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HOPE REMAINS

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Kings fall to Vanuatu United but semi-final hopes remain alive

BY TONY IROGA UFUNONI

Despite suffering their first defeat in the competition, Solomon Kings FC is still keeping their dreams alive for a place in the Challengers Group semi-final playoff of the OFC Pro League in Auckland, New Zealand.

Solomon Kings FC suffered their first defeat in the OFC Pro League Challengers Group after going down 3-2 to Vanuatu United FC yesterday at Go Media Stadium, New Zealand.

The closely contested match saw Vanuatu United take an early advantage through Otto Ingham in the first half before Solomon Kings responded strongly after the break.

Japanese midfielder Sota Higashide equalised from the penalty spot in the 62nd minute after being brought down inside the box. 

Vanuatu United regained control with goals from Alex Saniel and a goal involving Javin Wae to lead 3-1.

Wae later redeemed himself by scoring late for Solomon Kings, but the Solomon Islands side could not find another equaliser before full time.

The defeat leaves Solomon Kings with three points from two matches in the Challengers Group, while Vanuatu United moved to the top of the standings with six points and are now close to securing a semi-final play-off spot.

Solomon Kings will now shift their focus to their final group match against PNG Hekari FC as they aim to keep their semi-final hopes alive in Auckland, New Zealand.

Ben Cahn, Solomon Kings coach said it would have been interesting if they got a point today that they probably deserved.

“But it wasn’t to be, so we’ll prepare and make sure that we’re ready for the Hekari game.  We’ll do everything we can to make sure that if it does fall into our hands that we’re there to take it,” Cahn said.

He said from the start of the second half, they played really well. Moved the ball well, disrupted their shape, managed to create some early chances and it didn’t fall for them.

He thanks supporters and fans of Solomon Kings FC for their continued support and encouragement throughout the competition as the team looks forward to its final group match against Hekari United FC on Wednesday this week.

Cahn acknowledges the loyal backing from Solomon Islands football supporters, saying their support has motivated the players to remain focused and determined despite facing tough competition in the OFC Pro League challengers group campaign.

Solomon Kings FC is now looking forward to its final Challengers Group match against Hekari United FC on Wednesday this week as the team aims to keep its semi-final hopes alive in the OFC Pro League competition in Auckland, New Zealand.

Photo credit: SK Fb Page

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Shandong Province donates fast craft to Isabel Province

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BY NED GAGAHE

A fast craft generously donated by Shandong Province, People’s Republic of China (PRC), will be officially handed over to Isabel Province at a ceremony scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, 2026, in Honiara.

The handover ceremony will take place at the Yacht Club Jetty at 10:00am.

The event is expected to be attended by caretaker Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, who will deliver the keynote address, and the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Cai Weiming.

The donation marks another milestone in the growing partnership between the People’s Republic of China and Solomon Islands, particularly through the sister-province relationship between Shandong and Isabel Province.

According to organisers, the initiative reflects the spirit of friendship, cooperation and practical development support between the two provinces, with the aim to improve inter-island transport and service delivery for communities in Isabel Province.

The Isabel Provincial Government said the fast craft will significantly enhance connectivity and support the delivery of essential services to remote communities.

The ceremony will also bring together government officials, diplomatic representatives and invited guests to witness the formal transfer of the vessel.

Officials described the donation as a tangible outcome of strengthened bilateral relations and ongoing provincial-level cooperation between Solomon Islands and China.

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Aligegeo PSS hosts cultural day

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School celebrated its annual cultural day event over the weekend. 

With the theme, “Embracing Our Culture, Diversity, Identity, and Pride,” students from different ethnic groups showcased their identities through traditional dances, dramas, and traditional outfits representing their ethnic backgrounds. 

Principal of Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School, Alick Bebesia, in his keynote address, said this year’s celebration is not just about celebration, but about togetherness, sharing ideas, and creating meaningful memories about the significance of cultural values. 

He said the profound traditional customs observed in the province’s culture is not only about what they do, but also about where they originally came from.

“As the theme rightly stated, it is a privilege to indeed celebrate the vibrant, resilient, and diverse cultures of our beloved Solomon Islands.

“The Solomon Islands has more than 70 unique languages and over 900 islands, inclusive of Melanesian, Polynesian, and Micronesian cultures. This vast diversity is not a barrier; it is our decoration and our strength.

“It is the sound from the beat of panpipes, the weaving of our mats, and the vision shared by our elders in our Kastom Stories,” he said.

He said in the current world, culture is the identity and pride of the people, and engaging young people to fully understand where they can come from.

“As our leaders and elders have often reminded us, our traditional cultures awaken us to our past, and we must adopt and keep them for the next generation.

“Embracing our identity means taking pride in our diversity and our heritage,” he said.

Guest of honour of the event, the Provincial Education Officer, Timmy Afia said celebrating the cultural day this year was about recognition, respect, and every day practice.

