BY BEN BILUA

GIZO

Western Province has recorded a sharp increase in mental illness cases over the past two years, with health officials linking the rise to marijuana abuse.

According to Western Province Health and Medical Service – Mental Health Coordinator, Michael Lealognono, Gizo Hospital recorded a total of 400 mentally ill patients between 2024 and 2025.

He said three to four patients visit the hospital daily with most of them being ages between 15 and 35.

“This is a massive increase and we are aware of the root cause. Most of these patients are addicted to marijuana while others are due to chronic diseases and stress disorders,” Lealognono said.

He explained that most patients were born normal but developed illness after prolonged marijuana use.

“A large number of cases come from Vella and Rannonga Islands, raises suspicion that individuals in these areas may be producing and smuggling marijuana,” Maukera said.

He stressed the need for police to intervene and investigate the reports.

The health coordinator further warns that regular marijuana smoking can impair brain development, memory, and learning capacity, particularly among young people whose brains are still developing.

Long-term use is also associated with increased risks of anxiety, depression, and in some cases, psychosis.

Island Sun understands that physically, marijuana use can damage the lungs, cause persistent coughs, and weaken the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to infections.

Beyond health, it can also result in poor academic performance, reduced productivity, and strained family and community relationships.

Cases of accidents and risky behaviours have also been linked to marijuana use due to impaired judgment and slower reaction times.

Health authorities caution that the growing prevalence of marijuana-related mental health cases places additional strain on already limited medical resources.

Stronger awareness programs, prevention strategies, and early interventions are urgently needed to minimize the harm associated with marijuana use.

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BY NED GAGAHE

The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has issued strong wind warning number seven for most waters of the country 4pm on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.

According to SIMS, a general easterly trade wind flow continues to dominate the weather pattern over the Solomon Islands.

Southeast winds are expected to reach 20 to 25 knots across most waters.

Seas are forecasted to be moderate to rough, with swells reaching up to 2.5 meters.

SIMS warn that such conditions could pose risks to lives and properties, particularly for those traveling at sea.

“Sea travelers are urged to take precautionary measures as strong winds can produce dangerous wave conditions, hazardous to small boats.

“Please share this information to people with disabilities,” the statement said.

The Meteorological Service confirmed that the next strong wind warning will be issued at 7:00am this morning.

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Number of mentally ill patients on the rise, 269 new cases reported in NRH alone

BY BEN BILUA
GIZO

Cases of mentally ill patients are increasing in Solomon Islands, with experts warning that drug abuse and social issues are driving the trend.

Rex Maukera, Head of Psychiatry at the National Referral Hospital (NRH), said the hospital has recorded a total of 2,893 cases, including 269 new cases in 2024 alone.

He revealed that 25 percent of the cases are related to marijuana use, while others stem from stress disorders, natural disasters, family issues, unemployment, and missed opportunities.

“These records are from the National Referral Hospital alone. It is likely that there are high numbers of cases across the country that are not registered,” Maukera said.

He said the Psychiatry Department is working to collect more data to determine the actual number of cases nationwide, however, efforts are lagging behind due to limited support.

Maukera said mental health services also limited to National Referral Hospital and other urban centres.

He stressed that the immediate priority is to review the country’s Mental Treatment Act, which was enacted in 1970.

“Only the new Act will provide provisions to care for patients and also support provincial clinics to strengthen mental health services.

“It will also give direction to stakeholders on how to carry out their responsibilities,” Maukera said.

He described the existing law as outdated, saying it is one of the reasons why mental health services continue to face challenges and decline in quality.

When asked about Kilu’ufi Hospital, Maukera confirms that the facility still provides treatment for mentally ill patients but faces a shortage of health workers.

He said the NRH continues to refer major mental health cases to Kiluufi for treatment knowing very well that more referrals will put pressure on staffs on the ground.

Maukera said mental illness is a “multifactorial issue” that requires collaborative efforts across society to address.

He calls on the government and donor partners to support the review of the Mental Treatment Act.

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[Published on Wednesday, August 20, 2025]

BY MORRIS NAFU

In a significant development under the Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement Project II (CAUSE II), a total of 383 community members from Honiara, Guadalcanal, West, and Malaita provinces have successfully completed work readiness training and received certificates of recognition for their efforts.

This training is part of the ongoing phase two of the CAUSE II initiative, which aims to enhance community engagement and infrastructure development.

Graduates of the program are now set to participate in various community projects, including footpath construction, solar light post installation, and reflective kerb painting on main roads.

The Project Implementation Units (PIUs) have already organized teams to install solar posts along completed Jacob’s Ladders and new footpaths, contributing to safer and more accessible public spaces.

According to a press statement, the Redi4Waka training program equips participants with essential job skills, life skills, and knowledge on climate resilience, thereby building their confidence for both immediate involvement in CAUSE II projects and future employment opportunities.

The statement further highlights that CAUSE II is an initiative of the Solomon Islands Government, supported by the World Bank and Australia.

Its primary objectives are to enhance climate-resilient infrastructure, promote economic inclusion, and improve service delivery in urban areas, particularly in Honiara City and the rapidly growing peri-urban regions of Guadalcanal and Malaita Provinces, as well as Western Province.

Additionally, the design and survey for the first component of the project are being conducted by Kramer Asia Pacific (SI).

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[Published on Wednesday, August 20, 2025]

BY CHRIS ALEX

With less than a month before 44 Solomon Islands students depart for China under the 2025 Chinese Government Scholarship programme, Chinese Ambassador Cai Weiming reassured parents and families on the safety and well-being of their loved ones while abroad.

Speaking during the official awarding and orientation ceremony on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, Ambassador Weiming emphasised that China places “great importance” on the protection, support, and development of foreign students, particularly those from friendly partner nations such as the Solomon Islands.

“I also have some words to all our parents. We attach great importance to the safety and well-being of foreign students in China.

“With joint efforts, these young winners will continue to grow as students, excel in their studies, and be guided to become accomplished individuals ready to embrace the future,” Weiming said.

He urged students to make the most of their opportunity not only through academic achievement but also by engaging with China’s modern culture and dynamic development.

The ambassador also encourages them to share their personal experiences with family and friends back home, fostering greater understanding between the two nations.

“You can share your genuine experiences of studying and living in China with your own family and friends.

“Help more people from the Solomon Islands gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture, history, and reality. Share your story and become ambassadors between China and the Solomon Islands,” he said.

Drawing on remarks by Chinese President Xi Jinping, Weiming highlighted the central role of youth in national progress.

“Young people are the most energetic and full of dreams. This spirit of youth determines the future of the nation,

“We encourage the students who are awarded Chinese scholarships to cherish the opportunity and dedicate their energy and wisdom to the development of the Solomon Islands and the deepening of friendship between China and the Solomon Islands,” he said.

He called on students to gain knowledge, experience new technologies and lifestyles, and explore China beyond the classroom.

“Experience a real and better China with your own eyes. Try the high-speed trains, mobile payments, and vibrant cities. It’s part of discovering how the world is evolving,” the ambassador said.

He also reinforced China’s long-term vision for mutual cooperation through education.

“A nation fosters when its youth prosper, and a nation grows strong when its younger generation is strong. Only when young people have ideals, skills, and courage to take responsibility will your country be able to embrace a promising future.

“Let us join hands to invest in education and cooperation, and create an even brighter tomorrow for the friendship between China and the Solomon Islands,” Weiming said.

The 44 students are set to leave for China next month and will pursue degrees across fields such as engineering, medicine, law, and literature, contributing to what both nations see as a growing and strategic partnership rooted in people-to-people exchange.

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