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Tourism among top priorities of CIP

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[Published on Thursday, March 5, 2026]

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Premier of Central Islands Province (CIP), Kenneth Sagupari, says tourism is one of the top priorities of his government.

He said the CIP Government is determined to work closely with partners and stakeholders to fully explore the province’s tourism potential.

In line with this commitment, the province was endorsed during last year’s Second Appointed Day celebration as the country’s next emerging tourism hub.

In an interview, Premier Sagupari expressed gratitude to the national government and development partners for their continued support towards tourism growth in the province.

“In recent years, tourism has been growing, and I must thank the national government, our partners, and everyone behind these developments,” Sagupari said.

He said the province is grateful for the progress made so far and has also put forward a number of tourism development proposals.

Proposed and ongoing tourism developments in the province include:

  • The CIP Government has begun working with resource owners and relevant stakeholders to redevelop Anuha Island
  • Development of Bungana Island as a wildlife destination
  • Plans to build a 20–30 room hotel in Tulagi under the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF)
  • Establishment of a museum in Tulagi
  • Plans to work with SIPA and relevant stakeholders to develop a dedicated seaport for cruise ships in the province

Premier Sagupari said the province offers some of the country’s most unique tourism products, and the government is committed to unlocking their full potential.

These include:

  • World War II remnants
  • Colonial history, with Tulagi being the country’s first administrative centre
  • Rich natural heritage
  • Many other untapped attractions

He acknowledged that tourism had not been given enough priority in previous years, but said the sector is now gaining the recognition it deserves.

Sagupari noted that gradual growth has been observed in recent years, and his government is determined to maintain that momentum.

He said the current focus is on developing tourism in Florida Island, followed by Savo and the Russell Islands.

The premier emphasized that the province has significant untapped tourism potential that can be realized through strong partnerships and collaboration.

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Government acknowledge Solomon Islands Chinese Association

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[Published on Thursday, March 5, 2026]

BY JUNELYN KELLY

The Solomon Islands Government has publicly acknowledged the significant contributions of the Chinese Community, particularly the Solomon Islands Chinese Association to the nation’s economic development.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele highlighted this during the handover ceremony of the police post in Chinatown on Tuesday.

He commended the Chinese community’s resilience, especially the business houses and members of the Solomon Islands Chinese Association who have repeatedly rebuilt and modernized Chinatown in the face of challenges like riots and floods, while preserving its unique identity.

The Government expressed deep honor and gratitude for the ongoing support and contributions of the Chinese Association and other Chinese community members.

The PM said their efforts have been instrumental in fostering commercial and economic growth in Honiara and across the Solomon Islands, creating job opportunities and generating income for the local population over many years.

The Government looks forward to their continued partnership in the nation’s progress.

Photo credit-Press Secretariat, OPMC

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Court case for a man accused of sedition and unlawful assembly charges set for March 11

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[Published on Thursday, March 5, 2026]

BY MELVILLE TITIULU

A trial date for the case of a man accused for sedition and unlawful assembly charges in connection to the November 2021 Honiara riot has been set for March 11.

The defendant, Moffat Joel Konofilia faces two counts of charges: Count 1, sedition contrary to section 3(1)(i) of the Sedition Act, and Count 2, taking part in unlawful assembly contrary to section 74 of the Penal Code.

The matter was listed at the Juvenile Court room for interim mention at 9am on Wednesday, March 4.

However, the defendant was later informed on Wednesday, outside the Juvenile Court room by the court clerk that the matter was relocated to be heard at Court room 3.

At that interim mention, prosecuting counsel Ms Habu, who appeared on behalf of special counsel, Ms. Mary -Ann Zurenuoc proposed to court that the trial date be moved from Monday, March, 9th to Wednesday, March, 11th 2026.

She said this is to allow prosecuting counsel Ms. Zurenuoc, who is in carriage of the case file, enough time to attend the death of her sister in PNG as she is currently on compassionate leave.

Ms. Habu also informed court that the same information as to proposed adjournment was also communicated to the defendant’s lawyer, Mrs. Lilly Ramo via email.

Likewise, the court clerk and Principal Magistrate was also privy to that email correspondence.

Principal Magistrate Tearo then informed the defendant that she actually was on holiday but was called to appear in court to settle the issues raised in that ‘’exchange of email’’ for trial proper.

When asked by court whether or not he was aware of the proposed changes, about the trial date being moved from Monday, March, 9th to Wednesday, March, 11, Mr. Konofilia said that he was not aware of that as his lawyer never relayed that information to him prior to attending court.

The Principal Magistrate in court said, ‘’lawyers should convey aspect of case to clients rather than the courts to do that.’’

Mrs. Tearo further reiterated in court that it is no good that the defendant finds out of the proposed trial issues later in court.

