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TOWARDS 10,000 TONNES

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Fisheries ministry rolls out $11 million budget support for seaweed farmers across country with material handover this week

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The ministry of fisheries has helped seaweed farmers, in line with $11 million allocated for this purpose in the ministry’s 2025 budget.

Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) Nestor Giro early this week handed over a consignment of essential seaweed farming materials to a group of farmers representing seaweed producers from across the provinces, a statement from the MFMR yesterday said.

The handover event, held in Honiara, is part of the Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) initiative aimed at boosting seaweed farming and achieving the ambitious national production target of 10,000 tonnes for 2025, the statement said.

Mr Giro emphasised the significance of the project, describing seaweed farming as one of the GNUT Government’s flagship initiatives.

He urged farmers to drive the success of the program for the benefit of themselves, their communities, and the country.

“This is a flagship project because we all benefit from it as individuals and as a nation,” said Giro.

The materials, intended exclusively for seaweed farming, are part of an $11 million allocation from the 2025 budget, which represents an increase from the $7 million allocated in 2024, the statement said.

The Minister reminded farmers that these materials are not for sale and must be used as intended to ensure the project’s success.

“The government has entrusted us to use these materials with a good heart. They are for our benefit, the benefit of the provinces, and the national economy,” he said.

Giro said the materials would be distributed only to regions identified as conducive to seaweed farming.

He encouraged existing farmers to continue their efforts and acknowledged that not all areas are suitable for seaweed cultivation due to environmental factors.

“Only those of you who plant seaweed will benefit from this support. These materials will go to potential areas where farming is viable,” he said.

The Minister also shared updates on discussions with potential investors to certify Solomon Islands’ seaweed products, which would enhance market access and value, the statement added.

Despite funding delays from previous years, the increased allocation for 2025 marks a critical step toward revitalising the sector.

Giro reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in seaweed farming as a key driver of economic growth, rural development, and community empowerment.

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Youth hub a blessing for youths in Malaita: Premier Asilaua

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Premier of Malaita province, Elijah Asilaua.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Premier of Malaita province Elijah Asilaua says the proposed youth hub for Auki in Malaita province will address some of the issues faced by youths in the province.

Asilaua recently made the statement applauding Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCFA) for the $3 million funding toward the Youth Hub project.

He said Malaita province has a fast-growing young population with 53%, where unemployment and high school dropouts is rife.

Adding these issues gave birth to social disorder problems involved youths that halts them from seeking their potentials in life.

Asilaua noted the project will become a one-stop-shop for youths aims to achieve their full potential in delivery of health, protection, entrepreneurship and economic livelihoods programs.

“The project will provide adolescents and youths with physical fitness, technology and innovation, peer mentoring and educational workshops that encourage making healthy life choices.

“Such facility will prepare adolescents and youths with the necessary life skills to thrive in the modern workforce, including communication, leadership, cultural exchange, interpersonal and decision-making skills.

“The project will embrace five main key areas in health promotion, volunteering, psychosocial support, livelihoods, and life skills,” he said.

“It is also crucial to foster the well-being of young people and reduce future increase on social disorder problems,” he emphasized.

The premier mentioned his government through its provincial youth office is currently negotiating land in Auki for the construction of this multi-purpose building project.

He said work on the project expects to start this year.

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Utilise local investment opportunities to deliver services: Premier Asilalua

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Premier of Malaita province Elijah Asilaua has called on Malaitans to utilise local investment opportunities to deliver needed services.

He recently made the call urging Malaitans for meaningful collaboration with SIG, donor partners and all stakeholders in the province.

“I have confidence, as an agency administered under our Provincial Government Act 1997, our collaboration with national government, our development partners, NGOs, ward committees and communities where our people can actively participate to maximize their resources and become self-reliant.

“This is by utilising local investment opportunities to deliver services. That will benefit our communities with a unified and stable nation to accelerate economic growth for better social services.

“We can deliver services to improve the lives of our communities through efficient and effective management of our resources with guidance of strong compliance measures,” Asilaua said.

He stressed in support of the initiative his government is working closely with national government and donor partners on the development of infrastructure in the province.

Asilaua noted that no tangible development can happen without proper and right infrastructure in place.

“So far series of infrastructure projects include; bridges and road upgrades have been built in the province.

“Soon, there will tar-seal project and other significant social projects that will contribute to bolster local investment and create opportunities for people,” he said.

