BY SAMIE WAIKORI 

The Atu-led government of Guadalcanal province is making progress in paying the remaining $2.2 million outstanding debt to the Solomon Islands National University (SINU).

The debt accumulated since 2019, and so far $400,000 has been paid with another $1.4 million allocated to settle part of the remaining $2.2 million this year.

Premier William Atu mentioned this in a recent statement, in which he highlights the commitment of his government to address the matter.

“We are actively addressing our outstanding debt to the Solomon Island National University.

“Since 2019, under the Sade government’s leadership, $400,000 has been paid and this year we have allocated 1.4 million to settle the remaining $2.2 million.

“We start to pay it off. Our education division is working closely with SINU to verify the list of authorised sponsored students,” he said.

The premier also conveyed a sincere apology on behalf of the province to students who were affected from the delay of the in settling debt and thanks them for their patience.

He also encourages them and those studying at USP campus to remain committed to their studies as his government deals with the matter.

In the statement, the Premier also sheds light on the achievements and challenges the province is facing in terms of education.

“Education is a very strategic priority and Guadalcanal province has signed a milestone agreement with the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD).

“I have the pleasure to also inform you that Guadalcanal province is the first to implement the Education Act 2023, through an agency agreement with the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development, last month.

“The agreement gives us control over early childhood, primary and secondary education and other services for our teachers, with the provincial secretary, as the ultimate education provider for the province,” he said.

However, Atu urges the province to continue to do more. The current number of teachers in Guadalcanal province is 180 with almost 38,000 students.

“This means that the current teacher-student ratio is unsustainable. One teacher to every 210 students. While the ratio should be one teacher is to 35 students,” he said.

Atu added that another issue of concern is that only 25 percent of Guadalcanal province’s population under the age of 25 are in the education system.

He stated that his government has set a goal to increase this to 50% in the next five to 10 years.

Atu said to achieve this, the province must build more classrooms, train more teachers, prioritise science, technology, engineering and mathematics in education to prepare its children for the future.

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Guadalcanal provincial government is planning to establish a provincial hospital.

In pursuit of the plan, the province has identified five hectares of land for the proposed hospital project.

According to William Atu, Premier of Guadalcanal, this demonstrates the commitment of his government to partner with the national government on the proposal.

“We will be working closely with key government stakeholders to establish a Guadalcanal provincial hospital,” he said.

Atu stated the province has a growing population and needs to establish a provincial hospital in the province, apart from National Referral hospital in Honiara.

He said the plan was shared with the delegation from the Opposition group during their recent visit to Guadalcanal provincial government, and they voiced supported behind it.

“We made an appeal when a delegation from the opposition group visited the provincial government.

“And I thanked the Leader of the Opposition for taking the matter to parliament,” Atu said.

He said populated provinces such as Malaita and Western provinces have their own hospitals and Guadalcanal, as one of the populated provinces must also have one.  

“My government is liaising with responsible government to explore potentials for the province to have a provincial hospital.

“Having in place the hospital will help a lot to ease the pressure on the national referral hospital,” Atu said.

In the meantime, Guadalcanal province recognises the challenges faced in delivering primary healthcare in the remote inland areas in the province.

He said the province is grateful that the challenge has been addressed though the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF) supported projects.

“Thanks to the PCDF programme and World Bank through the IEDRC for supporting a completion of a rural health centre in Tasimboko, benefiting over 10,000 people in the area.

“We also successfully reopened three of the nine closed clinics in the province to which many were closed due to land dispute and vandalism,” Atu said.

He mentioned that to address land dispute, his government is working to secure land titles of where the health facilities are located in the province.

Premier Atu also appeals to people in Guadalcanal province to respect clinics, schools and other public infrastructure which are established to help develop the province.

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Prime Minister Manele says Forum leaders meeting reaffirms ‘who we are’

BY NED GAGAHE

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele said the theme for the upcoming 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM) in Honiara calls for action and is a reaffirmation of “who we are — one Blue Pacific Continent”.

The theme for the 54th PIFLM is, “Iumi Tugeda: Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent.”

Speaking to local media on Friday, August 9, 2025 the Prime Minister Manele said the theme celebrates 54 years of journey of the Pacific Islands Forum.

He said preparation for the forum is well underway following the launch of the logo and theme for the meeting.

“It is a call to action and a reaffirmation of who we are — one Blue Pacific Continent.

“A call to strengthen regionalism, act with a sense of purpose for an integrated, resilient, and sustainable Pacific.

“A commitment to move from strategy to action. Together, we signal to the world that the Pacific stands united for an integrated Blue Pacific Continent.” PM Manele said.

The focus of the Pacific Islands Forum leaders is on critical intra-regional issues such as the High-Level Political Talanoa, the Ocean of Peace Declaration, and the Pacific Resilience Facility — matters of paramount importance to our region’s security and wellbeing.

