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Govt to pay $31m after losing to 2016 dolphin case

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Government has lost a case dubbed the ‘Dolphin case of 2016’ costing it more than $31 million in compensation.

The High Court ordered government to pay $31,819,591.03 to Ms Christine Anita – daughter of late Dr Baddley Anita, after she won a case filed by her father against the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) and Royal Solomon Islands Police Force back in 2016.

In a High Court order (decision) issued by Justice Augustine Aulanga on September 2, 2025, Ms Christine Anita won the case, while full written reasons (decision) are yet to be handed down.

The orders are as follows;

  • The court issued a judgment in favour of Clement Christine Anita (administratrix of Dr. Badley Anita’s estate) against the Attorney General and Royal Solomon Islands Police Force.
  • The defendants’ actions on October 29, 2016 were ruled unlawful, arbitrary, and in breach of natural justice.
  • Damages of $31,819,591.03 were awarded to the claimant, with 5% annual interest backdated to December 1, 2016.
  • The defendants must jointly pay the proceedings’ costs on an indemnity basis due to their rejection of the claimant’s settlement offer.
  • The case is scheduled for further mention on October 27 at 9:30 a.m., with the full written reasons for the judgment to be provided later.

Dr Anita, who was the owner of Mammal Dolphin Breeding Centre on Mbungana Island in Central province filed the lawsuit, seeking SBD $31,819,591.03 damages and losses from MFMR and RSIPF, after authorities raided his dolphin facility around October 2016.

Late Dr Anita claimed in the lawsuit that the raid, which resulted in the release of around 27 dolphins from his facility was unlawful and MFMR should compensate the damages and losses incurred on his business.

The MFMR defended its action, cited the Fisheries (prohibition of Export of Dolphin) Regulation 2013 and unlawful capture and caging of dolphins under section 3 of the Fisheries Management Act 2015.

These are the areas charges were laid against Dr Anita, however, in 2018 the High Court has ruled the regulation null and void, and freed late Anita of all these charges.  

The High Court found that Dr Anita held a licence legally issued by the Environment Division and Central province to operate the facility.

The programme had been in operation since 2011, aimed at research, aquatic veterinary medicine and captive breeding of dolphin.

Whilst decisions have been made, if the Attorney General’s Chamber doesn’t agree with the compensation, they will go into court assessment to justify the accuracy of the SBD $31,819,591.03 damages or losses of business.

That would be another trial itself, but if AGC agrees that could be the end of the case.

The claimant late Dr Anita was represented by Rano and Company, while the defendants were represented by the Attorney General’s Chamber.

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Australia and SI collaborate on health sector development

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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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101 new brand vehicles ready for PIF

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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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LEAK HOLE PLUGGED

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Minister of Finance and Treasury Harry Kuma

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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‘Digital no longer optional’

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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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Ropiko Energy urges support for local entrepreneurs

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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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Director of Environment cautious but optimistic with draft mining bill

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BY MORRIS NAFU

Joseph Hurutarau, Director of Environment and Conservation Division, from Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM), is optimistic about the Mineral Resource Bill 2025, highlighting its potential to promote sustainable mining and environmental protection in the Solomon Islands.

Speaking at the Bills and Legislation hearing on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, he stressed that the bill’s success hinges on addressing its key weaknesses and risks.

“Theoretically, the bill supports sustainable and responsible mining practices in Solomon Islands.

“However, enforcement remains a challenge for all of us,” Hurutarau said.

He pointed to specific sections of the bill – Part 3 on mining prohibited and restricted areas, Part 9 on mine closure, and Part 10 on environmental protection – as central to its focus on safeguarding the environment.

Hurutarau also reminded lawmakers that exploration, prospecting and mining activities are classified as prescribed developments under the Environment Act 1998, requiring approval and consent through established processes.

With the Environment Act set to be repealed and replaced to strengthen safeguards, the bill must ensure alignment with environmental protection goals, including technical and scientific reviews, monitoring, and enforcement.

He also raised concerns about terminology in Part 3, suggesting that “mining protected areas” could be misleading and recommended clearer language such as “areas protected from mining”.

Hurutarau also calls for independent reporting and disclosure of mining operations, including tailings management and structural integrity, to ensure accountability.

The bill’s effectiveness, he noted, depends on several assumptions: clear identification and enforcement of protected areas, strong cooperation among government, communities, and private sectors, robust monitoring and oversight, and sufficient financial resources for implementation.

Hurutarau concluded by highlighting ongoing challenges namely; limited enforcement capacity due to financial and human resource constraints, low community awareness and technical knowledge hindering meaningful engagement, inadequate financial assurances from mining companies for rehabilitation, and a shortage of technical expertise to apply best practices.

As Solomon Islands moves forward with the Mineral Resource Bill 2025, these reflections from the Environment Division underscore the need for a strong, well-resourced framework to ensure mining benefits do not come at the expense of the nation’s precious environment.

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US, Japan Honiara embassies echo ‘disappointment’ over deferment decision

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BY IRWIN ANGIKI

Embassies of Japan and the United States have echoed shared disappointment over Solomon Islands’ decision to exclude dialogue and development partners from this year’s Forum Leaders meeting.

Solomon Islands, as chair for the 54th Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting (PIFLM), had decided to defer the post-Forum dialogue which necessitates the attendance of the 21 Forum dialogue and development partners, which include China, Japan, the US and Taiwan.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele announced this deferment decision in parliament on August 6, drawing push backs reported by international and regional media from some of the partners including the US and Taiwan.

