Home Blog Page 282

War legacies critical component of SI and US bilateral relationship

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

War legacies, more broadly, are a critical component of the Solomon Islands and United States bilateral relationship.

US Embassy Chargé d’affaires in Honiara, Dan O’Hara, said this when responding to the question of repatriation of families of Solomon Islanders who have died from World War II UXO, or the victims who have survived.

Speaking in an exclusive interview, Mr O’Hara said that the US has been and remains committed to identifying and remediating UXO here in Solomon Islands and other countries.

“We have to work together with any receiving country. And we call it receiving and sending countries under the Vienna Convention. So here in Solomon Islands, the United States is the sending country, and Solomon Islands is the receiving country,” he explained.

Known as the “treaty on treaties”, the VCLT establishes comprehensive, operational guidelines, rules and procedures for how treaties are drafted, defined, amended and interpreted.

According to O’Hara, the US has to work with receiving countries on war legacy cooperation around the world.

“And here, at a specific request from the Solomon Islands government a little over a decade ago, we’ve been prioritising the UXO.

“In the past decade, it’s an example of true partnership between our countries on this UXO priority, and it’s the foundation of future cooperation on a range of UXO or war legacy issues.

“And that UXO contamination, again, is a big, big, big piece of that. That’s why the United States is the single largest funder of humanitarian UXO clearance work worldwide, globally, across the world. Nobody funds UXO work around the world more than the United States does. We are the largest donor to humanitarian mine action globally, full stop,” O’Hara said.

He emphasised that the US has been working with governments to make progress on their priorities.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Australia signs local company to build Malu’u market

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY MORRIS NAFU

Market vendors in and around Malu’u, North Malaita, are set to benefit from a brand-new market house following the signing of the project in Auki last week.

At the signing ceremony held on Friday at the Malaita Provincial Government Assembly Chambers, Australia engaged local contractor Exodus Trade Development to build the new Malu’u Market.

This move is expected to create more local jobs and deliver a high-quality, welcoming space for the community, a statement by the Australian high commission yesterday said.

Australian High Commissioner His Excellency Rod Hilton praised the rapid growth of the Solomon Islands construction sector and its increasing ability to deliver Australia’s extensive infrastructure support across the country.

Designed in close consultation with local communities and the provincial government, the new market will accommodate up to 140 vendors, the high commission statement said.

It features 40,000 litres of water storage, solar lighting, improved waste management and sanitation, and is built to be climate-resilient.

Mr Hilton highlighted that all provincial markets funded by the Australian-backed Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program are designed with vendors and community needs at heart.

The new Malu’u Market, like the Seghe and Buala markets currently under construction, will be inclusive and accessible — with wheelchair-friendly toilets and showers, low-height benches for selling produce, separate facilities for men and women, and a parent’s room for nursing mothers.

“Markets are vital community hubs where people come together to buy and sell produce, helping families cover school fees and other expenses,” he said.

Malaita’s Provincial Minister for Finance and Administration, Lemuel Kevianga expressed gratitude for Australia’s ongoing support, describing the contract signing as a symbol of the strong partnership and shared vision between Australia, Solomon Islands, and the people of Malaita.

“Australia’s approach empowers our people and strengthens our economic foundation.

“The new market will provide a safe space for women and children, boost food security, and encourage local economic activity,” Kevianga said.

Australia has already funded a temporary market nearby, with the old market house demolished to make way for the new permanent facility.

Photo: Australian High Commission (AHC)

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Urgent repairs underway on Mbokona Bridge

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY MORRIS NAFU

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development’s Transport Infrastructure Division has deployed local contractors to carry out urgent repairs on the lower bridge at Mbokona.

This bridge, a longstanding fixture in the community, has aged and requires immediate attention, said a MID Facebook post on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.

To ensure traffic can resume safely, MID deployed local contractors to the site to reinforce the structure ensuring safe passage of vehicles yesterday.

The repair team is currently on-site, working swiftly to reopen the bridge and restore normal traffic flow as soon as possible.

The Ministry apologises for the sudden closure and any inconvenience caused to residents and road users in Mbokona.

Meanwhile, routine maintenance on this road section is ongoing, with AP & S Construction handling works to maintain safety and durability, the MID statement said.

