THE National Government has reaffirmed its full commitment to support cyclone-affected communities in Western and Choiseul provinces.
Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Meteorology, Trevor Manemahaga, conveyed the assurance during a visit to Gizo yesterday, where he led a delegation that included the Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jeff Roach, and Director of the National Disaster Management Office, Jonathan Tafiariki.
The visiting team paid a courtesy call to Western Province Premier, Billy Veo, before meeting staff of the Provincial Disaster Operation Committee.
In brief remarks, Mr Manemahaga emphasised that the government stands firmly behind ongoing relief operations in both provinces, assuring leaders and communities that no effort will be spared in supporting recovery.
“My visit is to assure the government and people of Western Province that the national government stands in solidarity with the provincial disaster team in the relief effort.
“I’m pleased to see the hard-working staff of Western Province and I encourage them to mobilise as soon as possible to the affected communities,” he said.
Manemahaga said the purpose of the visit is to reinforce government support and ensure coordination on the ground as recovery efforts continue to gain momentum.
He said the government has deployed key logistical support, including the patrol boat Gizo and a helicopter, to assist in the distribution of relief supplies to remote and affected areas.
The delegation returned to Honiara yesterday and is expected to return to Gizo later this week as part of ongoing engagements.
The Development Services Exchange (DSE), the coordinating body for NGOs in Solomon Islands, has been playing a critical role in the national response to Tropical Cyclone Maila, which recently impacted Western and Choiseul provinces, and other provinces in the country.
Through its member organisations, DSE began response efforts at the height of the cyclone and continues its work by gathering vital information to help assess and map the level of support needed in affected communities.
Speaking on behalf of the organisation at a recent press conference, General Secretary, Ms Jennifer Wate said DSE has been coordinating efforts among its member NGOs, including the Australian Humanitarian Partnership, as well as other international and local partner organisations.
She said that during the cyclone, the organisation also disseminated safety messages to communities with network access, providing critical advice to help ensure public safety.
Wate highlighted that particular attention has been given to vulnerable groups, especially people living with disabilities. The National Disability Forum of Solomon Islands has been actively contacting its members in Western and Choiseul provinces, as well as in Isabel and Guadalcanal, to assess their situation.
She said the data collected focuses primarily on the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Maila in the most affected provinces, while also capturing information from other areas to help determine the level of assistance required.
“What we are doing now is consolidating the immediate response data received from communities and compiling it for submission to the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO),” Wate said.
She also noted the importance of collaboration with international and regional partners in supporting the response effort.
“We are working closely with our international and regional NGO partners through the Pacific Islands Association of NGOs,” she said.
Wate added that DSE is currently developing a comprehensive response plan. As many of its member NGOs are also part of various sectoral committees, they will continue to provide coordinated updates and information to support the overall national response to the cyclone.
The Magistrate Court on Tuesday, April 15, imposed a $500 fine on a man accused of hawking in a public place without a hawker’s license and illegal Selling of Betelnut in a betelnut-free zone or public space.
John Ramo of Radefasu village, Central Kwaraae, Malaita Province was charged with two counts.
The first count is in relation to hawking in a public place without a hawker’s license contrary to section 3(1) of the principal hawker’s ordinance and section 3(2) of the Honiara City Council (hawkers) amendment ordinance 2023.
The second count is in relation to the selling of betelnut in a betelnut free zone contrary to section 7(b) of the Honiara City Council (betel nut) ordinance 2023.
It was alleged that on the April, 1, 2026 at about 10:28 am, Honiara City Council (HCC) Law enforcement officers were on mobile patrol and observation along the township area. Whilst on patrol along the Point Cruz area, they saw a male person who was later known as John Ramo standing in front of the Dollar shop selling betelnuts and cigarettes to the public.
It was later discovered that the defendant was selling 8 fruit betelnuts cost at $2.00 per fruit betelnut, 15 fruit leaves cost at $1.00 per fruit leaf and 9 rolls of Pall Mall cigarettes at $2.00 per roll.
There, officers approached the defendant and invited him to follow them to the law enforcement office for further dealings. The defendant was formally arrested and charged.
The defendant pleaded guilty to both of these counts of charges.
Principal Magistrate Mrs Joyceth Paile presided over this matter when it came for plea and sentencing on Tuesday, April 15, at the Magistrate court.
At the sentencing, the court took into account the defendant’s extenuating circumstances and imposed an appropriate consecutive fine of $200 for hawking in a public place without a hawker’s license and $300 for selling betelnut in a betelnut free zone.
Therefore, the offender is to pay a total fine of $500. In default of payment, he will a serve 20-day imprisonment.
A street seller who requested anonymity and sells her cigarettes and betelnut at the Museum food court area told Island Sun thatshe illegally sells cigarettes and betelnuts because it is a fast way of earning money.
