Home Blog Page 116

PATH FORWARD

Written by
Admin
-
0
Captain Samoa's Otete Kitiona and Solomon Islands head coach Daniel Barrett pose for a photo, Press conference and training sessions ahead of the FIFA Women's World Cup Qualifiers 2027, OFC Qualifiers, National Stadium, Honiara. Photo: Joshua Devenie / www.phototek.nz

Barret calls for stronger development pathways to lift SI women’s football

[Published on Friday, March 6, 2026]

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Solomon Islands women’s national football team head coach, Daniel Barrett says strengthening local development and creating pathways for players to gain overseas exposure will be key to lifting the country’s women’s football standards in the future.

Barrett made the remarks following Solomon Islands’ narrow 2–1 loss to Samoa women’s national football team in their final match of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 OFC Qualifiers Round 2 at the National Stadium Honiara on Thursday evening.

The defeat brought an end to the hosts’ campaign after three days of exciting football that saw six matches played in Honiara.

Speaking after the match, Barrett said the reality facing smaller Pacific nations is the growing presence of overseas-based players in rival teams, something Solomon Islands currently lacks.

“Let’s be realistic about this tournament. The American Samoan team is all Americans. They’re not American Samoan. They are girls that come and they play college football or professional football in America.

“Samoa also has players who play in Australia, New Zealand and America as well,” Barrett said.

Barrett said this makes domestic development even more crucial for Solomon Islands if the country hopes to keep pace with regional rivals.

“We as a nation can’t draw on girls playing outside to come play for us. So, what we do here with our girls is so important now to keep up with these nations.

“A good development system is going to be very, very important here,” he said.

Despite the heartbreaking defeat, Barrett praised his players for their effort in what was a tightly contested encounter against Samoa.

“We lost the game today, working really hard trying to win it. We attacked as much as we could. We wanted to play more on the front foot and take the game to Samoa.

“I think we did that, just unfortunately we couldn’t get one more goal than them tonight,” he said.

The decisive moment came through an unfortunate own goal, but Barrett was quick to defend the player involved, saying such moments are simply part of the game.

“In football you have good luck and bad luck. Unfortunately we had some bad luck in that situation. It’s not the player’s fault at all.

“I’ll go in there and tell the girls how proud I am of them tonight,” coach Barrett said.

Solomon Islands also created several promising opportunities late in the game, including a shot that rattled the crossbar, which Barrett believes show the team’s attacking potential.

“Maybe we missed the chances tonight because in the other two games we didn’t have lots of opportunities to attack.

“If we played another two more games, I think you would have seen even more improvement,” he said.

Looking ahead, Barrett believes helping the country’s best talents gain opportunities overseas could significantly strengthen the national team in future tournaments.

“One thing I would like to help do now is to try and get our best players here playing abroad as well.

“Then we can bring them back to play for the national team when the games are on,” he said.

The Round 2 qualifiers in Honiara brought together teams from across Oceania, delivering several entertaining matches and giving local supporters a chance to witness international women’s football at home.

For Solomon Islands, the campaign may have ended, but Barrett believes the experience gained will play an important role in shaping the future of women’s football in the country.

Photo credit: SIFF

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Samoa defeats Solomon Islands in final elimination match for round 2

Written by
Admin
-
0

[Published on Friday, March 6, 2026]

BY TONY IROGA

Samoa ended their qualifying campaign on a high win with a 2-1 win over Solomon Islands in an entertaining contest on Thursday at the national stadium in Honiara.

Only pride was at stake for both sides, having already been eliminated from contention for the semi-finals, with Solomon Islands keen to produce a performance to lift the home-ground supporters.

Malia Jessop opened the scoring for Samoa with just over 10 minutes left in the first half, producing a fantastic left-footed effort into the far corner, having been found by a Shylah Balla-Ateli cutback.

Ileen Pegi almost levelled for Solomon Islands, forcing Meripa Seumanutafa into a good save, before Sandy Ani Holland did the same, with the Samoa stopper tipping her effort over the bar.

In an interview with Island Sun yesterday Samoa team captain Jaedeci Uluvili said they unfortunately didn’t make it to the semifinals, so the next upcoming tournament would be next year, the South Pacific Games.

“So hopefully we can prepare well and have more training camps before that happens, “she said.

She added that she definitely feels like if they had more preparation leading up to this tournament, because they only had a week’s camp in Auckland, and then they travelled here and had a couple of days to acclimatise to the weather and train together as a team.

“So definitely if they had more time prior to the tournament, it would have been better for them,” she said.

She also thanks their fans back home.

