Home Blog Page 258

Totua settlers urged to prepare for relocation as Gold Ridge Mine expansion moves forward

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY NED GAGAHE

Totua settlers living near the Gold Ridge Mine in Central Guadalcanal have been told to prepare to relocate as Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) pushes ahead with its processing plant expansion project.

Totua, situated within Vulolo Ward, is a mixed settlement with some residents living inside the mining lease area and others on customary land.

GRML last week in a customary approach, presented two chupu (traditional gifts) to recognise and engage with the two categories of settlers:

  1. The original families who came under traditional arrangements.
  2. The newer settlers, many of whom moved in during the rise of illegal mining.

The original settlers are mainly from the Weathercoast of Guadalcanal through proper customary arrangements with landowning tribes and families.

Over the years, however, the settlement has grown considerably, largely driven by the influx of people attracted by illegal mining activities.

GRML in a statement said this rapid increase has brought with it social challenges that continue to be a concern for the company.

As part of its expansion—which will require new land for major infrastructure—GRML formally advised Totua settlers over the weekend to begin preparing for relocation.

Speaking during the ceremony, community leader Chief Golu acknowledged the company’s message.

“We accept the chupu. To those of you who were not invited, please respect the company. Their message is clear—it’s time to move out, just as you came in,” he said.

Another Totua leader, Chief Peter, also reinforced the call.

“Move now. You have heard the company loud and clear,” he said.

GRML said further dialogue will take place in the coming weeks with the original settlers to properly arrange the relocation process.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

West Papua issue on PIF Troika

Written by
Admin
-
0

 BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The issue of West Papua is a standing agenda matter as part of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) leaders meeting outcome in Honiara held from September 8 – 12, 2025.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, PIF Chair responded to a question raised by Stefan Armbruster from Torres Strait Island Media Association, CIMA Forum W and Torres News regarding the matter.

The PIF Troika consist of the Solomon Islands, Tonga, and the Cook Islands. The Troika serves as a strategic leadership body to ensure continuity and cohesion in Forum priorities and actions.

The Troika mechanism is also designed to ensure continuity and stronger Pacific advocacy on the global stage, as well as a smooth transition between Forum Chairs.

Speaking at the 54th PIF Troika Conference in Honiara, Stefan Armbruster raised the question about one of the two standing agenda items, referring to the nuclear issue and West Papua.

He said that there’s no reference in the PM’s opening address or remarks about West Papua, and what discussion was there about West Papua.

Mr Armbruster asked if this gives an avenue for West Papua to seek reserved status with the Pacific Islands Forum?

“Thank you, PM Manele responded. In terms of West Papua, yes, it’s a standing agenda matter as part of the outcome. The leaders tasked the secretariat in terms of working with the United Nations human commission and follow-up on the previous decision on that,” said PM Manele.

According to PM, in relation to whether West Papua will become an observer at this stage, he said that the 54TH partnership policy has been adopted.

“But the details troika will be working on the details going forward,” said PM Manele.

At this year’s 54th PIF forum communiqué, Leaders reaffirmed the Forum’s ongoing recognition of Indonesia’s sovereignty over West Papua (Papua).

PIF Leaders recalled Indonesia’s 2018 invitation for a mission led by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

According to the communiqué, Leaders tasked the Secretariat to work constructively with Indonesia on a proposed visit by Forum Leaders Envoys in 2026, in consultation with the Melanesian Spearhead Group Secretariat.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

CCECC transform Kwaibala riverbank roadway

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The China Civil Engineering Construction Cooperation (CCECC) has delivered a milestone road infrastructure project in Auki, Malaita Province as they transform Kwaibala riverbank road into a resilience and standard roadway.

The project was part of the China aid-Auki Road Project, where work is simultaneously being conducted on the major project for tar-sealing of road from Kwaibala to Kilu’ufi junction in Auki township.

A statement from China aid-Auki Road Project stated the ongoing riverbank reinforcement at Kwaibala has reached a key milestone, with more than 100 meters of high-strength concrete armor blocks successfully installed.

This section of road has been faced with critical natural pressures as well as non-standard road features, which posed risk for public road safety.