The defendant was also asked by court whether he agreed to the proposed adjournment date for trial on Wednesday, March, 11th 2026 as opposed to Monday, March, 9th 2026.

In response, Mr. Konofilia told court that he does not want the matter to be dragged on hence, opposed the idea for an adjournment.

Principal Magistrate Mrs. Tearo clarified to the defendant that ‘’the adjournment is for customary purposes’’ and that ‘’a compassionate leave is a legal leave.’’

In this case, the court seeks adjournment for trial on Wednesday, March, 11th 2026 as a ‘’matter of courtesy,’’Mrs. Tearo told the defendant in court.

She pointed out that ‘’had it been a 1-month adjournment then that would be a big issue,’’ but that in the present case, it’s just a two days adjournment.

The Principal Magistrate reminded the prosecution and the defendant that she expects them to attend trial on the set trial date come Wednesday, March, 11th 2026, as by then, she is expected to resume duties from holiday.

The matter has been set for Wednesday, March, 11th 2026 for trial at 9am and court also ordered that bail be extended for Mr. Konofilia.

Ms. Habu from the Director of Public Prosecutions, appeared on behalf of special counsel, Ms. Mary -Ann Zurenuoc while the defendant Mr. Konofilia appeared in person at the interim mention yesterday.

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Company name identified

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[Published on Thursday, March 5, 2026]

BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

COMMUNITY leaders and anti-mining activists in Isabel Province are alleged to have identified the company that will be carrying prospecting at Poku.

According to reports, WIN-Win Mining is the company but the operation will be contracted to another company.

A report alleged that Win-Win has subcontracted the operation to China Railway Company Limited.

A community leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that China Railway Company Limited will carry out the prospecting instead of Win-Win.

“From what we gathered, both tenements — Jaho and Poku — are under Win-Win prospecting licenses.

“We know that Solomon Islands Resource Company Limited is a shadow company of Win-Win,” the source claimed.

The source said community leaders expressed concern about the potential social and environmental impact of the operations.

“We are lost for words to describe how these operations will impact our social setting, especially the environment which has fed us for hundreds of years,” the source said.

The latest development at Poku brings the total number of mining operations in Isabel to four, following the recent closure of the Suma mining operation.

Reports reaching Island Sun confirm that a ship loaded with heavy equipment was sighted sailing past Lelegia Village en route to Poku, where the new operation is expected to begin.

Multiple sources from nearby communities also confirmed that mining equipment has already landed at Poku, near Koisisi and Fanavi villages.

“There are 10 dump trucks, two Hilux vehicles and 20,000 litres of fuel onboard the ship,” one source told Island Sun earlier this week.

Authorities have yet to publicly comment on the new prospecting activities.

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Call to review the Provincial Government Act

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[Published on Thursday, March 5, 2026]

BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

CONCERNS are mounting over the balance of power between the national government and provincial administrations, with critics arguing that existing laws continue to centralise authority at the expense of meaningful decentralisation.

In his post on Facebook, Mr. Edward Biku II has raised strong concerns about the shift from the Provincial Government Act 1981 to the Provincial Government Act 1997.

He said the transition is a fundamental change that altered the governance structure of the Solomon Islands.

According to Biku, the 1997 Act consolidated power back to the central government, significantly limiting provincial autonomy.

He argues that the 1981 framework recognised the importance of decentralisation and provided provinces with meaningful authority to govern their local affairs.

Biku said the existing provincial laws require ministerial assent before taking effect. 

He said provincial finances are largely dependent on discretionary grants from the central government, and provincial governments may be suspended on what critics describe as broad and undefined grounds.

“This is not federalism. It is administrative decentralisation under central control,” Biku said.

He said the country must be serious about promoting national unity and long-term political stability.

Biku is advocating for a modern reform agenda that would include constitutional entrenchment of provincial powers, a guaranteed revenue-sharing formula, and a clear division of responsibilities between national and provincial governments.

He said judicial safeguards to prevent political suspension of provincial governments, as well as the establishment of independent electoral and boundary bodies must be addressed.

“Federal transition is not about weakening the nation.

“It is about strengthening it through shared sovereignty and accountable governance,” Biku said.

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BULL’S EYE BATTLE

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Gizo Hypers crowned “dart kings” in Taro showdown

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

GIZO HYPERS have emerged champions of the Choiseul Province’s 35th Second Appointed Day Dart Competition, outclassing nine other teams in a thrilling tournament staged in Taro.

The competition, proudly sponsored by Our Telekom, was one of the major sporting highlights of the Choiseul’s 35th Appointed Day celebrations, drawing ten teams from surrounding villages in a vibrant display of skill, focus and community spirit.

In an official post following the event, Our Telekom congratulated the winners, stating: “Your precision, focus, and competitive spirit stood out among the many talented teams that participated. A well-deserved victory”!