Asilaua voiced that his government will continue to liaise with national government, donor partners and stakeholders in the province to ensure opportunities are create for people to participate in the economic activity of the province.

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SIYCCAC launch set for next month

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Solomon Islands Youths for Change Christian Association (SIYCCAC) is set to be officially launched next month, following its legal establishment as an organization in 2024.

Chairperson Nathaniel Tetuha explained that while SIYCCAC was initially founded in 2017, the upcoming launch will formally declare its status as a legal entity. The association is prepared to collaborate with youths across the country and various denominations.

“We have been witnessing hopeless youths and an increasing number of mentally ill individuals. Our aim is to bring them hope and stand ready to help young people who feel lost in their communities and across the country,” Tetuha told Island Sun.

“I want to encourage young people to join and be part of this youth-focused initiative. After the launch, we plan to extend our programs to the provinces,” he added.

Tetuha noted that SIYCCAC comprises 42 members representing the organization.

“We have a national youth coordinator, president, provincial youth coordinators, ward youth coordinators, and community, family, and individual youth coordinators,” said Tetuha.

He further revealed plans to employ nine provincial youth coordinators and 50 youth coordinators from the 50 constituencies. These coordinators will collaborate with ward and community youth leaders to implement the association’s programs.

The launch will also involve the participation of the Minister of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs, representatives of youth organizations, and government officials.

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Minister advises education providers and schools advised to comply with school fee regulations

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By Loretta B Manele

Tozen Leokana, minister for the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) advises education providers and schools to comply with regulations on school fee limits according to the Education Act 2023 and the Education Regulation 2024.

According to MEHRD, he gave this advice in light of concerns about the inconsistent charging of school fees from schools across the country.

Leokana said the ministry is aware of the complaints being raised by parents, guardians, and school fee-payers about the inconsistencies in school fees charged to students attending Primary Preparation Year (PPY), Primary and Secondary schools this academic year (2025).

He stated that all schools and education providers should seek advice from the ministry on school fee limits in accordance with Section 122 of the Education Act 2023 and Section 53 of the Education Regulations 2024.

The minister recognises that parents and guardians continue to face financial hardships when it comes to school fees especially those coming from rural settlements.

“However, parents experiencing financial hardship with school fee payment may approach their school to seek alternative ways to pay school fees as stipulated in Sections 56, 57 and 58 of the Education Regulation 2024”

Leokana wishes to make it clear that MEHRD has made a decision to maintain the school fee limits to be charged to students attending primary and secondary schools.

According to Section 53 of the Education Regulations 2024, the maximum amount of school fees that may be charged for students for a year are as follows: Maximum fee for day students at an urban school for primary education is $1,200, for junior secondary education it is $2,000 and for senior secondary school it is $4,000.

As for maximum fee for day students at a non-urban school; for primary education, it is $250, junior secondary education, it is $800 and for senior secondary school, it is $3,000.

Meanwhile, maximum fee for boarding students at an urban school and non-urban schools for primary education has no costs.

In terms of maximum fee for boarding students at an urban school for junior secondary education, it is $4,500 and for senior secondary school, it is $9000.

In relation, maximum fee for boarding students at a non-urban school for junior secondary education, the cost is $2,800 and for senior secondary school the cost is $7,200.

Also mentioned is that no other fees or levies of any kind may be charged for the enrolment or attendance of a student at a school and no other types of fees should be included in the above school fees.

MEHRD stated that this directive on school fees is non-negotiable and education providers and school principals are advised to comply.

To top that off, the ministry in its enforcement of the regulations on school fee limits, will conduct a spot check on schools to ensure that they comply with the Education Regulations 2024. 

“Any school that does not comply with these regulations will be forced to comply with the school fee regulations or may not receive the general grant for the school for the following year unless the ministry is satisfied with appropriate steps taken by the school to prevent any further contravention of Section 53 of the Education Regulations 2024, except for self-funded schools and ECE Centres

A self-funded school is a school that is not subject to the school fee limits imposed by the Education Regulations because the Education Provider decided to charge fess levels that are beyond those limits.  Such schools do not receive school grants and government does not pay for their teacher salaries”.

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Trial date set for 20-yo man accused of indecent act on minor

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

Trial into the case of a 20-year-old male charged with indecent act on a 11-year-old girl is set for May 5-9.

