By RODRICK DESURI 

AUKI 

Auki town’s rubbish woes is expected to linger for months as work continues to prepare a new dumpsite for Malaita province’s capital.

The responsible authority for the collection of rubbish within the Auki township areas, Auki Town Council, is still waiting for the new landfill at Gwaigeo to be cleared and cleaned before it can be used as a dumpsite.

The Malaita Provincial Government acquired about two hectares of land owned by the province for a dump site after the temporary dump site at Kunu was disputed. 

Since last month, many residents of Auki Town have voiced their concerns about why Auki Town Council hasn’t been collecting rubbish for weeks. 

Auki Town Council is responsible for the collection of rubbish starting from Mage village to Aimela. 

However, Hazel Fanai from Auki Town Council said they are partnering with J-Prism (III), a 25-year SPRED-JICA partnership on a waste management project, to work on the new Gwaigeo landfill. 

She stressed that an assessment of the site and a meeting were held with the surrounding communities of the site.

“We have done an on-site assessment, and a meeting was held with the surrounding communities of the site. The assessment is to see how the site will be planned, how the roads will go, and how our compactor truck will move,” she said.

Fanai emphasized that the Environmental Internal Assessment will be the next assessment that needs a specialist from the Ministry of Planning or from Japan.

“For this Environmental Internal Assessment, it’s good that a specialist from Japan will come to do that, because the riverbanks and swampy areas need good planning,” She said.

Meanwhile, Fanai assured the residents of Auki township to start the process of sorting different waste types at the source—such as recyclables, organic materials, and general waste—into separate containers to facilitate recycling, composting, and proper disposal.

She said this practice can reduce piles of waste and pollution, conserve resources, and contribute to a more sustainable environment.

She added that Gwaigeo landfill will be ready for use sometime early next year, 2026.

“All I can say is that the collection of all rubbish will start around early next year when our landfill is fully ready and safer for dumping rubbish,” she said.

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BY BEN BILUA
GIZO

The government of Western Province under the leadership of Premier Billy Veo has made history by being the first provincial government to ever submit a consolidated financial report to the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) — a milestone that has now qualified the province for the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF).

Premier Veo revealed this during the Western Provincial Assembly meeting this week, describing the achievement as a “historic breakthrough” for the province.

“I’m indeed pleased to note that after being disqualified in the 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 financial years’ assessments, we finally qualified in the 2023/2024 assessment,” Veo said.

Western Province scored 62 out of 100, placing it second behind Isabel Province in the national PCDF assessment for the 2023/2024 financial year.

Veo said the achievement is the result of his executive government’s strong political will and commitment towards ensuring accountability and transparency in financial management.

He explained that the provincial government successfully compiled financial statements for the Western Provincial Investment Corporation (WPIC) covering 2020/2021, 2021/2022, 2022/2023, and 2023/2024 financial years.

“This has enabled our Provincial Accounting Specialist and WPIC accountant to consolidate both WPG and WPIC financial statements before submitting them to the OAG in June 2025,” Veo said.

He added that Western Province is now the first province or public entity in the Solomon Islands to have ever submitted a consolidated financial statement — setting a benchmark for other provinces to follow.

Veo acknowledges the Western Provincial Government Administration, the Provincial Planning Team, and the Finance and Treasury Division for their dedication and teamwork in achieving the milestone.

“I would like to urge you to continue to work hard and ensure we get even better results in the next PCDF assessment,” he said.

Photo: Supplied

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PM Manele confident amid talk of third motion of no-confidence

BY NED GAGAHE

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says he is confident his government has the numbers to survive the mounting rumours of a possible third Motion of No Confidence (MONC) against him when Parliament resumes next Monday, October 13.

No notice of motion of no-confidence was filed by close of business yesterday, Clerk to Parliament Jefferson Hallu told Island Sun last night.

Speaking to local media during a media conference yesterday afternoon following his return from his official engagements abroad last week, Prime Minister Manele said he is confident and prepared to face any motion.

“Everybody is claiming numbers. I am confident that I have the numbers.

“You tend to hear a lot of rumours and meetings — that is usual when motions are around. But let me stress, every time a motion is moved, the country is kept in suspense for months, and this sends a bad signal to our people and to investors who depend on stability,” the Prime Minister said.

The Prime Minister said he respects the right of MPs to move a MONC but warned of its destabilising impact.

“Motions of no confidence without strong basis move the country backwards instead of forward. I am prepared to face any motion, but my duty is to safeguard stability for our people,” he said.

In recent weeks, political tension within the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) has intensified, with reports of internal cracks and meetings fuelling speculation of another attempt to unseat the Prime Minister.

Over the weekend, Opposition Leader Matthew Wale lashed out at the government’s repeated reshuffles in the Finance Ministry, describing them as “a clear sign of weak and indecisive leadership controlled by outside interests.”

In just three weeks, the controversial sufferance wharves issue has seen GNUT shuffle the powerful Finance portfolio three times — from Harry Kuma to Trevor Manemahaga, and most recently to Rexon Ramofafia.

