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Pineapple farmer makes waves at national trade show

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

THE 2025 National Trade Fair kicked off with a bang yesterday, drawing in dozens of businesses, government ministries and local vendors across Honiara, Guadalcanal and even other provinces.

Amidst the colourful display of homemade crafts, local innovations and sizzling food stalls, stands Gabriella Lovi from East Guadalcanal – a wife, mother, grandmother and a pineapple farmer.

For many Honiara residents, the revived trade fair brings back memories of the early 90s and 2000s but for Lovi, now in her 60s, it marks a proud milestone: her first-ever opportunity to sell her sweet, fleshy pineapples.

Tucked away from the main stage, her modest stall has drawn a steady stream of customers.

Sitting among fellow farmers, Lovi spares several of her minutes with Island Sun, sharing her excitement and nervousness.

“This is my very first time at the trade show and I am happy to be here,” says the farmer.  

Selling 110 pineapples priced between $10 and $30, Ms. Lovi explains that her participation came by chance.

“I was just asked to come and sell my pineapples here so I went to my garden, harvested and came to Honiara,” recalls Lovi.

Only being in the pineapple business for a year, Lovis shares that she was inspired by other fellow villagers who were making money from selling pineapples.

“I  saw them selling and I wanted to be like them, so I started planting and now that I have already harvested and started selling at the market and now here, I finally see money and I am so happy,” she said.

When asked about the advice she would give to other women Lovi says;

“I tell them not to depend too much on their husbands. I believe strong women can also do men’s work but I also remind them that if your husband is working hard, you can help him too, no matter what.”

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Trade fair revival signals government commitment

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

THE Chairman of the National Trade Fair, Moses Waririu said the revival of the fair stands as a symbol of the government’s commitment in building resilient local industries.

He was speaking at the opening of the trade fair (yesterday) Wednesday, July 2, 2025.

Waririu expressed that fair has brought together government ministries, the private sector and locals.

“This national Trade fair stands as a firm reaffirmation of our government’s commitment to rebuilding resilient local industries, investing in downstream processing and moving beyond the outdated model of exporting raw materials,” he said.

Waririu stressed that the country’s future lies in producing, branding and exporting value-added Solomon Island products by Solomon Islanders.

He also emphasised that transformation requires all stakeholders to work together.

“These transformations cannot be achieved by the government alone, that’s why we acknowledged and commend the private sector, our hardworking entrepreneurs, our small and medium enterprises and industry leaders, who are the engine of growth and innovation,” he said.

Waririu pointed out that participants of the revived fair are partners in driving national transformation.

He also commended the growing trend of women and youth in trade and enterprise.

“Your creativity, resilience, energy, are leading a new wave of inclusion and sustainable development”, he said.

Waririu acknowledged that the trade fair aligns with the GNUT’s policy priorities and the broader national development strategy, which aims to stimulate inclusive economic growth, strengthen our rural livelihood and modernize our trade, agriculture and productive systems.

“Let us all work together to revive and expand on our productive sector, particularly in agriculture, fisheries, tourism and local manufacturing. This includes supporting our value- adding initiative, developing critical infrastructure, enhancing export potential and reviving institutions like seminars, raising our country’s commodities to ensure real market access for our rural commodities,” Waririu concluded.

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Visiting SI for the first time

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PNG sensation, Moqai to perform tomorrow to support diabetic clinic

BY CHRIS ALEX

Popular Papua New Guinean artist Moqai will perform live in Honiara on Friday, July 4 in a special fundraising concert to support the diabetic clinic in Honiara.

Visiting Solomon Islands for the first time, he says he is excited to perform for a new audience while contributing to an important cause.

“The show is mainly to raise funds for the diabetic clinic in Honiara. This is my first time in Solomon Islands and I’m truly honoured to be here,” he said.

The event is organized by Cow Boys Grill in partnership with our own music legend Sharzy.

Moqai said he flew directly after a recent tour in Queensland to Honiara specifically for this event.

“I just finished a show in Queensland and flew over here to be part of this initiative. It’s more than a concert — it’s about helping the community,” he added.

Moqai has also issued a heartfelt call to his friends, family and fans in Honiara to come out and support the show, not only for the music but to stand behind a cause that affects many Solomon Islanders.

