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Auki Community High School restores water supply after bill dispute

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BY RODRICK DESURI

AUKI

Auki Community High School has resumed access to running water after successfully negotiating the reconnection of its supply with Solomon Water following a prolonged disconnection caused by outstanding water bills.

The school faced a serious water shortage last month after its water supply was cut due to unpaid bills accumulated over several years. The situation disrupted school operations and forced the suspension of classes during break times after the school’s rainwater tanks were depleted.

The disruption raised concerns among parents and guardians about the welfare of students and the school’s ability to maintain normal operations.

School principal Andrew Fuato’o said the water issue was a longstanding problem inherited from previous administrations.

He explained that the debt, which now totals approximately $33,000, dates back to the 2011 FOPA event and has remained unpaid for years.

“The water issue we are currently facing is the result of outstanding Solomon Water bills amounting to around $33,000. The debt originated during the previous administration following the FOPA event in 2011.

“The former school administration informed me that several outstanding obligations from the FOPA event, including rental payments owed to the school, were never settled. Since then, the water bills have continued to accumulate until Solomon Water eventually disconnected our supply,” Mr Fuato’o said.

Mr Fuato’o said the school’s water service was restored this week following negotiations with Solomon Water’s Auki office and the payment of reconnection and installment fees.

“Because the water issue was affecting both the school and our students, I met with Solomon Water officials last week to negotiate a solution. Following the discussions, I was granted approval to settle the outstanding bill through installments and pay the reconnection fee.

“Our water supply has now been restored, and classes are running smoothly once again,” he said.

He said the remaining balance will be settled with support from parents and guardians, following approval during a recent Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) meeting.

Auki Community High School is one of Malaita Province’s key educational institutions, serving students from Auki town and surrounding communities. The school caters to many children of working families living in and around the provincial centre.

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New sanitation facilities transform life in North Guadalcanal

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

More than a decade after devastating floods swept through the North Guadalcanal plains in 2014, communities are seeing lasting change thanks to new sanitation facilities provided by Non-Government Organizations (NGOs). 

Thomas Douman, a local resident of Popoloi, recalls how life was before the support arrived.

“We usually used dry pits to excrete, because we worried about our health,” he explained.

Families dug pits far from the village to avoid the smell and contamination, but the practice was inconvenient and unsafe, especially for children. 

That changed when NGOs including, Live and Learn, ADRA, through UNICEF WASH program and government partners stepped in. Their efforts brought boreholes and proper toilets to the community, marking a turning point in daily life.   

“Since we have these new toilets, that is one of the things we see as a big change in our community.

“In the past, we had to go far away. Now, the facilities are near our doorsteps, making life more convenient.” Douman said.

Parents have noticed the difference most clearly in their children.

“For now, they feared the bush when nature called. Now, they run to the toilet rooms,” Douman added. 

Mr Douman said the new infrastructure has improved hygiene, reduced health risks, and fostered a sense of dignity.

Douman expressed heartfelt gratitude.

“I want to thank the NGOs and the government who came down to see our needs and help us. What they did has started to change our lives,” he said.

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Strong wind warning issued for SI waters

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has issued Strong wind warning number one at 4:00 pm yesterday, cautioning communities and sea travellers across several provinces to prepare for hazardous conditions over the next 24 to 48 hours.

According to the advisory, strong south to southeast winds are expected to reach speeds of 20 to 25 knots over the waters of Rennell/Bellona, southern Makira, Western Province, Guadalcanal, Temotu, and the Russell Islands.

The SIMS said seas are forecasted to be moderate to rough, with southeasterly swells reaching 2.5 to 3.0 meters. 

It further adds that a trough currently lies over the Solomon Islands, with persistent wind flows south of the system contributing to the warning.

Poor visibility is anticipated in areas affected by showers and thunderstorms. 

SIMS urges residents in the affected provinces to take precautionary measures, as strong winds may pose risks to lives and property.

