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NEW OPPOSITION LEADER

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Sogavare assumes leadership role

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Parliamentary Opposition Group has formally announced the appointment of Manasseh Damukana Sogavare, Member of Parliament for East Choiseul, as Leader of the Official Opposition in the National Parliament of Solomon Islands.

A statement from the Office of the Leader of Opposition yesterday said Sogavare assumes the role following the collective decision of the Opposition Group to entrust him with leading the Opposition’s parliamentary agenda and national engagement during the current term of Parliament.

Sogavare is a four-time Prime Minister and one of the country’s most experienced political leaders, bringing extensive leadership experience, institutional knowledge, and a longstanding record of public service to the position.

Throughout his political career, he has played a central role in shaping national policy, strengthening regional engagement, and advancing key governance and development initiatives.

The statement said regarded widely as one of the most influential political figures in Solomon Islands’ modern political history, Sogavare has consistently advocated for national unity, independent decision-making, rural advancement, and the protection of Solomon Islands’ national interests.

As Leader of the Official Opposition, he will lead the Opposition in carrying out its constitutional responsibility of ensuring accountability, constructive parliamentary scrutiny, and informed national debate on issues affecting the people of Solomon Islands.

Also stated is that under Sogavare’s leadership, the Opposition will continue to advocate for responsible governance, economic resilience, rural development, improved service delivery, transparency, and policies that reflect the interests and aspirations of all Solomon Islanders.

The Opposition Group reaffirms its commitment to uphold parliamentary democracy, to protect the integrity of national institutions, and contribute constructively to the country’s stability and development.

The group also expressed confidence in Sogavare’s leadership as the 12th Parliament continues to address the important economic, social, and governance challenges facing the country.

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VENUE CHANGE

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Chess tournament 2026 now set for Outback Holiday Resort

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands Chess Federation has confirmed a venue change for its upcoming Chess Tournament 2026, with Sunday’s event now shifted from White River School to Outback Holiday Resort at Rove.

The update was announced this week through the federation’s official social media platform as preparations continue ahead of the competition on Sunday, May 24.

Registration for the tournament will open at 10am, with participation fee set at SBD20.

Organisers confirmed that the competition will be played under a rapid 20-minute format with no notation and a total of eight rounds.

The tournament will also feature the much-anticipated Challenge Match between local players Junior Lui and Fred R in a special 25-minute rapid showdown.

The federation is encouraging both new and experienced players, including juniors and seniors, to take part in the event and support the continued growth of chess in Solomon Islands.

Tournament preparations and chess materials are currently underway as officials gear up for Sunday’s competition.

Island Sun earlier reported that the tournament was initially scheduled to be held at White River School before organisers confirmed the new venue this week.

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Belaga communities unite for Independence Day soccer tournament

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Communities within Belaga District in North East Small Ngella are preparing for an exciting week of football and community celebration as plans are underway for the upcoming Belaga District Ward 7 Independence Day Soccer Knockout Tournament.

The tournament, which is scheduled to run from Monday, July 6 to Friday, July 10 at Tavulea Village, is expected to bring together youths and community teams from across Belaga District and nearby communities in a celebration of unity through sports.

Games Coordinator, Danzo Kakadi, told Sun Sports that the initiative was put together through a collective effort between himself and community leaders within the area.

“Basically, I initiated this program and discussed it together with our community leaders and elders before we came together to organise this Independence Day soccer tournament.

“So, I’m like the co-host together with the support from the community,” Kakadi said.

Kakadi said the main objective of the tournament is to use sports as a platform to unite young people while celebrating Solomon Islands’ Independence anniversary.

“The main purpose of organising this Independence Day soccer tournament is to bring together youths within Belaga District communities and surrounding communities to celebrate Independence Day through sports,” he said.

He added that the tournament will also serve a community development purpose through fundraising efforts.

“Another important purpose of the tournament is to help raise funds to support the completion of a community rest house in Tavulea village, North East Small Ngella,” Kakadi explained.

Apart from the competition itself, Kakadi said the event will also help identify and encourage talented young footballers from the rural communities.

“This is also one way to help our young talented youths identify and showcase their talents through sports,” he added.

The tournament will feature a 7-a-side knockout format, with teams progressing through elimination rounds into the semi-finals and grand final.

Registration fee for participating teams is set at $150, and registration closes on July 4.

Cash prizes will also be awarded to the top four teams, with the champions to receive $1,500, runners-up $1,000, third place $500 and fourth place $300.

Kakadi calls on young people and teams to positively participate in the event and embrace teamwork and community spirit.

“At the rural level there are still opportunities available for young people through sports, and it is important that youths involve themselves positively and work together as a team,” he said.

He also acknowledged that organisers are still seeking support and sponsorship assistance towards the successful hosting of the tournament, particularly in areas such as prizes, footballs, whistles and uniforms.

More updates and information regarding the tournament are expected to be released by organisers as preparations continue towards the event.

The Belaga District Ward 7 Independence Day Soccer Knockout Tournament is a community-driven sporting initiative that aims to promote youth engagement, unity and rural community development through football during Solomon Islands’ Independence celebrations.