“Thank you for supporting us, it’s very much appreciated, and thank you for just following us through the tournament.

“It’s very hot, and I think the girls did well to adjust to the weather, considering we’ve come from all parts of the world,” she said.

The deserved equaliser duly arrived in the 63rd minute, Pegi looping in an effort having been teed up by Teisika Rotoava inside the area.

The parity lasted only a quarter of an hour, however. Samoa retaking the lead when Edith Nari stretched to head away a free-kick, only succeeding in lifting the ball over Margaret Kofela and into her own net.

Solomon Islands continued to create chances in the final minutes as they pressed for an equaliser, including rattling the crossbar, but Samoa’s defence was able to hold on and sign off from their campaign with three points.

Photo credit: Tony

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Vulnerable aviation entry points could allow drug smuggling, CAASI warns

Written by
Admin
-
0

[Published on Friday, March 6, 2026]

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Director of the Civil Aviation Authority of Solomon Islands (CAASI) has warned that vulnerable entry points within the aviation system could facilitate the smuggling of dangerous drugs into the country, despite existing security measures.

Brian Halisanau made the statement when appearing before the Bills and Legislation Committee (BLC) during its inquiry into the Dangerous Drugs Amendment Bill 2025 last month.

Mr Halisanau said while civil aviation service providers are responsible for preventing dangerous articles including illicit drugs from being introduced onto aircraft, there remain gaps that could be exploited.

“The current amendment concerns the introduction of dangerous drugs into the country. For civil aviation, threats are mitigated through entry point security control measures of neighbouring states. However, vulnerable points can also facilitate entry,” he said.

He identified insider threats, limited surveillance of general aviation, and intermodal transport as areas of concern.

He said that general aviation private and non-commercial flights poses monitoring challenges, particularly when aircrafts enter from remote locations.

He also highlighted scenarios where individuals may enter Solomon Islands by outboard motorboat or yacht before using domestic flights to transport drugs to Honiara.

“These are areas where we recognise there is room for improvement,” Mr Halisanau said.

He said there is need to strengthen airline agent capacity at outer airports to ensure baseline security screening measures are effectively implemented.

According to Mr Halisanau, standard aviation security measures include the screening of passengers, cabin baggage, checked baggage and cargo for commercial aircraft both departing and arriving in Solomon Islands.

“The screening of persons, their cabin baggage, hold baggage as well as cargo are fundamental measures that are adopted,” he said.

He said that CAASI also supports increasing penalties under the proposed amendment, saying tougher punishment would act as a deterrent to smugglers and others involved in drug-related offences.

“It will serve as a strong deterrent for the public and smugglers, controlling behaviours that threaten Solomon Islands society,” he said.

However, he said that enforcement alone is not sufficient.

“CAASI is advocating for a mix of screening methods that specifically target drug detection, as well as strengthened joint intelligence systems among relevant authorities,” he said.

Mr Halisanau said that such procedures are already provided for under the Solomon Islands National Civil Aviation Security Programme, which brings together stakeholders responsible for aviation security.

He said continued coordination and system improvements would be critical to prevent aviation channels from being exploited for drug trafficking.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Wale says authorities are ‘in the dark’ on meth trafficking routes

Written by
Admin
-
0

[Published on Friday, March 6, 2026]

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Opposition Leader Mathew Wale has expressed concern that key enforcement agencies remain uncertain about how methamphetamine (Meth) drugs are entering the country, describing the situation as “sitting in the dark”.

He made the statement during the Bills and Legislation Committee (BLC) hearing into the Dangerous Drugs Amendment Bill 2025 last month when he addressed representatives from Solomon Ports Authority (SIPA), the Civil Aviation Authority of Solomon Islands, and Leroy wharf.

“The police were here before and then Customs, and going on the data they have collected, we should have no problem. They’re talking about grams to kilograms of drugs going through this country,” Mr Wale said.

He said that officials had reported five or six incidents, yet methamphetamine use is now widely reported.

“But we know the use of meth is now widespread, so it’s coming somewhere. And if you don’t know, I don’t know who should know.

“We’re trying to make policy responses and make law, but we’re all feeling in the dark, because you’re in the dark. You’re sitting in the dark, all of you,” Wale said.

He challenged authorities to provide clearer insight into trafficking routes and enforcement gaps so that parliament’s response could be properly calibrated.

“We should see the picture clear so that we know what we’re talking about and our response is calibrated to make sure it is adequate,” Wale said.

Mr Wale also questioned whether the proposed penalties under the amendment would be sufficient to deter major traffickers.

He said that the Bill proposes significantly increased fines, including penalties of up to $15 million and life imprisonment for certain offences.