Earlier, the Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement (CAUSE II) Project identified this bridge among several critical infrastructure sites in Honiara City slated for rehabilitation. Construction is expected to begin in later this year.

Other key projects include repairs to Kobito Road Bridge and drainage improvements at Tasahe Road, Mbokona Road, Central Market (near Holy Cross Cathedral Church in the Fijian Quarter), Vura/Aola Road (from Kukum Hot Bread Roundabout through Vura), and two drainage sites on Ngaliraugha Road.

These efforts aim to enhance the safety and resilience of Honiara’s transport network for the benefit of all residents.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

‘A STEP BACKWARDS’

Written by
Admin
-
0

Lands commissioner criticises draft mining bill for weak landowner protection, ignored recommendations

BY NED GAGAHE

Commissioner of Lands Allan McNeil has strongly criticised the draft Mineral Resources Bill 2025, warning that it fails to address long-standing problems over land registration and risks leaving customary landowners vulnerable.

Speaking before the Bills and Legislation Committee, McNeil expressed disappointment that despite repeated consultations with the Ministry of Mines and legal drafters, none of his recommendations were incorporated into the Bill.

“Instead of strengthening the link between the Land and Titles Act and the mining regime, the Bill has actually removed the requirement for mining companies to register leases with the Registrar of Titles altogether. That is a step backward,” McNeil told the hearing.

McNeil noted that the Bill makes only a reference to registered customary land, which he described as “very rare” in Solomon Islands.

He cited the example of Tanagai, where a perpetual estate is recorded simply as “customary land” without naming the rightful owners.

This, he said, this creates confusion about who should receive lease payments.

He stressed that such limited recognition does little to resolve the more serious issue of ensuring landowners are properly identified and recognised through transparent, government-supervised processes.

McNeil further warned that the draft Bill effectively leaves the responsibility of identifying landowners to mining companies themselves, a process he argued was deeply flawed and potentially unjust.

He questioned whether private companies could ever replicate the transparent and public processes required under the Customary Land Records Act, which include public notices, village consultations, and genealogy-based hearings overseen by government recording officers.

“Leaving it to the mining companies risks undermining fairness and legitimacy. This is something government must oversee from the very start of mining applications,” McNeil said.

McNeil urges the committee to reconsider the omissions in the draft Bill, stressing the importance of integrating customary land recording into the mining process to protect both landowners and investors.

He concluded that without such measures, the Bill risks creating further disputes and confusion over land ownership in mining areas.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Western province team first to complete HIES 2024-2025 enumeration

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY CHRIS ALEX

Team-Three from Western province has made history by becoming the first group to finish their fieldwork for the Household and Income Survey (HIES) 2024-2025, wrapping up their final Enumeration Area (EA) in Ringgi.

Their achievement comes well ahead of other teams nationwide, with most provinces expected to complete their work by October 2025, a statement by the Statistics office (SINSO) yesterday said.

Team leader Radley Kuve expressed a mix of relief and pride after completing the challenging survey.

“At the start, I wasn’t sure how I’d manage the responsibility, but as we went along, I learned how to handle the pressures and keep the team on track.

“Now that we’re almost done, I can finally sleep a little better,” Kuve reflected.

Despite the fieldwork being finished, Kuve and his team are still coordinating final data from their final Enumeration Area and await feedback before they can fully conclude their efforts.

However, the team’s swift progress highlights their dedication and effective management in the face of difficult conditions.

As Team Three returns to Marovo, their success underscores the resilience of the group, who navigated complex logistics to complete the national survey with precision.

Meanwhile, Team Two has also been making significant strides, recently reaching the smallest Enumeration Area in their survey on Kolombangara Island.

Team Leader Bryce Kanavari emphasized the importance of every single household in the survey, noting, “Every house matters, and we’re grateful that we didn’t need to replace any.”

The HIES survey, a vital national initiative, is expected to provide key insights into the living standards and economic conditions across Solomon Islands, with data collected set to shape future policy decisions.

As the teams continue their work, the successful completion of Team Three’s enumeration stands as a key milestone in the process, signaling the critical role this survey will play in improving the livelihoods of Solomon Islanders.