Sea travelers, particularly those in small boats, are advised to exercise caution, as dangerous wave conditions could develop. 

The Meteorological Service emphasised the importance of sharing this information with people with disabilities to ensure community-wide preparedness.

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Trial dates for trio in stolen cash, beche-de-mer case set by court

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Honiara Central Magistrate’s court has set August 31 to September 11 of this year for the trial of three people accused of theft of around $2 million worth of beche-de-mer and cash.

Frank Firimolea of Ngaliwao village, Malaita Province, was charged alongside Mrs Donsia Deresi and Rickson Suiti Abana. Mrs Deresi and Mr Abana are mother and son.

All three accused were charged with housebreaking and committing a felony contrary to section 300 (a) of the penal code as read with section 21 (a) of the penal code.

The trio previously pleaded ‘not guilty’ when arraigned before Principal Magistrate Felix Hollison, on May 28 of this year.

Prosecution alleged that Mr Firimolea, together with Deresi and Abana, at Honiara, Guadalcanal Province, on August 29, 2025, broke into a warehouse storage and container storage at Kukum, a property belonging to one Mr Zhong Ruwei of Chinese nationality.

It was alleged that items valued at $2 million were stolen, which included 22 bags of beche-de-mer and $100,000 in cash.

It further alleged that the trio, with the help of others, gained entry into the storage facility. They used three vehicles to transport the stolen items from the warehouse at Kukum to Tenaru, East Honiara, with a view to conceal and retrieve later.

Police managed to arrest Deresi on September 29, 2025, with some of the stolen items also recovered. Her son, Abana, was arrested on December 22, 2025, after evading police arrest for months following the warehouse incident.

Prosecution informed the court yesterday that it will be relying on 10 prosecution witnesses for trial.

In the meantime, bail for Mrs Deresi and remand for Mr Firimolea and Mr Abana have been extended.

Steward Beto represented the Crown, while Mr Jason Anisi, and Mr Harry Luahiti from the Public Solicitors’ Office, represented the three defendants.

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17-year-old on remand for setting his grandmother’s house on fire released

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

A young man who was remanded earlier this year for setting his grandmother’s unoccupied house on fire after being angry that he wasn’t left his share of slaughtered pig was released yesterday.

The juvenile who cannot be identified due to legal reasons faced the Magistrate court with one count of attempts to commit arson charge, an offence which carries a maximum custodial sentence of 14 years.

He previously pleaded guilty to that charge when charged before Principal Magistrate Felix Hollison on April 24 of this year.

On Wednesday, 28, January of this year, the court heard that the complainant who is the defendant’s grandmother, instructed relatives to slaughter a pig for a communal meal.

The court also heard that everyone assisted in the preparations and that the defendant had also “contributed significantly’’ by collecting firewood.

However, during the distribution of the meat in the evening, the defendant was away in another part of the village. Due to his absence, the complainant unintentionally failed to set aside a portion for him.

The defendant returned at 8pm and discovered that there was no food left for him.

“Distraught and angry with his grandmother, he entered her unoccupied house and intentionally set fire to a bedspread on one of the mattresses,” court documents show.

Court documents revealed the fire had destroyed several valued items at an estimated value of $1,470.00 amongst others, two 3-inch mattresses.

The defendant and his family since the incident have reconciled with the complainant through a customary settlement.

The court previously heard that a total compensation package valued at $11,000 was paid to the complainant consisting of $3000.00 in cash, a Pig valued at $5,000.00 and a customary reconciliation (Chupu) valued at $3,000, held before the complainant.

The matter came for sentencing yesterday.

Prio to sentencing the juvenile, the court had to consider the fact that the offender is 17-year-old with real prospect of him being rehabilitated and integrated back into society.

The court took into consideration of the fact that the damaged caused by the defendant’s action was valued at $1,470.00.

It further noted that the defendant and his family had paid the victim a compensation valued at $11,000.00

Principal Magistrate Ben Alasia sentenced the defendant to 5 months imprisonment.