However, he argued that such measures may not be effective in practice.

“Our lifetime here is not a lifetime, suggesting that remission and pardon processes could result in early release,” he said.

He also said that he doubted whether a $15 million fine would deter individuals moving kilograms or tons of drugs across the country.

“For us it’s big money. But someone who is moving kilograms or tons of stuff through, $15 million Solomon dollars is probably not consequential,” he said.

Mr Wale said that the amendment appeared too narrow in scope while acknowledging that administrative collaboration and security platforms are important.

“This amendment looks straightforward and simple, but it betrays a lack of depth in the approach they have taken. It’s not responding to broader issues,” he said.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Illegal roads sparks environmental damage

Written by
Admin
-
0

[Published on Friday, March 6, 2026]

BY MORRIS NAFU

A significant portion of the environmental damage in Bloody Ridge National Historical Park in East Honiara is said to have been caused by excess illegal access roads, according to the park’s 2025 Annual Report released earlier this week.

The report highlights a growing crisis where unauthorized routes are facilitating littering, ecological disturbances, and heavy vehicle usage that has led to severe road erosion.

Beyond the environmental toll, these illegal paths have created safety risks for visitors and placed an additional operational strain on park rangers tasked with enforcement.

In response to the degradation, the Ministry responsible for the park implemented a series of measures designed to manage access while attempting to maintain community stability.

These actions included the introduction of resident vehicle permits, targeted awareness campaigns, and the gradual closure of specific illegal routes.

While these steps were deemed necessary to protect the ecological integrity of the park, the report acknowledges that the enforcement measures occasionally resulted in community tensions and security incidents.

A significant complication identified in the report is the logistical challenge of identifying alternative access routes for surrounding communities when illegal roads are closed.

In many instances, the proposed alternative roads are located outside the official park boundaries.

This creates a jurisdictional hurdle. Because these alternative routes fall under the responsibility of other ministries responsible for road planning and infrastructure, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) faces difficulties justifying involvement under existing government procurement systems.

Specifically, it is difficult for the ministry to utilize park resources for infrastructure works that extend beyond the park boundary.

Despite these involved constraints, the park team was compelled to dedicate substantial time, funding, and operational resources toward facilitating or constructing alternative access routes.

These interventions were deemed essential to reduce community backlash and allow enforcement measures to proceed safely.

However, the financial cost has been significant. The diversion of funds to build or facilitate roads outside the park has placed additional pressure on the park’s limited budget.

The report further noted that spending has diverted money that was originally intended for core conservation and development activities within the Bloody Ridge National Historical Park.

As the Ministry continues to balance the need for environmental protection with the infrastructure needs of the surrounding communities, the tension between conservation goals and community access remains a critical challenge for the park’s future management.

Bloody Ridge battlefield is a site of iconic status receiving worldwide recognition.

It is sometimes referred to as the turning point of WWII in the Pacific.

In recognition of its historical importance Bloody Ridge was declared a national park in 2017.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Clean water flows to Hirolegu and Susubona transforming lives

Written by
Admin
-
0

[Published on Friday, March 6, 2026]

BY JUNELYN KELLY

People of Hirolegu and Susubona in Isabel province are celebrating a major milestone; a commissioned rehabilitated water systems through the SOLKAS (Solomon Islands Knowledge-Action-Sustainability) project bringing clean, reliable water to approximately 700 people.

This initiative marks the end of year of water shortages, particularly during dry seasons which often forced children to miss schools.

A statement from Save the Children on Monday this week said Hirolegu now boasts of 7 community standpipes including 2 for schools and Susubona will benefit from 14 community standpipes with 2 for the health centre.

“This support is life changing especially for women who have carried the burden of fetching water”, Ms. Vagilyn Vasula, Mothers Group Leader said.

“Students now have access to water and no longer go home just to drink or fetch it”, Hirolegu Head Teacher Mr. Etile Manehei said.

Chief Nelson Manetei from Susubona said they must sustain these systems for their families and children.

He said this achievement extends beyond infrastructure, fostering stronger health, resilience and community unity.

The Solomon Islands Knowledge-Action-Sustainability for resilient Village project (SOLKAS) aims to rebuild climate resilience and is primarily funded by Green Climate Fund (GCF) with core financing from the Governments of Australia, New Zealand, and the Solomon Islands Government.

Photo credit- Save the Children, SI

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

School bus management committee serious in strengthening bus operations: HCC

Written by
Admin
-
0

[Published on Friday, March 6, 2026]

BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

The Chairman of the School Bus Management Committee for Honiara City Council (HCC) Mr George Kiriau sincerely apologizes to students and parents for the disruption of school bus services earlier on yesterday.

