BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Central Islands Provincial (CIP) government has unveiled a proposal to further invest in the province’s education sector.

The initiative forms a key part of the achievements made so far by the Sagupari-led Government of Change and Rural Transformation since taking office in mid-2025.

Speaking at the provincial full assembly in Tulagi recently, Premier Kenneth Sagupari highlighted some of the progress made in the education sector.

He revealed that the province is in the final stages of establishing a “Centre of the Islands” campus for the Solomon Islands National University (SINU).

“The executive has already endorsed land for this initiative, paving the way for this vision to host some functions of this tertiary institution here in Tulagi and across the Central Province,” Sagupari said.

He also announced plans to work with the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD) and the University of the South Pacific (USP) to introduce Form 7 arts programs at Siota Provincial Secondary School in 2027 and McMahon Community High School in 2028.

Premier Sagupari also commended the province for its leadership in the WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) sector, citing the recent handover of UNICEF-supported facilities on Savo Island.

“The Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development, the Australian Government, and UNICEF have provided funding to build sanitation facilities in 30 schools across our islands. We thank them for choosing Central Province.

“By empowering our children with safe and inclusive WASH facilities, we are investing in their future. By building climate-resilient systems, we are protecting their future.

“Together, we are laying the foundation for a generation that is healthier, more educated, and more resilient,” he said.

The premier urges the people of Central province to continue to work closely with the government, communities, schools, and partners to ensure that no child is left behind when it comes to water, sanitation, and hygiene.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Sagupari-led Government of Change and Rural Transformation (GCRT) in Central Islands Province (CIP) is working to revive several major investments that once played a key role in the province’s economy but closed decades ago.

Among the priority projects are the redevelopment of Anuha Island Resort and renewed development efforts in the Russell Islands, which both aim to boost tourism and economic activity. And these initiatives form part of the current government’s key achievements.

Speaking at a recent provincial full assembly in Tulagi, Premier Kenneth Sagupari revealed that long-standing issues surrounding Anuha Island Resort have now been resolved through active consultation between national and provincial governments, resource owners, and investors.

“We have successfully negotiated and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between all parties, especially with the landowning tribes and groups. Reconciliation processes have been conducted, and new trustees have been appointed for its redevelopment,” he said.

Sagupari added that his government is also progressing discussions with the Russell Islands House of Chiefs, particularly on development plans for Pavuvu.

He said the Ministry of Lands and Housing in collaboration with the CIP government, is finalising arrangements for the subdivision of government land on Pavuvu. This is expected to be a priority task in the first quarter of the 2026/2027 financial year.

“This is a priority, given the push by the Commodities Marketing Authority Taskforce Committee under the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC), with funding support from investors to establish a coconut oil refinery at Pavuvu in the Russell Islands by 2028,” Sagupari said.

The premier also highlighted recent growth in tourism within the province. The opening of Double Island Resort and Raiders Hotel signals a new phase for the tourism industry in CIP.

He further acknowledged support from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, which has allocated SBD $5 million specifically for Tulagi tourism operators. The funds have been disbursed, with historical site developments and museum exhibitions now in their initial stages of implementation.

Sagupari emphasised that these developments are aligned with the province’s long-term goal of becoming the next central tourism hub of Solomon Islands within the next decade.

Supporting this vision, he confirmed that both provincial and national governments are backing the construction of a ring road in Tulagi, with the contract already awarded.

The premier said the project will include full tar sealing and is being delivered as part of the country’s 50th anniversary initiatives, expected to significantly enhance the province’s tourism profile.

Meanwhile, the premier also announced that Central province has been selected as the pilot location for the Yandina Fishery Centre.

“We are prepared to host a new vessel in Tulagi to support local fisheries, research activities, and Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) deployments,” he said.

Sagupari said these initiatives reflect the progress his government is making and he calls on all stakeholders in the province to work together to ensure their successful implementation.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Premier of Central Islands Province (CIP), Kenneth Sagupari, has announced that his government has successfully secured the first $6 million of a $12 million arrears payment from the national government.

This is a significant achievement for the Central Islands province and a testament of what is possible through strong collaborative political will and sound leadership. This financial recovery is among some of the key achievements they had accomplished since taking office mid 2025.

“Through the Office of the Premier, we have secured the first $6 million of the $12 million arrears from the national government.”