However, he noted that the defendant had already spent a bulk of 4 months and 21 days at the Rove Correctional Centre since his remand and that the remainder have been satisfactorily served.

“I ordered that the defendant be released at the rising of the court,” Principal Magistrate Alasia ordered.

Thus, the defendant was released yesterday.

Mr Herrick Lautalo prosecuted the case, and he represented the Crown, while James Tetea from the Public Solicitors Office, represented the defendant.

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GETTING THE BEST

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Despite logistical and fuel challenges, Choiseul organisers prepare to identify top athletes for Team Lauru ahead of Solomon Games 2026

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The upcoming Lauru Games 2026 will play a major role in identifying Choiseul Province’s top athletes for the Solomon Games 2026 despite logistical and transport challenges faced by organisers.

The Games, organised by the Office of the NSC–PSRDO, Lauru Sports Division and the Local Organising Committee (LOC), will be held from June 8 to 10 at two venues — Taro and Wagina.

Netball and athletics competitions will be staged in Taro while Wagina will host both beach volleyball and indoor volleyball events.

Lauru Games Sports and Recreation Development Officer (SRDO), Brian Koveke, told Island Sun that the Games will serve as the official selection pathway for Team Lauru ahead of the Solomon Games scheduled for July 6–10 in Honiara.

“The purpose of the Games is to identify and select elite athletes who will represent Team Lauru at the Solomon Games 2026,” Koveke said.

He said around 30 affiliated netball clubs are expected to participate, alongside athletics competitors and school-based athletes.

“The number of players expected to participate in netball is about 30 clubs affiliated with the Lauru Netball Association,” he said.

Koveke added that organisers are taking a stricter approach this year by ensuring only active and properly affiliated clubs participate in the Games.

“We are making sure clubs are active and aligned with programmes under the federation,” he explained.

According to Koveke, athlete selection will not only depend on sporting performance but also discipline and behaviour during the Games.

“We look at performance, skills and talented athletes, but we also look at discipline.

“If a player is skilful but not disciplined, that player cannot be selected,” he said.

He added that safeguarding rules and official Games regulations will also guide the selection process.

Koveke said the broader goal of the Games is to empower youths through sports while promoting unity across Choiseul Province.

“The main goal is to bring in youths; empowering youths through sports and bring unity together,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Local Organising Committee Chairman Christopher Makoni said both Taro and Wagina are prepared to host the competitions despite facing major logistical challenges.

“Wagina for both indoor and beach volleyball is prepared and Taro is also prepared for Monday games,” Makoni said.

However, he admitted that transport and fuel costs remain among the biggest concerns for organisers.

“One of our biggest logistical challenges is transport and the high cost of fuel,” he said.

Makoni explained that sea transport remains the main means of travel in Choiseul Province, making transportation of teams expensive and difficult.

Accommodation has also become another challenge, particularly in Taro, which contributed to the decision to split the Games into two venues.

“That’s one reason why we have two venues,” he explained.

Despite the challenges, Makoni said organisers are determined to successfully host the Games and identify quality athletes to represent the province.

“With the limited resources and challenges, we still look forward to hosting this event and selecting good players for the Solomon Games,” he said.

The Choiseul Sports & Recreation Development Program earlier announced that only sports associations and clubs affiliated and registered with the National Sports Council Solomon Islands (NSCSI) will be eligible to compete.

Prizes will also be awarded to teams and athletes finishing first, second and third in their respective events.

The Lauru Games has continued to serve as an important provincial sporting platform to identify and develop talented athletes from across Choiseul ahead of national competitions such as the Solomon Games.

Photo credit: Supplied

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More than 40 players advance to next phase of national youth selection process after competitive trials at KG

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) has shortlisted more than 40 young footballers following a competitive round of open Under-19 men’s trials held this week at the SIFF Academy.

The selected players were announced by SIFF after Tuesday’s assessment matches, with successful players invited to return for another trial session on Thursday as the federation continues its search for the country’s next generation of football talent.

