National Trade Fair 2025 is back after more than a decade bringing together culture and economy

BY NED GAGAHE

The National Trade Fair 2025 officially opened on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at the FOPA Village, marking the return of one of the Solomon Islands’ most iconic economic and cultural events.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele was given the honour to officially declare the 2025 National Trade Fair open.

The revival comes after a decade-long break, with the theme, “Trade for Transformation-Rebuilding Our Happy Isles”.

The weeklong celebration of enterprise and innovation kicked off with a vibrant opening ceremony, attended by the Prime Minister where he was greeted by traditional warriors.

Also in attendance were the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI), government ministers, guests from the private sector and donor partners.

In his keynote address, Prime Minister Manele said the event plays a crucial role in driving economic growth, strengthening community bonds and instilling a sense of national pride.

He said the theme unites Solomon Islands and underscores the country’s commitment to building a brighter future together.

“Let us embrace this opportunity to foster innovation, collaboration and progress in our country. While we face formidable challenges in our journey forward in economic recovery and sustainable development, there are also opportunities ahead.

“I think it is now, after 11 years, that we can revive and revitalize the National Trade Fair. And let’s keep it going,” he said.

Hosted by MCILI in partnership with SINU, the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the business community, the trade fair is part of the lead-up to the country’s 47th Independence Anniversary celebrations on July 7.

The event will run until July 10, bringing together government ministries, private sector organizations and business houses.

The Trade Fair was once a flagship event in the 1990s, often held at Townground alongside Independence week celebrations.

It attracted thousands and a vital platform for businesses to showcase products, connect with customers and contribute to the festive national spirit. However, the event was discontinued after 2014—until now.

MCILI Minister Jamie Vokia referred to the event as a “powerful catalyst” to enhance, rebuild, revitalize and redefine transformative prosperity in the nation.

He said the fair is a leading showcase of that transformation.

“This event is not just about bringing back a popular event. It’s about creating a platform to support local entrepreneurs, boost economic activity and reconnect our people through trade, culture and innovation,” he said.

This year’s fair aligns with GNUT’s Policy Statement 2.1.6 under MCILI, which focuses on strengthening the private sector through the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

It also reflects the MCILI Corporate Plan 2025, which outlines goals to promote fair trade, support local exporters and increase the visibility of Solomon Islands products in domestic and international markets.

The FOPA Village has come alive with vibrant displays, food, cultural performances and business showcases.

Participants from across sectors are engaging in exhibitions and interactive events that highlight the diversity and resilience of the Solomon Islands’ economy.

The 2025 Trade Fair is part of a broader strategy of GNUT to stimulate economic diversification, generate employment and empower local communities through entrepreneurship.

“The trade show used to be a key part of our national celebrations. Seeing it come back this way gives us hope and a chance to grow,” said one local business owner.

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BY CHRIS ALEX

In a time when many families are seeking ways to supplement their income, two dedicated educators from Choiseul Bay Secondary School are leading by example – not in the classroom but behind a sewing machine.

Jayreen Qilapade and Tina Pitamama, both teachers with a passion for lifelong learning, are currently enrolled in the Drafting and Sewing Training programme at the HJ Sewing Centre, located at Choiseul Bay School in Choiseul Province.

This growing community hub is helping locals especially women to stitch together new possibilities.

For Qilapade, the training has been a revelation.

“I’ve learned tailoring techniques I never knew before,” she shared.

“More importantly, it’s an icebreaker for a potential sideline hustle — especially now that life is more demanding. Gaining skills in pattern-making and drafting brings me joy, knowing that once I finish teaching, I’ll still have something that can help support my family”, said Qilapade.

She’s not just doing it for herself. Qilapade is encouraging others especially young women and school dropouts to seize opportunities like this one.

“Grab opportunities like this so you can have something to earn a living with,” she urged.

Pitamama echoed the same spirit of empowerment.

“Even learning to tailor your clothes can be empowering. It gives you confidence and a sense of independence,” she said.

She hopes more housewives and young women from surrounding communities will step forward and join the movement.

Both women are clear about the role of persistence in personal growth.

“Nothing worth making ever comes easy and that’s what makes it meaningful,” they emphasized. “Whether you’re stitching your first seam or mastering a tricky technique, remember — every challenge is shaping your masterpiece. Keep going, they said.

The Pattern HJ Sewing Centre is fast becoming more than a training ground as it is also a symbol of resilience and transformation.

The Centre’s programme not only equips participants with practical skills but also helps them to unlock new paths to self-sufficiency and confidence.

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

THE Solomon Islands Bible Society is hosting its annual Bible Week programme at the national museum, Point Cruz, aiming to strengthen partnerships among local churches and Christian ministries.

Held under the theme ‘God’s word is for everyone, Do what it says’, the week-long event began with Bible quizzes and reading classes in various translations, drawing participation from various church groups.

Bible Society’s Coordinator John Stott said the initiative aims to create unity among different churches. 

“This is so that we can collaborate in this work not only for the bible society but also for other churches in our Christian ministries.”

As the nation gears up for its 47th Independence celebrations amidst various ongoing social activities, Stott reminds the public not to lose sight of spiritual priorities.