“This financial boost will support the province’s FY 2026/2027 development plans, including both new initiatives and previously incomplete projects.

“This includes the construction of two classroom units on Savo and the much-needed Commercial Centre for Tulagi township,” he said.

Since taking office in mid-2025, Sagupari said his government has brought forward numerous agendas and resolutions through the provincial assembly.

“A significant number of resolutions passed in previous meetings have already been distributed for implementation.

“Progress reports will be presented during this year’s revised budget meeting, following the 12-month period of the current administration,” he explained.

The premier also highlighted the revival of the PARD committee, which has approved a $4,000 holiday package for all staff, regardless of the distance between their workplaces and home villages.

“We are committed to strengthening our staff establishment with merit-based reforms to ensure an effective and efficient workforce,” Sagupari said.

He said that his government remains dedicated to reinforcing governance and pursuing the development aspirations of Central Islands province.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Cyclone Maila downgrades to category 4 but still intensifying southwest of Western province, projected to move away later this week

BY BEN BILUA & IRWIN ANGIKI

Tropical Cyclone Maila was last night downgraded to category 4 after it had reached category 5 level early yesterday morning.

However, the system is said to still be intensifying, with the cyclone warning for Western province in force and authorities urging people in the province to seek shelter and practise precaution.

Cyclone warning No. 16 by the Solomon Islands Meteorological Services (SIMS) at 7.30pm yesterday said Maila was situated southwest of Western province – 104km southwest of Ranonnga island – and moving northwards at a speed of 3 knots.

Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology said Maila is projected to return to its initial south-west path away from the Solomon Islands and move into the northern Coral Sea towards Australia’s north Queensland by the weekend.

SIMS update said: “Expect gale force winds of 34 to 47 knots (63-70km per hour) over whole of Western province with very rough seas and moderate to heavy swells (3.5-6 metres) with coastal flooding and widespread heavy rain and thunderstorms.

“Elsewhere (other provinces), expect winds to reach 20 to 25 knots (37- 46 km per hour) increasing to 33 knots (61 km per hour) over Choiseul and Isabel provinces with moderate to rough seas and moderate swells (2.5-4m) and potential coastal flooding.

“Expect heavy rain at times and thunderstorms over the remaining provinces.”

SIMS cautions of possible landslide and flooding over communities living near hill slopes, close to large rivers, streams and low-lying areas.

“Motorists are also advised to use extreme caution when travelling on road. Do not attempt to cross rivers and large streams of unknown depth.

“People should take precautionary measures as bad weather associated with the severe tropical cyclone poses threats to lives and properties.

“Please share this information to people with disabilities,” SIMS said.

Update from Gizo last night

Meanwhile, report from Gizo last night said the headquarters of Western Province has been battered by Tropical Cyclone Maila since yesterday afternoon, with strong winds and hazardous conditions continuing into the night.

The cyclone made landfall at around 2pm yesterday, bringing with it severe west winds that impacted the entire island.

Areas facing Kolombangara bore the brunt of the storm, with powerful gusts hitting houses directly along the coastline.

Residents in more sheltered locations also felt the intensity of the system, as strong winds forced trees to bend eastward across the island.

Initial reports indicate that a few buildings have sustained partial damage, with the number of affected structures expected to rise as assessments continue today.

Information reaching Island Sun said residents in the Malakerava area were relatively fortunate, as their location placed them opposite the main wind direction.

However, authorities warn that these communities remain at risk from storm surges and other hazards associated with the cyclone.

In response to the worsening conditions, evacuation centres have been activated across Gizo.

One centre has been set up at the Seventh Day Adventist Church near Gizo Primary School, while Gizo Primary School itself has also been designated as an evacuation site by the Western Provincial Disaster Operation Committee.

Residents from vulnerable and exposed areas were seen moving to these centres seeking safety.

Strong winds continued to lash the island up to the time this paper went to print last night, with authorities closely monitoring the situation.

Why Maila is a slow-moving system

Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology said Maila’s slow movement is due to two competing areas of pressure sandwiching Maila with opposing forces from its north and south.

“While Maila has strengthened from a tropical low to a Category 5 cyclone over the last few days, it hasn’t moved very far, stalling over the Solomon Sea. This satellite loop shows deep cloud associated with the cyclone, and a clearly visible eye over the open water,” the Meteorology bureau said in its Facebook post 4pm yesterday.

