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Honiara ignites Pro League era

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BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

In Hamilton, NZ

THE inaugural Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Professional League has found its defining moment in Honiara, with Round 4 emerging as the standout highlight of the 2026 season.

Hosted at the National Stadium, the Honiara circuit signalled a new era for football across the Pacific, particularly for smaller island nations including Vanuatu, Tahiti, Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands.

From packed crowds to community outreach and digital innovation, the round showcased the growing reach and potential of the competition.

Coaches praised the overall experience, pointing to the digital ticketing system powered by M-SELEN, strong fan engagement and school visits — despite mixed results on the pitch.

Speaking during a Round 6 pre-match conference in Auckland, Vanuatu United FC coach Lars Hopp described the Honiara leg as a highlight of the competition.

“It was a highlight for everyone, just from the atmosphere,” Hopp said.

“It shows the potential of this league. The teams are learning and finding ways to activate that enthusiasm, which is clearly there.

“I think that’s going to be key for the future as well.”

Hopp added that the reception during school visits reflected the region’s passion for football.

“The excitement for the league and for football was absolutely amazing. I’m sure there’s still huge untapped potential,” he said.

“Obviously, in New Zealand and Australia there’s more competition for major events, but in the island countries, the interest is huge. It’s just a matter of developing it further.”

Solomon Kings FC coach Ben Cahn shared similar sentiments, although his reflections were tempered by his side’s results at home.

The Kings recorded a draw and a loss in Honiara, leaving Cahn with mixed emotions.

“We came so close both times and left disappointed not to have delivered a win,” he said.

“It’s hard to explain — on one hand it was incredible, but on the other hand, we didn’t win in Honiara.

“Had we scored that winning goal, the place would have erupted.”

Despite the results, Cahn said the support from fans left a lasting impact.

“It was an amazing experience for everybody. It really touched us,” he said.

“But we have unfinished business, and when we return next year, we want to deliver a win at home.”

The Kings have drawn strong support throughout the competition, attracting more than 1,000 fans in Melbourne and filling the 10,000-capacity National Stadium in Honiara.

Cahn acknowledged the responsibility that comes with that backing.

“We can always ask for more, but we also have to deliver,” he said.

Meanwhile, Round 6 of the competition kicked off yesterday in Auckland with the Leaders Group, while the Challengers Group began today.

Photo credit: OFC Pro League

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INCLUSIVE SPORTS

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SINU community-based rehabilitation students gain firsthand insight at SINIS

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Students from Solomon Islands National University’s Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR) programme have gained valuable, firsthand exposure to inclusive sport services following an educational visit to the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) High Performance Centre yesterday.

The visit, part of their academic training, focused on understanding how sport contributes to improving the lives of people living with disabilities, with emphasis on inclusion, participation and athlete welfare.

During the tour, the students were taken through key service areas including Performance Services, Talent Identification and Development (TID), Nutrition, and Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation. The session provided a practical overview of how the national institute supports both able-bodied and para-athletes.

Speaking after the visit, SINU part-time tutor Crystal Konainao said the experience highlighted the institute’s inclusive approach to athlete development.

“I have learnt that the institute is not only for those who are able, but it is inclusive, including athletes with special needs,” she said.

Konainao added that the visit also opened her eyes to the broader support systems in place beyond performance.

“The institute does not see people only for sport. They are also concerned about health, diet, and how athletes are cared for in many different areas,” she said.

She further acknowledged the professionalism of staff across departments and thanks SINIS personnel for sharing their expertise with the students.

First-year CBR student Patrick Lane described the visit as an eye-opening experience, particularly in understanding opportunities available for persons with disabilities in sport.

“One of the things I learnt today is how inclusive sports opportunities are provided, especially for people with disabilities,” Lane said.

He said the High-Performance Centre plays a key role not only in supporting participation but also in empowering individuals through structured programmes and partnerships.

Students said the session broadened their understanding of how inclusive sport systems operate at a national level, particularly in delivering services that prioritise both performance and wellbeing.

The visit concluded with expressions of appreciation from the students, who acknowledged the opportunity to engage directly with staff and gain practical knowledge of athlete support services.

The Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS), operated under the National Sports Council, serves as the country’s premier high-performance training facility. It provides integrated services such as athlete development, rehabilitation, nutrition, and talent identification, while also promoting inclusive sport programmes for para athletes and communities across the country.

Photo credit: NSC

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MP Quan Wing Chun transforms lives in Honiara

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BY TONY IROGA UFUNONI

MP Quan Wing Chun Kung Fu is making a positive impact on athletes in Honiara, promoting fitness, discipline, and respect while helping individuals stay focused and control their temper.

