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New Zealand honoured to partner in parametric insurance

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

New Zealand is proud to be a partner in the Parametric Insurance programme, said Marni Gilbert, First Secretary at the New Zealand High Commission.

Gilbert emphasized that climate impacts are increasingly severe across the Pacific region, making parametric insurance a crucial tool for strengthening resilience and adaptation to the climate crisis.

“This programme brings together partners to develop innovative ways to build resilience against the impacts of climate change. In the Solomon Islands, communities frequently face severe weather events, cyclones, and flooding, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable solutions,” she said.

She highlighted New Zealand’s commitment to climate action in the Pacific, shaped by strong ties and a shared ambition to see the Solomon Islands thrive.

“We’re particularly encouraged by approaches where solutions are designed by the countries and communities they aim to benefit, ensuring that they are tailored to local needs and cultural contexts,” she added.

Gilbert noted New Zealand’s involvement in capacity-building programmes that enhance local expertise in disaster risk financing in the Solomon Islands.

“This parametric insurance programme represents a practical and impactful addition to the disaster risk financing toolkit. It offers more than financial relief,” she said.

“It provides a safety net that helps families recover with dignity, rebuild their homes, and resume their livelihoods. For businesses, it ensures faster recovery and operational continuity, thereby supporting broader economic stability. That’s why we actively support regional collaborations like this programme, which lays the groundwork for the adoption of parametric insurance in the Solomon Islands.”

Gilbert stressed that the initiative is more than a response to immediate needs; it fosters long-term opportunities.

“The potential impact of parametric insurance aligns with our shared aspirations. It will lead to increased financial inclusion and expand access to insurance for low-income households and marginalised groups,” she said.

She also highlighted the programme’s inclusive approach, which aims to strengthen gender equality and social inclusion.

“It empowers women and people with disabilities, who often bear the brunt of disasters, by providing financial tools that support recovery and resilience. This will strengthen the economic resilience of individual communities and the nation as a whole, helping businesses and families recover faster and contributing to sustained growth and development,” she concluded.

The story of Tilly

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    By Loretta B Manele

    We often think of children as not understanding things or being vulnerable however it is important to listen to what they have to say about the things that make them happy and the things that they are concerned about.

    Lisa Cuatt is the country director for Save the Children in Solomon Islands who expressed this at the first ever Children’s High-Level Dialogue on Wed, 20th Nov at the Paul Tovua complex.

    A first of its kind that catered to student presentations and dialogue between students and leaders of the country.

    Cuatt voiced that hearing what children have to say is included in Article 12 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the child’s right to be heard.

    She said children do need the support, care and guidance of adults and it is equally important to recognise that they have capabilities, strength and a unique perspective of the world.

    When she started to think about the importance of listening to children, she immediately thought about the story of Tilly.

    Here, Cuatt shares the story of Tilly depicting how children can be leaders in their own way to bring about positive change.

    It’s December 2004 and Tilly who is just 10 years old was with her family in Phuket, Thailand on the beach as any family would be.

    She noticed that the sea wasn’t in its normal every day form, as it was all frothy and the water was pulling back and not coming back towards the shore.

    Tilly had learnt about tsunamis in a geography lesson at school just two weeks ago before the Boxing Day tsunami.

    So, seeing what was happening, she stood up and alerted her parents and the other 100 people who were also on the beach and the beach was evacuated before the tsunami reached the shore.

    This beach was one of few beaches on the island that had no reported deaths.

    Tilly was a hero that day and her actions shows that children can be very positive influencers and can contribute to positive change.

    In this case, Tilly was a leader herself.

    Cuatt stressed that as adults, we should empower and equip children with knowledge, strategies and the confidence to speak up.

    “At Save the Children we know that one of the most important ways to keep children safe from harm and abuse is to create an environment where children feel like they can speak up and talk about their concerns”

    Cuatt said the best way to build a safe organisation is to make sure that children’s voices are heard.

