BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Commander, Superintendent Nevol Soko represented Solomon Islands at the Royal Australian Navy’s International Fleet Review (125th years anniversary) and the Exercise Kakadu 2026 Commanders’ Conference from 21–23 March 2026 in Sydney, Australia.

Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Maritime Division in a statement yesterday confirmed this, saying the engagements brought together maritime leaders from across the Indo-Pacific to strengthen cooperation, enhance maritime security, and promote the protection of critical shipping lanes, trade routes, and regional economic stability.

At the Commanders’ Conference, Superintendent Soko participated as a panel speaker, where he delivered a presentation focused on maritime crime and its growing impact on Pacific Island countries.

RSIPF said he highlighted key threats including Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, transnational organised crime, people smuggling, illicit trafficking of drugs and weapons and increasing misuse of small boats to exploit porous maritime borders.

Superintendent Soko said these crimes erode national sovereignty, reduce government revenue and threaten food security and sustainable fisheries, key pillars of the Pacific economy.

He also noted that criminal activities at sea can disrupt legitimate trade, shipping lanes and trade routes, increase risks to maritime safety, and place additional strain on limited enforcement resources.

Superintendent Soko voiced that for Solomon Islands and other Pacific nations, maritime crime is not only a security issue but also an economic threat as it weakens investor confidence, disrupts supply chains, and impacts the livelihoods of coastal communities that depend on marine resources.

He called for stronger regional cooperation, intelligence sharing, and coordinated enforcement operations to effectively address these challenges.

Superintendent Soko also reaffirmed the importance of partnerships with regional and international stakeholders in building capacity, strengthening surveillance, and enhancing response capabilities.

On the sidelines of the event, he held bilateral discussions with the Deputy Fleet Commander of the Australian Navy to further strengthen cooperation in operational support, training, and capability development.

“He also met with representatives of the Pacific Maritime Security Programme (PMSP) to identify enforcement gaps, improve maintenance support, and enhance the operational effectiveness of Guardian-class patrol boats,” the statement said.

Superintendent Soko referred to the engagement as one that was timely and productive, pointing out that it provides an avenue to ensure Pacific Islands’ operational perspectives on maritime crime are clearly understood and addressed at the international level.

RSIPF says its Maritime Forice remains committed to combating maritime crime, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring the safety, security, and sustainability of Solomon Islands’ maritime domain for the protection of its people, resources, and economy.

Photo credit: RSIPF

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Siapu-led People’s Alliance for Change, Reform and Advancement (PACRA) government of Makira-Ulawa province has announced a strong focus on improving land governance and transforming revenue generation in the province.

Speaking during a recent full provincial assembly meeting in Kirakira, Premier Stanley Siapu pointed out that land remains the province’s most strategic economic asset.

He said the government is placing strong emphasis on proper land governance, as well as responsible land management and administration.

The PACRA government’s key efforts include:

• Improving land records and documentation
• Monitoring leased provincial estate lands
• Encouraging development of idle land assets
• Promoting customary land acquisition for development purposes
• Finalising the subdivision of Okea Land in northwest Guadalcanal
• Completing the registration process for the S.S Mamaloni Huro Township

Premier Siapu said these measures will enable the province to gradually expand its internal revenue base while ensuring effective and sustainable land use.

To support these efforts, the government has adopted the Makira-Ulawa Provincial Land Utilisation Policy, which will guide the work of the Planning and Development Board and the Land Tender Committee.

He said the government has taken decisive steps to ensure provincial estate lands serve the public interest.

Premier Siapu said the executive has also retrieved several expired Fixed Term Estate (FTE) titles due to non-development and public interest considerations.

The retrieved lands include:

• Lower Marahu – 12 hectares
• Maroguraha – 17 hectares
• Waimamura – 81 hectares
• as well as other expired FTEs across the province

Siapu said reclaiming these lands will allow the government to re-plan and redevelop key areas for future economic and infrastructure development.

He also announced that a comprehensive survey and documentation exercise will soon be carried out to ensure accurate records of all provincial estate lands.