Senior athlete Titus Qwauna told Island Sun yesterday that MP Quan Wing Chun Kung Fu is playing a key role in shaping athletes both physically and mentally.

He emphasised that Wing Chun encourages mutual respect, builds self-control, and supports athletes in maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

“Martial art goes beyond fitness training, helping participants develop stronger character, discipline, and mutual respect,” he said.

He said Wing Chun also teaches self-control, particularly in managing anger and maintaining focus during competition and daily life.

“Many athletes are now seeing the practice as a way to improve overall well-being, encouraging a healthier and more balanced lifestyle while strengthening teamwork and respect within the sporting community in Honiara,” he said.

Senior athlete Titus Qwauna has clarified that MP Quan Wing Chun Kung Fu is not designed for tournaments or sporting competition like other martial arts disciplines.

“Wing Chun is mainly practiced for skill development and controlled sparring with other martial arts, rather than being focused on competitive fighting events,” he said.

He explained that the system emphasises discipline, self-control, respect, and mental focus, helping athletes improve their character and lifestyle rather than chasing medals or titles.

“Through training in Wing Chun, many athletes are learning how to manage anger, stay focused under pressure, and maintain fitness, making it a valuable practice for personal growth within the sporting community in Honiara,” he said.

He said Wing Chun is a traditional Chinese martial art known for its efficiency, direct movements, and close-range combat techniques. Its history blends legend and documented development.

 “Wing Chun is often traced back about 300 years to the late Qing Dynasty. According to popular legend, a Buddhist nun named Ng Mui developed the system after observing animal movements and refining techniques for speed and practicality rather than strength,” he said.

He said the art was taught to a young woman named Yim Wing Chun, who used it to defend herself against a forced marriage. The martial art was then named after her.

Over time, Wing Chun was passed down through generations, often in secret due to political unrest.

It became more structured and refined, focusing on centreline theory (protecting and attacking the central axis) simultaneous attack and defence, economy of motion and modern era.

Quauna said Wing Chun became widely known in the 20th century through masters like Ip Man, who taught in Hong Kong.

His students helped spread the art worldwide, including the famous martial artist Bruce Lee, who introduced elements of Wing Chun into his own philosophy.  

He explained that Wing Chun brings together people of different ages and experience levels, creating a supportive environment where members learn respect, focus, and controlled sparring skills rather than competition-based fighting.

“Martial art is not a tournament-style sport and is generally not used in competitive settings because of its combat-focused techniques,” he said.

He said MP Quan martial art welcomes children, women, and men, making it accessible to participants from different age groups and backgrounds.

“MP Quan Wing Chun Kung Fu is open to all members regardless of age or gender. The club offers an annual membership fee of $150, with a training session fee of $3 per day and training set for Thursday at the Multipurpose youth hub.

He explained that the training is structured to suit beginners and experienced practitioners alike, with a strong emphasis on discipline, respect, fitness, and self-control.

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SI swimmers chase Commonwealth Games dreams in Fiji qualifier

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands Swimming Federation (SISF) has sent a small but determined national team to Fiji to compete in a key regional meet that doubles as a pathway to the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The team departed Honiara on Wednesday to take part in the Oceania Swimming Championships, scheduled from May 8–12 in Suva.

This competition is more than just another regional outing—it serves as an official qualifying event for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, placing added importance on performances in the pool.

SISF Secretary General Jackson Rahemae said the championships present a valuable opportunity for local swimmers to test themselves against the region’s best.

“This level of competition allows our swimmers to measure their performance against the region’s best, identify gaps and continue progressing towards international standards,” he said.

Rahemae added that international exposure remains critical for athlete development, not only in terms of performance but also in building mental strength and race awareness.

He explained that competing abroad helps swimmers sharpen race strategies, grow in confidence, and adapt to high-pressure environments, while also benefiting coaches through exposure to advanced techniques and competition management.

The team will be aiming to clock personal best times, gain crucial international experience, and further build professionalism within the sport.

In addition to the swimmers, technical officials are also part of the delegation, playing roles in event delivery and gaining valuable experience at international level.

One of the officials, Cindy Aungarima, is expected to attend a World Aquatics Junior Coaching Workshop during the championships as part of her professional development.

Rahemae also acknowledged the support from the National Sports Council, saying its assistance through governance and participation grants continues to strengthen the federation’s planning and preparation for overseas competitions.

The travelling team includes SISF President Chrisleon Sanga, Rahemae, Head Coach Stance Sanga, swimmers Brenton Naka, Loise Bently and Junior Sanga, along with technical officials Osken Haro and Aungarima.

The team is expected to return home on May 17 following the completion of the championships.

The Oceania Swimming Championships is a key regional competition that brings together top swimmers from across the Pacific. For countries like Solomon Islands, participation is part of a broader effort to raise performance standards and create pathways from grassroots development to elite competition.