Mr Wale said the constant reshuffling “is undeniable proof that the Prime Minister is not in control and that powerful outside players are dictating appointments.”

But Prime Minister Manele pushed back strongly, stressing that reshuffles are about maintaining stability, not weakness.

He said while motions of no confidence are a democratic right, their repeated use only holds the country back.

Since assuming office as Prime Minister, Manele has already survived two motions of no confidence — both of which were later withdrawn before it was debated on the floor of Parliament.

The resumption of parliament next week is expected to be closely watched, as speculation grows over political manoeuvring within the ruling coalition and the Opposition ranks.

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BY BEN BILUA
GIZO

Fatboys has officially opened it brand new Dive Shop over the weekend marking another milestone on its operation.

The Dive Shop is equipped with world-class equipment and a 100-horsepower boat for divers to travel to their destination of choice.

Guests from Honiara included officials from DFAT, Strongim Bisnis, Tourism Solomons and Solomon Airlines and were joined by provincial guests led by Deputy Premier of Western Province.

In his speech, Deputy Premier of Western Province, Brian Lotikena congratulates Fatboys for the great achievement saying that the dive centre will not only provide employment to locals but also showcase the underwater beauty of Western Province.

He adds that the dive centre is more than just equipment and building but a tourism product that will contribute to national tourism industry.

“The opening of this dive centre marks an important milestone to your operations by adding another activity to your products. I’d like to congratulate you all for this great achievement,” Lotikena said.

He said Fatboys is unique as it is surrounded by natural beauty and the marine and tropical environment.

In her speech, DFAT’s representative, First Secretary Danielle Bourke also congratulated Fatboys for the important milestone saying that the opening of the dive centre marks a step forward for the dive industry in Western province and Solomon Islands.

“We’re pleased, the new customised boat and the jetty will help Fatboys attract more tourists from Australia and across the world,” she said.

Bourke said DFAT through Strongim Bisnis continues to support tourism operators in Western Province by establishing a hub at Munda.

She explained that the support is more on enabling local tourism operators to accommodate more guest and improve their products.

“I spend last couple of days here and have seen first hand the beauty of Western Province and the rest of Solomon Islands.

“This why Australian makes up the highest number of tourists and visitors to the Solomon Islands.

“The beautiful beaches, the rich culture and people, and off course the great underwater world. We want the world to see it too,” Bourke said.

She said Australia is working closely with the Solomon Islands government and other partners to support the tourism industry.

Bourke adds that Australia will continue to support local businesses to create more jobs for local communities.

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BY NED GAGAHE

The Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) remains cautiously optimistic about the year ahead, says CEO and General Manager Mike Wate.

He expressed this during the recent announcement of the Fund’s 8 percent crediting rate recently.

Wate said the Solomon Islands economy has recovered and continues to grow, with strong government commitment to further build and expand economic activity.

He highlighted that improvements in the Sovereign Credit Risk Rating since the first half of the 2023/2024 financial year have positively impacted the fair value of unlisted domestic equities and other financial reporting benchmarks tied to the government rating.

Despite positive developments, Wate warned that downside risks in both the global and domestic economy remain volatile.

He reassured members that the Board’s strategic actions, guided by the 10-year Strategic and Business Plan (2024–2034), aim to mitigate these risks and ensure the Fund continues to deliver crediting rates above inflation.

Wate also acknowledges the support and cooperation of key partners who have contributed to the Fund’s continued success, including:

-The Minister, Permanent Secretary, and senior officials of the Ministry of Finance and Treasury

-The Governor and senior officials of the Central Bank of Solomon Islands

-Boards and senior management of SINPF investee companies such as SPOL, STCL, Heritage Park Hotel, Soltuna, Solomon Homes, BSP Financial Group, Loloata Island Resort, Solomon Submarine Cable Company, and Solomon Finance

-The Auditor General and senior members of the OAG

-Contracted auditors PwC Fiji and Ernst & Young Fiji

-Employers, employee unions, and associations

-International partners including the IFC of the World Bank Group and UNDCF of the United Nations

Wate concluded by reaffirming the Fund’s commitment to protect and grow members’ savings while supporting the broader national economy.

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BY NED GAGAHE

The Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) has recorded solid financial and operational performance for the 12 months ending 30 June 2025, with CEO, Mike Wate, officially announcing an 8 percent crediting rate for members.

Speaking during the recent official announcement, Wate highlighted the Fund’s continued resilience despite global market uncertainties and domestic economic challenges.

He said total contributions from members reached $431.7 million, while withdrawals totalled $391.5 million, resulting in a net contribution of $40.3 million.

However, this was a decline from last year’s net contribution of $67.5 million.

“All member benefits for both formal and informal sectors are financed directly from contributions, while our investment returns support new investments and operational costs,” Wate explained.

The Fund’s free cash position closed at $284 million at year-end, up from $213.7 million in 2024.

According to Wate, these funds are earmarked for potential new investments under consideration and to meet any surge in member withdrawals.