However, Robert Madeo, HCC Head of the law enforcement unit, told Island Sun yesterday, that his officers will continue to enforce this regulation by undertaking mobile patrol and observation along the township area.
Mr Madeo warns street sellers not to involve in illegal hawking or else they will be arrested and charged.
The maximum penalty for the offence of hawking in public without a hawker’s license is $1,000. The corresponding sentence is a 40-day imprisonment.
Mr Harry Bisafo prosecuted the matter and he represented HCC while the offender was self-represented in court.
Vital medical supplies arrive in Gizo as Government ensures food supplies reach affected communities
BY LORETTA B MANELE
A consignment of vital medical supplies dispatched on board the RSIPV Gizo arrived in Gizo, Western Province yesterday.
A statement from the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) yesterday said the supplies are critical to bolster medical operations in communities impacted by last week’s Category 4 Tropical Cyclone Maila.
Chair of the National Disaster Council (NDC) David Hiba Hiriasia said the NDC Health Sector Committee in the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) is working closely with Provincial Health Authorities in Western and Choiseul Provinces to dispatch vital medical supplies to the most affected areas as relief operations continue.
“We are coordinating closely with Provincial Health authorities to ensure critical medical supplies are dispatched promptly to the affected communities,” Hiriasia said.
NEOC said a total of ten clinics and medical centres across Western Province were reported damaged.
There is also a situation report from the Western Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (WPEOC) this week which highlighted that Provincial Health Authorities have been mobilised to assess the worst-hit areas, including the Islands of Simbo, Rannonga and Vella La Vella.
NEOC also said that services in these areas as well as others have been severely affected after the islands were battered last week by Tropical Cyclone Maila.
The much-needed medical supplies were provided by UNICEF through the national government.
NEOC said provincial health authorities in Western Province are also activating surveillance and monitoring reported cases of disease amongst the affected communities.
COMMUNITIES in North Vella, Western Province, have begun receiving much-needed relief supplies following the recent devastation, with initial food delivered yesterday by the Western Province Provincial Disaster Operation Committee.
The team who distributed bags of rice
A Disaster Rapid Response Team departed Gizo with three boats carrying 120 bags of 20kg rice, marking the first wave of assistance to affected villages.
Delivery at Supato VillagePeople of Iriqila come in numbers to listen to the teamYouths of Paramata carrying bags of rice
Distribution started from Supato and continued through to Iriqila at the northern tip of Vella Island.
Residents turned out in large numbers to meet the team, with emotional scenes unfolding as supplies were delivered.
Some elderly community members were seen in tears as relief reached their shores, signalling hope after days of hardship.
Team Leader Willie Atupio, speaking to community leaders during the distribution, said the supplies were intended as temporary support while communities await a larger relief effort.
“My team is here to provide these bags of rice to sustain you until the main supplies arrive. It is not enough, but we hope you appreciate the efforts currently being made by the provincial disaster committee,” he said.
Atupio said the Western Province Provincial Disaster Operation Committee is working closely with the National Disaster Committee to coordinate a broader response.
“This is the least we can do, as our capacity is limited to meet all the support expected at this time.
“We will come back with more supplies when things are ready,” he said.
Atupio acknowledged the patience and cooperation of communities during and after the severe cyclone.
He said assessment teams are on the ground collecting data to support the upcoming large-scale distribution of food and other essential supplies.
Atuio urged community leaders to work closely with assessment teams to ensure accurate information is gathered.
Community leaders expressed gratitude for the timely intervention, describing it as a significant relief amid ongoing challenges.
Chairperson of the Iriqila Disaster Committee, John Maelagi, said the arrival of the team brought reassurance to his people.
“On behalf of our community, I would like to express our appreciation for your efforts and commitment to reach us. Seeing your team is a huge relief and shows that our province is thinking about us,” he said.
Maelagi said many families in Iriqila have lost food gardens, homes, and other properties due to the disaster.
“Our gardens are buried under fallen trees, and access roads are blocked. Our houses are destroyed, our church damaged, and our market house is gone. But we thank God that we are all alive,” he said.
Similar sentiments were shared by Johnston Ariri of Supato village, who said the assistance came at a critical time as food shortages worsen.
“Like other communities, we lost our gardens. Salt water carried by strong winds has destroyed most of our crops.
“With this support, we will slowly rebuild our lives,” he said.
Ariri acknowledged the Western Provincial Disaster Operation Committee for the timely respond.
An elderly resident from Paramata, Jenifer Litu, also highlighted the impact of saltwater intrusion on local food sources.
“Our potato and cassava plants have withered and died. We have been surviving on fallen bananas. I’m very happy that we have now received food supplies,” he said.
The provincial government is expected to roll out a larger relief operation in the coming days as assessments are completed.
Solomon Islands Swimming Federation SISF has officially registered with the National Sports Council Solomon Islands (NSC), becoming the 14th national federation recognised under the Council’s 2026 registration framework.