Meanwhile, the Premier highlighted significant progress in the development of the province-owned Okea Land in Guadalcanal province.

“Following the customary chupu ceremony in November 2025 and the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, the Guadalcanal Town and Country Planning Board has approved our request to subdivide Okea Land.

“All necessary documents are now with the Ministry of Lands in Honiara for processing,” he said.

Premier Siapu said similar progress is being made on the Huro Land Planning Scheme, which aims to ensure development follows proper planning, zoning and infrastructure standards.

He confirmed that all required registration fees have been paid, and the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey is finalising the registration of plots ahead of an official handover.

Photo: Supplied

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

VALAPATA Community in Vella La Vella, Western Province, has marked a significant milestone with the official opening of its new youth hub over the weekend.

The event brought together representatives from donor partner The Pacific Community, implementing partner Sirubai Voko Tribe Association, World Wildlife Fund, Western Provincial Government, Western Youth Association, as well as community chiefs, women, youths and children, all gathering to witness the achievement.

Speaking at the ceremony, Valapata youth representative, Jesse Lelokana acknowledged SPC for providing funding that enabled the community to construct the youth hub.

He also commended the Sirubai Voko Tribe Association for leading the groundwork from start to finish.

Lelokana said the journey was not easy, but through cooperation the community was able to overcome challenges.

“This building is for all of us. Churches, the provincial government and donor partners who are looking for a venue to host events are welcome to use this facility.

“I’m happy that our youths will now have a home to undergo workshops or life-skills training that will help them grow,” he said.

Member of Assembly for Ward 8, Kadiba Alu also acknowledged the Pacific People Advancing Change (PPAC) programme under SPC for providing the financial support towards the project.

He said he is so privileged to witness the opening of the Valapata Youth Hub, adding that the partnership between the Sirubai Voko Tribe Association and SPC demonstrates the importance of initiative when government support falls short.

Alu said such initiatives can drive positive development within communities.

“This building will provide a space for training, social interaction and will help strengthen unity among youths within Ward 8,” he said.

One of the founders of the Sirubai Voko Tribe Association, Henry Kaniki, said the association was pleased to support the development.

He said the idea for the youth hub began 14 months ago, with the association taking the lead in consultations and sourcing funding for the project.

Kaniki said the official opening of the youth hub marks a major achievement not only for Valapata Community but also for youths in surrounding communities, providing a new space for empowerment, learning and community engagement.

Photo credit: Ben Bilua

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

The national government through the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS) has made significant progress in carrying out key reforms to strengthen national security, law and order, and public safety.

The Government Communication Unit (GCU) in a statement over the weekend said a quarterly brief from the ministry highlighted key achievements including the launch of the National Security Strategy (2025–2028) and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) 10-Year Strategic Direction (2026–2036).

GCU also outlined other initiatives like the Police Capability and Capacity Roadmap that is being implemented with the expansion of specialized units and rollout of the Crime Prevention Strategy (2023–2027).

To add on, the statement said major legislative reforms are advancing, including a review of the Police Act 2013 and the Correctional Services Act 2007 and border security is a priority, with the development of border outposts and strengthened coordination with support from the Australian Government.

The Ministerial brief also said that for this year, they will focus on finalising key legislation, advancing infrastructure development, and strengthening border management systems.

The statement said the government remains committed to ensuring a safe, secure and unified Solomon Islands for all citizens.

Photo credit: GCU

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Premier of Makira Ulawa province, Stanley Siapu, has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening the province’s legislative framework.

Whilst speaking at a recent full assembly meeting in Kirakira, Premier Siapu emphasised that legislative development is a key priority, with continued support being provided to the provincial assembly office to enhance its legislative capacity.

He said the ongoing refurbishment of the assembly chamber will improve the working environment for members as they carry out their legislative responsibilities.

Siapu said the government will soon deliberate on recommendations from the MUPIC Ordinance Review Taskforce, which aims to strengthen the province’s investment framework.