Also noted is that recognizing the urgency, the CCECC prioritized reinforcement efforts, which not only aims to prevent natural pressures, but to also improve public safety.

Key areas in the upgrade include; widening the road by over 50% which improved traffic flow, installation of over 1,000 cubic meters of coral fill to strengthen the base, placing around 350 prefabricated concrete blocks for erosion resistance and slope stabilization and riverbed dredging to improve water flow capacity.

As a result, the statement said this previously dangerous stretch of road has been transformed into a much safer, wider, and more resilient route.

It said the transformation reflects the broader goal of China-aid Auki Road Project to build safer and more durable infrastructure that protects lives, enhances mobility, and promotes sustainable development in the region.

The statement added that the next phase of work on this stretch of road will include construction of a pedestrian footpath, drainage, road base and asphalt road surface.

The previous poor status of this stretch of roadway was endured due to a number of traffic accidents, where some were fatal. The upgrade will guarentee the safety of both motorists and pedestrians.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

CCECC constructs along cliff side road leading to Dukwasi and Fulisango

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The China Civil Engineering Construction Cooperation (CCECC) has recently completed a concrete retaining wall on the cliff side stretch near Solomon Power Road leading to Dukwasi and Fulisango road in Auki, Malaita Province.

This major safety upgrade was part of the China-aid Auki Road Project which aims to put to rest the risk the road has been posing to motorists and pedestrians.

A statement from China-aid Auki Road Project said for years, travellers faced the constant risk of landslides and soil erosion, making the road one of the more dangerous routes in the area.

“After more than three months of work, a newly constructed retaining wall now provides strong protection against these threats.

“The project was carried out by Chinese staff of China Civil Engineering Construction Cooperation (CCECC)in close collaboration with local Solomon Island workers, highlighting a productive partnership between international expertise and local labour.

“The structure was built using almost thousand cubic meters of concrete, ensuring the wall’s strength and durability against natural pressures from the cliff,” the statement said.

As stated, the completion of the project represents a significant step towards improving road safety, stability, and accessibility for surrounding communities.

Also mentioned is that local residents have warmly welcomed the project, expressing relief and gratitude that a once dangerous road is now much safer for daily travel.

The statement also said beyond enhancing safety, the project also has generated employment and skill-building opportunities for local workers.

“With the retaining wall now in place, the road is more secure, reliable, and better prepared to withstand the challenges of weather and terrain in the years ahead,” it said.

This paper understands that this project was part of the major Auki Road tar-sealing project funded by China with support from both the national government and Malaita provincial government for Auki township.

This million-dollar project, which is currently being implemented covers sealing of the road between Kwaibala and junction to Kilu’ufi hospital. 

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Utilise ENB to fisheries: PM Manele

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and the Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum said that the East New Britain initiative can be used as a tool to generate more income from the Tuna fisheries sector in the region and Solomon Islands.

PM Manele highlighted this during this year’s 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders (PIF) Troika Press Conference in Honiara.

Speaking of the Blue Pacific Ocean Strategy 2050, Tuna fisheries remain the region’s most valuable resource, valued at almost 5 billion USD annually, according to data, annually.

Speaking to the press, PM Manele said that tuna fisheries is a very important resource to the region and the Solomon Islands economy.

He told regional and local journalists that to elevate this sector in the region, including the Solomon Islands, initiatives such as the East New Britain must be utilised.

“I think you heard about this East New Britain initiative, where we can expand our fisheries so that we can get more value for money,” said PM Manele.

He said that through these initiatives, countries can process and export tuna to generate income to support their economies going forward.

“We can process our fish in-country, in the region, and we export it. Most likely, we will get more revenue going forward. If you look at the canneries, for example, they create jobs for us. We will have to expand on the fisheries plan, have value so that we can also create job opportunities for our people,” he said.

He also noted the challenges faced in the tuna fisheries sector.

“Of course, there are challenges in the tuna fisheries and the fisheries sector. This is not new; there are challenges in terms of fishing. So, through the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), we continue to monitor, we have surveillance in terms of the region’s workers.

