More assistance for Malaita province is in sight following a ‘successful and fruitful’ inaugural meeting between new United Kingdom high commissioner Paul Turner and Premier Elijah Asilaua.

This could include the much talked about Bina Harbour national project, with UK’s unmatched experience in designing Public Private partnerships.

The partnership between Solomon Islands’ most populous province and the UK was reaffirmed to be strong in Tuesday’s meeting.

Malaita is currently benefitting from World Bank projects, and the UK is one of the major donors of the Bank, last year alone giving USD2.5 billion (SBD21 billion).

This is just one example of how the UK has been one of Solomon Islands’ largest helpers, although not as well known due to the veil of multi-lateral partnership.

Speaking to the paper, Mr Turner described the meeting with Premier Asilaua as excellent, adding that Malaita’s challenges and opportunities were shared to him by Asilaua.

Hopes for Malaita’s future was also laid on the table, including jobs for many people, Turner adds.

“I totally agree with Premier Asilaua. Main challenges are jobs for young people, 53 percent under the age of 35. Another challenge is the need for more devolved powers to the provincial government on delivery of services.

“Greater devolution is crucial.

“Only 15 percent of provincial revenue comes from local taxes. The rest are dependant on central government,” Turner said.

Malaita is benefitting from World Bank road and bridge projects worth USD26 million (SBD220 million) starting in 2019, which are part of the larger World Bank projects for Solomon Islands.

On Bina Harbour national project, Turner said he agrees with Asilaua that the project is important for Malaita, especially since it is projected to provide up to 3,000 jobs for Malaitans.

“I said I could try and help the Government attract private capital for Bina,” Turner said.

The cordial meeting concluded with HE Turner telling Premier Asilaua of how stricken he was with Malaita’s beauty, adding that he loved the lush greenery of Malaita’s landscape.

Turner assured Asilaua he would visit Malaita again soon.

Asilaua could not be reached for comments.

By Loretta B Manele

High electricity costs is taking a toll on the growth of businesses in the capital.

Namoi Kaluae, SICCI (Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry) Chairlady spoke about the scenario at the PM’s Breakfast event at the Heritage Park Hotel yesterday.

She expressed that results from a recent survey outline the impact of high electricity costs on city businesses.

Kaluae stated that results indicate that a staggering 80 to 85% of city members have faced revenue losses and decreased productivity due to soaring electricity expenses.

She added that some key findings from their members indicate that 60% of businesses struggle to meet client headlines.

Kaluae also said that 83% reported that high operational costs are hindering their ability to thrive.

Moreover, she pointed out that given these challenges, they strongly recommend a prompt intervention in the form of legislative reforms aimed at reducing power costs.

Kaluae said allowing for independent power production could be a significant step towards alleviating the financial strain on our businesses.

“We put this forward for your consideration as it can make a meaningful difference in fostering a thriving business landscape that not only supports local enterprises but also champions the principles of local content.”

The event was attended by Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, ministers of the crown, members of the Diplomatic Corps, permanent secretaries, senior government officials, SICCI board members, entrepreneurs and members of SICCI.

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BY NED GAGAHE

The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) has launched the new effigy of His Majesty King Charles III on the one-dollar coin today.

The launch is expected to take place at the CBSI Boardroom, where guests, VIPs, and Minister of Finance and Treasury Manasseh Sogavare will be in attendance.

In a statement, CBSI Governor Dr. Luke Forau said he is pleased with the official launch of the new one-dollar coin, featuring the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III.

“This event will mark a historic moment for our nation as we unveil the first of its kind in the history of Solomon Islands currency.”

The launch will take place on 13th March 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, at the CBSI Boardroom.

“We are excited to celebrate this momentous occasion as we mark the legacy of HM King Charles III.”

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BY NED GAGAHE

Minister of Health and Medical Services, Dr. Paul Popora Bosawai, has commended the official launch of the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership for Health 2025-2028, a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to enhance health services for both urban and rural communities.

Speaking at the event, Minister Bosawai emphasized the importance of the partnership, which reaffirms Australia’s role as the Solomon Islands’ largest health development partner.

“The launch of the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership for Health 2025-2028 is a significant commitment that marks another milestone in our collective efforts to improve the health and wellbeing of our people, both in urban centers and rural communities.”

Minister Bosawai further stated that the partnership reflects a renewed commitment to the country’s health sector, highlighting the importance of collaboration.

“Today marks the beginning of a renewed commitment to our health sector. This partnership reinforces Australia’s role as our biggest health development partner and our partner of choice in supporting the strengthening of our health system and the delivery of essential health services,” he said.

The Minister also expressed gratitude for the unwavering support provided by the Australian High Commission, calling the partnership a symbol of the dedicated efforts of all involved.

“The partnership we launch today is a testament to your hard work and the dedication of your staff at the Australian High Commission. Your unwavering support has played a pivotal role in advancing our National Health Strategy Plan,” he added.

Minister Bosawai concluded his address by urging all stakeholders to work together for the future of the nation’s healthcare system.