In a statement from HCC on Wednesday this week, Kiriau said that due to an operational oversight, two of the council’s school buses were unable to operate on Wednesday morning.

The issue was promptly addressed, and by the afternoon, all four buses had resumed their normal services.

HCC said measures are being put in place to improve coordination, supervision, and service delivery.

Also stated is that permanent bus drivers and conductors have been recruited and officially assumed duties yesterday.

“They are currently undergoing on the job training to ensure reliable and efficient service for all students,” HCC said.

Kiriau stressed that the management committee is taking this matter seriously and is committed to strengthening its operations to prevent similar disruptions in the future.

He also acknowledged the concerns raised by the general public, especially parents, regarding the inconvenience caused.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

TTC reaches endpoint of 33 km road upgrade and maintenance in West Are’are

Written by
Admin
-
0

[Published on Friday, March 6, 2026]

By RODRICK DESURI 

AUKI 

The Trades Transformation Company (TTC) has reached the endpoint of the 33 km road upgrade and maintenance from Maoa in West Kwaio to Hauhui in West Are’are in Malaita Province.

The project complements the National Transport Plan (NTP) to improve accessibility, safety, and foster economic development. 

The Ministry’s Transport Infrastructure Management Services Division unit in Auki, continues to provide supervision to ensure quality standards. 

TTC’s lead engineer, Raymond Steven, said they are reaching Afutara, just 3.5 km from the endpoint, Hauhui. 

“We anticipate good weather so we can reach Heo Bridge and get this contract done,” he said. 

The TTC is also undertaking tar sealing of the first five kilometers from Kwaibala to Oibola, and Fulisango road maintenance and repairs.

According to a media statement from the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) yesterday, the Trades Transformation Company is also assisting communities, churches, and schools along West Kwaio with access road repair and maintenance.

Su’u National Secondary School is one of the schools that the TTC has assisted with clearing, gravelling, and compaction.

Photo credit: MID

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Late Suidani’s son to contest in West Fataleka election 

Written by
Admin
-
0

[Published on Friday, March 6, 2026]

By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The son of the former MPA for West Fataleka and Premier of Malaita Province, the late Daniel Suidani, will be contesting the West Fataleka seat, Ward 5, Malaita Province. 

Norman Suidani is among the candidates contesting for the West Fataleka seat after his late father, Daniel Suidani, passed away last year after battling a long illness at the national referral hospital in Honiara. 

During an interview with the paper yesterday, Malaita Provincial Election Manager, Peter Herehura said the young contestant is smart and believes in himself to compete with the other five candidates. 

He said that Norman Suidani was also the first candidate to be registered in the first week of the nomination period. 

He said that the election will be interesting as one contestant, Dick Futaimalau, is a former Member of the Provincial Assembly for Ward 5.

He said six candidates who have officially been nominated before the closing of the nomination at 4 PM on Thursday include Norman Suidani, Dick Futaimalau, Polycarp Erekwato, Stephen Irofoa, Robinson Ratu, and Ronnie Hendry.

“On Monday, the 9th, we will have the ballot paper draw in front of the Assembly house, which is open to the public and representatives from each candidate to witness,” he said.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

POLITICAL UNCERTAINTY LINGERS

Written by
Admin
-
0

Veo faces motion of no confidence

[Published on Friday, March 6, 2026]

BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

A motion of no confidence has been filed against Western Province Premier Billy Veo, raising fresh political uncertainty within the provincial government.

Speaker of the Western Provincial Assembly, Ramrakha Talasasa Jr, confirmed receiving the notice yesterday.

The letter was later posted on the Provincial Government notice board in accordance with assembly procedures.

The motion was filed by Member of Assembly for Ward 7, Rence Sore, citing several grounds against the premier which includes; allegations include misconduct and misuse of authority, gross misuse or negligence of the powers of the office, misappropriation of public funds, and failure to address critical issues affecting Western Province.

Island Sun sighted the letter dated March 5, 2026, which states:

“This is the seven clear days notice in accordance to Standing Order 107 of the Western Provincial Government on the motion of no confidence in the Premier of Western Provincial Government which is set to be tabled during the March 2026 meeting of the Provincial Assembly.”

Earlier reports have suggested that two members of the provincial executive have left the government side and aligned themselves with the non-executive bloc.

However, their identities and the reasons behind their shift in allegiance remain unclear.

Attempts to obtain comments from Premier Veo yesterday were unsuccessful.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

1...115116117...1,665Page 116 of 1,665