He also acknowledged the elders in the past, present, the future for embracing such an environment that was celebrated.

He encourages young generations to learn and preserve traditions while adopting to modern life, to listen to others experiences, challenge stereotypes when encountered, and create spaces for different voices to be heard and valued.

“Through genuinely embracing of diversity, identity and pride, it will build a stronger relationship and more inclusive communities,” he said.

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Solomon Water celebrates Mother’s Day

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

Solomon Water joined in Mother’s Day celebrations last week by presenting gift packs to mothers across its service locations in Honiara, Auki, Noro, and Tulagi.

Throughout the week, mothers visiting Solomon Water offices to pay their bills were pleasantly surprised with the gifts.

The gesture was a heartfelt way of giving back and showing appreciation to the many mothers who continue to care for and support their families every day, a statement from the Solomon Water Authority yesterday said.

On Friday, Solomon Water staff also held a small celebration for mothers within the workplace.

This event provided a special moment to recognise the love, care, and dedication that mothers give both to their families and to their professional roles.

The celebrations brought smiles to many, creating a joyful atmosphere for staff and customers alike. For Solomon Water, the initiative was more than just a symbolic gesture—it was a reminder of the strength and resilience mothers bring to their families and communities.

In a message of gratitude, Solomon Water extended thanks to all mothers, acknowledging their daily sacrifices and unwavering support.

The organisation said: “Thank you for the motherly love, strength and care you continue to give your families and communities every single day. Happy Mother’s Day from Solomon Water.”

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Sr. Nauta vows lifelong service to God

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BY RODRICK DESURI

AUKI

Sr. Jeanear Nauta has committed her life to serving God after taking her lifelong profession with the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, following five years of dedicated service within the organisation.

Sr. Nauta, who hails from West Kwaio in Malaita Province, officially made her profession as a full and permanent member of the society on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Buma Parish.

In an interview, Sr. Nauta said her decision was a response to what she described as God’s calling on her life.

She said the moment was a joyful and fulfilling milestone, having spent years preparing for the commitment.

“From the time I joined the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, I have been preparing for five solid years.

“Receiving my lifelong profession today has enabled me to be a true member of the society,” she said.

Sr. Nauta said she is ready and willing to continue serving God and support those in need through the work of the society.

“I am willing to serve God, to serve the souls of people and the souls of God,” she said.

She also expressed gratitude to all those who supported her throughout her journey to full profession.

“I want to thank those who supported me throughout my journey until this day,” she said.

The ceremony was attended by more than 1,000 people, including family members, friends, and supporters who gathered to witness the special occasion.

The event marks a significant milestone not only for Sr. Nauta and her family, but also for the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul in the Solomon Islands.

According to information gathered, Sr. Nauta is believed to be the first Solomon Islander to formally join and make lifelong profession in the Saint Vincent de Paul Society.

The celebration also coincided with the 15th anniversary of the establishment of the Society at Buma Parish in Malaita Province.

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Congregation of St. Vincent de Paul celebrates 15th anniversary 

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The Saint Vincent de Paul Society of Charity Sisters celebrated its 15th anniversary since its establishment in Buma Parish, Malaita Province, Solomon Islands.

The congregation, St. Vincent de Paul, originally from Croatia, established its mission in 2011.

The aim of the congregation is to serve the poor, provide evangelization education, pastoral care, and charity for communities. 

The event was in line with the blessing of the first local Solomon Islander to serve the congregation.

Sr. Ruza, who oversees the congregation, during the mass to mark the event said it was a significant milestone for the congregation.

She said that they will look back at their failures and strengthen their roles. 

On the other hand, she welcomes Sr. Jeanear Nauta to join their congregation to serve God.

She also thanks Sr. Jeanear’s family for allowing her to serve and for believing and trusting in their congregation.

“Welcome, Sr. Jeanear, and we thank God and the family members of Sr. Jeanear for their support in making this event a celebration,” she said. 

Meanwhile, Sr. Jeanear’s mother, Fraccina Maegugua, said she has accepted her daughter’s obligation to serve God since she was little. 

She said, on behalf of their family, it was one step forward closer to God. 

“We have accepted what she wants. We have supported her when she was still with us until she joined this congregation of the sisters.

“And we are glad that she wants to serve God. This is God’s call, and God wants her to serve Him,” she said. 

Bishop Jacob Aba, S.M., during the mass of celebration, described the event as one of joy and love. 

He said the love he was referring to is not the love that is selective to a few people, but the love of God.

“The love of God is not the love that you select for a few people or for people who have what you need. It is the love of God that states, ‘Love your neighbors as you love yourself,” he said.

The anniversary celebration was attended by the Bishop of Auki Diocese, Jacob Aba SM, priests, sisters, chiefs, and the people of Buma Parish.