“Achieving sustainable and quality healthcare requires collective effort. I call upon all our dedicated health professionals, development partners, civil society organizations, and community leaders to work together to strengthen health governance and improve service delivery,” he said.

“This is more than just financial assistance; it is a testament to the strong and enduring relationship between our two nations, bound by mutual commitment to a healthier and more prosperous future for the Solomon Islands,” he added.

The Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership for Health 2025-2028 aims to create a sustainable, equitable, and resilient health system, benefiting the current and future generations of the Solomon Islands.

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Aligegeo provincial secondary school in Auki, Malaita province raises complaint on disturbances caused by CCECC’s encampment near the school.

CCECC is the contractor to implement the Auki tar-sealing project and its encampment near Aligegeo has reported to have generated water shortage and other environment impact on the school.

A recent facebook post by one of the senior staffs Aligegeo school tended to portray CCECC’s lack of consultation with the school on the used of school resources.

“Since mobilizing for the Auki tar-sealing project, the CCECC has established its camp at Aligegeo Secondary School, raising concerns about water shortages, environmental impact, and lack of consultation.

“The company connected to the school water system, using pump that have significantly reduced supply for students and staff.

“Additionally, serious excavation work was carried out without the school administration’s knowledge, creating muddy and unsafe conditions for students.

“There are also unanswered questions about waste water management and environmental monitoring.

“This situation highlights the need for proper planning, consultation and oversight to prevent unnecessary disruptions to schools and communities,” it said.

Commenting on the post, former school principal of Aligegeo, Mr Alick Bebesia said the issue is not really a big deal.

He said it is just a temporary work and soon the project will transform Auki Road to an international world standard and facelift to the school.

Babesia also set-straight allegation raised stating that CCECC have used water pump to take much of water from the school water source isn’t true.

“They don’t disturb the water pipe and the 3 main water pipe linings leading to the staff houses and student’s usages as mentioned.

“There is also no experienced of water shortage as well. A misleading information.

“The truth is that they connected their pipe to the 1 half inch pipe line that leads to the single water tank in front of the boy’s dormitory.

“They used 15mm pipe line which also connect to the tank located in their area.

“Actually, the water in their tank is what was pumped by electric pump for their usage,” he said.

Babesia reiterated CCECC’s encampment near Aligegeo school as temporary, and they are there to implement the Auki tar-seal project, where Aligegeo school will greatly benefit of it.

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Ministry of Infrastructure Development proposes revival of PWD

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has proposed reviving the Provincial Public Works Department (PWD).

According to the Minister for MID, Manasseh Maelanga, this proposal is an integral part of the ministry’s ongoing initiatives to support infrastructure development in the country.

“I would like to take a moment to highlight our ongoing initiatives under the Ministry of Infrastructure Development.

“We will introduce the government policy to re-establish the PWD within MID, build capacity for the Provincial Public Works Department, and work on its rollout plans,” he said.

Maelanga also highlighted the national government’s commitment, through his ministry, to implementing a vehicle policy for the country.

“At the policy level, my ministry is finalizing the government vehicle policy. The policy aims to guide the government on how it procures, manages, and disposes of vehicles.

“I will take this policy to Cabinet soon,” he said.

Maelanga further emphasized that as a country, the Solomon Islands must rely on well-defined national strategies and programs that prioritize and implement critical infrastructure development.

He stated that at the core of this national framework are the National Development Strategy (NDS) and the National Transport Plan (NTP), both of which serve as roadmaps for sustainable and resilient infrastructure.

“The NDS outlines long-term goals to upgrade roads, bridges, ports, and public utilities, ensuring they align with our national development priorities.

“The NTP, on the other hand, provides a structured approach to transport infrastructure—emphasizing accessibility, safety, and efficiency to support social and economic progress.

“The National Transport Plan 2011–2030, approved in 2010, has guided transport development for over a decade.

“A three-year rolling plan was prepared alongside this, subject to revision every two years by MID to ensure that relevant projects were prioritized for implementation,” Maelanga said.

However, he noted that evolving challenges and new priorities have necessitated an urgent update.

“In response, we have introduced the Medium-Term Transport Action Plan (MTTAP)—a more dynamic and frequently updated framework that ensures infrastructure projects remain relevant, responsive, and properly funded.

“The MTTAP replaced the three-year rolling plan, which has now been extended to a five-year plan. In 2017, the NTP was revised as the NTP 2017–2036 and has since been updated accordingly.

“This year, we are expecting to review both the NTP and the MTTAP, and I urge all stakeholders to support this process. The review aims to bring necessary improvements to address challenges in the transport sector,” Maelanga said.

According to the minister, both the NTP and MTTAP are overseen by the National Transport Fund (NTF) Secretariat, which operates within the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID).

He emphasized that this secretariat reports to the NTF board and ensures alignment with national objectives.

Maelanga added that any updates to these plans are subject to Cabinet approval, reinforcing their national significance and accountability.

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