    She added we must also make sure that children are listened to and that they are supported in expressing their views.

    “We want to take into account children’s views when we make decisions. We want children to be involved in and share responsibility for decision making around issues that impact them”

    Going forward, Cuatt hopes that we can continue to involve children in finding solutions to the issues that they raised at the dialogue.

    PCYC Donates $20,000 from Fishing Competition to Christian Care Centre

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    BY NED GAGAHE

    The Point Cruz Yacht Club (PCYC) has made a generous donation of $20,000 to the Christian Care Centre (CCC) in a heartwarming gesture aimed at supporting women and children affected by domestic violence.

    The funds were raised through PCYC’s annual fishing competition, held earlier this year.

    A total of 20 fishing teams participated in the competition, and the auction of their catches helped generate the $20,000 donation. The donation was presented to the CCC on Wednesday, where PCYC representative Baoro Laxton Koraua expressed the club’s commitment to giving back to the community.

    “This donation is part of PCYC’s initiative to contribute to the welfare of the community, and we are proud to support the Christian Care Centre’s valuable programs,” Mr. Koraua said. “Through this act, we hope to continue fulfilling our objective of being a responsible corporate service provider in Solomon Islands.”

    Sister Rosa Cathrine, the Coordinator of CCC, expressed her gratitude during the donation ceremony.

    Representing the faith-based organization under the Anglican Church of Melanesia, Sister Rosa explained that the Christian Care Centre provides shelter and support to women and girls from all walks of life, including those who have faced domestic violence.

    “I stand here today on behalf of the Christian Care Centre with a heart full of thanks for this unexpected gift,” Sister Rosa said.

    “This donation will go a long way in supporting the many women and girls who seek refuge with us. We are deeply blessed by the generosity of PCYC.”

    Sister Rosa also acknowledged the ongoing campaign for the 16 Days of Activism, which aims to raise awareness about violence against women.

    She praised the PCYC for creating a safe space for families and for its role in ensuring peace and safety in the community.

    “We are so thankful from the bottom of our hearts,” Sister Rosa added. “This gift is a blessing that will help us continue our work. We hope that, together, we can bring peace and harmony to our families and communities, making Solomon Islands a better place for everyone.”

    The Christian Care Centre, located in Tenaru, East Honiara provides a vital service for women and children who are survivors of domestic violence.

    It is the only shelter of its kind in the country, offering a refuge for those in need.

    On behalf of the staff, volunteers, and survivors, Sister Rosa concluded by expressing her heartfelt thanks to PCYC for the donation.

    “Thank you so much for your kind and generous support,” she said.

    “It is through such acts of kindness that we can continue to offer safety and hope to those who need it most.” She said.

    PAC condemns Viulu’s absence

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    BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

    The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has expressed disapproval over the absence of Dr. Samson Viulu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL), during its inquiry into the 2025 Appropriation Bill 2024 on Friday, November 29.

    In response, Opposition Leader Mathew Wale rescheduled the MAL session to Wednesday, December 4, stressing the importance of Dr. Viulu’s attendance.

    “I propose we reschedule the meeting with MAL to Wednesday. Please ensure the PS is informed—we need to meet him in person. It’s urgent. Let him know that PAC expects his presence,” Wale stated.

    PAC Chair Gordon Darcy Lilo underscored the urgency of the hearings, emphasizing that all officers should prioritize the process as the 2025 budget deliberations are critical for the nation’s economic performance.

    “This ministry plays a pivotal role, particularly in light of recommendations from multilateral development banks and CBSI, which are focused on MAL’s output. We need Dr. Viulu here to leverage his expertise and strategic leadership,” Lilo added.

    MAL officials later confirmed that Dr. Viulu joined a PAC session via Zoom on Wednesday, December 5.

    “Yes, the PS attended a Zoom meeting with the PAC yesterday. He was unavailable on Friday due to an overseas commitment,” said an MAL spokesperson.