With the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Scotland on the horizon, events like this provide crucial qualification opportunities and exposure for emerging athletes aiming to compete on the global stage.

Photo credit: NSC

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Fact-check, verifying workshop for journalists underway

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BY IRWIN ANGIKI

A fact-check and verifying training is underway in Honiara for journalists provided by BBC Media Action and the Media Association (MASI).

The four-day workshop began on Tuesday, May 4, at the MASI conference room.

SIBC Editor, Frederick Kusu, and Island Sun Editor, Irwin Angiki, are the trainers, supported by the BBC MA Project Coordinator in the Solomon Islands, Adrian Sina.

The training covers the basics of fact-checking and verification in the first day, before exploring tools and resources available for journalists throughout the rest of the workshop – including fact-checking, video and image verification, OSINT (Open Source Intelligence), expanding and developing existing knowledge on ‘what does not add up’, transparency, forensics and analysis, debunking deep fakes, digital safety and wellbeing, press releases, mis-disinformation, plane and ship tracking, dealing with Gen AI, etc.

OSINT utilises information available in the public domain, and the training teaches participants how to access and use it.

Some of the materials covered in the training are relatively new because participants have not yet come across them in their work, have or have not heard of them, such as plane and ship tracking and the resources available, face or name checking using online databases, debunking deep fakes, etc.

But, Solomon Islands is developing and catching up with the world, and some day in the near future journalists involved in fact-checking will find themselves in situations where such skills are needed.

Participants include journalists from ZFM, Sunday Isles, Barava FM, Tavuli News, Solomon Star, SIBC, Island Sun and the RSIPF Media Unit.

Senior politics and general news reporter for SIBC, Alfred Pagepitu, after the session yesterday shared how the training is important to him.

“As a Radio and online journalist for SIBC, the workshop is very useful for my daily reporting work. It helps me improve how I check facts before broadcasting or posting news online.

“Overall, it helps me serve listeners and online audiences better through trustworthy reporting. The training gives me practical skills I can use in both radio and digital news. Learning from experienced journalists helps me improve my professionalism.

“It strengthens my confidence in producing accurate and reliable news for the public,” Mr Pagepitu said.

Fact-checking and verification are disciplines within journalism which have become increasingly critical in the operation of mainstream media houses, especially in this era of social media and artificial intelligence (AI).

Journalists in their roles to keep public informed are duty-bound to tackle mis- and disinformation in the public information space where audience access information and news.

Having the necessary skills, knowing how to use resources and knowing where to apply them are important traits for journalists to take onboard in order to effectively fulfill this duty.

The training follows a Training of Trainers workshop in Suva, Fiji, attended by Mr Kusu and Mr Angiki in early March which was led by an editor of BBC Verify, Flora Carmichael.

The training uses information and material provided by BBC Verify.

BBC Verify is a specialised investigative unit within BBC News launched in May 2023 to combat disinformation and increase transparency.

The BBC is regarded as the largest ‘retail’ or direct-to-consumer market news service in the world. BBC is consistently ranked as the most trusted international news provider globally, a position it maintained into 2026. It frequently ranks first for trust, reliability, and independence among international audiences, reaching over 418 million people weekly through its various platforms.

Its headquarter is in London, UK.

Photo credit: Adrian Sina

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Small Malaita constituency office praises PRC for support 

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The Small Malaita Constituency Office (SMCO) has praised the Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) for its generous financial support to one of their rural communities, the Anopala community. 

The People’s Republic of China supported the Anopala community with a sea transportation project that includes $100,000, a 40-horsepower outboard motor engine, and a 23-ft ray boat. 

According to a media release yesterday, Small Malaita Constituency Development Officer (CD) Terry Brown stated that the timely assistance will significantly improve access to safe and reliable sea transport for the people of the Anopala community. 

He said it benefits the Anopala community and surrounding communities at Malou Port, where they have been facing sea transportation difficulties. 

“The people of Anopala and the wider Small Malaita Constituency deeply value this gesture of goodwill and cooperation,” he said.

The constituency office acknowledges the partnership and said it plays a vital role in advancing rural development and uplifting the livelihoods of our communities.

He added that the project is expected to strengthen connectivity, support local economic activities, and improve access to essential services such as health and education.

The funded project was supported under the Chinese Embassy Small & Sustainable Development Project.

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More NFIs expected in Gizo this week

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

More Non-Food Items (NFIs) for cyclone-affected communities in Western Province are expected to arrive in Gizo later this week, providing much-needed relief to households still recovering from the disaster.

Chairperson of the Western Province Disaster Committee, Collin Potakana, confirmed the development to Island Sun yesterday, stating that while most affected communities have already received their share of supplies, some are still waiting.