“Tuna fisheries are very important and so are coastal fisheries. Sometimes we do not value the impact on that, but our people in the rural areas also depend on coastal fisheries for their livelihoods and to generate income,” PM Manele said.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Construction of WB funded bridges in Malaita progresses

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Construction of four (4) bridges in Malaita province under the Solomon Islands Road and Aviation Project (SIRAP2) are progressing well, as they near completion.

The projects are funded by World Bank and supported by national government through line ministries such as Ministry of Communication and Aviation, Ministry of Finance and Treasury and Ministry of Infrastructure Development.

The bridges include; Kolofe 1 & 2 bridges on North Road and Su’u harbour & Bira village bridges on South Road in Malaita.

The four bridge projects in Malaita province are implemented by the China Civil Engineering Construction Cooperation (CCECC).

The completion of the bridges will definitely ease transportation challenges faced in the heavily populated regions of Malaita province.

The projects will to deliver high quality standard of infrastructure that expect to be weather resilience, which will provide affordable and consistent transport access.

Most importantly, the projects will stimulate and improve economic activities and delivery of goods and services in the province.

This paper understands that under the SIRAP 1 project, a number of infrastructure projects especially on road transportations were constructed in Malaita province.

The people in Malaita are enjoying these projects and as SIRAP 2 comes, it will continue to support them and the development of the province.

According to the SIRAP 2 project, the total funding for SIRAP2 program is USD$89.21 million, which comprises of US$67.69 million concessional credit and US$21.52 million grant.

These financing comes under the International Development Association or IDA through the World Bank Group.

Photo: SIRAP2 Project

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

National Health Conference kicks off in Gizo

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY BEN BILUA
GIZO

THE 2025 National Health Conference officially kicks off today in Gizo, Western Province bringing together health officials and stakeholders from across the Solomon Islands.

Health representatives from all nine provinces, along with officials from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), are already on the ground, while more participants are expected to arrive today.

The program will begin with a parade from the western end of Gizo to the MSG building, where the official ceremony will take place.

Yesterday, officials who had already gathered in Gizo joined a joint opening prayer service at the South Seas Evangelical Church (SSEC), marking the spiritual start of the event.

A member of the local organising committee told Island Sun that preparations have gone according to plan.

“Our preparation began two months ago and we are hopeful that this program will run smoothly,” she said.

Western Province’s Director of Health and Medical Services, Dickson Boara, earlier described the National Health Conference as a flagship event of the MHMS, saying it plays a crucial role in shaping health policies and strengthening the country’s medical systems.

He adds that the conference provides an opportunity for decision-makers, practitioners, and development partners to work together in finding new strategies to improve health and medical service delivery across the Solomon Islands.

Boara said plenary sessions, workshops, and technical discussions will cover pressing national health issues, including improving rural health services, ensuring fair distribution of medical resources, and addressing the rising cases of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).

“This is a huge opportunity for heads of health and medical services from across the country to share experiences, address challenges, and establish practical approaches to improve our health system,” Boara said.

He said the success of the conference will not only contribute to strengthening the nation’s health and medical services but will also demonstrate Gizo’s ability to host large-scale national events.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Police, CSSI recruitment soon to be elevated

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Secretary to the Cabinet (STC), Nego Sisiolo, has informed the Chair of the Bill and Legislation Committee and Leader of Opposition that the government will increase its disciplined force from 2026 to 2030.

Sisiolo informed the Opposition Leader, Mathew Wale when the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Service (MPNSCS), appeared before the Bill & Legislation Committee (BLC) on Wednesday last week.

“Chairman, just for enlightenment, if I can. I am informed that there is a plan under the national security strategy for the government to increase its disciplined force as we progress from 2026 to 2030.

“The policy intention is to look at the entry recruitment point. And the source of pool to pick from will be elevated from the current practice of, say, maybe from three leavers, to five leavers,” Sisiolo said.

He said that the policy intention is to recruit graduates either from universities or vocational schools who have at least demonstrated competencies, behaviours that they learned, discipline, etc.

He said that he was informed that the policy had already been forwarded to cabinet.