“The Word of God is important to all people. When we see programmes like this carried out by churches or Christian ministries, we must come together and take part — because it’s about collaboration,” he said.

Highlighting the society’s mission to translate, produce and distribute Bibles, Stott shared that they are committed to supporting churches with resources.

“If your church is struggling to grow, we can provide resources to help your church grow,” he said.

Stott also shared that the Society is currently working on a Bible translation project for communities in Simbo, Western Province.

The Bible week programme will conclude tomorrow.

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

HONIARA High School, which lost several buildings during the 2021 Honiara riots, is finally undergoing reconstruction, an effort welcomed by the school administration.

After years of funding delays and stalled progress, School Principal Allen Siosi Ketei has confirmed that construction of the new classrooms, administration block and other key facilities is now in its third week.

“There were delays over the past years, but after continued pressure from the school board, education providers, the Ministry of Education and funders, we’ve finally reached an agreement,” Principal Ketei said.

“I’m very positive about the completion of the project, which began in June,” he added.

The delays were largely due to the late submission of variation costs on the ground. However, with funding support from the People’s Republic of China and variation costs covered by the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD), the project is now back on track.

According to the principal, contractors are currently working on the school library, with the administration and classroom blocks to follow.

Apart from these key facilities, the project will also include ablution blocks, a much need facility.

The total cost of the reconstruction is estimated at SBD2 million

“This project has taken nearly five years to reach this stage. There were many doubts along the way, but we never gave up. The resumption of work has given us hope that, with the support of all stakeholders, we will finally complete this project,” Principal Ketei said.

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Kadere party defends involvement with SI Group, & Busy Signal concert

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Kadere Party Solomon Islands (KPSI) has defended its involvement with SI Group, as preparations are underway for the upcoming international artist Busy Signal’s show next weekend in Honiara.

The much anticipated show brought by the SI Group and Kadere Party is set to be held at DC park on Saturday, July 12.

Speaking in a press conference yesterday, KPSI President Placid Walekwate explained that the party’s stance on the show is about maximising the show and giving back to the communities.

“Thanks for Kadera party to come and share with the public about our involvement in this music concert. We have the production equipment to support this kind of event, that’s why we are involved in this event as a party,” said Walekwate.

He stressed that they are maximising the show, getting everybody to be involved and that is why the event is happening at the DC Park.

“It’s all about the celebration. That is the main key where KPSI is stepping in. It’s got nothing to do with politics. It’s about supporting the idea of giving back to the community,” he said.

Walekwate expressed that this is a rare opportunity for people to access for the first time in history, to watch a big artist performing free for everybody.

“I hosted the event UB40 at Lawson Tama and everybody broke the fence as it is a paid event. So, my advice for the SI Group is to make it free,” said Walekwate, who was heavily involved in the music industry in the SI.

Moreover, in regards to the legal status of the SI Group in a recent public notice from the Solomon Islands Foreign Investment Division (FID), Mr Martin Housanau, General Secretary of the KPSI said the legal process to formally register the SI Group is ongoing.

In the issued public notice, FID said that the office of the Foreign Investment Division of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigrations wishes to advise the public that they do not have any approval issued to a foreign entity called SI Group Limited.

Responding to this, Housanau pointed out that this is about two separate issues.

“Firstly, two separate issues. One is the investment commercial aspect of the SI group. The other issue is the event that they are co-sponsoring. The legal process to formally register the SI group is ongoing. It will take 90 days, which is three months,” he said.

Housanau highlighted that the upcoming Busy Signal show event is a non-commercial activity under the laws.

“Under the Foreign Investment Act, it doesn’t prohibit any foreigner from convening a family social event within our nation,” he said.

“This event is a non-commercial, non-investment activity. The investment commercial activity of the SI group will commence after they formally register their establishment here, which means after 90 days. So that’s basically on the investment side of the SI group,” said Mr Housanau.

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BY NED GAGAHE

Minister for Infrastructure Development Ricky Fuo’o has welcomed a major boost of SBD60 million from Australian Government towards the National Transport Fund (NTF), describing it as critical support for Solomon Islands’ infrastructure sector.

Speaking at the official handover ceremony last week, he said the funding arrives at a vital time as the country faces mounting economic pressures and the increasing impact of climate change on infrastructure.

“This fund will support the lifeblood of our infrastructure sector. At a time when government budgets are stretched, when climate shocks increase infrastructure wear, and when economic pressure is high — this funding from Australia is a lifeline,” said Fuo’o.

He said the NTF continues to serve as a trusted platform where government and development partners pool resources to support vital road rehabilitation and bridge construction projects across the country.

“This support allows us to address urgent road repairs, enables us to meet our Pacific Islands Forum hosting responsibilities and helps us to plan and deliver in a coordinated and accountable way,” the Minister added.

He also stressed that the funding directly aligns with the GNUT government’s commitment to boost economic development through improved infrastructure and connectivity.

“It will boost commerce, connect rural communities and improve access to basic services,” he said.

Importantly, Minister Fuo’o confirmed that the new funding will go directly to local companies tasked with delivering projects identified as national priorities.

“I am extremely proud to announce that this funding will be directed to local companies delivering on Solomon Islands-identified priorities,” he said.

The National Transport Fund, established to improve infrastructure across the country, remains a key driver of national development.

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