BY MORRIS NAFU

The Telecommunications Commission of Solomon Islands (TCSI) has stepped up in response to Leader of Opposition Matthew Wale and the public about rising mobile data costs, after talks with Our Telekom, B-Mobile and other stakeholders.

In a recent statement, TCSI recognised the outcry sparked by the Opposition Leader Matthew Wale and the general public.

The commission stressed that these complaints are being taken seriously under its watch.

Wale had pushed hard for TCSI to scrutinise the latest data bundle tweaks rolled out by Our Telekom.

“Telecoms are a must-have for growing our economy, so the services and prices on offer to customers should stay fair and low-cost.

“I’m urging the commission to take a close look at these new changes,” he said.

Wale argued that TCSI needs to probe Our Telekom’s selling tactics to stop the market giant from squeezing customers and the wider community.

He highlighted how real rivalry in the sector could drive down costs and boost reliable services – not jack them up.

Wale also pointed out that while it’s great news Our Telekom handed over $45 million to the National Provident Fund (NPF), that windfall shouldn’t hit ordinary users in the pocket.

He warned that letting a big operator rake in fat profits amid low service, without any regulatory push, just encourages more of the same old story.

In response to the pressure, TCSI steps into action as laid out in the Telecommunications Act 2009. The body pointed to Sections 69 and 70, which steer its grip on pricing matters.

“Section 69 demands that companies spell out prices clearly and upfront, and Section 70 sets up a fair way to regulate based on solid proof, weighing social needs, economic realities, and even remote area challenges,” TCSI explained.

To set things straight, the commission noted that data bundles are like seasonal specials – shaped by each provider’s strategy, expenses, and what’s hot in the market.

Even though many feel Our Telekom’s updates are a rip-off, the per-unit data cost still stacks up pretty even with B-Mobile and the rest.

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The country’s diplomats may need additional requirements under the Pubic Service code of conduct for employees, for they carry heavier burden than public officers working locally.

Leader of Opposition and member of the Bills and Legislative Committee (BLC), Matthew Wale raised the matter for consideration under the Public Service Bill 2025, which is under consultation. 

He said the foreign service should have additional conducts under the Public Service code of conduct for employees because they represent the country and government and their behaviour and conducts become very important, both during and after working hours.

Wale also asked a team from the Ministry of Public Service during the hearing, if the Ministry and other relevant government institutions like IPAM provide training on diplomacy and etiquette for the country’s foreign service officers.

The team responded that at the moment both foreign service officers and public service officers are guided by the same code of conduct.

They said there is no special or additional conducts for foreign service officers or diplomats yet, but the ministry acknowledges the concern and will see if they can work on it when they review the current code of conduct. 

On the same note, the team said the Ministry of Public Service and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade also offers training on diplomacy for foreign service officers, but it is very basic training.

They added that most of them only took courses at IPAM, which is generally on ethics for public service, but it has helped them make their way up the ladder. Most senior officers, who were sent out are with level 12 and 13, and should be well-versed with the public service code of conducts.

The team furthered that the code of conduct should influence the behaviour or performance of the person. For instance, when a diplomat goes to a country, this is the ethics he or she must abide by. 

They also said the code of ethics should be part of a person’s daily living.

The team from the Public Service said this is what they try to preach at IPAM, but assured that they will take onboard the concerns raised to strengthen the public service code of ethics for all public officers.

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BY MORRIS NAFU

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) plans to give the patient square at the National Referral Hospital (NRH) a makeover to create a peaceful outdoor haven that supports patient recovery and eases the burden on busy wards.

In line with NRH’s dedication to improving patient care and family support during tough times, hospital leaders are calling on designers to revamp the square inside the hospital grounds.

The focus is to build a secure, soothing spot that draws relatives away from crowded indoor areas, allowing better airflow and more space for those receiving treatment.

According to an MHMS press statement, the upgrade seeks to turn the square into a calming, eye-catching retreat that aids healing and downtime.

The key aims are; to craft cozy outdoor zones for families to relax outside the wards, boost safety and ease of access for everyone, especially those with mobility issues, reduce ward overcrowding, and to weave natural and cultural elements to build a feeling of home and serenity.

The proposed facility includes a healing zone opt for soothing hues, eco-friendly materials, and plenty of plants to nurture both mind and body health.

In plan are also the following;

-To prioritize a lush mix of shade-giving trees, ferns, and local bushes – steering clear of pollen-heavy flowers like roses to dodge allergies and craft a relaxing, nature-filled vibe.

-To build broad, brightly lit walkways that cater to wheelchairs and walking aids.

-To add comfy benches and covered shelters to beat the tropical heat and spark chats among visitors.

-To feature native flora and subtle water elements to ramp up the peaceful feel.

-To weave in Solomon Islands traditions via art, garden layouts, and patterns that spark local pride and ease.

-To roll out clear signs, quick emergency paths, and solid lighting to keep everyone protected.

-To carve out a dedicated area in the square for health talks, workshops, and campaigns.

-Outfit it with adaptable seats, a simple platform, and tools like screens or boards, all under natural cover with clear sound for group events – keeping things open and friendly.