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Strong wind warning issued

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Solomon Islands Meteorological (SIMS) Service has issued Strong Wind Warning Number Five for several parts of the country as strong easterly winds continue to affect Solomon Islands waters.

Issued at 7am on yesterday, the warning is now current for waters of Rennell and Bellona Province, Makira-Ulawa Province, Temotu Province and southern waters of Russell Islands, Guadalcanal Province and Western Province.

According to the Meteorological Service, a general easterly wind flow persists over the country, with winds expected to reach between 20 and 25 knots across the affected areas.

SIMS said sea conditions will be moderate to rough, accompanied by moderate southeasterly swells of between 2.5 and 3 metres.

Poor visibility is also expected in areas experiencing showers and thunderstorms and are urging people living in the affected provinces to take precautionary measures.

SIMS said that the strong winds could impact lives and properties.

Sea travellers, particularly operators of small boats, are also advised to consider safety measures as dangerous wave conditions may develop.

The Meteorological Service also encourages the public to share the warning information with people living with disabilities.

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Solomon Islands monitors possible El Niño

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) says the country is currently experiencing neutral weather conditions but is closely monitoring signs of a possible shift towards El Niño.

Principal Meteorological Officer Mr Martin Togumana said the current ENSO-neutral conditions mean rainfall and wind patterns across the country are expected to remain normal for now.

However, he warns that climate indicators are showing a gradual movement towards an El Niño phase in the coming months.

“In terms of the El Niño Southern Oscillation, we are going towards El Niño,” Mr Togumana said.

He explained that El Niño conditions in the Solomon Islands are usually associated with drier than normal weather, which can increase the risk of drought across parts of the country.

Mr Togumana said warmer than average temperatures and lower sea levels are also common impacts experienced during El Niño periods.

He said that severe tropical cyclones can also occur during El Niño events, posing additional risks to communities and infrastructure.

The Meteorological Service is continuing to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates to the public as conditions develop.

Mr Togumana encourages the public to follow updates through the Meteorological Service’s social media platforms and official website.

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Call to release ESP, PIF reports

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Central Guadalcanal MP Peter Shanel Agovaka calls for an investigation into the COVID-19 Economic Stimulus Package (ESP) and a need for a proper report and greater accountability.

Mr Agovaka raised the issue during last week’s debate on the Motion of No Confidence against Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and his government.

He alleged that some Members of Parliament had registered multiple companies and applied for funds under the controversial stimulus package.

“This is bad for a single person to register 10 companies and apply for the stimulus package,” he said.

Mr Agovaka also questioned the lack of an audited report for the 2023 Pacific Games hosted in Honiara, Solomon Islands.

“We also want to see the audited report of the South Pacific Games 2023. We asked for so much money. Much money was given by the government. However, to date there is no report on the Pacific Games. Where is the report?”

He further raised concerns over the financial and audit reports relating to the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PIF) held in Honiara in 2025.

“Where is its financial report and audit report? There was a lot of money allocated, not only from the government but also from our donor partners,” he said.

Mr Agovaka said that the public deserves to know how public funds were spent.

“We need to look at these reports. There is no accountability. And if we form the next government, we will ensure these reports are made public,” he said.

He also spoke on issues surrounding sufferance wharves, alleging that some government MPs were linked to individuals involved in the operations.

“These are leakages of finance in the country. This includes tax exemptions. You hardly see revenue collection,” he alleged.

He also raised concerns over 33 shipments from the Rennell and Bellona bauxite mine, claiming they were never properly accounted for.

“Where is the report? The people of Rennell and Bellona have been waiting to know what happened to those shipments,” he said.

He added that Gold Ridge Mine Limited contributed around $200 million in revenue to the government in 2025 and will increase this year.

“We would not let that money to be misused,” he said.

He said these were among the reasons behind the Motion of No Confidence against the Prime Minister and his government.

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Digital safety is everybody’s business: Lagisuga

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

PRESIDENT of the Western Province Youth Council, Wilson Lagisuga says digital safety is everybody’s business as internet access continues to improve across the country.

Lagisuga said today’s generation is highly vulnerable to the digital world, especially with the increasing availability of internet services in homes and communities.

He said the growing access to digital technology has created new challenges for parents, communities and the nation in ensuring children are protected from harmful online content and activities.

According to Lagisuga, parents, teachers and churches must now play a more active role in educating children on how to use the digital space responsibly and positively.

“If we look around us, children as young as three years old recognise what is a mobile phone. It is also common to see children use mobile phones for entertainment.

“This is not a good start for our children because they are vulnerable to unfiltered information or videos online,” he said.

Lagisuga stressed that education is the best approach to help children understand the positive side of the digital world while avoiding online dangers.

He also emphasised that adults must take the lead to protect children from online risks and set clear boundaries for internet use.

“As adults, we should be responsible to protect our children. There are boundaries in the digital world that we should put across to our children.

“It is our responsibility to keep our children safe,” he said.

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