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From allowance to national contract, a Solomon Islands success story

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    BY JOSES SAREN

    In 2017, when Roylex Sitana arrived in the Philippines on a government scholarship, he witnessed a daily reality that would reshape his future. He saw the resilience of the Filipino people, their relentless struggle for survival, and it instilled in him a profound sense of purpose and humility.

    He realized that the modest scholarship allowance he received was more than just for survival; it was a seed of opportunity. Instead of simply spending it, he used it to start a small side-hustle—buying shoes and gadgets, carrying heavy boxes through crowded streets, and making three-hour bus rides home to send the goods back to Solomon Islands for resale. This was the humble beginning of a journey that would lead to the birth of Smart Technology Ltd.

    Sitana with part of the shoe stock he resold back home — the side hustle that grew into Smart Technology Ltd. Photo credit-Smart Technology Ltd

    Now, six years later, Smart Technology Ltd has grown into one of Solomon Islands’ leading locally-owned technology and engineering companies. This growth was recently cemented when the company was selected as one of 39 indigenous businesses to sign a Preferred Supplier Agreement (PSA) with the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD).

    This milestone is part of a larger government initiative that has seen 83 companies, both local and foreign, sign contracts to supply goods and services for the 2026 Constituency Development Funds (CDF) program, a $250 million investment into rural development.

    For Mr. Sitana, the Managing Director, the PSA is more than a contract; it’s a validation of his company’s capability.

    “Being selected as one of the indigenous companies under the PSA is a significant milestone for Smart Technology Ltd.

    “It reflects confidence in our capability to deliver quality goods and services to communities across Solomon Islands,” he said.

    The company’s primary focus under the agreement will be to supply prefabricated housing, solar power systems, and other smart technology solutions that support rural and community development.

    This includes renewable energy systems, ICT equipment, and communications solutions required by constituencies nationwide. But the vision extends far beyond simply delivering materials.

    Mr. Sitana believes this contract represents a pivotal opportunity to create employment and build a skilled local workforce. The company currently employs 12 staff across its two shops—one at the Solomon Motor (SML) complex at White River, specializing in construction and solar goods, and another at NPF Plaza in Point Cruz, focusing on ICT and electronics. However, this is set to expand significantly.

    “We expect this contract to create around 20 to 30 new jobs within the next 12 months, with the potential for more as projects expand,” he said.

    The company’s core philosophy is about giving back, a principle honed during those challenging days in the Philippines.

    “One of our key priorities is to provide opportunities for school dropouts and unemployed young people,” Mr. Sitana stated.

    Smart Technology Ltd plans to train these individuals in practical technical skills such as prefab construction, solar installation, and equipment commissioning before deploying them to project sites across the country.

    This approach not only delivers quality infrastructure but also builds a skilled local workforce for the long-term development of Solomon Islands.

    The company’s resilience is a testament to its founder’s spirit. In 2020, after returning home and registering Smart Technology, Mr. Sitana opened his first shop in Chinatown, only to see it destroyed in the 2021 civil unrest. He lost everything but refused to give up.

    Today, his business is a success story, paying taxes and creating jobs. His journey from a student with a small allowance to a successful business owner is a powerful message for others.

    “To every student overseas, don’t waste your opportunity. Start small. Think bigger. What you do with your allowance today could become someone else’s breakthrough tomorrow,” he advised.

    Photo credit: Smart Technology Ltd

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    From Santa Cruz to Solomon Power, the 35-year journey of John Mena

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      BY DOUGLAS VAHIA

      Thirty-five years ago, a young man from Santa Cruz in Temotu Province stepped into a job that would define his life’s work.

      Today, that same man is one of Solomon Power’s most respected engineers — a quiet authority on the machines that keep the lights on across the Solomon Islands.

      His name is John Mena, and his story is one of persistence, curiosity, and an enduring belief in the value of learning.

      John’s path to Solomon Power didn’t start with power stations at all — it started at sea. After finishing school at Luesalemba Secondary School, he enrolled at the Honiara Technical Institute, graduating in 1985 with a Certificate in Marine Engineering.

      His first job took him to the National Fisheries Development, where he cut his teeth working on marine engines.

      But in 1992, John’s career took a turn that would shape the next three and a half decades of his life. He joined the then Solomon Islands Electricity Authority (SIEA) as Officer in Charge in Lata — his first step into the world of power generation.

      Four years later, in 1996, John transferred to Lungga Power Station, taking on the role of Senior Fitter. It was here that his technical expertise truly began to deepen. He added a 300 Horsepower Marine Engineering qualification in 1998, followed by a 500 Horsepower Engine qualification in 1999 — credentials that reflected not just ambition, but a genuine hunger to master his craft.

      From there, John’s career steadily climbed, becoming the Assistant Mechanical Supervisor, then Team Leader for Lungga Auxiliary and Outstations. Since 2017, he has served as Team Leader – Outstations, a role that sees him providing technical leadership and support to power stations scattered across the country — a responsibility that speaks to the trust placed in his judgment and experience.

      When John was asked about what three and a half decades in the industry has taught him, he didn’t hesitate to share his experience.

      “One thing we must never stop doing is having the willingness to learn and act accordingly to the situations that we find ourselves in,” he said.