On new investments, Wate revealed several significant commitments:

-A $10 million equity capital injection to wholly owned Solomon Finance Limited to expand lending to members.

-$70 million invested in two new government development bonds, earning 5 percent returns.

-$33.66 million financing package for Soltuna Ltd to expand its cold storage capacity, with $16.88 million already disbursed.

-$50 million for a 55 percent stake in Kings Hotel and Resort Limited, in partnership with PNG’s O’Neill Group, to acquire King Solomon Hotel properties and business.

The Fund’s gross investment portfolio grew to $4.60 billion as of June 30, 2025 — a 9 percent increase from the $4.20 billion recorded in 2024.

Wate assures members that the Fund remains financially strong, with robust liquidity and diversified investments that continue to deliver value.

“The 8 percent crediting rate reflects our commitment to grow and safeguard members’ savings,” Wate said, adding that the Fund is well-positioned to support both members and the nation’s economic growth.

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BY NED GAGAHE

The Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) has recorded strong growth in formal benefit payments, employer registrations, and informal sector savings under the youSave scheme for the financial year ending 30 June 2025.

Speaking on the overview of the Fund’s operation at the recent official announcement of crediting rate SINPF CEO Mike Wate said, a total of 7,789 benefits worth $376 million were paid out to formal members during the year — an increase from 7,554 benefits valued at $342.1 million in 2024.

The bulk of the payments went to retiring members aged 50 years and above.

On employers, registrations improved with 225 new employers joining the Fund in 2025, compared to 192 in 2024.

CEO Wate said this is consistent with the recovery and growth of the national economy over the past two years.

For the informal sector, 6,082 new youSave members were onboarded in 2025, slightly down from 6,132 in the previous year.

However, total membership grew strongly to 49,836 members, up from 43,768 in 2024.

Gross savings under youSave climbed to $107.1 million, while net savings reached $50.7 million, representing year-on-year growth of 22 percent and 18 percent respectively.

Incoming new contributions from the informal sector rose to $19.1 million, compared to $18.5 million last year.

At the same time, 11,262 youSave benefits worth $12.5 million were paid out to members; a notable increase from 9,508 benefits totalling $10.6 million in 2024.

Wate said the figures reflect the continuing confidence of both employers and members in the Fund, and also demonstrates the increasing importance of the youSave scheme in providing long-term financial security for workers in the informal sector.

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BY NED GAGAHE

The Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) has recorded another year of strong growth with its unaudited net asset value climbing to $4.6 billion as at 30 June 2025.

Announcing the Fund’s 8 percent crediting rate recently, CEO and General Manager Mike Wate said the increase represents a 9 percent growth from $4.2 billion in 2024.

He attributed the growth to positive investment performance, new investments, annual revaluation surpluses from listed and unlisted equities, property portfolios, and increased holdings in government securities.

Meanwhile, the Fund also reported progress on its property development projects.

Implementation of the $116 million DFAT town houses and executive apartments expansion is underway, with completion of the town houses expected in December 2025.

Wate said that DFAT is scheduled to take possession of the new apartments at the end of this year.

However, Wate revealed that the Board has placed on hold its planned four-level commercial building at the former Home Finance property on Hibiscus Avenue.

Construction will only recommence once remedial actions are completed.

He said potential new property investments are being assessed and will be submitted for approval by the Minister of Finance and Treasury in due course.

Wate assured members that the Fund remains strong and committed to growing its portfolio while safeguarding members’ savings.

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Makira Ulawa Provincial Government (MUPG) has proposed to host a traditional Chupu ceremony with Guadalcanal Provincial Government and traditional land owners of Okea land, at the end of this month.

The chupu ceremony aims to honour Okea traditional landowners for their recognition to allow their land for the province and to kick start development of the land. 

In an interview with Island Sun this week, Premier Stanley Siapu said, while they set to begin the implementation of a plan to develop this provincial owned land.

“First of all, I must thank Guadalcanal provincial government and traditional landowners of Okea land for understanding and recognition of MUPG as the sole rightful owner of the land.

“The province acquired the land about 27 years ago, which is approximately 5.87 hectors, and throughout the ethnic tension the land remains.

“In 2019, my previous government began to work on plans to develop the land.

“The current government reintroduced the plans and together with Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey, had consulted traditional landowners and other responsible stakeholders.

“After all these works, the common understanding reached is that the Makira Ulawa province is still recognised as the sole owner of the land,” he said.

Following this, Siapu said the province proposes a chupu presentation to the traditional owners of Okea land, to allow the province to begin development of the land.

He said MUPG’s plan in place is to develop the land through farming of vegetables and cassava to supply Sape processing facility.

Siapu added that through the development of the land, it will provide avenue especially students from the province, who undertake agriculture to do their practical studies.

He said this is just the snippet of the plan MUPG has for Okea land, and as time goes on, more development is expected for the land, which will not only benefit the province but the country as a whole.

Siapu expressed that Okea will become a commercial land of the province due to its strategic location, and the province remains committed to work with stakeholders to develop it.

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