The fundraising concert is expected to draw a large crowd, with local artists also scheduled to perform in support of the event.

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Minister Vokia calls on public to embrace 2025 Trade Fair

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BY NED GAGAHE

Minister for Commerce, Labour, Industry and Immigration (MCILI) Jamie Vokia MP has called on Solomon Islanders attending the 2025 National Trade Fair to connect, collaborate and seize opportunities throughout the weeklong event.

Delivering his remarks during the official opening ceremony held on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at the SINU FOPA Village, East Honiara, he described the trade fair as a “powerful catalyst” for rebuilding, revitalizing and redefining transformative prosperity in the country.

“This fair is a leading showcase of that transformation. Look around you, you will see this incredible diversity of ours. From fresh organic produce nurtured in our fertile soil, to exquisite handcrafts whispering tales of our ancestral skills, to innovative services and technologies shaping our future,” Vokia said.

He said the vibrant stalls, each with unique colours and stories, represent dreams nurtured, skills honed, families sustained and communities strengthened.

“Trade is building resilience from the ground up. Rebuilding is more than infrastructure, it’s about empowering Solomon Islanders and sustaining livelihoods,” the Minister said.

He also acknowledged the vital partnership that made the event possible, involving government ministries, the private sector, academic institutions like SINU and the wider community.

“To our sponsors, on behalf of the Ministry, we salute you this morning. Your investment in this program is an investment in Solomon Islands’ future,” Vokia said.

Minister Vokia further paid tribute to entertainers participating in the event, saying their performances add the rhythm and soul of the Happy Isles to the celebration.

He issued a rallying call to attendees to make the most of the next seven days.

“I want you to explore, engage and purchase. Immerse yourself in the goodness available on the ground. Connect and collaborate, forge new partnerships, share knowledge and find synergies,” he urged.

“Let this fair be a marketplace not just for goods, but for ideas and opportunity,” he added.

The minister concluded by encouraging participants to carry the spirit of the trade fair back to their communities and become ambassadors of change and innovation.

The 2025 National Trade Fair continues at FOPA Village and will run until July 10 as part of the country’s 47th Independence Anniversary celebrations.

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Tandai chief welcomes guests to 2025 national trade fair

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By CHRIS ALEX

Tandai’s Paramount Chief Peter Sehelivere, delivered the official welcome remarks at the opening of the 2025 Annual National Trade Fair in Honiara on Wednesday, July 2 2025.

Proudly representing the five tribes of the Tandai House of Chiefs, he extended a heartfelt welcome to all attendees, including representatives from all nine provinces of Solomon Islands, government officials, exhibitors and visitors.

“I stand here on behalf of the five tribes of the Tandai House of Chiefs to welcome you all to the official opening of this event. This event will bring unity, love, respect and togetherness to the people of the nine provinces of Solomon Islands,” said Sehelivere.

He commended the government’s role in making the event possible, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and his Cabinet Ministers for their continued support.

“On behalf of the Tandai House of Chiefs, I want to thank the Prime Minister and Ministers for making this happen and I hope this will continue for 20 more years,” he said.

He concluded his address by emphasising the importance of national identity and unity.

“This shows our identity as we are one people of Solomon Islands,” he concluded.

The national trade fair is a platform to showcase local products, culture and innovation while strengthening bonds among communities and driving economic collaboration across the nation.

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Trade Fair showcases innovation and opportunity: Vokia

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By NED GAGAHE

Minister for Commerce, Labour, Industries and Immigration (MCILI), Jamie Vokia, says this year’s National Trade Fair presents an unique opportunity to witness the latest trends and innovations in Solomon Islands’ business landscape.

Speaking during the official opening, which commenced on Wednesday this week, July 2, 2025, Minister Vokia said the event serves as a vital platform for businesses to display new products, showcase technology, stimulate healthy competition and drive innovation across various industries.

“This fair is an opportunity for you to witness the best of what our local industries have to offer. It provides a stage for businesses to enhance their visibility and brand recognition at the national level, building consumer trust and expanding market reach,” he said.

“This variety has contributed significantly to consumer satisfaction,” Minister Vokia added.

He pointed out that beyond commerce, the trade fair is also promoting cultural heritage.