The Prime Minister said as the incoming Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, Solomon Islands remains fully committed to upholding the Forum’s centrality and integrity, fostering strong friendships with all Pacific Island countries and external partners alike.

He said the Pacific Islands Forum remains a beacon of regional solidarity and collective action.

“Solomon Islands, as your host and incoming Chair, will continue to work with all members and partners to uphold the Pacific Way — respectful, inclusive, and united,” he said.

The 54th PIFLM will convene in September 2025 in Honiara, from September 8-12, 2025.

Solomon Islands will host the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting for only the third time, after having last hosted it in 1992.

Although the Forum is mainly a regional event, it also serves as a significant international gathering, with the country set to host up to 1,500 participants.

Attendees will include senior delegations from across the Pacific, along with representatives from international and regional bodies.

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BY NED GAGAHE

The United States and Solomon Islands commemorated the 83rd anniversary of the end of the Battle of Guadalcanal on Thursday, August 7, 2025 with two official ceremonies of which were at Skyline Ridge Memorial and the “Pride of Our Nation” monument along Commonwealth Street.

These events honour the courage and sacrifice of Allied forces and Solomon Islanders who fought in the Pacific during World War II.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele attended both ceremonies and laid wreaths in tribute to the fallen.

Each year, the US and its Allies commemorate the battle to remember those who served and to reflect on the legacy of peace their sacrifices created.

The first event was the sunrise ceremony at the World War II Guadalcanal American Memorial at Skyline.

The ceremony included speeches, laying of wreaths, and a moment of silence.

Cabinet Ministers, members of the Diplomatic Corps, US military personnel, and tour groups from the United States, Japan and Australia attended the ceremony.

US Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu Ann Marie Yastishock described the battle as a powerful bond between the U.S. and Solomon Islands.

“Eighty-three years after US Marines landed on the shores of Guadalcanal – and many paid the ultimate price – these events continue to unite our nations,” she said.

She said as time passes, memories and understanding of what happened begin to fade.

“This includes the challenges faced by the servicemembers and their families, both those who died here and those who returned home,” she added.

Ambassador Yastishock said the American people continue to honour the commitment and heroism of those who served.

US Marine Corps Col Jason Armas, Commanding Officer of Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, said the Guadalcanal campaign marked a turning point in the Pacific and changed the course of history.

“Eighty-three years ago today, US Marines landed here during a time of darkness and uncertainty.

“What followed was six months of intense combat on land, sea, and air to stop enemy advances and secure a free and open Pacific,” he said.

He said Guadalcanal became the proving ground of the modern Marine Corps, and its legacy lives on in today’s Marines.

Armas praised the Solomon Scouts and Coastwatchers for their critical role.

“This was never a fight fought alone,” he said.

“Solomon Scouts and Coastwatchers provided intelligence, guided troops, rescued airmen, and carried messages — often at great personal risk. Many gave their lives. Our shared struggle forged an enduring bond between our peoples.”

After the ceremony at Skyline, guests gathered at the “Pride of Our Nation” monument for the second event.

The Solomon Scouts and Coastwatchers Trust (SSCW), founded in 2011, organized the ceremony to recognise the bravery and sacrifice of Solomon Islanders during one of the Pacific’s most decisive battles.

The monument, crafted by Frank Haiku SIM, was officially unveiled by former Governor General Sir Frank Kabui on August 7, 2011. It stands at the seafront end of Commonwealth Street.

Prime Minister Manele, Acting Governor General Patteson Oti and Madam Oti, along with ministers, diplomats, US military officials, and visiting tour groups, attended the second ceremony.

Professor Dr Martin Hadlow from the University of Queensland delivered the keynote address. A founding member of SSCW, Dr. Hadlow formerly managed SIBC and has worked for decades to preserve the country’s wartime history.

Armas also delivered a tribute at the second ceremony.

“Today, we remember not only the valor of the marines who landed here, but also the extraordinary courage of the Solomon Scouts and Coastwatchers who aided the Allies,” he said.

He explained how Coastwatchers, mostly Australian and Allied personnel, tracked enemy movements and shared vital intelligence. Solomon Scouts, drawn from local communities, worked behind enemy lines to support Allied troops.

At the ceremony, the Australian Defense Attaché, Captain Emma Griffiths, presented medals to the families of seven late Solomon Scouts in recognition of their wartime service.

The medals were minted in Australia, where the Coastwatcher initiative originated under the Royal Australian Navy.

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Band, the U.S. Colour Guard, and members of the Solomon Islands Scouts Association delivered a formal parade and guard of honour.

The Battle of Guadalcanal, which lasted from August 7, 1942 to February 9, 1943, marked the first major Allied offensive in the Pacific and a crucial turning point in World War II.