    Dr. Viulu is currently part of the Solomon Islands delegation attending the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD-COP16), which began on December 2 in Saudi Arabia.

    CIP aims to complete new youth center next year

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    BY INDY MAEALASIA

    THE Central Islands Province (CIP) government is moving forward with plans to establish a new youth center on Tulagi, with the aims of completing the project by next year.

    This was announced by CIP Premier Michael Salini during a recent meeting with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of People Living with Disabilities Solomon Islands (PWDSI).

    Premier Salini expressed optimism about the project, stating, “We are hopeful this will be achieved by next year as we have been busy with the project recently”

    He clarified that while funding for the youth center has already been secured, his office is still in the process of finalizing the land acquisition.

    Once completed, the youth center will provide a dedicated space for various youth activities aimed at promoting the well-being and development of young people in the province.

    Salini also emphasized that the facility will be open to local associations, including PWDSI, who will be welcome to use it for their awareness programs and other community-focused initiatives.

    In addition, the premier reiterated his government’s commitment to collaborating with PWDSI and its affiliated organizations to advance efforts in youth development, women’s empowerment, and the support of people living with disabilities.

    Tulagi Residents Unite with Global Community to Mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities

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    BY INDY MAEALASIA

    RESIDENTS of Tulagi and surrounding communities have come together with the global community to observe the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, held on Tuesday.

    The day aimed to raise awareness about disability issues and advocate for dignity, equal rights, and well-being for all individuals living with disabilities.

    The theme for this year’s observance, “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,” was underscored by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of People with Disabilities Solomon Islands (PWDSI)Casper Fa’asala,.

    He emphasized the importance of collaboration: “It means you work with us, people with disabilities, so that all of us can contribute to the social, economic, and cultural development for everyone,” he remarked.

    Fa’asala highlighted the need for renewed efforts across various sectors—environmental, governmental, institutional, religious, and civil society—to ensure the creation of a truly inclusive society that values the contributions of people with disabilities.

    He also made a powerful statement about the capabilities of individuals with disabilities, saying, “People living with disabilities are not cheap. Some are highly accomplished professionals. We already have people with disabilities who are lawyers, administrators, and carpenters. We are not cheap people.”

    This event marked the first ever organized observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in Tulagi and surrounding communities. It was attended by Central Islands Province (CIP) Premier, Michael Salini, who expressed his government’s honor in co-hosting the occasion.

    “We are honored to host this important event in our country,” Salini said.

    He also acknowledged the efforts of PWDSI and its partners, offering his government’s ongoing support:

     “Let me pledge the support of my government and the people of Central Province to the important work you are doing here. The relevant provincial divisions will be ready to collaborate and support your initiatives,” he added.

    2025 budget aims to advance our status

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    By Loretta B Manele

    On the broad global canvas, the 2025 budget aims to advance our status as an independent nation-state and fortifies our engagement with the region and the world.

    Minister for Finance and Treasury, Manasseh Sogavare stressed the sentiment in parliament on Wed, 4th when he presented the 2025 Appropriation Bill 2024.

    He said the machine of government oiled by the 2025 national budget will touch the lives of all citizens they as leaders serve in so many ways.

    Sogavare expressed that the 2025 budget will touch people’s lives at the clinic or at the hospital or at a school, whether it is by the positive conduct of a nurse, a police officer or a public officer, whether it is the birth certificate or a passport, whether it is the salary or pension and whether it is a new street, drain or highway.

    He voiced that the country has been sorely tested by a series of shocks over the last five years and never has our nation suffered like this.

    Sogavare pointed out that some of these shocks are self-inflicted ones.

    “We hope we have learnt a lesson and will not repeat the same self-inflicted mistakes again. The journey to economic recovery and transformation that we have embarked on requires us to unlock the potential of our country and build resilience through inclusiveness and partnership. This, calls for hard work, perseverance and discipline to achieve our shared vision”

    Sogavare added that the country has made strides in restructuring our external debt and in restoring fiscal discipline.

