BY CHRIS ALEX

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele acknowledges the urgency of ongoing concerns raised by the Solomon Islands National Teachers Association (SINTA), outlining the government’s commitment to addressing key issues affecting educators across the country.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, Manele responded to SINTA’s list of seven demands, which includes strengthening job security, recognition of teaching experience in salary calculations, backdated pay, and a full review of the national salary structure.

The union is also calling for the formal inclusion of Early Childhood Education (ECE), Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and disabilities educators, alongside improved allowances and reassessments of education providers’ financial capacities.

The Prime Minister confirmed that the government has already reached consensus on three demands: job security, the national salary structure review, and financial reassessments of education providers.

“A taskforce has been activated to address the remaining four demands. We are not here to dismiss concerns –we are here to act. Teachers are the foundation of our national development. Their voices matter, and their demands reflect the realities they face every day in classrooms across the country,” Manele announced.

Manele emphasized the government’s intent to adopt a collaborative and inclusive approach, stating that the taskforce will include technical experts and education stakeholders. Special attention will be given to integrating ECE, TVET, and disability educators into the national framework.

“These educators have been overlooked for too long. Their inclusion is not a policy shift it is a moral imperative,” he said.

On the more complex issues of backdated salary payments and the recognition of years of teaching experience, Manele acknowledged ongoing challenges but assured that progress is being made.

“We understand the frustration. Teachers deserve to be compensated fairly and recognized for their years of service. We are working closely with the Ministry of Finance and the Teaching Services Commission to ensure these matters are resolved transparently and equitably,” he said.

The Prime Minister issued an appeal for unity and patience from educators as the government finalizes its implementation roadmap.

“This is a turning point. We are not just negotiating terms we are building trust. I ask our teachers to walk with us as we shape a more inclusive and resilient education system for the Solomon Islands,” he said.

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Opposition Leader Matthew Wale has expressed concern about the growing number of Bangladeshis running retail shops in the country.

Wale brought this issue to the Ministry of Commerce, Labour, Industry and Immigration (MCILI) during their appearance before the Bills and Legislation Committee (BLC) Inquiry concerning the Mineral Resources Bill 2025.

In response, MCILI said in regards to reference to retail shops, many are now associated with marriage.

“This raises the issue of the local employer, whose spouse is applying on their behalf for a work permit and residence permit.

“Before 2020, we had retailers operating. Following the inspection that year, it was restricted. Consequently, retail shops are now designated for Solomon Islanders, but this does not affect those that were approved before 2020.

“The situation post-2020 is that there are numerous marriage declarations, and as a result, anyone applying through this process is no longer considered a foreigner but rather a local employer seeking to hire someone,” MCILI informed BLC.

MCILI informed the BLC that a majority of the Bangladeshi individuals operating retail shops are obtaining work permits and residence permits through marriage.

The ministry also informed the BLC that their strategy to manage the influx involves raising their fees, a move Wale opposes.

He stressed that a comprehensive cleanup would more essential.

“This situation requires a thorough cleanup. This problem has persisted for the past 30 years, and it should not be viewed merely as a revenue-sharing or revenue-generating initiative. We must address it—we need to clean up. Numerous sectors have become oversaturated, and many of our indigenous communities have been excluded.

“You are performing admirably, but the proposal to increase fees should be disregarded. What is wrong must be acknowledged, appropriate measures should be taken,” said Wale.

Reassuring the Opposition leader, MCILI said that additional compliance checks are necessary.

“We have a combined inspection team within the ministry, known as the BMC, Business Joint Monitoring Agency. We conduct a collective inspection. Although it was planned for this year, we can, given the various issues arising in the ministry, coordinate everyone to perform a joint inspection,” said MCILI.

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BY CHRIS ALEX

Australia this week has joined forces with the Solomon Islands Ministry of Health & Medical Services (MHMS) and a range of stakeholders, including provincial health representatives and donor partners, for a significant four-day workshop that aims to improve the nation’s health services.

Held recently, the workshop focused on Solomon Islands strategic health objectives and operational plans for 2026. This event serves as a key moment in the country’s journey towards achieving its goal of “A healthy future for all by 2031”.

As Solomon Islands’ largest bilateral health partner, Australia took the opportunity to highlight the new Solomon Islands Australia Partnership for Health (2025–2028), backed by a substantial SBD $150 million commitment.

The partnership aims to directly strengthen health service delivery across all provinces and the capital city, Honiara. The funding will be used to support a wide range of initiatives, improving both the accessibility and quality of healthcare for all Solomon Islanders.

Australia’s involvement in the workshop emphasizes its commitment to supporting the health sector in the Solomon Islands.

“We are proud to stand alongside the Solomon Islands in building a stronger, more accessible health system for all its citizens,” said an Australian representative at the event.

The workshop serves as a vital platform for collaboration and mutual learning, enabling health leaders and partners to refine strategies and ensure that resources are directed towards meeting the health needs of the country’s population.

With the new partnership, the Solomon Islands looks to strengthen its health infrastructure, improve the quality of care, and ultimately make progress towards a healthier future for all.

This collaborative effort marks another step forward in the ongoing relationship between the two nations, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in achieving sustainable health outcomes.

Photo: Australian High Commission (AHC)

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

A total of 101 brand new vehicles were donated by PRC (People’s Republic of China), China, Australia and Government are ready for the 54th Pacific Island Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM) next week in Honiara.

The vehicles will be used to transport leaders and also by police to boost security during the regional meeting.

Speaking during a recent talk back show with SIBC, Chairman of Local Organizing Committee for the PIF meeting, Sir Dr Jimmie Rogers said the country is privileged to be given the support and to be ready ahead of the event.  