“My government is also working on finalising the Kirakira Township Ordinance. The Kirakira Township Committee Ordinance has been long overdue, and we are ensuring it is completed and presented at the next assembly sitting for deliberation,” he said.

He explained that the ordinance aims to establish a body responsible for overseeing waste management and beautification in Kirakira township, including management of the public market, public amenities such as the library, public toilets, parks, and recreational areas.

Premier Siapu also highlighted his government’s commitment to strengthen the provincial workforce, noting that a capable workforce is essential for effective governance.

He confirmed that the MUP Manpower Review Taskforce has completed a comprehensive review of the provincial government’s workforce structure.

The implementation of its recommendations particularly, those aimed at improving the Scheme of Services and administrative efficiency is now underway and will be executed following the upcoming budget sitting.

“There is also an ongoing effort to enhance workforce capacity through targeted training programs. We aim to improve the level of tertiary qualifications for some of our staff while ensuring a disciplined, responsible, and professional workforce.

“Our officers remain the engine that drives government operations, and we deeply appreciate their dedication to serving the people of Makira Ulawa province,” Premier Siapu said.

Photo: Supplied

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Since taking office, the Siapu led People’s Alliance for Change, Reform, and Advancement (PACRA) government of Makira Ulawa province has prioritized strengthening key structures of the provincial government.

The aim is to enhance governance and public administration to improve service delivery and policy implementation. The PACRA government emphasizes that strong institutions are the foundation of effective governance.

Key areas of focus include enhancing the capacity of:

• The Premier’s Secretariat
• The Provincial Assembly Office
• Key technical departments within the administration
• The oversight role of the Office of the Provincial Secretary

Speaking at the recent full assembly meeting in Kirakira, Premier Stanley Siapu emphasised that institutional reform is not a one-time effort.

“It is a continuous process that requires strong political will, clear identification of challenges, and a sustained, multi-year commitment to reforming legal frameworks, structures, and practices,” Siapu said.

He highlighted his government’s commitment to strengthening institutions so they can serve the people of Makira Ulawa Province effectively.

Siapu also noted that the provincial government continues to operate within a limited internal revenue environment and affirmed the government’s commitment to improving the province’s revenue base.

Despite these constraints, the PACRA government remains committed to responsible fiscal management, guided by three key principles:

• Fiscal discipline
• Policy alignment
• Accountability in public expenditure

The premier said the government is working to strengthen structured approaches to provincial finance, including comprehensive budget planning, disciplined execution, and transparent reporting.

“These initiatives include establishing legal frameworks for accountability, controlling expenditure to ensure sustainability, implementing robust risk management mechanisms, and producing accurate, timely financial data for decision-making.

“Through improved financial management and careful prioritization, we are gradually strengthening our capacity to support development initiatives across the province,” he said.

Photo: Supplied

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

The Temotu Provincial Government and the national government have formalised a significant partnership to advance the Eastern Border Outpost (EBO) Project in Vanikoro.

Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS) in a statement yesterday said this comes after a signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

The MOU was signed between the Premier of Temotu Province, Stanley Tehiahua and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS), Ms. Karen Galokale.

“The agreement marks a major step forward in strengthening collaboration and coordination to deliver the strategically important national security initiative.

“The signing reflects the shared commitment and willingness of both the Provincial and National Governments to progress the Eastern Border Outpost Project, which is a key priority under the Government’s National Security Strategy.

“The partnership underscores Temotu Province’s important role in supporting national efforts to safeguard Solomon Islands’ eastern borders while also unlocking development opportunities for the province, particularly in Vanikoro,” MPNSCS said.

The statement said both parties through this MOU have agreed to work closely together to facilitate the successful planning, implementation, and long-term sustainability of the project.

This agreement is said to provide a clear framework for cooperation, ensuring alignment between national priorities and provincial development aspirations.

Premier of Temotu Province, Stanley Tehiahua has welcomed the agreement noting that it demonstrates the province’s readiness to work in partnership with the National Government to deliver transformational development for its people.

