-Guadalcanal Premier issues strong statement condemning sufferance wharves, urging their suspension

-‘Sufferance wharves risk public safety, indigenous land rights and environment’

BY CHRIS ALEX

The Guadalcanal Provincial Government (GPG) has condemned the ongoing illegal operations of sufferance wharves within its jurisdiction, spanning from the Poha River in the west to the Metapono River in the east of Guadalcanal.

The GPG also echoed the call for sufferance wharves to be suspended while government carries out its promised review on the wharves.

Premier William Atu calls for the immediate suspension of these wharves until thorough legal, environmental and administrative reviews are conducted to ensure compliance with both provincial and national regulations.

He highlighted that these wharves, originally established under the Customs and Excise Act for export purposes, have become hubs for unregulated imports and illicit activities.

“Their continued operation without permission, valid business licences, and formal land acquisition under the Lands and Titles Act represents a direct violation of the rule of law and poses a significant threat to our society,” Atu said.

Independent reports, including those from the Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) in 2023, have raised alarms about the unchecked growth of these facilities.

Premier Atu stressed that this evolution has been driven by vested interests, poor enforcement, and policy neglect, transforming the problem from a mere administrative challenge into a broader crisis involving public safety, indigenous land rights, and environmental protection.

“The GPG fully supports efforts to scrutinize these sufferance wharves, noting that their current use deviates from their original legal purposes.

“This evolution is fueled by vested interests, as reported in the media, poor enforcement, and policy neglect,” Atu said.

Among the most pressing issues raised by Premier Atu is the potential entry of methamphetamine or “power” through these unregulated wharves.

“This criminal activity seriously jeopardizes community safety and national security,” Atu warned.

The premier emphasised the need for stricter oversight to prevent further illicit drug trafficking, which poses a direct threat to the lives and safety of Guadalcanal’s residents.

Premier Atu also pointed to environmental concerns caused by the unregulated operations, including coastal degradation and marine pollution.

He stressed that these wharves operate without Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA), which are critical to safeguarding Guadalcanal’s ecosystems.

The lack of oversight not only threatens the environment but also undermines the province’s commitment to sustainable development and conservation efforts.

The Guadalcanal Provincial Government has called on national ministries, enforcement agencies, landowners, and civil society organisations to work together to address the ongoing challenges posed by these illegal operations.

Premier Atu reiterated GPG’s commitment to enforce laws to protect the environment, indigenous land rights, and community welfare.

“The suspension of these sufferance wharves should remain until comprehensive reviews are completed, and all activities comply with provincial and national regulations,” Atu said.

As the situation unfolds, the GPG’s strong stance represents a critical turning point in addressing the misuse of sufferance wharves.

The provincial government’s call to action highlights the urgent need for transparency, accountability and strict enforcement to safeguard of people, resources and future.

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BY BEN BILUA
GIZO

MINISTER of Health and Medical Services for Western Province, Kenneth George has welcomed the health officials and donor partners to Gizo, Western Province for the National Healthy Settings Conference.

In his welcome speech, George stressed that it’s not often that Gizo hosts such a huge gathering of representatives from every province in Solomon Islands.

However, he said that it’s always a good feeling to host such an important event as the outcome will make a difference nationwide.

George said Gizo has a population of 7000 people with communities scattered around the island.

He also said that Gizo is surrounded by attractive resorts that continues to attract both domestic and international tourists.

George wishes the conference nothing but the best to develop the country’s health and medical service’s strategy.

“On behalf of the provincial government and people of Western Province, I would like to render you our warmest greeting and heartfelt welcome we as congregate for the whole week here in Gizo to mull our strategies, plans, interventions and resolution to tackle our ever-challenging health sector.

“I do not know but I believe while some of you may have been here before, I’m sure there are some of you whom it maybe your first time to Gizo,” he said.

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BY MORRIS NAFU

Elsie Polosovai, Miss Solomon Islands 2024-2025, has officially stepped down from her duties, marking the end of a remarkable journey in the pageant world.

Polosovai entered the Miss Solomon Islands Pageant (MSIP) in 2024, proudly representing Miss Lauru.

She later advanced to represent the country on a regional stage at the Miss Pacific Islands event held in Honiara, where she secured an impressive third runner-up position.

Addressing the media yesterday, Polosovai reflected on her experiences with gratitude and insight.

“Entering the MSIP at the start, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect since it was a completely new arena for me.