The champions’ sharp finishing and composure under pressure saw them claim the top prize in what organizers described as a highly competitive tournament.

Securing the second place was home team Taro Bolts, whose strong performance thrilled local supporters.

“A strong performance from the home side saw them rise through the ranks and secure second place in a competitive tournament filled with skill, experience and determination”, a statement from the sponsors said.

Third prize went to Mainland, earning praise for their effort and determination throughout the competition. Organizers noted their performance as “truly earned this spot on the podium”.

Fourth place was secured by Taro Hypers, who were commended for their precision and commitment in what was described as an exciting and closely contested tournament.

Beyond the team awards, individual brilliance was also celebrated.

A consolation prize for Highest Checker went to Loni from the Viviru team, who produced an impressive 105 check-out — a moment that drew loud cheers from the crowd.

The coveted Golden Hand award was shared between Lozy of Taro Bolts and Jack of Gizo Hypers, recognizing consistent excellence and steady hands under pressure.

The dart competition was part of a wider celebration marking Choiseul’s 35th Second Appointed Day, with sport serving as a unifying force for communities across the province.

Ten teams competing in strong numbers created what organizers described as a “vibrant atmosphere filled with experience, skill and outstanding talent”.

While only the top performers walked away with prizes, the sponsor emphasized that “the true victory was the spirit of unity and sportsmanship shared among all participants”.

Telekom staff member, Gibson Sisolo, who attended the event, highlighted the importance of such initiatives, saying competitions like this provide a valuable platform for local dart players from surrounding villages to come together and enjoy healthy, competitive play.

Through its continued backing of grassroots sport, Our Telekom reaffirmed its commitment to support communities and connect people across Solomon Islands.

For Gizo Hypers, this year’s celebration will be remembered for one thing — lifting the trophy in Taro and etching their name as dart champions of Choiseul’s 35th Second Appointed Day celebrations.

Photo credit- Our Telekom

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Pegi sees progress despite eight-goal defeat

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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

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

There may have been eight goals on the scoreboard at fulltime, but for Solomon Islands captain Ileen Pegi, the margin itself signals quiet progress.

The host nation went down 8-0 to the world-class New Zealand women’s national football team in their second outing of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 Oceania qualifiers round 2 at Honiara’s National Stadium on Monday.

But in a post-match interview shortly after the final whistle, Pegi highlighted what she believes is a subtle but significant improvement in her side’s performance against the region’s powerhouse.

“I think this is one of the lowest score lines that New Zealand could give us”, Pegi said. “We always lose to them 12-10 or above. I think I’m happy. The girls did their best to defend”.

While the result was still emphatic, the captain’s reflection underscores a team determined to measure growth beyond the numbers.

Coming up against seasoned World Cup campaigners was always going to be a stern test for the youthful Solomon Islands squad.

“This one it’s next level, different levels”, Pegi admitted when asked about the pace of the match. “Playing against the World Cup players, it’s a different level. Intensity is very high for us, but I’m proud of the girls, they fight until the final whistle”.

The Football Ferns, ranked among the elite in Oceania and regulars on the global stage, demonstrated their experience and physicality throughout the 90 minutes. For the Solomon Islands, however, the match served as a priceless learning curve.

With a squad blending youth and experience, Pegi emphasized development as the tournament’s key takeaway.

“This team consists of young players and old players, but not a majority of old players. I’m happy with the development of the young ones, to gain experience with this one and build up from this tournament, and ready for the upcoming tournaments ahead in the future”.

She described the campaign as the start of a new beginning for football in the Solomon, expressing pride in the young players stepping up to senior level competition.

“I’m so happy and proud of us. I’m happy for the young players for joining the senior team and gaining more experience in this tournament”.

Questions were also raised about limited substitutions during the match. Pegi was clear that the team remained disciplined to the coach’s tactical approach.

“For that I think it followed the game plan of coach”, she explained. “And we still have one game ahead. So, we preserve our players, got turns and chances to play and gain experience of the intensity in this level of football with New Zealand”.

Her response reflects a longer-term strategy — managing squad fitness while exposing players to top-level competition.

Despite the heavy defeat, the captain’s message was one of resilience and belief.

“I’m proud of the girls for their fighting spirit and for the country”.

With one more match remaining in the qualifiers, Solomon Islands will now regroup, carrying lessons from facing world-class opposition and confidence that, slowly but surely, the gap is narrowing.

Photo credit-SIFF

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Illegal access roads, a challenge for Bloody Ridge

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BY NED GAGAHE

Illegal access roads through the Bloody Ridge Historical Park continued to be a major management challenge during 2025, according to a recent annual report.

The report said shortcut traffic from surrounding settlements contributed to a large proportion of environmental damage, littering, and disturbances recorded during the year.

Heavy vehicle use also caused road erosion, safety risks, and additional strain on ranger operations, the report said.