Photo : SINSO

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Akwai inspires DOCM youths to embrace their identity in Christ

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY CHRIS ALEX

Anglican youths from across the Diocese of Central Melanesia (DOCM) gathered in unity and faith this past weekend for a profound Youth Combined Fellowship at St Michael House of Prayer in Burns Creek.

The event brought together young believers to deepen their faith, strengthen their sense of community, and be inspired to live out their purpose in Christ.

The highlight of the Sunday gathering was an emotionally charged and thought-provoking reflection shared by Fr Alfred Akwai, a prominent spiritual leader in the DOCM.

Akwai addressed the gathering under the theme, “Know Your Position in Christ Jesus”.

His words resonated deeply with the youth, calling them to embrace their identity and spiritual authority in Christ.

Akwai emphasised the significance of understanding one’s spiritual position in Christ.

He told the young audience that their relationship with Jesus is not just a personal matter but foundational to their calling in the world and the future of the Church.

“Youth, your position in Christ determines how you live your life and how you impact the world,” he proclaimed.

He went on to challenge the young congregation to see themselves not merely as members of the Church, but as “leaders in the making”.

This message of empowerment urged the youth to step forward with purpose, confidence, and a steadfast commitment to living out their faith in practical and bold ways.

The message came at a critical time when many youths face unprecedented challenges, from societal pressures to the distractions of modern life.

Akwai reminded them that despite the distractions and uncertainties surrounding them, their faith could be their anchor.

“In this time of uncertainty, when the world is full of distractions, you must remain steadfast in your Christian journey,” he urged.

The call to spiritual resilience was loud and clear as Akwai concluded his reflection with an appeal to the youth to remain strong in their faith, especially when faced with personal and societal challenges.

“Stand firm in your faith because the world needs your unwavering belief in Christ,” he encouraged.

Photo : Desmond Rahe

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

All 18 forum country members to attend PIF meeting in Honiara

Written by
Admin
-
0
Chairperson for NHA and Secretary to the Prime Minister, Dr Jimmie Rodgers.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Seventeen member countries of the Pacific Island Forum (PIF) have confirmed their attendance for the 54th Pacific Island Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM) in Honiara next week.

That figure with Solomon Islands as the chair of the 54th PIFLM brings the total number of attendees to 18.

Chairman of the Local Organising Committee for the PIF meeting, Sir Dr Jimmie Rodgers confirmed this during a talkback show at SIBC on Monday this week.

He said all 17 forum island countries have confirmed their attendance for the 54th PIF Leaders Meeting that will be in Honiara from September 8-12.

He said the exception is Samoa, which has just had its elections on Friday last week.

Rodgers said they are still waiting for Samoa to confirm its participation.

He adds that the committee understands that the election results are not completed yet and a new government is yet to be formed.  

He said the committee is anticipating feedback from Samoa early this week, as to whether they will send a political leader to the forum.

However, Rodgers said Samoa will attend and so all 18 forum member countries of PIF will be in Honiara for the forum.

In terms of preparation, he said the country is ready and looks forward to receive delegations around the region to Honiara, latest by this weekend ahead of the meeting next week.

Members of PIF are Australia, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Vaka Tepuke and Uto Ni Yalo departs Lata

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY MORRIS NAFU

The two traditional voyaging canoes, Vaka Tepuke of Temotu province and Uto Ni Yalo of Fiji have set sail from Lata on Monday, September 1, 2025, making their way to Honiara ahead of the 54th Pacific Island Forum (PIF).

The two vessels are confirmed to have departed Lata, making their way ahead of the event.

The two vessels arrived in Lata town on Saturday and was welcomed by the Temotu Provincial Government and Anglican Diocese church of Melanesia (ACOM) in Temotu Province.

The two vessels will sail over 657 kilometers (550 nautical miles) to Honiara accompanied and expected to arrive in Honiara on September 7.

Sailing under the theme “Wansolwara, One Ocean, One People”, the two vessels voyage aims to highlight the urgent need for collective action on key regional challenges such as climate change and the protection of the ocean.

Speaking during a PIF talkback show on SIBC over the weekend, Secretary to the Prime Minister SPM, SD Special Duties and co-chair Sir Dr Jimmie Rodgers said the two vessels will arrive and dock at the Marine School and will be welcomed with a ceremony symbolising one people and Unity.

