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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BY CHRIS ALEX

The Fly Solomons Peace Marathon 2025 successfully combined sport, history, and culture, offering participants a truly unique experience.

This year’s marathon was significant as it allowed participants to explore not just the stunning landscape of the islands, but also deep historical World War II sites that have shaped the nation’s legacy.

Managed by Travel Solomons, the event offered runners a range of distances suited to all levels, from the challenging 42 km Marathon to shorter, but equally scenic, distances including the 21 km, 10 km, 5 km, and 2 km races. However, what made the 2025 edition of the marathon truly special was its integration of historical and cultural landmarks along the route, providing a poignant and enriching experience for all participants.

As the runners took to the courses, they traversed some of the most iconic sites from World War II, including the Tenaru Field Hospital, Alligator Creek, and Henderson Field.

According to Travel Solomons, the marathon reached its emotional climax at Bloody Ridge Hill 1, a significant battleground during the Battle of Guadalcanal, where the runners paused at the Holy Grounds, a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made during the war.

This year’s event was graced by a group of 10 international guests, nine of whom were runners, from the Globe Trotters Running Club. Their participation not only elevated the event’s international profile but also underscored the global appeal of the marathon.

The international runners were treated to a Pre-event Historical Highlight Tour, which took them on an immersive journey through the course’s historic landmarks. This tour allowed the participants to better appreciate the significance of each site, bringing a deeper sense of meaning to the marathon route.

The event’s focus was not just on physical endurance but also on commemorating the peace and unity that the islands have embraced in the years following the war.

The marathon has become an annual symbol of healing, and drawing attention to the incredible resilience of the Solomon Islands’ people.

It also plays an essential role in supporting the country’s tourism sector by highlighting its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture.

Locals and expatriates alike were thrilled by the diversity that the event fostered. The race served as a celebration of the nation’s enduring peace and a reminder of the international support and solidarity that helped shape the island’s future.

As the event’s organizer, Travel Solomons continues to play a key role in promoting Solomon Islands as a premier destination for cultural and historical tourism.

By integrating World War II historical sites into the marathon route, the company has helped raise awareness about the importance of preserving these sites while also making them accessible to visitors worldwide.

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BY NED GAGAHE

Opposition Leader Matthew Wale calls for stronger safeguards to protect Solomon Islands’ cultural and world heritage sites under the proposed Mineral Resources Bill 2025, warning that economic development must not come at the cost of the nation’s identity.

Speaking during the Bills and Legislation Committee Hearing on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, Wale questioned officials from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism on whether their submission to Parliament included measures to address the protection of cultural heritage sites from mining-related risks.

He advised the ministry to draw on lessons from Papua New Guinea, noting that in East Rennell, heritage site listings had slowed down or complicated the granting of bauxite mining licenses.

“If we have a cultural heritage site, or even a world heritage site like Lake Tegano, will this Bill give the level of protection needed so that no activity puts it at risk?” Wale asked.

In response, a ministry official acknowledged that East Rennell lacked national legislation to protect Tambu sites, with reliance instead on provincial ordinances.

Despite these efforts, sites still sustained damage due to weak legal frameworks.

He said this highlights the urgency of passing a National Heritage Bill, which is currently before the Attorney General, and stressed that heritage protection should be integrated into the new Minerals Bill as an “umbrella framework” to regulate destructive industries such as mining.

“There was no national legislation. That is why I am pushing for a National Heritage Bill. This is an opportunity to put that component into this Bill so that development, especially mining, does not destroy what is important to us,” the official said.

Wale welcomed the ministry’s input but pressed for a detailed written submission that sets out policy goals and, where possible, draft wording for amendments to the Bill.

He said Parliament must ensure that communities and heritage sites are safeguarded, stressing that cultural identity cannot be traded away for resource exploitation.

“We do need to understand the social and cultural impacts. We don’t want to gain the whole world and lose our soul. Our culture is part of who we are, and this Bill must reflect that,” Wale told the hearing.

The Committee will continue its hearings on the Mineral Resources Bill 2025, with submissions from stakeholders expected to shape in its final recommendations to Parliament.

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Member of Parliament for Temotu Vatud, Freda Tuki, said that the success or failure impacting people’s resources is dependent on the decisions made by the Government.

She expressed this viewpoint while discussing the government’s ‘below six feet’ mining policy, which was brought up by Opposition Leader Matthew Wale.

Mr Wale introduced the ‘below six feet’ mining policy during the recent hearing of the Bills & Legislation Committee (BLC), where representatives from the Ministry of Mines, Energy & Rural Electrification (MMERE) and the Legal Draftsperson were present.

Wale said that this legislation is an outdated and unbalanced monarch law that continues to disadvantage indigenous landowners, especially those residing in the Gold Ridge area.

Expressing her concerns, Ms Tuki said that it has become evident that landowners have consistently voiced concerns regarding their benefits from the resources they possess.

She emphasised that the Government, along with the responsible board, should establish specific and clear conditions under which benefits are to be shared, ensuring that all parties involved in resource extraction for economic purposes can gain.

“The resources are owned by the state, but the land on which these resources are located belongs to the landowners. Currently, we are aware that the landowners are unhappy,” she said.

She said that there is a necessity to either amend existing laws or to consider and provide conditions that the government or the board should deliberate upon.

“Instead of stating that it is dictated by colonial law, it is we, the Government, who have the authority to amend the laws for the improvement of our people. This means changing the law to acknowledge our landowners due to the resources found on their lands,” Tuki said.

“For instance, in the logging sector, the government receives 25%, while landowners receive only 10%, which is not reasonable,” she added.

She said Solomon Islanders are the rightful owners of the resources, and there exists a need to modify these colonial laws to better align with the needs of Solomon Islanders.

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