MHMS also mentioned that the patient square refresh at NRH is a golden chance to reshape the hospital into a true sanctuary of recovery, peace, and togetherness.

Also noted is that by luring families outdoors to a smartly planned area, it could lift health results, visitor vibes, and raise the bar for well-rounded medical care across the Solomon Islands.

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BY RODRICK DESURI

AUKI

Tilapia farmers in the south region of Malaita province call for more training and support to overcome challenges they faced during their recent Mozambique tilapia harvest on September 24, 2025.

The Usunione farmers, who began their tilapia farming journey last year in September, say they need more skills and knowledge to improve their operations and ensure future success.

Senior Fisheries Officer Mathew Isihanua said the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources has a key role to play in providing training that will help farmers boost their expertise.

“Training is greatly needed by these tilapia farmers. This can help and support them to broaden their knowledge and farming skills,” he said.

He explained that after harvesting the bigger fish, farmers transfer smaller fingerlings into new ponds to continue the cycle.

The recent harvest at Usunione has drawn attention from surrounding communities, with many expressing interest in starting their own tilapia farms.

“The harvesting has attracted many community members nearby, and they have shown great interest in tilapia farming,” said Isihanua.

Looking forward, he confirmed that Usunione farmers will be recommended to receive Nile Tilapia fingerlings when the new species is imported to Solomon Islands soon.

Isihanua encourages more rural farmers to venture into tilapia farming and promises to offer support whenever resources allow.

“I encourage more rural farmers to start tilapia farming. We will try our best to visit and support you when funds are available,” he said.

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BY MORRIS NAFU

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele speaking at United Nations General Assembly last week, sounded the alarm on climate change as an unrelenting danger hammering the Pacific region.

In his address Manele painted the crisis as a “multiplier” that’s reshaping destinies worldwide.

Drawing on stark data, PM Manele highlighted the World Meteorological Organization’s report naming 2024 as the hottest year ever recorded – a grim milestone that’s derailing the 1.5°C warming limit set in the Paris Agreement.

For the Solomon Islands, a nation with one of the smallest carbon footprints on the planet, the PM proudly noted the country’s bold “Net Positive” third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC). Yet, he stressed that more can be achieved through global teamwork, including funding for reforestation, forest protection, and shifting to renewable energy sources.

“We need bold, immediate steps to steer us back to that 1.5°C path,” PM Manele declared.

He called out major polluters and nations with deep historical emissions to step up and slash their outputs decisively.

PM Manele also pushed back against recent skepticism aired at the UN.

“The science is crystal clear on climate change, and my people are living the painful reality of it every day,” he stressed.

Manele also highlighted that strong endorsement of the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) groundbreaking Advisory Opinion on climate change, delivered on July 23, 2025.

Prompted by a UN General Assembly resolution (77/276), the ruling tackled two key issues.

One is on states’ legal duties under international law to shield the climate from damaging greenhouse gases, with a focus on fairness across generation and the other issue is the fallout for countries whose neglect harms the planet, especially vulnerable spots like Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

These SIDS including the Solomons, bear the brunt of rising seas and extreme weather despite their tiny emissions.

The opinion also covers duties to affected people, communities, and future generations whose rights to life and livelihoods hang in the balance.

“Solomon Islands warmly welcomes this historic ICJ decision and backs the push for a follow-up UN resolution,” PM Manele told the UN assembly.

He emphasized that nations now face ironclad responsibilities to avert damage, work together, and safeguard rights for today and tomorrow.

These aren’t just ethical calls – they’re enforceable laws holding countries accountable for ending destructive habits, avoiding repeats, and making amends for the harm done.

The PM also stressed on the growing crisis of climate-induced displacement, where whole villages face losing their ancestral lands.

The ICJ’s ruling reinforces the non-refoulement principle, barring any nation from sending people back to zones where climate threats make life untenable.

“This is a vital shield for rights to life, food, water, and livable homes,” he said.

For SIDS, it’s a matter of survival, underscoring that climate duties are “erga omnes”– owed to everyone, everywhere, calling for shared global action.

Dismissing attempts to confine these obligations to the Paris Agreement alone, the ICJ affirmed broader legal grounds like human rights, maritime law, and customary international rules.

It declared the 1.5°C goal legally binding which insists big emitters can’t dodge blame (even non-Paris signatories), and warns of repercussions for violations – from reparations for damages to scrutiny over fossil fuel reliance, handouts, and use.

For Pacific atolls on the front lines, the opinion offers real hope and validation. It guarantees that even if oceans swallow shorelines, island nations’ sovereignty and sea boundaries will persist.

“This isn’t just legalese, it’s a rallying cry for the world to unite in upholding 1.5°C, shielding the weakest, and forging a fair, enduring tomorrow for all,” PM Manele stated.

In closing, the Prime Minister tipped his hat to Vanuatu’s trailblazing role and the relentless drive of Pacific youth in championing this cause.

“Their passion has amplified our plight globally, proving the Pacific’s power is in our solidarity,” he said.

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