“But I knew it was a platform that women could aspire to, and one I could use to empower others – that became my main motivation to join,” she shared.

She highlighted the significance of her regional participation.

“Stepping onto the Miss Pacific Islands stage opened my eyes to the platform’s impact, not just in Solomon Islands but across the Pacific.

“Representing my country and my home village felt like a tremendous accomplishment,” she expressed.

Offering advice to aspiring participants, Polosovai emphasized resilience and authenticity.

“It’s not an easy role, but it’s a deeply honorable one. Everything you do on and off the stage leaves a lasting impression, so truly understanding your strengths and weaknesses is key.

“Stay true to yourself – it’s tempting to compare with others already in the spotlight or from different countries, but focus on carving your own path and shining in your unique way,” she said.

Looking ahead, Polosovai is eager to continue her contributions beyond the crown.

“Even though my time as Miss Solomon Islands is over, I’m committed to supporting small businesses in any capacity I can.

“I’ll promote tourism, back programs that uplift women, and embrace whatever opportunities arise,” Polosovai said.

She added that she now has full-time work responsibilities, much like any women balancing family support.

“Whatever the future holds, I’m excited to give back and get involved wherever possible,” she added.

Polosovai didn’t shy away from discussing hurdles along the way.

“Preparation was our biggest challenge.

“We had to meet high standards, especially for regional events, including financial backing and top-level readiness. But we made the most of our available resources, which pushed us to get creative in everything we did,” she said.

MSIP Director Joyce Konofilia praised Polosovai’s tenure, calling her an exemplary representative.

“Elsie has been an outstanding ambassador for Solomon Islands, particularly for women.

“Given her background, it must have been tough – leaving her family and familiar surroundings to step into this world,” said Konofilia.

Konofilia acknowledges Polosovai for her dedication as Miss Solomon Islands 2024-2025.

“We thank Elsie wholeheartedly for her dedication as Miss Solomon Islands 2024-2025 and we’re rooting for her future successes and stand ready to support her ongoing advocacy work,” she said.

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BY MORRIS NAFU

The Miss Solomon Islands Pageant (MSIP) is ramping up preparations to host its 2025 edition later this year, with organisers eyeing a late November showcase despite financial hurdles and lingering uncertainties from recent regional events.

MSIP Director Joyce Konofilia shared these updates during a press conference at the Solomon Host office yesterday, outlining the tentative plans while emphasizing the need for robust sponsorship support.

“This year, we’re aiming to stage the MSIP show in late November.

“We’re in ongoing discussions with the government and potential sponsors to make it happen,” Konofilia confirmed.

She acknowledges the significant resources poured into hosting the Miss Pacific Islands pageant in the country just last year, which placed a heavy burden on national commitments.

“As everyone knows, bringing Miss Pacific here was a massive undertaking for the government.

“At this point, we’re focusing on securing backing from the private sector to keep things moving,” Konofilia explained.

Unlike the grand scale of previous years, which featured extensive candidate tours, public exposures, and high-profile activities, the 2025 event may adopt a more streamlined approach.

Konofilia indicated that it could be a shorter affair, potentially centered around a simple crowning ceremony rather than an elaborate production.

“It might not be as big as last year, with fewer visits and less exposure for the candidates.

“We could keep it to a tight timeframe and focus on the crowning but everything hinges on our negotiations and sponsorship deals,” she explained.

The director’s remarks also touches on broader challenges facing the organization, particularly the unresolved fallout from the 2024 Miss Pacific crowning.

Solomon Host and MSIP are still awaiting definitive responses from the government regarding allegations that surfaced during the event, where claims emerged of judges manipulating results to favor their personal preferences.

This controversy prompted further investigations, casting a shadow over the pageant’s integrity and Solomon Islands participation in the regional stage.

Konofilia expressed frustration over the lack of clarity, which is stalling future plans.

“We’re still in the dark about the government’s stance on the Miss Pacific crowning issue.

“There are outstanding matters we’re waiting on from the authorities.

“Until we get clear guidance, we can’t commit to Solomon Islands’ participation in any upcoming regional events,” she said.

She stressed the importance of transparency to move forward.

“It’s crucial for the authorities to step up, provide a clear position, and let us know where the government stands – especially on the last Miss Pacific controversy,” Konofilia urged.

Without resolution, the path for national representation on the Pacific stage remains uncertain, potentially impacting morale and opportunities for aspiring contestants.