“Some communities are yet to receive NFIs, and these upcoming supplies will help address those gaps,” Potakana said.

He emphasised the importance of NFIs in the recovery process, noting that they include essential items such as personal hygiene kits, including soap, household equipment, and gardening tools.

“These items are critical for families as they rebuild their daily lives and restore basic living conditions,” Potakana said.

Distribution of NFIs was temporarily halted last week after stocks in Gizo were depleted, pending replenishment from Honiara.

Potakana had earlier revealed that supplies were also running low in Honiara, prompting the need for procurement of additional stock from overseas.

The arrival of new consignments this week is expected to resume distribution efforts and ensure that remaining affected communities receive the support they need.

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Midwives key to improving maternal and newborn health

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Midwives play a critical role in improving maternal and newborn health, with evidence showing they provide a significant portion of essential care needed for women and babies.

Jessie Larui, President of the Solomon Islands Midwifery Society said this when she delivered her opening key note address at this year’s International Day of Midwives event in Honiara on Tuesday this week.

She said that midwives deliver about 87 percent of essential care for mothers and newborns.

She adds that strengthening midwifery services is directly linked to reduced maternal and newborn deaths and improved health outcomes.

Ms Larui said that midwives can provide more than 90 percent of essential sexual and reproductive health services.

“Expanding this workforce could prevent up to 67 percent of maternal deaths, 64 percent of newborn deaths, and 65 percent of stillbirths, potentially saving up to 4.3 million lives each year.

“Studies on midwifery-led care also reveal improved birth outcomes. Caesarean section rates can be reduced from 23.5 percent to 13.5 percent, while spontaneous vaginal births can increase from 64.2 percent to 78.7 percent. Midwifery care could also help avert up to 83 percent of maternal and neonatal deaths, while doubling the number of trained midwives could reduce maternal mortality by between 20 to 40 percent,” she said.

She said that the maternal mortality ratio in the Solomon Islands, currently stands at 123 per 100,000 live births.

She said that although there has been steady improvement, the figure remains above the global target of 70 per 100,000.

She said that infant mortality has declined to 13 per 1,000 live births, nearing the target of 12 per 1,000.

“However, challenges remain in family planning. The contraceptive prevalence rate is recorded at 29.3 percent, meaning 71 percent of women of childbearing age are not using contraceptives. This contributes to a high birth rate of 29 per 1,000 population, one of the highest in the Pacific.

“The pressure on health facilities is evident, with the National Referral Hospital recording between 5,000 to 6,000 births each year. Strengthening midwifery through education, regulation and professional association support has been identified as essential to building a more effective and resilient health system,” Ms. Larui said.

Photo credit: John Houanihau

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Aligegeo school to host its annual cultural day tomorrow 

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School in Malaita Province will host its annual cultural day event tomorrow, Friday, May 7. 

This year’s theme for the event is “Embracing Our Culture, Diversity, and Pride”. 

In an interview with a member of the cultural day organising committee, Naomi Pitisopa, she said that during the day, each ethnic group within Malaita Province will perform their items. 

She said that students from other provinces will combine into a few groups and choose which culture they want to represent. 

“It is an event in which all different ethnic groups within Malaita Province will have a chance to perform their items,” she said. 

“It may be a custom dance or a drama. For students from other provinces, they will have to combine into as many groups as they want,” she added.

She said the officials who will be attending their annual cultural day will include parents, invited guests, and provincial government representatives.

“We are expecting parents, our guests, and provincial government representatives. Our invitation letters have been sent to them,” she said.

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PRC supports Anopala community with sea transportation project 

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The People’s Republic of China (PRC) has supported the Anopala community in the Small Malaita Constituency with a sea transportation project.

The assistance is mainly to improve sea transportation for the Anopala community and surrounding areas after they have faced issues and challenges with transportation in accessing health and education services. 

According to a media release from the Ministry of Rural Development, the project assistance includes $100,000, a 40-horsepower outboard motor engine, and a 23-ft ray boat. 

Anopala community representative, Peter Ha’alau, thanks their Small Malaita Constituency office and Member of Parliament, Rick Hou, for selecting his community as the recipient of this important project.

He also voiced his gratitude to the Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) for its generous funding.

“It is a meaningful contribution that will bring immense benefits not only to my people of the Anopala community but also to the people of Small Malaita,” he said. 

Meanwhile, the Small Malaita Constituency Office has expressed its heartfelt gratitude to the Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) for its generous financial support. 

“This timely assistance will significantly improve access to safe and reliable sea transport for our people, especially the Anopala community and surrounding communities at Malou Port,” he said. 

The transportation project was funded under the Chinese Embassy’s Small & Sustainable Development Project.

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