The defending champions have landed — and they mean business

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The New Zealand women’s national football team arrived in Honiara on Tuesday afternoon brimming with confidence and determination ahead of the upcoming OFC Women’s Nations Cup qualifiers.

Speaking upon arrival, senior squad member Claudia said the team was thrilled to be in the Solomon Islands despite having to quickly adjust to the tropical conditions.

“We’re really excited to be here”, Claudia said. “It’s nice and warm — it’s going to take time getting used to — but the girls are really excited for the tournament ahead”.

Coming in as defending champions, New Zealand are well aware they will be the team to beat.

“We’re really motivated, really excited, we’re looking forward to our first game against Samoa”, she said.

Claudia acknowledged that carrying the champions’ tag brings added pressure but insisted it also fuels the squad’s confidence.

“We definitely have a target on our backs”.  She admitted. “We’ve been looking at other teams and doing video analysis. It’s a quick turnaround — we’ve got one training before the game — so there’s a bit to cover before the first match, but we’re really looking forward to getting started”.

This campaign sees a refreshed New Zealand side, with several new and young players included alongside experienced returnees.

“It’s a very new team, we’ve got quite a few new faces and a young squad, which is exciting. We’ve also got some older girls coming back in too, so we’re really excited”, Claudia explained.

She added that fans may witness a few debut appearances during the tournament.

The team’s broader objective extends beyond defending their regional crown.

“We want to go and win and qualify for the World Cup”, she said. “We’ll start with the first game and take it one at a time”.

One of the immediate challenges for the visitors will be adapting to Honiara’s heat and humidity.

“Getting used to the heat, for starters — it’s very hot here”, Claudia noted. “We just want to focus on what we can do as a team”.

The coaching staff’s message has been simple but clear: consistency and composure.

“We’re going to take it game by game”, she said. “We obviously want to qualify for the World Cup. We’re working on our possession and being consistent throughout all the games”.

Claudia also had a message for football supporters in Honiara as the tournament kicks off.

“Come down to any game — it’s going to be a great atmosphere”, she urged. “The Oceania teams are developing and there’s a small World Cup spot up for grabs. Whether you want to get behind us or your own team, we’d love to see you there”.

With only one training session before their opening fixture, New Zealand will waste no time settling in. As the defending champions set their sights on another title and World Cup qualification, all eyes will be on how the tournament heavyweights handle the pressure in the Solomon Islands heat.

If early confidence is anything to go by, the champions are ready for the challenge.

Photo credit: Tony Iroga

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY TONY IROGA

The Samoa senior women’s team have arrived in Honiara for the upcoming round two of the FIFA women’s world cup 2027 Oceania qualifiers.

The team landed in Honiara International Airport yesterday at 2 pm with its group A team New Zealand.

The group A matches are set to kick start on Friday 27 March 2026 in which Samoa women’s team will be meeting rival, New Zealand, at 3 pm at the national stadium in East Honiara.

The top two teams from group A will advance to round three semi-final and final which will be hosted in New Zealand from April 7th to 18th 2026.

In an interview with Island Sun yesterday, the head coach of Samoa women’s team, Mr Paul Ifill said their preparation is good enough for them to play their first game against rival New Zealand on Friday.

He said his team is looking forward to qualify second behind New Zealand.

“We really going to put our effort to game two against American Samoa and game three against Solomon Islands to find way to semi-final in Aukland on April this year 2026,” he said.

The coach said they really hope to win their game against New Zealand this Friday.

“If we can get a close game, the first game against New Zealand then we will focus more better to round three,” he said.

He added that the top two teams from group A and group B will advance to the semi-final in April 2026.

The coach said as one of the top seven ranked teams in Oceania they received a “bye”, which is the preferential status of a player or team that automatically advances to the next round of a tournament without playing an opponent in an early round, directly into round two (2).

He also said they did not play in round one of the OFC qualifiers for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.

The winner of the final in April will earn a direct spot at the FIFA women’s world cup in 2027 in Brazil.

To their fans back home and in Honiara, he said they will be giving everything they can.

Photo credit: Tony Iroga

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

Eric George, Provincial Permanent Secretary of Malaita Province, thanks the government of Japan for their partnership with the national and provincial governments to construct the new Kilu’ufi Hospital.

He made the acknowledgement during Japanese Ambassador to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Mr. Keiichi Higuchi’s visit to Malaita’s Premier Elijah Asilaua’s office last week.

With 92 percent completed, he said the hospital will not only benefit the people of Malaita in terms of providing medical treatment to sick patients, but it will also benefit the people of other provinces. 

George said this newly constructed hospital which is almost completed will become one of the health centers providing services to the region in the Solomon Islands and to anyone who requires those services.

He also acknowledged the Japanese government for building the Auki Central Market for the people of Malaita Province. 

George said it has now become the market hub for the people to bring agricultural produce and earn income to support their families and economic livelihood.