SIFF said the open trials attracted strong interest from eligible footballers born in 2007, with players given the opportunity to showcase their skills, pace and determination in front of the federation’s technical selectors.

“After a fantastic turnout and some very competitive matches on Tuesday, we’re excited to announce the list of players selected from the open U-19 men’s trial,” SIFF stated in a public announcement.

The federation also thanked all players who participated in the trials, describing the sessions as highly competitive.

Among players selected for the next phase are Alexander Katsese, Michael Samani, Zach Legai, Ronnie Bobby, Mike Motea, George Gray, Jimmy Molea and Gerald Kegu.

The open trials form part of SIFF’s ongoing youth development programme that aims to identify talented young footballers capable of progressing into future national squads and international competitions.

Prior to the trials, SIFF called on aspiring footballers to attend the sessions with birth certificates, proper sports gear and “their best attitude and energy.”

“The SIFF Technical Team is looking for the next generation of talent, and it could be you,” the federation stated in its earlier callout to players.

Trial sessions were held in two time slots at the SIFF Academy grounds at KG on Tuesday and Thursday this week.

SIFF is expected to continue monitoring players as the selection process progresses.

Photo credit: SIFF

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Synod theme charts mission path for Central Solomons Diocese

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BY NED GAGAHE

The 11th Diocesan Synod of the Diocese of Central Solomons (DoCS) has opened with a strong call for Christians to take active roles in God’s mission while remaining resilient amid modern-day challenges.

The synod is being held under the theme: “Empowering Christians to Recognise Themselves as Participants of God’s Mission in Order to be Resilient to the Challenges of Today”.

Rt Rev. Bishop Stephen Koete giving his remarks, Photo by ACOM

Delivering his remarks during the opening, the Rt Rev. Stephen Koete said the theme reflects the realities currently facing Christians in the Central Solomons, including changing social values, economic pressures and cultural shifts, a statement from Anglican Church of Melanesia on their Facebook page said.

Bishop Koete said the Church, government and customary leadership remain the three important pillars of island communities, adding that Christians must strengthen their faith while continuing to serve their communities in practical ways.

He said the Diocese must work towards building resilient Christian communities capable of responding to today’s social and spiritual challenges.

The keynote address of the synod by the Most Rev. Leonard Dawea, Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Melanesia, was delivered on his behalf by ACoM Chief Operations Officer Peter Pitia.

In the address, Archbishop Dawea described the synod theme as more than just a ceremonial statement, saying it will serve as a guiding framework for the Diocese over the next three years.

“The Church exists for mission as fire exists by burning,” the Archbishop said.

Delegates attending the synod, Photo by ACOM
Attendees of the synod, Photo by ACOM

He encouraged Christians to deepen their understanding of scripture and faith so they can recognise their baptismal calling and actively participate in God’s mission.

Both Church leaders stressed that resilience in faith is necessary for Christians to withstand modern-day pressures, including social change, religious pluralism and limited resources.

They also called on Christians to actively participate in mission work at parish, district and community levels while strengthening partnerships with government and education authorities to support families and young people.

The synod also highlighted the importance of reviving customary leadership structures to help communities address disputes, social change, alcohol abuse and family breakdown.

Archbishop Dawea said participation in God’s mission is not limited to clergy members but includes all baptised believers, who must take ownership of spreading the gospel.

Meanwhile, Bishop Koete outlined several priority areas that will guide the Diocese until the next synod.

Blessing of a memorial monument marking the hosting of the 11th Diocesan synod in the host community-Vuranimala, Photo by ACOM

These include building a Church that can withstand social and cultural pressures, encouraging Christians to become agents of peace, justice and hope, and strengthening collaboration with provincial authorities in areas such as education, land registration and youth development.

He added that both Church and customary institutions must continue to provide practical leadership and guidance to communities across Central Solomons.