Prosecution informed the Magistrate court yesterday that it intends to call four witnesses.

The matter was adjourned to January 31 for defence to make a bail application for the accused.

The accused whose name cannot be named to protect the victim, was charged with one count of indecent act, and he pleaded not guilty in the previous mention.

The victim in this matter is a juvenile, a 11-year-old girl when the offence took place.

It was alleged on August 20, 2024 the victim, her brother, her aunt and uncle and their children including the defendant where at the victim uncle house having dinner.

After the dinner, they watched a movie on the defendant’s phone.

While watching the movie, the complainant fell asleep while the others continued watching the movie.

The complainant’s brother woke her up telling her to go upstairs and sleep there.

The victim then left but instead of going upstairs, went and laid on a hammock under the house.

It was alleged not long after the victim fell asleep, the defendant went laid on her side, but with heavy eyes, she did not wake up.

When the defendant saw the victim was in a deep sleep, he slowly held her tight and did sexual activity on her.

When the victim tried to wake up the defendant gave a bite on her left side of her neck which cause injuries, blood and pain to her body.

The uncle and aunty later report the matter to the police and perpetrator arrested.

Irene Mae of Office of Director of Public Prosecution act for the crown and PSO for the accused.

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MPG looks forward to welcoming SIBC office in Auki

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation will soon establish its branch office in Auki, Malaita province.

Premier Elijah Asilaua recently revealed this as his government was informed by the board of management of SIBC on the undertaking.

His government has endorsed an executive paper in approval of SIBC’s proposal to extend its broadcasting service to Auki.

“Soon we will establish the SIBC office here in Auki.

“Malaita Province Government already endorsed the paper to host the SIBC Wantok FM 96.3,” he said.

Asilaua assured SIBC support on the initiative as they look forward to welcome them to the province.

He also acknowledged SIBC for the New Year’s countdown coverage offered to communities in Auki.

“The New Year countdown was enjoyed by our Auki surrounding citizens,” Asilaua said.

The proposal to extend SIBC office to Auki will is a history to have the first ever broadcasting service in the province.

Also, it will be the first time for SIBC to have its office in Auki. Only Solomon Star and Island Sun newspapers are in Auki.

Solomon Star operated in Auki for more then a decade, while Island Sun turned a decade old since its establishment in Auki in 2015.

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Tekelea training centre celebrates first historic graduation

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By Loretta B Manele

Tekelea Training Centre proudly celebrated a historic achievement this month; its first graduation of 38 youths from the Pacific Partnership in Youth Skills and Leadership Training project.

According to a press statement from the centre, the graduation signifies not only a key milestone for the centre but as well as a life-changing accomplishment for the graduates who can now be able to shape their futures and contribute to the economic and social transformation of their communities.

Conducted over a time span of several weeks of intensive training, the youths gained practical knowledge in Leadership, Poultry Farming, Entrepreneurship, and Outboard Motor Repair (OBM).

Now equipped with skills, the youths are empowered to embark on new ventures, create opportunities and bring positive change to their communities.

From the event, two youths shared their stories about how the training has made an impact on them.

Rebecca Pita, a 22-year-old from Guadalcanal province expressed that before the training, she didn’t have a clear path but afterwards she is now confident and has the skills to start her poultry farming business.

“My dream is to provide jobs for young people in my village and be an example of what’s possible”

Another graduate, 25-year-old John Ramo said learning “entrepreneurship” has opened his mind to what’s possible.

“I’m now ready to start my OBM repair business and help my community access reliable services”

Martin Otto, Co-founder of Tekelea Training Centre also shared his reflections on the project’s success and the foundational role of indigenous pedagogy in shaping its approach.

He stated that it is a proud moment for them at Tekelea Training Centre.

Otto said the 38 graduates are proof that they can build a future inspired by the wisdom of our ancestors.

“For us, it’s not just about providing skills; it’s about reconnecting with our roots and blending them with modern advancements like online learning”

Otto said at Tekelea they believe in using a pedagogy that has been passed down from their ancestors and combining it with technology to create a powerful tool for transformation.

“We must not forget that tok stori—the art of storytelling—is our pedagogy, given to us by our creator as a way of sharing knowledge without a single drop of ink. This program’s success is a testament to the strength of that tradition and our ability to adapt it to a changing world”

Otto pointed out that the graduation is more than an achievement; it’s a movement.