The federation’s registration was approved by the NSC Board on Thursday 9 April 2026, marking an important milestone in the development and formal recognition of swimming in the country.
According to NSC the approval confirms that the federation has met the initial governance requirements set by NSC, with its audited financial statements for 2025 to be submitted following its upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM).
“As a newly registered federation, the Solomon Islands Swimming Federation can now access a range of opportunities and support mechanisms provided by NSC,” the statement said.
Such support includes the use of national sporting facilities at no cost for training national squads, while local competitions will be subject to a minimal fee and international events to standard event charges.
NSC said the federation will also gain access to the High Performance (HP) Centre to support athlete development and preparation.
Under the NSC athlete pathway framework, the federation is eligible to nominate the following squads.
One Senior Men’s National Squad, one Senior Women’s National Squad, and one Men’s Age-Group Squad.
NSC said these squads will form part of the structured national athlete development pathway supported through the NSC High Performance programme.
“The federation may apply for the NSC Governance Grant of $10,000, which is designed to assist with key operational costs such as international affiliation fees, AGM expenses and audit requirements.”
Access to further funding opportunities is also available, subject to compliance and funding availability.
NSC highlighted that the Solomon Islands Swimming Federation is responsible for the administration, development and promotion of swimming nationwide, including organising competitions, strengthening provincial participation, and preparing athletes for regional and international events, while encouraging participation across all age groups.
“The sport continues to grow steadily in Solomon Islands, with increasing participation at grassroots and school levels, providing a strong foundation for future national representation.”
A governance recognition certificate was issued to formally acknowledge the federation’s compliance and commitment to good governance under the NSC framework.
NSC said the registration of the Solomon Islands Swimming Federation reflects its ongoing commitment to strengthen governance across all sports.
The young table tennis athletes recently participated in a “Ping for Fun” session at Friendship Hall, as part of NSC’s community programme encouraging fun, inclusive and active participation in sport.
The Solomon Islands National Sports Council (NSC) and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, continue to roll out this community-based initiative.
According to a statement from NSC, this pilot programme aims to encouragie children and youths to participate in table tennis in a fun, inclusive and non-competitive environment at the Friendship Hall.
“The program was launched on March 21, 2026, it runs over an eight-week period, with sessions held every Saturday from 10:00am to 12:00pm,” the statement said.
It targets young participants from the Tuvaruhu and Panatina communities, with approximately 20 children and youths currently taking part.
“The initiative promotes active lifestyles, social engagement, and enjoyment of sport through table tennis activities, using two tables, including one generously donated by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China,” said the statement.
NSC said the donation was made as part of China’s ongoing support for the development of table tennis internationally, with the sport widely regarded as one of the country’s strongest disciplines, enjoyed by millions of players and fans worldwide.
“Representatives from the Chinese Embassy expressed their support for the initiative, highlighting their commitment to developing table tennis in Honiara and encouraging greater participation in the sport for fitness and recreation,” the statement said.
The NSC also expressed appreciation for the contribution, noting that table tennis is an inclusive sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, genders, and abilities, and plays an important role in bringing communities together.
NSC said participants have also expressed appreciation for the programme and the support provided through the partnership between NSC and the Chinese Embassy.
Sixteen-year-old participant Israel Havana said the initiative has been both enjoyable and encouraging for young people involved.
“I would like to sincerely thank the National Sports Council and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China for the donation of the table tennis table,” he said.
He said it is encouraging to see young people actively engaged and enjoying the programme.
The “Ping for Fun” initiative forms part of NSC’s ongoing commitment to grassroots sport development and community engagement, creating safe and inclusive spaces for youth participation through table tennis.
Kings makes second-half comeback to edge Vanuatu United in Fiji thriller
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands’ professional outfit Solomon Kings FC kept their top-four hopes alive with a dramatic 3-2 win over Melanesian rivals Vanuatu United FC in their second outing of the OFC Pro League in Fiji last night.
In a match packed with intensity, set-pieces and late drama, the Kings left it until stoppage time to secure all three crucial points.
Vanuatu United struck first through Alex Saniel, who rose highest to head home from a corner in the 16th minute. The Kings responded quickly, with Gordon Iro finishing from close range just five minutes later after a well-worked corner situation.
However, the Vanuatu side regained control before the break when Owen Smith converted from the penalty spot in the 34th minute, following a challenge by Kings Captain and goalkeeper Philip Mango. The goal handed Vanuatu a 2-1 lead at halftime.
The second half saw a more determined Solomon Kings side. Their pressure paid off in the 52nd minute when Javin Wae powered in a header from Atkin Kaua’s delivery to level the score at 2-2.
From there, both teams created chances in an end-to-end contest. Mango produced key saves to keep the Kings in the match, while Vanuatu came close after striking the post midway through the half.