Notably, China has not, with its embassies in New Zealand, Tonga and Solomon Islands reiterating China’s respect and support for Pacific Island countries’ efforts for better development.

Some Forum member countries were also reported to voice disagreement, few threatening to pull out of the one-week meeting.

Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jr said while he respected Solomon Islands’ position and accepted the deferment decision, he was not happy about it, Radio New Zealand (RNZ) reported on August 19.

Samoa’s caretaker Prime Minister Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa told ABC Pacific on August 7 that Samoa would likely boycott the meeting.

The Guardian reported August 16 that Tuvalu’s PM Feletei Teo said his country may pull out, adding that he ‘would wait to see how other Pacific leaders respond before deciding whether or not to attend the forum’.

PNG PM James Marape told PMN he had advised PM Manele in a letter to ‘stick to the spirit of the regional architecture isolating personal bilateral preferences. Manele denied this at a local press conference on August 8.

New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon told RNZ he would rather there were no changes to the status quo.

A US state department spokesperson said the US was ‘disappointed’ by the exclusion and supported ‘continued attendance of all PIF partners, including Taiwan, at the annual PIF Leaders Meeting’, Reuters reported on August 7.

In Island Sun’s combined interview with the US and Japan embassies on August 28, US Chargé d’affaires to Solomon Islands Dan O’Hara reiterated this:

“The United States was very disappointed by this, this decision to exclude dialogue and development partners from the PIF leaders meeting this year. We support the continued attendance of all PIF partners, including Taiwan, at the annual PIF leaders meeting as previously agreed by PIF leaders in 1992, here in Honiara.

“And all those partners, development partners and dialogue partners, Taiwan included, in line with that 1992 consensus, should be invited to participate regardless of where the PIF is hosted.

“Now, that said, as a PIF dialogue partner, the United States appreciates the important role PIF plays in setting the region’s priorities and engaging with external partners on issues of shared concern. We remain committed to engagement with the Pacific Islands and deepening our partnerships with the Pacific Islands Forum and bilaterally with the countries in the Pacific to support a free and open Indo-Pacific region. And we remain honoured to be a founding PIF dialogue partner.

“Changing status quo on partner participation in PIF raises questions about possible influences of outside partners.”

Japan’s Ambassador to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Keiichi Higuchi, echoed the sentiments, saying:

“We were also disappointed to hear that we would not be invited to the Honiara Summit. In fact, we had hotel reservation and all that. So when I reported to Tokyo that you’re not invited, they were very disappointed.

“We also believe that Taiwan should be invited, as has been done before. I’m not going to talk too much into geopolitical side of it, but we do appreciate the fact that PIF has invited Taiwan all along since 1992 communique. So that’s a disappointment.

“That said, we do respect the collective will of PIF members. So once that collective will was made to defer this dialogue meeting with dialogue partners or development partners, we respect that and we hope that unity among the PIF is not broken.

“And we look forward to contributing in the future, not in September, during the September meeting, but after the September meeting. So whatever deferred meeting, we look forward to participating in that meeting at a later stage.”

China rejects allegations

The root of the deferment saga has been blamed on geopolitics, with some commentators associating it with China’s continued attempt to isolate Taiwan diplomatically. China refers to Taiwan as its province.

Opposition MP Peter Kenilorea Jnr told parliament last month ‘this issue is all about China and Taiwan’.

Other Pacific leaders have also weighed in on this with indirect remarks blaming ‘outsiders’ for this rift.

China has refuted these allegations.

Global Times reported on August 14 that the Chinese embassy in New Zealand rejected these ‘groundless accusations’ and that ‘as a dialogue partner of PIF, China respects the Forum’s role in regional cooperation, values its relations with the PIF, and welcomes opportunities to work with PIF members and other dialogue partners how to support the development of Pacific Island developing countries under the Forum dialogue mechanism’.

Looking forward to a successful PIFLM

As of this week, all 18 PIF member countries are confirmed to participate in the PIFLM, which begins Monday next week, Sept 8-12.

Chairman of the Local Organising Committee for the PIFLM, Sir Dr Jimmie Rogers made the confirmation at a talkback show on SIBC Monday this week.

Rogers said that 17 leaders have confirmed attendance, with the exception of Samoa which has just held its elections on Friday last week.

He said they are expecting feedback from Samoa this week.

Rogers however reiterated that Samoa will attend.

The Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting is the region’s peak political gathering.

The 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.

According to the Forum website, the 21 dialogue partners are:

Canada (1989), France (1989), Japan (1989), United Kingdom (1989), United States of America (1989), People’s Republic of China (1990), European Union (1991), Republic of Korea (1995), Malaysia (1996), Philippines (1999), Indonesia (2001), India (2002), Thailand (2004), Italy (2007), Cuba (2013), Spain (2014), Türkiye (2014), Germany (2016), Chile (2021), Norway (2021) and Singapore (2021).

The five founding Dialogue Partners were Canada, France, Japan, United Kingdom and the US.

Taiwan although missing from PIF’s official list of dialogue partners is considered one especially by its three remaining diplomatic partners – Tuvalu, Palau and the Republic of Marshal Islands.

Palau is set to host next year’s 55th PIFLM.

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A historic run through the heart of Solomon Islands’ WWII legacy

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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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Wale urges stronger heritage safeguards in mineral resources bill

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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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