was made by Minister for Culture and Tourism, Choylin Yim Douglas, in response to a question raised by MP for East Choiseul Constituency, Manasseh Sogavare – in parliament last week, on the plan to reform and develop the country’s tourism sector.

The Minister explained that they have already developed a concept of built and leased tourism development model.

She added that the module will ensure government, through a public-private partnership arrangement will take the lead to finance construction of significant core hotel infrastructure.

Douglas said, this is according to specification of an international brand hotel noting that under this approach, government will also explore mechanisms for the government to hold equity through ICSI.

This will ensure long-term national ownership and revenue through dividend while allowing the private sector to drive operational excellence and market competitiveness.

Moreover, the minister emphasized that the direction of the reform will reflect Solomon Island’s chronic underinvestment in hotel and resort infrastructure.

She added that this is due to high capital development cost, which makes it unattractive for investors, limited access to finance, market-size concerns, land tenure uncertainty and fragmented investor confidence.

Douglas said the model de-risk investment will ensure land tenure security and accelerate the entry of global hotel brands into the Solomon Islands, creating jobs, revenue and confidence for further private sector growth.

“I would like to say again that the tourism and cultural sectors continue to be among the most promising industries capable of driving sustainable economic transformation.

“The achievements of 2025 and our strategic focus for 2026 demonstrate our readiness and commitment to support the national vision embodied in the 2026 budget theme,” the Minister said.

Photo: Supplied

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