As preparations continue, Konofilia remains optimistic about the pageant’s role in empowering women across Solomon Islands.

The MSIP has long served as a vital platform to showcase talent, promote cultural pride and inspire young women to pursue leadership roles.

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

Solomon Islands has joined other countries around the world to support a new international declaration that aims to protect humanitarian workers.

According to a press statement from the Press Secretariat of the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) Peter Shanel Agovaka signed the declaration on behalf of Solomon Islands on Sunday evening, September 21, 2025 at the United Nations precinct in New York.

As stated, the declaration is an initiative of Australia’s Foreign Minister, Senator Penny Wong and has received support from more than 100 UN member states who are committed to safeguard those who risk their lives to provide aid in conflict zones and during crises.

Also noted is that this declaration is a response to the alarming rise in attacks on aid personnel globally, with the year 2024 recorded as the deadliest year for humanitarian workers.

“Hundreds were killed, injured, or kidnapped, most of them local staff serving in their own communities. This erosion of respect for international humanitarian law prompted urgent calls for stronger global action,” said the statement.

This declaration is said to focus on ensuring that humanitarian workers are protected through prompt and independent investigations when harm occurs and through stronger accountability systems, victim- and survivor-centred approaches to justice, and systematic monitoring of incidents.

To add on, the declaration also supports the UN Security Council to take action against those who violate the safety of aid personnel.

The press statement furthers that by signing, Solomon Islands demonstrates its partnership with Australia and the international community to promote justice, accountability and safety of those serving communities in need.

Photo: Press Secretariat, OPMC

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BY CHRIS ALEX

British High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands, His Excellency Paul Turner, highlighted the importance of creative industries in driving economic growth and social progress.

“Creative industries are significant drivers of economic growth, job creation, and social progress, promoting innovation and cultural exchange while contributing to overall well-being and sustainable development goals,” Turner said.

His remarks set the stage for the highly anticipated London Fashion Week which is taking place for the first time in the Solomon Islands, with a series of exciting events lined up throughout the week.

From September 22, the fashion capital of the world will be brought to the heart of the Pacific.

The British High Commissioner expressed that like the UK, Solomon Islands also values its creative industries.

“This week, we’re bringing London Fashion Week to Honiara! We’ve got a full range of events happening across the city, starting with the National Gallery, where young designers’ works will be on display. Visitors will have the chance to vote for their favorite designs, with the winning selection to be announced on Saturday,” he said.

The week’s highlight will be the fashion show at the British High Commission residence on Wednesday evening, where designers from across the Solomon Islands will present their latest collections.

Local models will showcase these unique creations, offering attendees the opportunity to engage with the designs and vote for their favorites once again.

Creative industries, which play a pivotal role in the UK’s economy, have also been a key focus in Solomon Islands, with the potential to stimulate economic growth, enhance innovation, and foster cultural exchange.

As Turner pointed out, creative industries have long been a cornerstone of London’s economy, generating £51.7 billion in economic output in 2020 alone, supporting jobs for one in seven workers (14.7%) in the capital.

“This collaboration is more than just a celebration of fashion; it’s a testament to the power of creative industries in fostering economic development, social integration, and cultural dialogue,” Turner said.

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BY CHRIS ALEX

A group of young Pacific Island leaders, including alumni of the We Are Young Pacific Leaders (YPL) programme, made a significant impact in the heart of US policymaking last week as they visited the US Capitol and the State Department.

The delegation met with influential US lawmakers and senior diplomats to share the unique perspectives and urgent concerns of Pacific communities on global issues.

Among the high-level engagements, the group held discussions with members of the US Congress and met with the Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, one of the most senior public diplomacy officials in the US government.

These meetings served as a platform for the Pacific youth to elevate issues that are vital to their region, including climate change, environmental protection, cultural heritage preservation, and regional security.

Millicent Barty, a youth leader from the Solomon Islands and a vocal advocate for Pacific voices, described the visit as “an inspiring opportunity to exchange ideas and advocate for the Pacific region”.

The Young Pacific Leaders initiative, supported by the US Department of State, is designed to foster regional collaboration and leadership development among young professionals across the Pacific.

Many of the visiting delegates are alumni of this initiative, which has built a growing network of changemakers from nations including Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Palau, and others.

The meetings in Washington highlighted the need for inclusive global governance and the importance of elevating underrepresented voices particularly those from small island nations who are most vulnerable to the consequences of climate change and geopolitical instability.

Photo: Millicent Barty

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