The battle halted Japanese expansion and secured the Solomon Islands as a strategic foothold for the Allies.

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

THE Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification is looking to secure $10.6 million to improve the country’s mineral testing capabilities, with most of the funding to go toward upgrading the existing laboratory and technical training.

 Mines’ Minister Derrick Manu’ari, raised this during the Second Reading of 2025 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2025 in parliament on Thursday, August 7, 2025.

He said the National Geo-Chemical Laboratory Facility project is a critical step towards reducing Solomon Islands’ reliance on foreign laboratories and gaining control over its mineral data.

“Domestically, we do not have the capacity and technical know-how. We currently depend on a lab in Australia. That process is untimely, costly, and offers no ownership of the information,” Manu’ari said.

He said once the funds are secured, it will support both the early stages of developing a new laboratory, which include land development, UXO clearance, and geotechnical analysis.

The funds will also go towards the renovation of the existing lab to accommodate newly purchased equipment.

“A big component of the funding will go towards upgrading the existing laboratory facility and technical trainings to upskill our officers who will soon operate the new equipment,” Minister Manu’ari added.

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Matthew Wale, highlighted lack of transparency and accountability in past mineral exports.

Referring to the controversial bauxite shipment from Rennell-Bellona province, Wale said authorities had “little idea” of what was mined and exported, and “knew for sure none was paid for.”

“In terms of the lab itself, it will help us know what has been mined and taken out of the country. “It’s important for determining mineral value, grading, and the volume of shipments going out,” Wale said.

The new lab is expected to play a key role in assessing gold, bauxite, alumina, nickel, and other associated minerals.

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

After years of little budgetary support and inactivity, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Development (MID) is pushing to revive the Road and Transport Board to better manage the country’s road infrastructure.

Speaking in parliament on Thursday, August 6, 2025, during the second reading of the 2025 Appropriation Bill 2025, MID Minister, Ricky Fuo’o said the RTB- a statutory body set up years ago was greatly unfunded.

“The Board was set up years ago but remained unfunded. MID is now reviewing the Board, which is why we’re requesting financial support,” he said.

The RTB consists of the Honiara City Council, MID and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF).

Together, their tasks are to set up policies and guidelines to manage road infrastructure.

Fuo’o told parliament that the ministry is seeking funds to install road signage around the city, and raise awareness on traffic rules. 

He pointed out that these activities are vital and said that vehicle owners cannot be persecuted yet because of the lack of these important measures.

The minister said the RTB’s immediate focus will be on Honiara, especially as the city prepares to host major regional events in 2025, including the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), the pacific water conference, and the Pacific Labour Mobility Meeting (PLMAM)

“With these events coming up, the Board will focus on measures like restricting vehicle movement during certain hours, setting up signages, and potentially acquiring a tow truck to remove vehicles in violation.

“There’s still a long way to go to develop such necessary mechanisms,” he said.

Fuo’o mentioned that the Road Transport Act is currently under review and is expected to be brought to Parliament before the end of the year.

“We are hoping if all goes well, we can bring this important amendment before the end of the year,” Minister Fuo’o added.

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) says it is working towards carrying out consultations for the country to ratify the UN Convention Against Torture (CAT), which bans all forms of inhuman and degrading treatment.

Foreign Affairs Minister, Peter Shanel Agovaka said the above in Parliament on Monday, August 4, 2025 in response to a question from East Are’are MP Peter Kenilorea Jr, who raised concerns over the long delay in ratifying the treaty.

“We will work on it to get all consultation done, and preparation done and we can proceed on to ratify, against torture,” Agovaka said.

Kenilorea Jr welcomed the update and urges the government to treat the ratification as a matter of priority.

“In terms of the Convention Against Torture, I think it’s clear that we can ratify it. Our own Constitution prohibits torture and inhumane treatment of our people,” he said.

He added that the move would reflects positively on Solomon Islands’ international human rights reporting.

“Now that I see progress is ongoing, this is a good look for the country,” he said, noting that the Parliamentary Foreign Relations Committee is ready to assist where needed.

The CAT is the key international human rights treaty that specifically addresses torture. It obligates states that ratify it to prohibit, prevent, and penalise acts of torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment in all circumstances.

The Convention was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1984 and came into force in 1987. As of April 2006, 141 countries have ratified the treaty.

Attorney General John Muria Jr confirmed that Solomon Islands has already ratified five core United Nations human rights conventions, including:

The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, The Convention on the Rights of the Child and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

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By NED GAGAHE

The United States Marine Corps paid solemn tribute to fallen and missing soldiers during the 83rd Anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal, that was held at the American Guadalcanal Memorial at Skyline on Thursday, August 7, 2025.

