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Electronic Navigation Chart launched

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Electronic Navigational Charts (ENC) are new standards for a ship’s safety navigation, as the globe is moving away from paper charts, as in the past.

The project for the Development support of ENC for Honiara and Noro Port in the Solomon Islands is funded under the SIMA-JICA project.

The primary purpose of this project is to improve Maritime Navigational Safety, where a Hydrographic Survey is being conducted and an ENC is produced purposely for Maritime Navigation.

Speaking at the launch of the ENC at the Seminar on E-Nevigation on our ocean: the contribution of the SIMA-JICA project at the Heritage Park on Tuesday, SIMA senior officer for safety of navigation, Mr Malesi Mani, said the transition from paper charts to digital ENC systems is not just a technological shift.

“It is a revolution in maritime safety and economic efficiency,” he said.

He said that Maritime safety is not just about protecting vessels and seafarers, but it directly influences trade, economic growth and the prosperity of a nation.

“As such, when we strive for sustainable development, this type of project plays a crucial role in strengthening infrastructure, modernising navigation systems and fostering international cooperation,” said Mani.

He said that the current maritime status in the Solomon Islands is 240 Domestic Vessels, thousands of small boats, 3 international Ports, 258 berth wharves, 744,407 population on 300 + Islands and 1.6 million km2 of area, and 98% of it is just the Ocean.

“We are dependent on the ocean for our livelihood and survival. With that, in 20 to 50 years’ time, this number will double, resulting in an increase in the volume of maritime traffic in and around our islands,” he said.

“Therefore, to control and manage the volume of our maritime traffic, we need to map all areas of our water to improve the maritime safety of our mariners,” said Mani.

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When will teachers’ salary restructure be implemented: Wale

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Teachers and nurses are the only faces of government can be seeing right in the rural areas across the country, though there are presence of other reach of government services.

And despite the immense contribution of these sectors to the development of the country, they continue to face significant challenges that to some extent, brought setback to the services provided.

In the education sector, the restructure of teachers’ salary is at the core of important issues teachers have been faced for decades.

The national government, however, recognised the matter by coming up with a new teachers’ salary structure, but teachers are still waiting for its implementation.

This week, Opposition Leader, Matthew Wale questioned the GNUT on the undertaking and other proposed government policies to strengthen and improve education services in the country.

He said in education, the new teachers’ salary structure, though finalized, remains unimplemented.

Wale added the reviewed of School Education Grant Policy has not translated into tangible support for schools.

He echoed that the much-needed School Infrastructure Development Plan sits idle, with no improvements yet felt on the ground.

Wale furthered the Tertiary Student Loan Scheme, announced by His Excellency again in 2025, to widen access to higher education, remains non-operational.

Moreover, the leader said the critical reforms such as the review of the SITESA Act and the TVET legislative framework are still incomplete.

He said during the inquiry into the 2024 actual expenditure, the PEC discovered that the scholarships budget alone was underspent by about 70m, when many students were eligible for awards.

“In fact, the total underspend in education could more than fund SINU and make all its programmes free to all students, subject to academic entry requirements.

“It seems government is uninterested in these things. Yet these are the initiatives that are more likely to produce strategic change and gain across society and in the economy,” Wale said.

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Fuo’o responds to public complaints on severe traffic congestion in city’s CBD

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The Minister of the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), Ricky Fuo’o, has acknowledged recent public concerns regarding the deteriorating road conditions within Honiara’s central business district and its impact on daily commutes and business activities.

Having assumed this portfolio just two weeks ago, Minister Fuo’o sincerely apologises to the public, private sector, and all road users for the recent traffic congestion and disruptions, a statement by MID yesterday said.

He emphasized that the ministry is actively working to improve the situation and provide clarity on ongoing maintenance efforts, especially along Mendana Avenue.

“This road section has far exceeded its design lifespan. The foundation is no longer reliable, which is why potholes and crocodile cracks were appearing all over the road pavement. 

“Our civil engineering team and the engaged contractors will continue to undertake pothole patching work while waiting for a comprehensive upgrade under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP),” Minister Fuo’o said.

He said remedial work will ease the congestion for the time being.

“Currently, there will be no full reconstruction of this 1.7-kilometer section. Instead, the contractors are undertaking remedial works to keep it safe and trafficable for road users. “This temporary measure is intended to maintain functionality while we prepare for full rehabilitation under the LMCP once asphalt laying on the Tandai Highway (Townground to White River) is completed,” the minister explained.

Minister Fuo’o also clarified that investing hefty funding of approximately SBD25 million into full rehabilitation at this stage would be unwise, as the section is slated for complete overhaul under LMCP.

“A full rehabilitation would involve removing the failed road foundation entirely and installing new approved materials along with an improved drainage system designed to withstand heavy rainfall and stormwater,” he said.

Deputy Secretary Technical, Mike Qaqara, provided additional insights, citing the previous contractor work under the JICA phase 1 (2016-2018) only carried out surface repairs along the Mendana Avenue, including median fencing and kerbing works, without a comprehensive rehabilitation of the pavement.