    “We have increased the allocation to infrastructure development and we have provided incentives for the private sector”

    He went on to stress that despite the onslaught of COVID-19, self-inflicted pains of the riots and global trickle effects of the Russian-Ukraine war, the government remained firm and had continued to do the right thing by focusing on rebuilding the economy, taking painful but corrective and fiscal measures to ensure vital services continue during the years.

    Sogavare told parliament that the budget he presented is a clear demonstration of GNUT’s commitment to unlocking the economy, uplifting the livelihoods of people and providing a conducive environment for private sector participation.

    He highlighted that the journey to a better Solomon Islands is a collective one.

    “It requires the active participation of all citizens. Together, we can overcome the challenges we face today”

    He stated that together we shall benefit from our wealth and prosperity and together, we will march towards our common vision of becoming a prosperous middle-income nation by 2035.

    Gov’t outlines revenue measures

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    By Loretta B Manele

    The Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) is eyeing revenue measures it plans to undertake to finance the development budget.

    Manasseh Sogavare, the Minister for Finance and Treasury stated this during his delivery of the 2025 Appropriation Bill 2024 in parliament yesterday.

    He said on the 2025 additional revenue measures, the government plans to take on policy actions as part of its efforts to finance the development budget.

    Sogavare stressed that there is a great need to strengthen and improve the collection of non-tax revenue because it can help boost additional Solomon Islands Government (SIG) revenue will further increase revenue of around $20 to $30 million in 2025.

    “In my pursuit, as follows, we reintroduce the export duty on bauxite. That will give us $5.4 million.

    The alcohol exercise increase will give us $3 million. We’ll reintroduce export rate of 5% on gold exports and that will give us $1.5 million.

    We raise the export duty rate on nickel exports. That will give us $5.5 million.

    We propose to increase license fees on vehicles, that’s $2 million. Vehicle pollution tax, that will give us $1.8 million.

    Implement a number of new revenue policy measures from mining and tobacco, that will give us $5 million.

    Strengthening and monitoring of logging operations and the revenue collection conduct by various key enforcement agencies will give us an additional $5 million”

    Sogavare pointed out that the government will introduce the above revenue measures going forward in order to maintain a stable and manageable budget in the medium to long term.

    He voiced that the budget is committed to regain fiscal stability and discipline to rebuild fiscal buffers that have been depleted over the recent years due to the global pandemic and domestic shocks that impacted Solomon Islands government financial position.

    Sogavare emphasized that government agents such as IRD, the Customs and non-tax revenue tax collection from other ministries, sir, are urged to strengthen and improve their measures to control and further avoid leakages at every point.

    CBSI commits to championing innovative solutions

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    BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

    The Governor of the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI), Dr. Luke Forau, said the bank is committed to championing innovative solutions, such as parametric insurance, that drive economic stability and help overcome the challenges posed by climate change.

    He made this statement at the high-level workshop on Parametric Insurance for Climate Resilience in the Solomon Islands, held Monday this week at the Heritage Park Hotel.

    The workshop, hosted and organized by the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), UNDP, and CBSI, provided key stakeholders with technical insights into parametric insurance, showcasing its potential to strengthen financial resilience when climate disasters occur.

    Speaking at the event, Dr. Forau highlighted that the Solomon Islands is ranked fifth in the world for disaster risk, with an average loss of around 2.5 million U.S. dollars annually.

    “This gathering marks the first step in our journey toward a financially resilient, prepared, and secure society. It demonstrates our commitment to building resilience in the Solomon Islands against natural disasters, which are a significant threat to our communities and economy,” said Dr. Forau.

    He also extended his gratitude to the organizers and partners.

    “Thank you very much to UNCDF, UNDP, and our donor partners—the Australian government, the New Zealand government, and the UK government—for your continued support,” he said.