Rogers added that the arrival of the two vessels will be welcomed and witnessed by all participating leaders before proceeding on for their first sittings.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

SICTU congratulates SINTA

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY MORRIS NAFU

The Solomon Island Council of Trade Union (SICTU) congratulates the Solomon Islands National Teachers Association (SINTA) for having a successful meeting and historic agreement with the government.

SINTA signed a Master Agreement (MA) with a team from the government on Friday, August 29, 2025 to address longstanding welfare issues of teachers across the country.

This is to solve the SINTA’s nationwide 28-day strike notice issued to the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) on Tuesday, July 22 which lapsed on August 29.

SICTU in its statement stressed that SINTA’s resolute and professional leadership has averted an imminent nationwide strike and, more importantly, has resulted in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that stands as a significant victory for every teacher in the country.

“SICTU recognises the immense pressure and dedication required to reach this outcome, and the efforts of SINTA’s leadership and members are truly commendable,” said SICTU.

SICTU also stated that the signed MOU is a testament to SINTA’s able leadership, strategic planning, and unwavering professionalism throughout a challenging negotiation process.

“This achievement will undoubtedly go a long way in improving the welfare and working conditions for teachers and, by extension, their families across the nation,” said SICTU.

It is a huge step forward and a powerful demonstration of what collective bargaining and a united front can achieve for all workers in the Solomon Islands.

SICTU added that while they celebrate this milestone with SINTA, they acknowledge that the work continues as they move to ensure the full implementation of the agreement.

“SICTU offers its continued solidarity and support throughout this next phase,” said SICTU.

This victory serves as an inspiration to all unions and affirms the critical importance of social dialogue and respect for collective bargaining rights. SICTU encourages SINTA to directly communicate these positive results to its members across all provinces, fostering even greater trust and unity.

As part of the signed agreement, the terms of agreement are:

1. Job Security for Teachers

2. Recognition of Teachers’ Experience

3. Teachers’ Salary backdating to January 1st, 2024

4. Early Childhood, Technical and Vocation Education, Training, and Special Needs Education Teachers’ Salary and Classification

5. Long and Dedicated Service Benefit

6.  Establishment of the Teachers Housing Taskforce

7. Teachers’ Annual Leave Package and Balancing Employment benefits with professionalism, conduct, and performance.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Structures in government vital to enhance water sustainability

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY LORETTA B MANELE

Having the right structures in government is vital to enhance water sustainability of water supply and sanitation.

Gustavo Saltiel, Strategic Adviser on Water Supply and Sanitation with the Water Global Practice (Water GP) at the World Bank stressed this when he spoke at the recent 16th Pacific Water and Wastewater Association (PWWA) Conference in Honiara last month.

Addressing delegates and local representatives, he said the objective of the World Bank is to enhance the sustainability of water supply and sanitation services through improved use of the reform tools available to governments.

Saltiel stressed that countries may construct beautiful infrastructures, however they will be abandoned if they don’t have structures in place.

“Yes, you will build beautiful infrastructure, eventually which will be abandoned in a few years because you don’t have the structures that make them work,” he said.

Saltiel stated that governments can influence the sector by operating at the policy, institutional and regulatory level.

Talking about policies, he mentioned that there are different ways of defining that.

Saltiel then asked the audience if their governments identify water supply, wastewater, and sanitation as a priority sector.

“Overall, for the country, for the economy. Is it a priority or not?

“Because if it’s not, what are we talking about? If it’s only your priority as a utility, not much is going to happen. Is there a national target your country has committed to universal access?” he questioned.

Saltiel went on to state that while it’s very easy to say that you will achieve universal access, the real challenge is how you will achieve it.

“It’s very easy to do. It’s very easy to say, I will achieve universal access, but how will you do it? Is there development plans that include water supply and sanitation?” he asked.

Reiterating the importance of structures in governments to coordinate the work of water utilities he further asked the audience whether their governments give them incentives to carry out their work.

“You are utilities. Do they give you incentives to go to the poor areas of your towns, of your cities, to go to rural communities? Those who have the responsibility to serve rural. Why would you do it if there is not a concrete policy and incentive?”, he asked.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

1...281282283...1,665Page 282 of 1,665