As the clock ticked into added time, the match took another dramatic turn. The Kings were awarded a penalty deep into stoppage time, moments after head coach Ben Cahn was shown a red card from the sidelines.
Sota Higashide stepped up and calmly converted in the 97th minute, sealing a hard-fought 3-2 victory for the Solomon Islands champions.
The win was celebrated loudly by Solomon Islands supporters in Fiji, including students and workers, whose presence created a strong home-like atmosphere. Back home, fans and club members also followed closely, knowing the importance of the result.
The victory places Solomon Kings in the fourth position as they push to secure a top-four finish in the competition, with one more crucial match still ahead for this round.
Dr Nathan Kumamusa Kere described his autobiography book launched on Monday this week as a lasting contribution to indigenous education and national history.
Titled “Village Boy Knight,” a Life of Service to Solomon Islands, the book captures Dr Kere’s journey from humble village beginnings to national and international leadership.
Speaking at the launch, Dr Kere said the publication will serve as an important resource for students and future generations, particularly in understanding indigenous knowledge and the country’s historical development.
He acknowledged the support of dignitaries, national leaders and guests who attended the event, expressing gratitude for their presence and encouragement.
Dr Kere paid special tribute to Emeritus Professor Clive Moore of the University of Queensland, who served as the book’s editor and provided consistent guidance throughout the writing process.
He said the manuscript took years to complete, with moments where he nearly gave up, but was encouraged by Professor Moore to persevere.
Dr Kere also acknowledged the significant role played by the Ocean University of China in publishing the book, describing their support as crucial in turning his dream into reality.
He thanked the university’s president, Professor Chang Chak-Fung, for approving the printing of the book and providing 500 copies, some of which will be distributed to educational institutions across the country.
Dr Kere said the initiative will help ensure wider access to the book, including for schools that played an important role in his own life.
He highlighted the collaboration as a reflection of strengthening ties between Solomon Islands and China, particularly in the field of education.
The book outlines Dr Kere’s life experiences, including his early education, professional achievements, and contributions, documenting his international work, including engagements across the Pacific, Asia, Europe and the United States.
Dr Kere said the book was written in simple English with a commitment to truth, supported by photographs that reflect real-life experiences.
He acknowledged that some sections required editorial refinement to ensure balanced and respectful expression of sensitive issues.
The autobiography also includes contributions from his children, with the introduction written by his daughter and the epilogue by his son.
Dr Kere dedicated the book to his late wife, Lady Joy Cleo Perry, who passed away in January this year, describing her as his strongest source of support throughout his life and career.
He said many of his achievements were made possible through her encouragement and partnership.
Dr Kere hopes the book will leave a meaningful legacy for Solomon Islands and contribute to national development through knowledge sharing.
The book is expected to be distributed widely across the country to support education and research.
The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has officially launched the Autobiography of Chancellor of SINU, Sir Dr Nathan Kumamusa Kere on Monday this week.
The autobiography ‘Village Boy Knight’ offers an inspiring account of a life dedicated to leadership, education, and national service.
The book traces Sir Nathan’s journey from humble village beginnings in Lauru to becoming a respected national and international figure, highlighting his contributions to health, education, and public service.
Speaking at the launch held at the Ranadi Campus, Acting Vice-Chancellor of Solomon Islands National University, Dr William Parairato described the publication as more than just a memoir.
“This is not simply the story of one man, but a national story told through the life of a remarkable Solomon Islander,” Mr Parairato said.
He said the book captures a journey from traditional village life to modern scholarship and national leadership, emphasising that Sir Nathan’s success was grounded in cultural values, discipline, and early life experiences.
“One of the great strengths of this book is that it begins at the beginning in village life, in family, in tradition. It reminds us that greatness does not emerge in a vacuum,” he said.
The autobiography highlights Sir Nathan’s lifelong commitment to education, detailing his progression through formal schooling, medical training, and postgraduate studies, leading to significant professional and scientific contributions.
Parairato said that the book also delivers a strong message to young Solomon Islanders, encouraging them to overcome limitations and pursue excellence regardless of their background.
“Service to others is another key message throughout the publication. Sir Nathan emphasises that education and leadership should be driven by the desire to serve communities.
“The book also promotes the importance of locally grounded research, advocating for knowledge that benefits Solomon Islanders and involves local participation. In addition, the autobiography reflects a strong moral and spiritual dimension, portraying leadership as rooted in integrity, humility, and faith,” he said.
Parairato said the book is a valuable contribution to the nation’s intellectual history and will resonate with students, professionals, and leaders alike.
He added that Sir Nathan’s life demonstrates that it is possible to achieve excellence while remaining deeply connected to one’s cultural identity and community.
The book is expected to inspire future generations and serve as a reminder that true success lies in service, purpose, and commitment to the nation.