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TC Maila response underway in affected provinces

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

The National Disaster Council (NDC), through the National Disaster Operations Committee (N-DOC) and Provincial Disaster Committees, continues to coordinate disaster response efforts following Tropical Cyclone Maila’s impact in Western, Choiseul, Isabel, Central and Guadalcanal provinces.

In Western Province, the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (PEOC) in Gizo is leading assessments and early recovery actions, working closely with national teams to prioritise needs and support affected communities, a statement from the NDC said.

Health teams have recorded 195 patient encounters across four surveillance sites. Malaria, prolonged fever, and acute diarrhoea are the most common illnesses, with rising cases among children under five.

Damage to health facilities and cold chain systems, combined with food shortages, raise concerns about child malnutrition.

Education services have also been disrupted. A total of 84 schools across Western, Choiseul and Guadalcanal have been affected, with 16 suffering major damage.

In Western Province, 21 schools are impacted, 10 severely.

NDC also said that two schools remain occupied as displacement camps, delaying reopening. Schools are categorised into Green, Yellow and Red zones depending on their operational status.

Infrastructure damage is widespread, with homes destroyed or damaged in coastal areas west of Gizo Town.

Protection concerns have been raised for women vendors and children. Displaced families, mainly women and children, are sheltering at the Gizo Resource Centre where water, food and supplies remain inadequate.

No gender-based violence cases have been formally reported, though monitoring is limited, the statement said.

Temporary shelters are operating at three schools, while evacuation centres have been established at Maneaba Community Hall, Noro Community High School, and Telina SDA Primary School.

N-DOC Chairman Jonathan Tafiariki praised the efforts of provincial teams and sector agencies, urging continued daily updates to guide coordinated response and recovery.

The PEOC remains the central hub for provincial response, working with national authorities to address resource gaps and support affected communities.

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MID intensifies road relief works

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), through its Transport Infrastructure Management Services Division (TIMSD), has intensified road relief works across 20 key routes in Honiara following recent heavy rainfall.

Local contractors have been active since late last month, carrying out grading, resurfacing, cold-patching, drainage clean-ups, and critical bridge repairs on both sealed and unsealed roads, a statement from MID said.

Routine maintenance on selected sealed sections is also nearing completion.

To ease congestion in the Central Business District, the Land Transport Management Services Division is working alongside the Road Transport Board Taskforce.

Teams are deployed during morning and afternoon peak hours to manage traffic along Mendana Avenue as contractors reach a critical stage under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project, MID said.

The taskforce is also conducting spot checks on defective and expired vehicles to ensure road safety.

Despite budget constraints, the Ministry is prioritising the most critical road networks first. Civil teams are working to maintain minimum quality standards while stabilising traffic flow and ensuring the safety of road users.

Authorities have thanked the public for their patience, cooperation, and adherence to traffic directions during this crucial maintenance period.

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Bishop Hope urges Anglican churches to invest in income-generating activities

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

BISHOP of Isabel Diocese, Rev. Chris Hope, calls on Anglican churches within the diocese to invest in income-generating activities to strengthen and sustain the church’s mission and vision.

Speaking during his first visit to Saint Luke Parish in Gizo, Bishop Hope said the Diocese of Isabel, being the largest diocese within the Church of Melanesia, must embrace innovation to support its long-term goals.

He said under his leadership, the diocese will explore ways to help churches become more self-reliant, acknowledging that support from the diocesan administration has often been slow.

“Our diocese will continue to work alongside you with your aspirations, but for the church and mission to continue, we must work extra hard at parish level.

“This is important so that we can achieve some of our vision in the long term,” Hope said.

He encourages parishes to venture into small-scale business activities to generate income that can support church programs and clergy work.

Hope said the diocese permits churches to engage in business ventures that sustain church operations.

“Invest in canteens, petrol depots, chicken farming and similar ventures. It will help us fund our church activities as well as support clergy with their work,” he said.

Hope said economic self-reliance is vital if churches are to continue delivering spiritual and community responsibilities effectively.

He also highlighted the diocese’s broader vision of strengthening mission work in the Western Solomons.

Hope said collaboration with sister churches, resource owners, traditional leaders and provincial governments will be key to achieving that vision.

“Today is our time, we will work together,” he said.

Hope’s message formed part of his maiden visit to Saint Luke Parish following his consecration as Bishop of Isabel Diocese.

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Chinese medical team wraps up Western Province mission

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

THE Chinese Medical Team has concluded its week-long deployment to Western Province after delivering medical services to communities affected by Cyclone Maila and strengthening cooperation with local health authorities.

The team visited several communities during their stay, including Rarumana and Gizo Community High School, where they provided medical consultations and treatment to residents and students.

A farewell dinner was hosted at Zaru Hotel yesterday evening, bringing together leaders of Western Province, health officials and members of the visiting team.

Speaking during the event, Dr. Chu thanked the Western Provincial Government for welcoming the delegation and supporting their mission in the province.

He also acknowledged the Western Provincial Health and Medical Authority, the director of health and nurses at Gizo Hospital for working closely with the Chinese team throughout the deployment.