MPNSCS Permanent Secretary, Ms. Karen Galokale raised that the MOU is more than a representation of a formal agreement but a practical demonstration of unity and shared purpose between national and provincial authorities.

“This MOU signifies our joint commitment to move forward together in delivering a project that is critical not only for national security but also for the long-term development of Temotu Province,” she said.

MPNSCS said the Eastern Border Outpost Project in Vanikoro is expected to enhance border security presence and contribute to improved infrastructure, services, and economic opportunities in the region.

“The Solomon Islands Government reaffirmed its appreciation to the Temotu Provincial Government for its cooperation and leadership, noting that strong partnerships at all levels are essential to the successful delivery of national development priorities,” MPNSCS said.

Photo credit: MPNSCS

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY LORETTA B MANELE

The UK has helped strengthen the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force with a training for middle-ranked officers that aims to turn strategy to delivery.

British High Commissioner HE Paul Turner was present at the final day to present certificates for participants of the leadership training course run by the UK Police College. 

The two-week training course concluded on Friday last week.

Turner presented certificates to 32 officers who completed the course, paying tribute to their dedication and teamwork.  

He underlined that the training came at a particularly important moment for the RSIPF with Solomon Islands embarking on a planned expansion of the RSIPF to strengthen national security and build long‑term capability, a statement by the UK High Commission on Friday last week said.

Turner said that an expansion of police numbers placed greater demands on middle-level leadership in the RSIPF; it was the middle-ranks, he said, that turn strategy into delivery. 

He said as the RSIPF moves into its next phase of development, middle-ranking police officers will be essential for guiding teams and embedding standards.

The RSIPF’s recently launched 10‑year Strategic Direction 2026–2036 provides a roadmap for transformation and modernisation of the police force, the UK high commission statement said.

The United Kingdom’s relationship with Solomon Islands policing stretches back many decades to the time of the British Protectorate.

The High Commissioner said that the partnership had evolved over time—from early capacity building to cooperation focused on professional standards, leadership, and governance. 

Turner said the UK will continue to play an important role in the development of the RSIPF, working with other donors such as Australia and New Zealand.

The British High Commissioner said that culturally the RSIPF was deeply rooted in the British Police where policing was done through consent of the community with a commitment to strong, accountable institutions. 

In recent years, the UK has worked closely with the RSIPF to support its operational readiness for major national events such as the Pacific Games and the general elections in 2024.

Turner also highlighted the ways in which the Solomon Islands plays an important role in policing across the Pacific region. 

He said the UK was proud to support regional cooperation through initiatives such as INTERPOL Blue Pacific project which enhances information‑sharing and builds professional skills across police forces in 11 Pacific countries, including Solomon Islands. 

This was more important than ever with the increased trafficking of drugs from Fiji and other countries in the region. 

Last year, the UK‑supported Blue Pacific project helped RSIPF develop stronger operational understanding of INTERPOL tools, improving their capacity to address transnational organised crime.

Photo: Supplied

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Temotu Provincial Government has issued a strong warning to business operators and the public after uncovering that unauthorised individuals were illegally collecting provincial business license fees.

Premier of Temotu province, Stanley Tehiahua said that certain people posing as government officers have been unlawfully demanding payments from businesses, despite lacking any mandate under the Provincial Revenue Division.

He said that the government describes the practice as a serious breach of financial instructions and store management policies. 

He said that he discovered this malpractice in early January this year.

“All provincial revenues must be properly receipted, accounted for, and deposited into official government accounts. Unauthorized collection and personal use of such funds undermine accountability, transparency, and good governance,” he said.

Premier Tehiahua urges businesses to only make payments to duly authorized revenue officers, to always request official receipts, and report any suspicious activity immediately to the Provincial Administration. 

He said that the government acknowledge that such malpractice may have occurred in the past but assures the public that decisive measures are now being taken to eliminate it.

He said the Temotu Provincial government reaffirms their commitment to transparency and financial integrity, calling on all stakeholders to help safeguard public revenue. 

Photo: Supplied

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]