    Dr. Forau emphasized that insurance is an essential tool for safeguarding and strengthening economies while protecting communities from the devastating effects of climate change-related disasters.

    “With CBSI playing a supervisory role in the insurance sector, we are building a stronger future for all. The Solomon Islands is one of the most disaster-prone nations on the planet,” he said.

    He explained that parametric insurance offers an innovative way of providing financial support quickly.

    “Unlike traditional insurance, this is not to discount the critical role that the insurance industry plays in our country, but parametric insurance offers fast and efficient payouts based on predefined weather triggers,” he said.

    He added that this mechanism is a game-changer, with quick funds allowing communities to recover rapidly and avoid prolonged financial hardships and instability.

    “This highlights the urgency of addressing the gap in disaster risk financing with parametric insurance in our country,” Dr. Forau said.

    He pointed out that women, individuals with disabilities, and informal workers are often the most affected by climate shocks. Many lack access to finance and are left vulnerable to frequent cyclones or cycles of poverty exacerbated by natural disasters.

    “Parametric insurance can fill this gap by providing immediate financial relief that farmers, market vendors, fishers, and other vulnerable groups can use to rebuild and return to normalcy more quickly. As the regulator of the insurance sector, CBSI has a crucial role in facilitating the transition of parametric insurance from concept to full market deployment,” he said.

    “Our priorities align closely with our Third National Financial Inclusion Strategy, which aims to build resilience at the household and community levels by introducing accessible financial instruments,” he added.

    Dr. Forau explained that climate response initiatives like parametric insurance meet these criteria and support sustainable economic growth, in line with the country’s objective to promote green financial services.

    “Currently, only around 26% of adults in the Solomon Islands have access to formal financial services, such as bank accounts. Parametric insurance presents an opportunity to extend coverage to low-income households and the informal sector.

    “Not only does it improve financial inclusion, but it also strengthens the financial security of our people and, consequently, our country,” he said.

    Dr. Forau emphasized that CBSI will work with all partners in this initiative to ensure robust regulatory oversight for human protection and empowerment, as well as a transparent ecosystem for parametric insurance.

    “Parametric insurance holds the potential to accelerate disaster recovery, reduce financial stress for households and businesses, boost confidence in our financial systems, and increase insurance adoption. I urge all stakeholders in this room to take ownership of this initiative,” Dr. Forau concluded.

    Economic recovery process remains positive

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    Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.

    By Loretta B. Manele

    The latest domestic economic update suggests that the recovery process is gaining momentum and remains positive, according to recent data.

    Manasseh Sogavare, Minister for Finance and Treasury (MoFT), made this statement while presenting the 2025 Appropriation Bill 2024 in parliament yesterday.

    He highlighted that the continued positive trajectory is evident in the strong GDP growth of 3.1% projected for 2024, compared to earlier estimates of 2.8%.

    Sogavare noted that the growth outcome for 2024 surpasses the post-COVID-19 average growth rate, reflecting a robust economic rebound.

    Key drivers of this growth include strong performances in agriculture, mining, fishing, construction, wholesale and trade, other businesses, and the service sector, along with improvements in manufacturing and an upward trend in tourism and employment.

    Looking ahead, Sogavare shared that the Solomon Islands’ economic recovery is expected to remain stable, with GDP growth projected at 3.8% in 2025, 4.3% in 2026, and 4% in 2027. These figures exceed the historical average GDP growth rate of 2.5% recorded during the pre-COVID-19 period.

    He also noted that the latest projections represent an increase of 0.5% for 2025 and 0.4% for 2026 compared to estimates from the October 2023 budget.

    However, Sogavare cautioned that these projections remain subject to uncertainties, citing ongoing geopolitical conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, as well as fluctuating commodity prices.

    “The recovery process from shocks is ongoing and unpredictable, with elevated uncertainty in both the global and domestic economic environments,” Sogavare said.

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