Recently, local contractors have been engaged to perform maintenance work, initially using chip sealing methods.

However, to address the current situation, they instructed the contractors to use a concrete-stabilized base material, a combination of base material and cement.

“This is an approach that enhances durability against the heavy downpours and poor drainage issues we face,” Qaqara explained.

He added that due to adverse weather conditions this week, contractors have temporarily paused pothole patching work but will continue with the temporary patching work using stabilized materials.

“At the moment the focus will be on critical sections from Solomon Motors to the HCC,” Qaqara said, adding that construction crews will work during night hours when traffic is low.

The LMCP, funded collaboratively by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Solomon Islands Government, project spans from White River to HCC Roundabout and from Henderson to Mberande-East Guadalcanal Highway.

Contractor China Civil Engineering Construction Cooperation (CCECC) is expected to commence asphalt laying for Tandai Highway in June if weather permits. After completing this section, the team will proceed eastward from Heritage Park Roundabout to the HCC Roundabout.

Qaqara reiterates that local contractors are also working on specific and routine maintenance for Honiara feeder roads—both sealed and unsealed—in the East, Central, and West constituencies.

All base materials used are subjected to laboratory testing to ensure quality before re-graveling and chip sealing.

“Our engineers are also providing monitoring and site inspection for these lots and are supported by the safeguards team.”

MID remains committed to improving our city’s road infrastructure and appreciates the community’s patience and understanding during this process.

MHMS nears completion of health centres nationwide

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

THE Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) is nearing the completion of eight Rural and Area Health Center projects across the provinces, with most expected to be officially launched this year.

Health Minister Paul Bosawai informed Parliament on Monday that the majority of these centers are now between 90% and 100% completed, with only minor finishing work and equipment installations remaining.

The health centers expected to open this year include:

Konide AHC (Level 1) – Isabel Province

Tukutaunga AHC (Level 1) – Tikopia, Temotu Province

Manuopo AHC (Level 1) – Reef Islands, Temotu Province

Wagina AHC (Level 1) – Choiseul Province

Dedeu Rural Health Centre – Isabel Province

Gounata’ea Rural Health Centre – Malaita Province

Leona Rural Health Centre – Vella Lavella, Western Province

Renovation of Sulufoloa Rural Health Centre – Malaita Province

Minister Bosawai highlighted that these developments are part of the government’s continued efforts to strengthen rural health infrastructure.

Over the past two years, the Ministry has prioritized major health infrastructure projects in selected provincial centers, supported through its Development Budget.

“We remain committed to improving access to quality health services by upgrading and constructing Area Health Centers and Rural Health Centers across the country,” Minister Bosawai said.

These facilities are expected to significantly enhance healthcare delivery particularly in rural areas.

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Urgent investment needed in tourism infrastructure: Douglas

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

Minister for Culture and Tourism (MCT), Choylin Douglas has called for greater investment in tourism infrastructure, citing current accommodation shortages and the need to meet international standards for upcoming events.

Speaking in parliament yesterday in response to the Governor General’s Speech from the throne on April 24th 2025, Minister Douglas lauded the government and private sectors for successfully hosting several high-profile events and forums.

However, she stressed the need to develop new tourism products and to expand accommodation capacity to meet the growing demand.

“Currently, the country has just over 2,000 hotel rooms and more than 3,500 beds, but less than half of these meet international standards — this is not enough,” Minister Douglas

According to the Minister, the upcoming 54th Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) leaders’ meeting, scheduled for September has already fully booked all available hotels in Honiara.

“This should be awake up call for all of us” she said.

“If we want to host more meetings, incentives and events, we must invest in expanding our accommodation capacity.”

Douglas pointed out that hosting such events presents a significant opportunity to raise the country’s profile on the regional stage, potentially positioning the Solomon Islands as a top destination in the Pacific.

“I call on the government, corporate bodies, private sectors, partners and sporting institutions to collaborate and bid for more similar events,” she added.

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MHMS strengthens workforce across country

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

THE Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) has strengthened its workforce with the recent recruitment of health professionals posted to duty stations across the country.

“I am happy to announce that the Ministry has progressed the recruitment of 180 nurses and 35 doctors, with the majority receiving their postings to the duty stations in the provinces,” Minister Paul Bosawai told parliament on Monday.

The move comes as the country continues to face shortages of health professionals, particularly in rural and provincial areas. Minister Bosawai attributed the progress to a significant increase in the Ministry’s staffing and training budget — from $2.5 million in 2024 to $5 million in 2025.

“This has enabled the Ministry to accommodate and process more applicants from provincial health divisions, national programs and medical departments, and health support services. The training budget is focused on long-term training through in-service and short-term training, both local and international, on technical areas.

Minister Bosawai also highlighted employment reforms at the National Referral Hospital (NRH), where staff previously on casual arrangements have now been transitioned to fixed-term contracts, following recommendations made during a previous parliamentary debate.