“Visitors will have the chance to explore traditional crafts and practices, helping to strengthen community identity and pride. This week is not just about trade—it’s about community, tradition and dialogue,” he said.

Minister Vokia also highlighted the importance of using the trade fair as a platform to discuss industry regulations, standards, and policies.

“This event gives our business community a voice. It’s an opportunity to shape the future of different sectors by engaging in meaningful conversations,” he said.

The 2025 National Trade Fair continues this week as part of the lead-up to the 47th Independence Anniversary celebrations and will conclude on July 10.

Throughout the week, the trade fair is expected to draw large crowds to the FOPA Village, offering a wide range of products and services.

Consumers will have the opportunity to enjoy greater variety, better service and opportunities for discounted prices.

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Juvenile sentenced to community service for malicious damage

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

A 17-year-old juvenile who damaged the door screen of a bus was sentenced to community service after pleading guilty to one count of malicious damage at the Magistrate Court.

Court delivered its order on Monday, June 30, 2025 and pursuant to section 16 of the Juvenile Act, section 16 (k), allows court to deal with the defendant in any legal manner court allowed to do so.

By applying this, court noted that there are different alternatives provided in this same provision to deal with juveniles.

In reading through all the alternative, court framed this defendant’s penalty in the following manners.

The defendant was handed over to the custody of his parents and the conditions of this are as follows;

-The defendant will be closely monitored by his father for the next three months. He must abstain from consumption of alcohol in any form, as he is still under age and currently unemployed.

-He must avoid negative peer pressure influence and refrain from following his age group boys to engage in any unwanted and criminal activities.

-He is required to obey his parents and attend church. Defendant is also to undergo counselling sessions with the pastor on the following topics; knowing his identity in Christ, responsibility of a child of God, responsibility of a son at his family home and responsibility of a civilian of Solomon Islands.

Lastly, defendant must actively engage in house chores appropriate for his age and supervised by his parents throughout the three months period.

The parents are also ordered to assist the court by submitting reports over the next three months and to repay the complainant for the damaged glass caused by the defendant.

This matter will be reviewed during the next court hearing which is scheduled for September 29, 2025 at 10 am.

Counselling reports from the observation and sessions are also to be produced to the court on the dates of July 28, August 25 or September 1 and September 29, so as to allow court to check on the progress of the defendant’s behaviour patterns.

The incident occurred on April 22, 2025 between 12pm and 12.30pm, at Rifle Range area, Honiara.

The 35-year-old victim, a bus driver, was transporting passengers from White River 01 bus stop to Central Market. While stopping near the Rain Tree bus stop, opposite the POB area to drop off a passenger, the drunk 17-year-old defendant approached and asked the driver for $2.

According to facts stated, when the driver did not respond, the defendant walked to the other side of the bus, shouted aggressively and then used a closed fist to punch the door glass, causing the screen glass to break into pieces.

Jennifer Happlyn from PSO act for the juvenile and John Mark Saugaro from Police Prosecution Department act for crown.

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Trial of police officer accused of bribery continues

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The trial of a police officer accused of bribery in connection with another case involving stolen gold ashes continues at the Magistrate court today, Thursday, July 3, 2025.

The trial began on Monday this week where prosecution called forward two witnesses. However, the final key witness was still in the province and had arrived in Honiara yesterday.

Allen Noni was charged with two counts of Bribery contrary to section 122 (a) of the Penal Code.

Mr Noni pleaded not guilty and the trial was conducted before Principal Magistrate Emily Zazariko Vagibule Pakoa.

In the opening statement, the prosecution alleged that on November 8, 2024 at 3.32pm the defendant sent a text message to the complainant, stating that he wanted to meet in person. They later met at around 7.30pm at the Town Ground area, Honiara where Noni allegedly gave $10,000 to the complainant.

On November 12, 2024 the defendant and the complainant met again at Henderson area, where Noni allegedly bribed the complainant with $20,000.

The total sum of $30,000 was allegedly given to the complainant by Noni to prevent the lead investigator from investigating an accused in another case involving stolen gold ashes.

Jeremy Oiofa from the Office of Public Prosecution is prosecuting and Donation Houa from PSO act for Noni.