Several measures were implemented to manage access while maintaining community stability, including the introduction of resident vehicle permits, awareness campaigns, and the gradual closure of certain routes.

These actions were necessary to protect the integrity of the park, although they occasionally resulted in community tensions and security incidents.

A significant complication has been the need to identify alternative access routes for surrounding communities when illegal roads were closed through the park.

In many cases, the proposed alternative roads are located outside park boundaries and fall under the responsibility of other ministries responsible for road planning and infrastructure.

As a result, it has been difficult for the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to justify involvement under existing government procurement systems, as it is difficult to use park resources for works beyond the park boundary.

Despite these constraints, the report said the park team was required to dedicate substantial time, funding, and operational resources towards facilitating or constructing alternative access routes.

“These interventions were necessary to reduce community backlash and allow enforcement measures to proceed safely. However, the costs were significant and placed additional pressure on the park’s limited budget, diverting funds that were originally intended for core conservation and development activities within Bloody Ridge National Historical Park,” the report said.

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Security remains a challenge at Bloody Ridge

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BY JUNELYN KELLY

Security operations remained one of the most demanding aspects of managing Bloody Ridge National Historical Park during 2025.

According to Bloody Ridge National Historical Park Annual Report 2025 released recently, the operational environment continues to be challenging, with incidents linked to illegal access roads, alcohol-related disturbances, encroachment, and vandalism.

The report said the security log for 2025 recorded a total of 135 incidents across all categories, illustrating the scale of day-to-day management required to maintain control of the park.

Many incidents were directly linked to vehicle traffic using illegal shortcut roads through the park, which placed additional pressure on ranger teams and infrastructure.

Despite these challenges, the expansion of patrol routes, first aid training, and EOD awareness training strengthened the capacity of the ranger force and improved overall safety for visitors.

The report said that the presence of trained security closure of illegal shortcut road staff remains essential to maintaining order, protecting heritage sites, and enabling ongoing development activities throughout Bloody Ridge National Historical Park.

The majority of incidents were related to disturbances and anti-social behaviour at gates, roads and monument sites.

“In total: 63 disturbance-related incidents were recorded, including drinking in the park, quarrels at the gate, loitering, and refusal to comply with entry rules. 26 crime and security incidents were logged, including vandalism, threats, violence, and theft.

“24 encroachment and environmental damage incidents were recorded, such as illegal land clearing, littering and fly-tipping. 18 EOD-related callouts were carried out, reflecting the continued presence of unexploded ordnance within the park. A smaller number of incidents involved infrastructure damage, accidents, and requests for assistance,” the report said.

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More visitors to Bloody Ridge

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

Bloody Ridge National Historical Park recorded a significant increase in visitor numbers in 2025, according to its recent annual report.

The report said that visitor numbers continued to grow throughout the year, reflecting increasing national and international awareness of Bloody Ridge as a key World War II heritage site on Guadalcanal.

“A total of 3,524 people visited or used the Park during the year,” the report said.

This figure includes tourists, students, official delegations, commemorative events and local recreational users — highlighting the park’s growing role as a multi-purpose national space.

Of the total number, 1,873 were foreign tourists, demonstrating strong international interest in the Guadalcanal campaign. A further 602 were local tourists — Solomon Islanders visiting the Park as domestic travellers.

Combined, both foreign and local tourists totalled 2,476 visitors, representing 70 percent of all park users in 2025.

In addition, 876 visitors were local students and researchers, mainly forestry students from Solomon Islands National University (SINU), while 159 visitors were part of official delegations or work-related activities.

The report also highlighted a major milestone during the year — the introduction of the first commemorative event held on the actual anniversary of the Battle of Bloody Ridge, from 12–14 September.

Previously, commemorations were aligned with the 7 August landings on Guadalcanal. However, shifting the event to September has strengthened historical accuracy and reduced overlap with other national events.

The commemoration attracted high-profile participants, including ambassadors, foreign ministers, Members of Parliament and visiting military delegations, reinforcing the international significance of the site.

Throughout the year, the park also hosted a growing number of organised activities and community events. These included runs by the Hash Harriers and larger sporting initiatives such as the Solomon Airlines Peace Marathon.

The report said that while visitors from the United States and Japan represent only a small share of overall tourism arrivals to Solomon Islands, their strong presence at Bloody Ridge highlights the niche appeal of WWII heritage tourism.

Many of these visitors have direct historical or family connections to the Guadalcanal campaign, including descendants of veterans and specialist tour groups.

Local Solomon Islander visitors also made up a significant portion of overall attendance. Community members, students, runners and local organisations use the park regularly for recreation, training and public events.

The report said that distinguishing between tourists, students and local users is important in understanding how the park contributes not only to tourism development, but also to education, recreation and national heritage awareness.

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