In the meantime, he also took the time to brief the Japanese Embassy on Malaita Province’s future plans. 

He said the province is eyeing building a terminal to accommodate travelers to and from Malaita and constructing a retention wall starting from Auki Market to the Harbour Light shop in Auki.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY JUNELYN KELLY

Nominations for the second annual Women’s Leadership Award under the Australia Awards scholarship program are now open.

The Australian High Commission (AHC) in a statement yesterday said the award is to recognise a female Australia Awards alumna for her outstanding contribution to development in the Solomon Islands.

AHC said this year, the successful awardee will receive a cash grant of AUD 5,000, intended to support her ongoing professional development.

The award is to celebrate women who have made significant contributions in their respective fields, demonstrating excellence, leadership, and dedication.

It also honours those who inspire positive change, break barriers, create opportunities for others, and serve as role models for future generations.

AHC said women leaders in Solomon Islands play a vital role in shaping communities and driving progress across many sectors.

“The Australia Awards Women’s Leadership Award highlights the impact of alumnae who are championing positive change. Their dedication and resilience contribute to a stronger, more inclusive society,” said AHC.

The statement noted that to be eligible for this award, nominees must be Australia Awards alumnae.

AHC said the nominations are open to anyone who wishes to recognise the contributions of an exceptional alumna and self-nominations are also welcomed.

Nomination as noted, will close on March 3, 2026 at 11: 59 pm and nominations can be submitted through the link; https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WLA26.

Photo: AHC

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The Solomon Islands Agriculture Rural Transformation (SIART) has invested SDB 6.99 million in 16 Agribusiness Producer Organizations (APBO) in Malaita Province. 

The SIART project’s goal is to increase agricultural production and improve market access in selected provinces, namely Guadalcanal, Malaita, and Makira/Ulawa. 

The project also aims to enhance agricultural sustainability and livelihoods, and it prioritizes a prompt and effective response in the event of an eligible crisis or emergency. 

According to a media release from SIART on Tuesday, Malaita piggery farmers have expressed their appreciation for the support provided through the Solomon Islands Agriculture Rural Transformation (SIART) Project.

The statement said this support will improve the livelihoods of rural communities by allowing farmers to produce healthier pigs, which will increase their earnings and in turn, enable them to afford necessities for their households and their children’s education.

Almost 16 associations that received support from the SIART project will benefit from a $400,000 grant that includes the construction of a breeding and fattening shelter, improvement of breeding stock, tools and equipment, and a working capital revolving fund for members of the association to purchase stock and feed.

Tom Irosaea from Fa’arau Village in Central Kwara’ae said the project will help and support them to achieve their dreams.

“I was a piggery farmer for 40 years. In our community, we have struggled to have a breeding shelter for our people, but it is hard. So, we are thankful that SIART is supporting us in achieving this dream.

“In Fa’arau village, the association’s breeding shelter is already taking shape, and we are confident that it will be completed by the end of this year,” he said.

Island Sun understands that most of the associations are yet to complete their breeding shelters, due to delayed materials.

SIART is also providing refresher training for local farmers on pig husbandry, animal health, and financial literacy to enable the association to manage their ABPO.

Photo credit: SIART

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

The Minister for Culture and Tourism, Mrs Choylin Yim Douglas has officially opened Phase One of the new Zaru Hotel in Gizo, marking a milestone for tourism development in Western Province.

A statement from Tourism Solomons said the hotel comprises of 16 guest rooms, has a fully equipped conference facility and commercial rental spaces.

This sets the hotel at a new level.

“…the new hotel is seen as establishing a new standard of hospitality infrastructure in Gizo and expected to play a role in helping to boost tourism, business travel and events in the Solomon Islands’ main tourism corridor,” said the statement.

Tourism Solomons said the addition of conference facilities is particularly significant, as it will open new opportunities for meetings, workshops, and small-scale events in Western Province, an area traditionally known more for leisure tourism than business travel.

Speaking at the launching of the hotel, Minister Douglas said Zaru Hotel will boost employment opportunities for local residents and stimulate increased spending in the local economy.

She also paid tribute to Zaru Hotel owner, Mr Jacob Kwan, saying that the development sends a clear message across the country that high-quality tourism infrastructure is achievable, and local investors can lead transformative projects.

“As the industry continues its recovery and transition toward long-term growth, projects like Zaru Hotel reflect a shift from resilience to renewal.

“What stands before us today is not just another accommodation facility. Zaru Hotel represents a significant step forward in raising the standard of hospitality in the Solomon Islands.

“This type of development is exactly what we need to boost both our domestic and international tourism.

“Tourism is a priority sector for economic growth and diversification. “We want to see more quality rooms. We want to see better standards. We want to see local investors taking the lead in shaping the future of our tourism industry,” she said.

Meanwhile, welcoming the news of this new hotel, Tourism Solomons’ Acting CEO, Dagnal Dereveke said the hotel is a timely and strategic addition to Western Province’s accommodation portfolio.