“By integrating ancestral wisdom with modern tools, we can empower our youth to lead us into a brighter future, just as our ancestors’-built communities with wisdom, resilience, and vision”

As the 38 graduates move forward, Tekelea Training Centre will continue to support them through mentorship and opportunities to ensure their success.

The centre remains committed to its mission of empowering young Solomon Islanders to create a peaceful, productive, and hopeful society.

The graduation ceremony, held at the Tekelea Training Centre, was an uplifting occasion showcasing the hard work, perseverance and transformative growth of the participants.

The Pacific Partnership in Youth Skills and Leadership Training project is supported by the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

This project aims to tackle youth unemployment, nurture leadership and foster sustainable livelihoods.

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ADRA successfully concludes cocoa training for Aroaro community

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The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), through its Soul Cocoa Livelihood Project (SCLP), has completed a two-day cocoa training program for farmers in the Aroaro Community, Central Guadalcanal. The training, held on January 22 and 23, 2025, in Upper Tenaru, was designed to address the needs of local cocoa farmers and support ADRA SCLP’s expanding livelihood initiatives.

The program covered essential aspects of cocoa farming, including pruning and grafting techniques, site and seed selection, identification of high-quality seedlings, baseline and lining methods, integrated pest and disease management (IPDM), nursery establishment, and the history and production statistics of cocoa in the Solomon Islands.

Facilitated by private cocoa consultant Robert Waisu and funded by ADRA Australia, the training saw the participation of approximately 45 farmers, including women, both new and experienced. Two female Bachelor of Agriculture students from the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) also joined the program as part of their work attachment.

As part of their support, ADRA distributed 20-liter water containers donated by Solomon Water and polybags to the farmers, helping them enhance their cocoa farming efforts.

During the closing ceremony, ADRA Country Director Leyn Elizer Gantare thanked the local government and community participants for their collaboration and involvement. He encouraged farmers to apply the skills they had learned, stating:
“If you take care of your cocoa, the cocoa will take care of you. However, if you fail to implement this knowledge, the training will become meaningless.”

Mary Filotea, a female cocoa farmer who attended the training, expressed her gratitude:
“This training has given me more knowledge on how to properly plant and harvest cocoa, even as an experienced farmer. I now understand better techniques, and I thank ADRA for bringing this training to our community for free.”

Tribal Chief John Batisia described the program as a significant blessing for the Aroaro Community:
“This is a great opportunity for our community because it’s the first time ADRA has provided such training here. We are very grateful to ADRA Australia and SCLP for funding this initiative to boost our farmers and enhance our cocoa knowledge.”

The SCLP aims to improve income derived from cocoa farming in target communities while enhancing social capital and resilience. The project focuses on increasing yield and production through techniques like radical pruning, soil health improvement, and propagation methods. By addressing pest and disease management, SCLP seeks to remove barriers and empower farmers to achieve sustainable success in cocoa production.

Judgment for 2021 riot case moved for Feb 10

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

Judgement on a man accused of activities during the 2021 riots has been moved for February 10.

The judgment for Sade Kwate’e was supposed to be delivered yesterday afternoon however, the Magistrate is on compassionate leave.

Sade pleaded not guilty to one count of sedition, two counts of unlawful assembly and one count of arson in relation to the 2021 riot.

Trial was conducted and prosecution called its witness. After crown completed its case defence filed for No Case to Answer which the presiding principal magistrate ruled that there was a case to answer.

Defence informed court that Kwate’e opted to remain silent and will not call any witness. Defence then filed its sentencing submissions.

Court heard on November 24, 2021 Kwate’e led a group of people to protest at the Parliament House for the Prime Minister to step down.

Further alleged that on November 25 he assembled a group of people and procured them to set fire to the Naha Police Station.

This happens during the three days of violence in Honiara which then left the city Chinatown in ruins and business houses and shops in Honiara looted and set on fire. Naha Police Station was looted and also set on fire, but fortunately was put out by the Naha Community.

The violence flashed by the protestors who against the Government decision to switch tries from Taiwan to China.

Three days of violence started on 24th November 2021 saws looting and arson of business houses and shops.

Three people died.

Around 200 peacekeepers from Australia, Fiji, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea were deployed to Honiara to help restore law and order.

Fransica Luza act for Crown and Bobby Harunari act for the Kwate’e.

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