“If we go by that policy, which I am informed has already come to cabinet, then it might affect the motivation of those whom we will recruit if they will still be at level five.

“This is a heads up, I would say, based on what we currently have and what we propose to do in light of the new security strategy that we have,” STC Sisiolo said.

When BLC Chair, Mr Wale, asked when the policy would be rolled out, Mr Sisiolo said that the policy, which applies to RSIPF and CSSI, is anticipated for next year, 2026.

The Commissioner of RSIPF, Mr Mostyn Mangau, said that they should address some of the shortfalls within their own regulation.

He said that they are also reviewing the police act 2013 to capture policy intentions of the government.

Commissioner of CSSI, Mactus Forau, told the BLC Chair that they reaffirm their commitment to good governance and to work together with the Ministry of Public Service on this reform and improvement for services.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Authorities urged to act before it’s too late

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Citizens have expressed significant concern regarding the methamphetamine issue, commonly known locally as POWER or ICE, on social media recently.

A spokesperson, whose daughter was a victim and tragically passed away in 2024, said that the relevant authorities must conduct an investigation.

The man who wished to remain anonymous mentioned that the sufferance wharves serve as the primary entry point for meth into this country, based on information from a friend who is using the drug.

“Are you residents of Honiara not aware that methamphetamine is spreading rapidly? The only factor that seems to hinder its spread is its high cost, making it too expensive,” voiced the concerned citizen.

The spokesperson indicated that the prevailing selling price in Honiara ranges from $500 to $2000 SBD for very small packages weighing approximately 2 to 5 grams, as reported by his friend.

The individual said that if the sufferance wharves are not shut down or properly addressed, significant risks are anticipated in the forthcoming years.

“We must take action immediately before it is too late! This clearly illustrates how corruption is gradually undermining this nation, and to exacerbate the situation, this corruption will eventually impact some of our very own households if we do not take action now!” the man urged.

Another man has also raised the issue, describing that Meth (POWER) has emerged as the new drug of choice in the Solomon Islands.

According to the individual, the ‘high’ that people sought from Marijuana has become ineffective and dull; the next high was merely a matter of introduction, and indeed, that introduction has occurred, with Meth (POWER) now being the preferred drug in the country.

This concerned man also mentioned that he had been offered meth for sale on several occasions in Honiara about a year ago, which he dismissed as a singular event.

“The dealers (those selling it) are marketing it as beneficial for work concentration, health advantages (for weight loss), and for relaxation. Over time, I have witnessed individuals using it, heard numerous accounts of its use and sale, and have been informed about several close friends who are using it. It is undeniably present and well-established in Honiara, including certain Provincial Capitals, and requires attention.

“Several fingers and assumptions have been directed towards the sufferance wharves and Leeroy Wharf. The veracity of these claims remains uncertain, yet they undeniably echo other incidents both internationally and in Fiji, and clearly need further investigation,” the citizen said.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

PICs falling behind on SDG targets

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY BEN BILUA

PACIFIC Island countries, including Solomon Islands, are lagging significantly behind in efforts to achieve the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a new report has revealed.

According to the 2022 Second Quadrennial Sustainable Development Report, the Pacific is unlikely to meet even one-fifth of the targets under the SDGs.

The report highlights that the COVID-19 pandemic worsened economic and social conditions across the region, pushing progress further off track, as a result, none of the SDGs are expected to be fully achieved by 2030.

It states that the ongoing threat of climate change and climate-induced disasters continues to undermine development gains, making it harder for countries to stay on course even in areas where progress is visible.

The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) regional SDG progress report released in March 2023 reinforced these concerns. It projected that, at the current pace, Asia and the Pacific would need another 42 years to fully achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

For the Pacific specifically, ESCAP confirmed that no single goal is on track to be achieved by the 2030 deadline.

The report also pointed to significant data gaps, which limit the ability to capture the full picture of SDG progress in the region.

The findings serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for stronger regional cooperation, innovative policies, and increased investment to help Pacific Island countries close the gap and move closer to achieving global development targets.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

1...257258259...1,662Page 258 of 1,662