“Zaru Hotel strengthens Gizo’s ability to meet growing demand from both international and domestic markets.

“As we continue targeted marketing in Australia, New Zealand and other key source markets, having quality room stock in destinations like Western Province is critical.

“This development enhances our destination credibility and supports our message that the Solomon Islands offers authentic experiences backed by reliable, comfortable and affordable infrastructure,” he said.

Photo credit: Tourism Solomons

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Guest speaker of this years’ Choiseul province 35th Second Appointed Day, Joseph Pitakia calls for urgent solutions to critical development challenges as the province marks 35 years since its Second Appointment Day.

Speaking to the Lauru community in Honiara, yesterday at the national museum during the celebration to mark the event, Mr Pitakia said that shipping is a top priority of the province.

 “Reliable and affordable shipping is the lifeline of our provinces. Our farmers struggle to get cocoa, coconuts, and garden produce to Honiara, and high costs are stunting economic growth,” he said.

He said that roads, wharves, and electrification are the veins of development and Choiseul province must speak frankly about one of as one of their greatest challenges.

“Addressing shipping and infrastructure is not just an economic issue it is a matter of justice, opportunity, and survival for our people,” the guest of honour said.

He said that the message is clear and that is for Choiseul to thrive over the next 35 years, the province must act boldly, creatively, and in unity.

“Many capable business people at the village level are denied their right to run sustainable businesses. The cost of goods remains high and our economic growth is stunted. Addressing the shipping crisis is not just about infrastructure; it is about justice, opportunity, and economic survival. We must make this a top priority for the next 35 years,” he said.

He also put more emphasis on education and healthcare with more than 36,000 students from the province currently enrolled in schools and nearly 1,500 in tertiary education.

He said that investing in human capital is essential to build a prosperous future for the people of Choiseul province.

“To our future. Education is the most powerful weapon which we can use to change the world. Not only that, but to safeguard our freedom.

“Health is the foundation of our communities. We must ensure that every child has access to the necessary healthcare and nutrition to thrive and reach their full potential,” he said.

He also urges their leaders to lead with vision and courage; encouraging the community to explore local income-generating opportunities, including agriculture, forestry, and marine industries.

Photo credit: John Houanihau

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Although they come from different villages, clans and faiths, unity is the heartbeat of Choiseul (Lauru) province.

Ruth Liloqula made the statement whilst speaking at the Choiseul Province Hard Talk Forum at the Auditorium of the National Museum in Honiara on Tuesday, February 24, ahead of the province’s 35th Second Appointed Day celebration.

The province marked its 35th Second Appointed Day yesterday at the National Museum’s auditorium in Honiara.

“We share one identity as sons and daughters of this province. Our strength lies in standing together whether in times of joy or in moment of challenge,” she said.

Mrs Liloqula said that unity is the anchor that keeps the province steady as they face the tides of change.

“This unity however threatened by the misuse and abuse our worthy customs for personal interest. How has unity help the province overcome challenges in the past 35 years, and how can we continue to strengthen it in the years ahead?” she asked.

In terms of honouring the province, she said the journey has been long and meaningful.

“We honour the courage of our ancestors who safeguard our land, traditions, and our dignity. We remember the resilience of our people who endured hardships, yet never lost hope. But do we have them today and is it intact or do we need to do what we can to endure its survival,” she said.

Mrs Liloqula said that the 35th Second Appointed Day of the province is a symbol of self-determination, a reminder that Choiseul chooses to stand tall, chart its path and celebrate its identity for all its people.

She said that along the way the province has built schools and communities, raised leaders and nature generations.

“Each step of our journey is a lesson and each milestone is a gift to the future. Progress is the fruit of unity,” she said.

Photo credit: John Houanihau

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY LORETTA B MANELE

China Police Liaison Team (CPLT) Deputy Commissioner, Yang Jian says China stands ready to support Solomon Islands in combating drug crimes.

He made the statement at the hearing of the Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Bill 2025 before the Bills and Legislation Committee (BLC) in parliament on Tuesday this week.

Deputy Commissioner Jian said during China’s own drug control experience in international corporation practices, they supported the establishment of a sound legal framework to fight transnational drug trafficking.

On this note, he said CPLT commends the Solomon Islands government for upgrading its drug control legislation.

Deputy Commissioner Jian said the proposed increase in maximum penalty is necessary and effective to deter serious drug offences and it is in line with international norms and China’s strict anti-drug policy.

“The government of PRC stands ready to strengthen corporation with Solomon Islands in combating drug crimes and is willing to provide the necessary assistance to provide support for capacity building, law enforcement corporation and drug control governance,” he said.

He said the Dangerous Drugs Amendment Bill 2025 is an important step in drug control and the CPLT supports the bill and stands ready to support the Solomon Islands in its implementation and regional anti-drug corporation.

Photo credit: RSIPF

For feedback: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]