The Archbishop encourages the Diocese to implement the synod theme through education programmes, workshops and mission activities that aim to empower clergy, laity, youth and church institutions.

He said these efforts will help strengthen the spiritual life of the Church and reinforce its role as a moral and community leader.

Bishop Koete concluded by thanking delegates, guests and the host community of Vuranimala for their preparations and commitment towards the synod gathering.

He reminded members that the life of the Church involves both challenges and peaceful moments, calling on the Diocese to remain united as it moves forward under the guidance of the synod theme.

From left Premier Sagupari, Bishop Koete, Peter Pitia and Priest of the host community ready to cut the synod cake, Photo by ACOM

A total of 67 synod members from 12 districts, two parishes, three institutions and staff from the Diocesan Headquarters are attending the meeting, which began on Sunday, May 31, and concludes today, June 5, 2026.

Photo credit: ACOM

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UNICEF & MASI conclude WASH media workshop with community field visit

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The two-day UNICEF Solomon Islands and Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) Media Workshop wrapped up yesterday.

The workshop aims to strengthen collaboration between the media and stakeholders, ensuring that communities’ voices and experiences are amplified in the national conversation on clean water and sanitation.

The day two-day workshop brought together journalists from SIBC, Tavuli, Solomon Star, Island Sun, In-Depth Solomon, ZFM, Isles Media, Non-Government organisation with the likes of Live & Learn and ADRA.

The even which commenced on Wednesday with opening remarks from Ben Grubb, UNICEF Pacific Chief of SI Field Office, followed by overview of sanitation landscape in Solomon Islands Q& A session, plenary discussion, ethical consideration reporting and impactful story telling for behavioural change and a group activity.

The two days event then ended with a field trip yesterday that brought together journalists, UNICEF staff and WASH officers, NGOs, and government representatives. 

The closing program took participants to three communities and Ghaobata School in North Guadalcanal constituency, where residents are now benefiting from improved Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities facilitated with the support of UNICEF together with other partners.

Some of the communities showcased projects that are nearly complete, with progress reported at 99 percent completion. 

Journalists were given firsthand exposure to the impact of WASH initiatives, highlighting how access to safe water and sanitation is transforming schools and villages in that particular area.

UNICEF, NGOs and Government representatives yesterday, emphasised that partnership with the local media is crucial to raise awareness, promote accountability, and encourage community participation in sustaining WASH projects. 

Photo credit: John Houanihau

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Rae’ao community acknowledges MMERE support for hydropower system upgrade

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Rae’ao Community Hydro Committee in East Are’are in Malaita Province and Honiara-based community members acknowledged and thanked the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE), particularly the Director of Energy Division, Mr. Gabriel Aimaea, and his team, for supporting the Rae’ao Hydro Power System upgrade through the provision of overhead and service line electrical cables.

These materials will significantly contribute to the maintenance and upgrading of the community hydro system, which has served the people of East Are’are for more than two decades.

The Rae’ao Hydro System was developed under the APACE Program by Pelena Energy Australia and officially commissioned in 2003, following the vision and leadership of the late Hon. Edward Huniehu, whose dream was to bring electricity and development opportunities to the people of East Are’are.

For almost 24 years, the hydro system has continued to provide renewable energy despite many operational challenges. Through fundraising, community contributions, and volunteer efforts, the people of Rae’ao have remained committed to keeping the system operational.

Today, it is encouraging to see younger generations taking responsibility for maintaining and strengthening this important community asset.

The hydro system represents more than electricity—it symbolises community unity, resilience, self-reliance, and the collective vision of those who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of future generations.

The Rae’ao Community also acknowledges MMERE’s continued commitment to supporting community renewable energy initiatives throughout Solomon Islands.

Community representatives reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with MMERE and stakeholders to ensure the long-term sustainability and effective management of the hydro system.

The Rae’ao Community extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who has contributed to the success and sustainability of this important project and looks forward to continuing this journey together.

Photo: Supplied

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