“We are very privilege that Australia has provided 61 new brand Hilux that will be used by RSIPF for the PIF meeting,” he said.

Rogers noted that all the vehicles are with RSIPF and they will look at how to organize transport within various programs of the meeting.

He added that with regards to leaders and VIPs, there are 40 SUV vehicles from China that are currently with the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID).

Rogers said out of the 40 vehicles, 27 were purchased by PRC through its Embassy in Honiara and 13 by Solomon Islands Government.

He said transport for the PIF is not an issue and was well catered for.

According to Dr Rogers, this is the last week of preparation and they should have already finalize transportation plans for the meeting.

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GNUT suspends use of all sufferance wharves

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The GNUT (Government for National Unity and Transformation) regime has issued a memo for the suspension of use of all sufferance wharves for unloading of imported goods.

This suspension does not apply to the loading of round logs and mineral-related products for export at sufferance wharves.

The directive was issued by the former Minister of Finance & Treasury Harry Kuma before he was recently reshuffled.

This paper has cited a letter by the acting customs controller from the ministry dated Thursday, August 21 that issued the directive on behalf of the former finance minister.

The letter stated that the immediate suspension of all unloading activities of imported goods at sufferance wharves, particularly those located within the vicinity of the two declared international seaports in Honiara.

The letter also highlighted that the decision has been made following serious concerns raised by relevant authorities of the limited capacity to adequately monitor imports at these facilities.

“Additionally, some sufferance wharves have been found to be non-compliant with International Ship and Port Facility Security standards posing risks to national trade and revenue collection,” the letter stated.

The directive issued that all imported goods must only be unloaded at the following declared international seaports:

1. SIPA International Seaport, Honiara
2. Noro International Seaport
3. Leeroy Wharf International Seaport, Ranadi (East Honiara)

The letter stated that all existing permits authorising the unloading of imported goods at any sufferance wharf in the country are cancelled with effective of the date of the letter.

The letter also stated that the government is also reviewing the used of these facilities and may implement further measures to centralise exports through selected wharves in due course.

This paper understands members of the government in appreciation welcomed this latest move by GNUT as these sufferance wharves are a big revenue leakage for the country.

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CHRIS ALEX

Richard Nokia EIU Director from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI) says digital adoption is “no longer optional” for businesses, highlighting the rapid pace of technological change and evolving consumer behaviour.

His remarks came during an information session hosted by the E-Commerce Implementation Unit (EIU) in partnership with the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), held at Heritage Park Hotel on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.

The session highlighted the growing role of e-commerce and digital trade in boosting SME growth.

Mr Nokia introduced the Future-Ready 5D Marketing Model, a practical framework designed to guide small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through their digital journey from creating Google Business profiles to leveraging social media and simple websites.

“E-commerce allows even the smallest enterprises to reach beyond Honiara, connect with customers, and compete globally,” Nokia said.

The event also showcased the National E-Commerce Strategy (NECS), launched in 2023, which aims to strengthen policy frameworks and create a supportive environment for digital trade.

The strategy is a key part of the government’s push to boost SME competitiveness and unlock new economic opportunities.

The EIU reaffirmed its commitment to supporting local businesses through continued training, awareness campaigns, and strategic collaboration with SICCI to ensure Solomon Islands entrepreneurs are well-equipped for digital economy.

As more businesses transition online, the message from the session was clear, that digital transformation is not just a trend, it is essential for growth, resilience, and long-term success in today’s global marketplace.

Photo: EIU, MCILI

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BY CHRIS ALEX

Ropiko Energy calls on the community to support local business entrepreneurs to help sustain and grow the country’s businesses.

Ron Black, Ropiko’s HR and Administration Officer said fostering a thriving local business ecosystem will ultimately benefit not only individual businesses but local communities and the nation as a whole.

His comments come as Ropiko Energy took another opportunity to show appreciation for its loyal customers by launching a special giveaway initiative.

This marks another milestone in the company’s ongoing efforts to recognise and reward its customer base.

As part of its customer appreciation initiative, Ropiko Energy awarded 15 prizes during its August giveaway.

These included a variety of attractive prizes such as a $1000 cash prize, a $600 free fuel refill at Ropiko Energy, and free buffet tickets to local hotels.

The company’s giveaways are a part of its commitment to rewarding its customers for their continued loyalty and support.

“We understand that it’s our customers who help us grow, and so it’s only fitting that we show our appreciation. These giveaways are just a small token of gratitude for their unwavering support,” said Black.

The excitement doesn’t end with the August prizes. Black also announced that Ropiko Energy will hold a grand prize draw in October to mark the company’s fourth month of operation. The highlight of the event will be the chance to win a brand-new car.

Black expressed his deep appreciation for the vehicle owners who have supported Ropiko Energy so far, as their loyalty has been instrumental in the company’s early success.

“We are extremely thankful for the continued trust and support of all our customers, especially vehicle owners. The grand prize is our way of saying thank you and celebrating our shared journey,” Black said.

One of the winners from the August giveaway, John Dora, shared his excitement about the initiative and reflected on how such programs benefit both the business and its customers. Dora, who received a $1000 as part of the giveaway, emphasised that it’s a win-win situation for both sides.

“It’s like a partnership when I buy fuel, I get something in return, not just another service. It’s about supporting a local business that cares about its customers. We should all be supporting our local businesses so that together we can grow and improve our communities,” Dora said.

Dora encourages other vehicle owners to take part in such initiatives, stressing that supporting local businesses is key to ensuring long-term economic growth and prosperity.

Ropiko Energy continues to demonstrate its commitment not only in providing quality energy services but also by contributing to the local economy. By offering these giveaways and launching the grand prize draw, the company hopes to inspire others to support local businesses, creating a stronger business community and a more prosperous nation.

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