Among the dignitaries present were Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and US Ambassador Ann Marie Yastishock, who joined Cabinet Ministers, members of the Diplomatic Corps, US military personnel, and tour groups from the United States, Japan and Australia.

Speaking at the ceremony Colonel Jason Armas, Commanding Officer of Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, reaffirmed the US military’s unwavering commitment to those still unaccounted for — including the 1st Battalion, 7th Marines and 374 Americans who never returned from the ridges of Guadalcanal.

“As Marines, we live by a code that no one is left behind.

“The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency continues its mission on this very island, quietly and tirelessly searching the hills and battlefields where men fought and fell, determined to bring them home,” Armas said.

The wreath-laying ceremony moved many, paying tribute to both the fallen and those still missing.

The event highlights the lasting impact of the Battle of Guadalcanal, a campaign that not only shifted the course of the Pacific war but also left a profound legacy on the people of Solomon Islands and the families of those who served.

Armas acknowledged the partnership with the Solomon Islands National Museum and local communities, who continue to support U.S. efforts to recover the remains of lost service members.

“These partnerships do more than uncover history.

“They heal families, preserve heritage, and strengthen the ties between our nations,” he said.

The ceremony also highlights the role of the Solomon Scouts and Coastwatchers, whose bravery and sacrifice were integral to Allied success.

He said many risked and gave their lives to guide U.S. troops, rescue downed airmen, and deliver intelligence behind enemy lines.

“Today’s ceremony is not only a remembrance but a recommitment — to memory, to mission, and to one another.

“The legacy of Guadalcanal endures not only in monuments but in the lives, we lead and the partnerships we build,” Armas said.

The Battle of Guadalcanal, fought between August 1942 and February 1943, marked the first major offensive by Allied forces in the Pacific. It was a turning point in the war — and a reminder, as yesterday’s ceremony showed, of the cost of freedom and the duty to remember.

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US praises Solomon Islands for role in WWII recovery work

BY NED GAGAHE

The United States acknowledges and praises Solomon Islands ongoing support towards efforts to recover and honour the remains of fallen US servicemembers from World War II.

Speaking during the 83rd Anniversary of the Guadalcanal Campaign at the American Memorial at Skyline on Thursday, August 7, 2025, US Ambassador Ann Marie Yastishock thanked the Solomon Islands government, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the Solomon Islands National Museum for their active partnership in supporting the US Defence POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA).

“We are deeply grateful for this cooperation.

“It has had a significant impact on the bilateral relationship and reflects our shared respect for history and sacrifice,” Ambassador Yastishock said.

The DPAA continues to work on Guadalcanal to locate and recover the remains of US servicemembers who went missing during the six-month battle that began on August 7, 1942.

The mission aims to provide full accounting to families still waiting for closure.

The Ambassador highlighted when the remains of a US serviceman were discovered during the construction of the American Memorial at Skyline.

The recovery led to a successful identification and helped one family find long-awaited peace.

“That story reminds us of why this work matters to families, to our nations, and to history,” she said.

Yastishock also acknowledges the enduring support of Solomon Islander communities, who continue to assist recovery teams in the field and help preserve historical sites and wartime legacies.

“These partnerships do more than uncover history. They heal families, preserve heritage, and strengthen the ties between our nations,” she said.

The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, Premier of Guadalcanal Province Willy Atu, Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer, and members of the Diplomatic Corps, alongside US military personnel and international guests.

The United States and Solomon Islands marked 83 years since the Battle of Guadalcanal, the tribute also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving history, not just in memorials, but in meaningful cooperation between nations.

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BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

Gifu Primary School in Guadalcanal has recently benefited from a generous donation of stationery provided by the Japanese Solomon Islands Associations (JSIA) to Barana Community.

The handover took place on the morning of Monday, August 4, 2025 in which Barana Community Chief, Willie Besi presented the items to Gifu Primary School chairman Samson Hohosi and the school staff.

Besi expressed his gratitude to the JSIA, particularly to Director General and Captain Kankoh Sakitsu for the timely donation which he believes will significantly enhance the academic resources available to students.

He highlighted that JSIA contributed 250 books and pens which will greatly support the students’ learning experience.

“This timely donation has hit the target of the school,” Besi remarked.

Chairman Hohosi also acknowledges Besi’s efforts to facilitate the transfer of the donation from the JSIA to the Barana Community for the benefit of Gifu Primary School.

He emphasized the importance of such contributions, especially for the students.

“This donation will highly enhance the students’ learning since stationery is one of the key challenges here in the school,” he said.

Hohosi praised the ongoing relationship between JSIA and the Barana Community, noting its positive impact on the school’s progress and the educational opportunities available to students.

Barana Community is recognized for its war museum, which plays a vital role in fostering relationships and attracting visitors.

This connection not only benefits the school but also enhances the community’s profile as a site of historical significance.

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