“The reason why Severe Tropical Cyclone Maila has remained almost stationary is because of two competing forces. To the south of the system, a ridge of high pressure has tried to steer the system towards the west, while north of the system, north-westerly winds have tried to steer the system to the east. The result is that these forces balanced each other out, and Maila has moved almost nowhere.

“However, a new high pressure ridge is building to the south-west of Maila and is becoming the dominant steering influence. The ridge will help steer Maila slowly towards the south-west from today.

“Towards the weekend, Maila will move over the northern Coral Sea until it approaches far North Queensland later this weekend,” the Australia Met bureau said.

Photo credit: Ben Bilua

For feedback, contact: [email protected] & [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Defending champions edge ATL Masina 6-4 in tense National Invitational Darts Championship Final at PCYC

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Defending champions Southern Arrows successfully retained their title after defeating ATL Masina 6–4 in a thrilling grand final of the National Invitational Darts Championship 2026 at the Point Cruz Yacht Club (PCYC) on Monday evening.

The highly anticipated final drew a lively crowd of supporters, players and spectators who packed the club venue as the two teams battled in a tense and competitive showdown.

ATL Masina started strongly, taking an early 2–0 lead over the defending champions. However, Southern Arrows slowly fought their way back into the match, levelling the score before extending their lead to eventually secure victory with a final score of 6–4.

The atmosphere during the final match was electric, with loud cheers echoing throughout the venue every time players stepped up to the board. Supporters and fellow players voiced their encouragement as music played in the background while spectators gathered around the dart boards to witness the deciding moments of the championship.

Southern Arrows captain Douglas Hou said the victory came through persistence and teamwork despite facing tough competition throughout the tournament.

“As the captain of Southern Arrows we really struggled to become the next champions.

“During the pool stage and along the way most of our games we usually pick up later in the match, so it’s through experience that we managed to come through to the final,” Hou said.

Hou said the team’s experience and unity played a major role in defending their title.

“We’ve been together for a long time as a team. The more you stay together, the stronger you become and that helps you become champions.

“It’s our second time winning this competition in a row. It means a lot to us because it’s not easy to defend the title,” he said.

Runner-up team captain Nelson Rorea Nono’ohimae of ATL Masina said reaching the final was already a proud achievement for his team.

“The challenge today was very tough. Coming to the final from the 34 teams that participated was a privilege for us.

“Southern Arrows are a very good team and playing them in the final was a good test for us,” he said.

Nono’ohimae added that his team learned valuable lessons from the competition and hopes to return stronger in future tournaments.

“We are newcomers to competitions like this but we have learned a lot. This tournament shows that darts in Solomon Islands is improving and gaining momentum,” he said.

Tournament organisers also hailed the championship as a successful event, noting the growing interest in the sport.

Organising committee representative Kensley Manu said the tournament has improved significantly compared to previous years.

“This year’s tournament has really improved from last year and has brought the sport to another level.

“A total of 32 teams took part and the competition was very competitive, especially with provincial teams participating,” Manu said.

He said the presence of new and young players also showed that the sport was gaining popularity.

“There were many young players and new talents this year, and that shows the event is gaining momentum,” he said.

Manu added that organisers are hopeful that the championship could expand to provinces in the future.

“This event is aiming to be taken out to the provinces so that darts can truly become a national sport,” he said.

Major sponsor Our Telekom also reaffirmed its commitment to support the development of darts in the country.

Our Telekom representative Alex Waimora said the company was proud to support the sport because it is inclusive and accessible to everyone.

“One of the reasons why we support darts is because it is an emerging sport and it involves all ages.

“Whether you are young or old, male or female, everyone can play darts,” Waimora said.

He added that livestreaming the grand final helped promote the sport to a wider audience.

“To livestream the event pushes darts to another level because people across Solomon Islands and even overseas can watch it,” Waimora said.

The championship concluded with a prize presentation ceremony where the top three teams received trophies and cash prizes, along with several consolation awards sponsored by supporting organisations.

The National Invitational Darts Championship is an annual tournament usually held during the Easter period, attracting teams from Honiara and the provinces as the sport continues to grow in popularity across the Solomon Islands.

Photo credit: Richard Menanopo

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]