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Borderline murder investigation ongoing

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

Police are yet to obtain outstanding documents on the case of seven defendants who are remanded in connection with the alleged murder of a 24-year-old man at Borderline earlier this year.

The seven defendants, Hudson Eddie Asuani, Greg Metefaka, Jimmy Rusileta, Redley Daua, Junior Danganabe’u, Richard Sangula and Kevin Sibele are charged jointly with murder.

Appearing in court yesterday, Director of Public Prosecution, Andrew Kelesi informed court that the post-mortem report has been received from police.

However, prosecution is still waiting for two outstanding documents from the police; the forensic report and crime scene photo album.

Defence lawyer confirmed that three defence counsels from the Public Solicitor Office have been allocated to represent three of the defendants, namely; Greg Metefaka, Richard Sangula and Jimmy Rusileta.

Meanwhile, Daua, Danganabe’u, Sibele and Asuani are still without legal representation.

The prosecution sought another fourteen-day adjournment to July 16, to allow police time to obtain the outstanding documents.

Court also made directions for the Practice Manager of Public Solicitor Office (PSO) to allocate lawyers for the four defendants who are currently without legal representation.

Prosecution was also directed to serve disclosures to the PSO.

Prosecution alleged that on May 16, 2025, the seven defendants were drinking and causing disturbance at the Mamulele water catchment area, near a bridge and Jacob ladder leading up to Milestone.

At approximately 3am on May 17, it was alleged that the body of a male person was discovered lying on the steps of the Jacob ladder. The male person was not responding but still breathing.

An eyewitness reported seeing the defendants running down the Jacob ladder shortly before the body was discovered.

Witnesses reported hearing defendant Richard Sangula say in Pidgin “boy ba ting mas die nay ya” (the boy is probably dead).

Shortly after, Sangula was seen with defendant Kevin Sibele’s girlfriend, swapping shirts and she gave him a red T- shirt she was wearing at the time.

Police further alleged that the reason for this act remains suspicious and not explained.

It was later confirmed with the use of ultraviolet that the shirt had blood stains on it.

The defendant Kevin also alleged to have prevented his girlfriend from viewing the body, by attempting to hide evidence or details of the crime scene.

The post-mortem revealed that the deceased sustained severe head injuries, including two cuts and a star-shaped wound to the back of his head, a crack scalp and an injury above the left eye.

The injuries were consistent with the use of a blunt smooth object, such as a stone or brick and a strong kick to the left side belly and left back.

Andrew Kelesi Director of Public Prosecution Office appears for the crown and Allen Tinoni from PSO represents Grey Metefaka, Lazarus Waroka represents Jimmy Rusileta and Ben Ifuto’o from PSO represents Richard Sangula.

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Nurses complete workshop to boost maternal and newborn health

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

NURSES from Rannonga, Gizo and Vella have successfully completed a specialised workshop focused on improving maternal health and newborn care, with a particular emphasis on water and sanitation.

The workshop is part of a broader initiative funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), and implemented by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services in collaboration with the Water and Sanitation Departments.

Speaking to Island Sun, one of the participants from Gizo Hospital, Rendy Solomon said the core objective of the training is to ensure safe and sanitary conditions for mothers and their newborns.

She said the program focuses on improving access to clean water and proper sanitation, which are crucial to the health of mothers who have just given birth.

“Mothers and newborn babies are extremely vulnerable to infections caused by pathogens and bacteria, particularly in environments where water and sanitation are lacking,” Solomon said.

She emphasized the importance of creating a hygienic maternal environment, pointing that poor sanitation often contributes to the spread of diseases in health facilities.

Solomon said, the team will conduct similar workshops in other parts of the Western Province.

She also adds that engineers from the Ministry will carry out assessments on clinics across the province to ensure water and sanitation infrastructure meets national health standards.

Island Sun understands that the initiative is part of a four-year project launched last year. The project is valued at USD $1 million and is being implemented through the WHO Representative Office in the Solomon Islands. It targets five provinces including Honiara, Guadalcanal, Western, Central and Malaita with the goal of improving maternal and newborn health outcomes.

The project reflects a growing recognition of the role clean water and sanitation play in supporting health services, particularly in rural and remote communities.

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