“These health professionals will add value to the current health care services in the provinces, hence improving the quality of care “he added.

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Wale urges GNUT to come up with effective youth policy

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Leader of Opposition Matthew Wale has called on the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) to come-up with an effective policy to address youth unemployment in the country.

The call came following what Wale described as “no serious plan” by GNUT to tackle youth unemployment, even other pressing issues face by youths.

The Opposition Leader highlighted the above this week in his official response to the 2025 speech from the throne by Governor General, Sir David Tiva Kapu.

Recalling the speech Kapu had spoken of empowerment for youths that make up 70 percent of the country’s population.

“His Excellency acknowledged in his 2025 speech from the throne that youth make up 70% of our population and spoke of empowerment.

“Yet, government has not presented a serious plan to tackle youth unemployment,” Wale said.

He added that no targeted job creation strategy, no clear investment in youth enterprises and no practical pathways from education to employment have been delivered.

“Promises of inclusion mean little if an entire generation is left without opportunity,” Wale said.

The government’s failure to empower youths has resulted in number of setbacks the country continues to face.

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Wale applauds new mines minister ‘leave no stones unturned’

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Leader of Opposition Matthew Wale has welcomed the announcement by the new Minister of Mines Derek Manuari to initiate a Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the 33 bauxite shipment saga.

Mr Manuari announced the COI during a press conference earlier this week, a statement by the Opposition yesterday said.

Mr Wale encouraged the new minister to leave no stone unturned and ensure the matter is dealt with once and for all.

“I encourage the new Mines Minister to get to the bottom of this mess and ensure that those responsible are held accountable,” Wale said.

The Opposition Leader said the mining industry is in total disarray, and it is time for the new minister to take the necessary steps to restore integrity and order, the statement said.

“He may be stepping on political toes, but he must not allow such pressures to derail his noble intentions,” Wale said.

Speaking in Parliament on Monday Wale reiterated the urgent need for mining sector transformation.

“Promised reforms to outdated mining laws and stronger environmental protections have yet to materialise. Revenue transparency and benefit-sharing with resource owners remain distant goals,” Wale said.

Wale also highlighted the lack of progress in separating administrative and regulatory powers, which continues to leave the sector vulnerable to unchecked ministerial influence.

“Although a Mining Cadastre System was introduced, it can be bypassed, and enforcement mechanisms remain weak,” Wale stressed.

The Opposition Leader encouraged the new Minister to prioritise these long-standing issues and deliver real reforms for the good of the nation.

Gina calls on government to prioritise security

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

David Gina, Member of Parliament for South New Georgia Rendova-Tetepare constituency has called on the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) to have greater emphasis on national security.

Speaking in parliament yesterday, he initially stated that the nation demands leaders who are willing to sacrifice themselves for their people.

“We must be dedicated to build a better tomorrow.”

In relation, he said security has become a greater concern to us today.

Gina mentioned that in the last ten years, security has spiralled to a different level and it demands them to address it heads on.

He referred to “climate change, diseases, riots, social instability, food security and international crime as some examples of security issues.

Gina called on the government to pursue national security acts to address such issues.

“Matters of national security must not be compromised.”

Moreover, he said in terms of our border security, it looks like the government has no commitment for this.

Gina added that Western province has security border management but the country needs one for provinces like Temotu and Malaita and have in place provincial border offices.

“I want the PM to look at this very carefully.”

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Taskforce Janus rearrests former MID PS

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Police officers from Taskforce Janus rearrested the former Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Development (MID), Henry Murray, yesterday for his four-year imprisonment.

According to Police media, Mr Murray was arrested in 2018 by police officers from Taskforce Janus on multiple official corruption charges, which total up to over a million dollars.

The police statement said that between 2014 and 2017, Murray and his wife operated a company called Krash Transport and Marketing, which corruptly received payments from MID.

It adds that Murray was convicted by the Honiara Central Magistrates’ Court in 2019 and sentenced to 4 years’ imprisonment.  However, he subsequently appealed the conviction and was released on bail pending the outcome.

The statement said that on May 5, 2025, all grounds of appeal were dismissed by the High Court and the court ordered that the original sentence be reinstated and commence immediately.

Following the arrest, supervising Commissioner Ian Vaevaso said this case highlights the dangers of public officials’ engagement in activities that involve conflicts of interest, particularly where family members are involved. 

Vaevaso said public officers need to be aware of their legal obligations to act honestly and without bias at all times. Public officers must always remain impartial and independent in carrying out their duties to maintain the public’s confidence in the government.

The Police statement said that Vaevaso said this has been a long, complex and prolonged investigation. But the outcome is a testimony to the dedication and hard work of Taskforce Janus and the prosecutors from the Director of Public Prosecutions. 

“It demonstrates that senior public officials can and will be held accountable for wrongdoing. The long hands of the law will reach you despite how long it takes,” Vaevaso said yesterday.

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