“We come not as strangers, but as your friends and partners. Our goal was simple; to care for you, to support you and to strengthen the friendship between China and Solomon Islands.

“We may speak different languages, but we all want the same thing and that is good health for you and your families,” Dr. Chu said.

The delegation first arrived in Gizo one week ago to a warm welcome from Western Province Premier Billy Veo and provincial staff before beginning outreach programs across communities.

The medical team consists of nine specialists, including a neurosurgeon, breast surgeon, urologist, nephrologist, cardiologist and acupuncturist.

The specialists are currently based at the National Referral Hospital as part of a one-year mission that will continue until March 2027.

Working closely with local doctors and nurses, the team has been providing outpatient services and carrying out surgeries in the Solomon Islands, including several pioneering procedures not previously available locally.

In addition to treatment, the team has also been conducting clinical training sessions that aim to strengthen the skills and capacity of local medical practitioners.

Their visit to Western Province followed the public health emergency caused by Cyclone Maila, which recently affected several communities in the province.

The team arrived at Gizo Hospital on May 12 to assist residents impacted by the disaster.

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Good news for Emu AHC

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

EMU Area Health Centre on Ranongga Island in Western Province is set to undergo major renovation work under the Western Provincial Government’s forward vision through the implementation of the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF).

Officials from the Western Provincial Government recently visited the clinic and held discussions with community leaders regarding the proposed renovation plans.

Ms. Koroly Zutu from the province’s Planning Division confirmed that groundwork for the project will begin soon.

She said the provincial government is currently consulting with potential contractors who will carry out the renovation work.

According to reports, the renovation project will be funded by the World Bank through the PCDF allocation awarded to Western Province.

Building materials are expected to arrive at the clinic later this month, allowing renovation work to commence as scheduled.

The planned upgrade will include both interior and exterior improvements to the health facility.

Nurse at Emu Clinic, Jack Ingolo, welcomed the initiative and acknowledged the Western Provincial Government for recognising the urgent need to improve the clinic.

He also thanked the World Bank for providing the financial support needed to carry out the renovation.

Ingolo said the clinic has been in poor condition for some time, posing risks to both health workers and patients due to deteriorating walls and infrastructure.

“The renovation will bring relief and happiness to both patients and nurses who have continued to work tirelessly despite the poor condition of the clinic,” he said.

He said normal health services will continue while renovation work is underway.

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NATPAN 2026 theme highlights cultural heritage

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The theme for the 2026 Solomon Islands National Panpipe Festival (NATPAN), “Echoes of the Past, Sounds of the Hapi Isles,” will highlight the importance of preserving the country’s traditional panpipe music and cultural identity.

Director of Culture and Tourism, Dennis Marita, spoke about the significance of the theme during a press conference.

He said the theme reflects the enduring cultural heritage, identity and uniqueness of panpipe music within the Solomon Islands and recognises its place as one of the country’s most valued forms of intangible cultural heritage.

He said panpipe music continues to connect communities with their ancestors, traditions and customary practices, while also promoting national identity and cultural pride.

“The festival is not only about music but also about preserving wider cultural knowledge and practices linked to traditional lifestyles. NATPAN 2026 will provide a platform for communities across the country to share stories of ancestry, cultural identity and indigenous knowledge connected to bamboo culture and panpipe traditions,” he said.

He adds that the festival will also showcase other forms of cultural heritage, including shell money making, carving, weaving, dance, oral traditions, canoe heritage and traditional food systems.

Mr Marita said these practices are closely connected to traditional music and represent broader systems of community life, spirituality, craftsmanship and customary exchange in the Solomon Islands.

He said that the National Panpipe Festival was first established in 2017 as part of the Ministry’s long-term efforts to safeguard and revitalise traditional cultural practices.

The 2026 organising committee includes representatives from all divisions of the ministry together with Tourism Solomons.

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Market Linkage Workshop concludes in Auki

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BY RODRICK DESURI

AUKI

A two-day Market Linkage Workshop for Solomon Islands Agriculture and Rural Transformation (SIART) project recipients and farmers successfully concluded yesterday in Auki, Malaita Province.

The workshop was organised to strengthen rural livelihoods through agriculture and agribusiness development under the SIART programme.

Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD), Franklyn Derek Wasi, attended the event as guest of honour.

A statement from the Ministry confirmed that a similar workshop will also be held in Malu’u, North Malaita, from May 21 to 22, 2026.

The workshop aims to strengthen agricultural production and value chains within the provinces while improving market access for rural farmers.

Speaking during the workshop, Minister Wasi said limited access to reliable markets remains one of the biggest challenges faced by rural farmers.

“Many challenges and setbacks have been faced by rural farmers, especially regarding access to reliable markets, buyers, transport, storage and business information,” he said.

Minister Wasi and his delegation also paid a courtesy visit to the Malaita Provincial Government House where they met with Malaita Premier Elijah Asilau’a.

The team later visited the newly constructed agriculture office building in Auki.

The SIART programme is implemented by MALD and supported by the World Bank.

The initiative brings together key stakeholders to strengthen partnerships, improve coordination and support agricultural growth and rural economic development across the country.

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