      It’s a philosophy that has clearly served him well — and one he’s watched play out on a national scale. John has witnessed the transformation of Solomon Power from the inside, through years when the company struggled just to keep the capital supplied.

      “The company is in a much better position now than when I first started. Back then, we struggled to produce enough power to supply the whole city. Today, it’s good to see the progress that has been made,” he said.

      Over the years, John has become known as one of Solomon Power’s most experienced hands — particularly when it comes to the Lungga engines and the network of provincial power stations that keep communities connected. But colleagues say his real legacy may not be technical at all.

      It’s his willingness to teach. To mentor. To pass on decades of hard-won knowledge to the next generation of technicians and engineers who will one day take his place.

      As John Mena marks 35 years of service, Solomon Power extends its sincere thanks for a career defined by professionalism, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence — qualities that continue to inspire those who work alongside him.

      Congratulations, John, on this outstanding milestone. Thank you for three and a half decades of dedication, and for the invaluable contribution you’ve made to powering the Solomon Islands.

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      ROUND SIX BEGINS

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      Top clashes set to headline another busy weekend as Honiara Netball Association competition resumes

      BY RICHARD MENANOPO

      The Honiara Netball Association (HNA) will stage another full schedule of matches this weekend with Round Six of its 2026 league competition set to get underway at the Honiara netball courts.

      According to the official Round Six fixtures released by the Honiara Netball Association on its social media platform, a total of 26 matches will be played across the Super, A, B and C divisions between Saturday, July 18 (today), and Wednesday, July 22.

      The action begins today with seven Super and A Division fixture on Court One, headlined by Sunrise 1 taking on SISCC 1 at 9am before SISCC 2 meets Lauru 1 at 10:30am.

      Other key matches will see Sosa Faywright face Southerns 1, Marist Tesa 1 take on Western Magic, Isa Purple meet Phoenix 1, G/Berets 2 battle Owaraha 1, while West Rennell wraps up Saturday’s top division fixtures against Hale 1.

      Court Two will simultaneously host 10 B and C Division matches, beginning with Marist Tesa 2 against Amara at 8:30am before Tehila faces Duavata.

      The day’s programme also includes Sunrise 2 versus Owaraha 2, Isa Green against Real Lights, Manawai versus Police 2, Hale 2 against G/Berets 3, SISCC 3 versus Bokolo, Ranosi against Diesel, Isa Blue against Doves, and Lauru 2 meeting SEWA 2.

      The competition continues on Monday with Police 1 taking on Suvania 1 in the Super and A Division, while Manuiki meets SEWA 1. In the B and C Division, Stoneland faces Nitas and Kolei takes on Southerns 2.

      Round Six concludes on Wednesday with Lakers playing G/Berets 1 and Suvania 2 meeting Phoenix 2 in the Super and A Division.

      Woodford 2 will face Lauru 3, Southerns 3 plays Woodford 1, while SEWA 3 meets Rendo Netters in the remaining B and C Division fixtures.

      The latest round is expected to provide another important opportunity for clubs to strengthen their positions on the competition ladder as the 2026 HNA season gathers momentum.

      The Honiara Netball Association’s 2026 league season features clubs competing across the Super, A, B and C divisions and has continued to attract strong participation from teams throughout Honiara.

      The weekly competition serves as the capital’s premier domestic netball league and plays an important role in developing players, officials and emerging talent for higher-level competitions.

      Photo credit: HNA File

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      Australian High Commissioner joins HookIn4Health session, encouraging Solomon Islands’ next generation of hockey talent

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      BY RICHARD MENANOPO

      Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Jeff Roach, encourages young Solomon Islands hockey players to continue pursuing the sport after joining a development session at the National Hockey Centre in Honiara this week.

      According to information shared by HookIn4Health Solomon Islands on its official social media platform on Wednesday, Mr. Roach, accompanied by his daughter and Australian High Commission Second Secretary for Strategic Communication and Public Diplomacy, Charlie Harrison-Gehrmann, visited the programme and spent time interacting with young athletes both on and off the field.

      The visit saw the Australian delegation join friendly hockey activities with participants, creating what HookIn4Health described as a memorable experience that highlighted sport’s ability to connect communities and inspire young people.

      Speaking during the visit, Mr. Roach said hockey has been part of his life for decades and hopes the young players will continue to develop the sport in Solomon Islands.

      “It is an honour to visit HookIn4Health here in Honiara and see so many talented young hockey players. Hockey has been my sport for more than 20 years, and I hope these young players will one day become a strong national hockey team for Solomon Islands,” he said.

      HookIn4Health said it was privileged to host the Australian High Commissioner, noting that his passion for hockey and willingness to join the young athletes on the pitch made the visit especially meaningful.

      The organisation also acknowledged the delegation’s thoughtful gesture of providing bottled water to participants, describing it as another sign of their support and encouragement for the programme.

      “Moments like these remind us that sport has the power to bring people together, build meaningful connections and inspire our young people to dream big,” the organisation said.

      HookIn4Health thanked the Australian High Commission for taking time to engage with the programme and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthen partnerships that promote youth development, healthy lifestyles and stronger communities through hockey.

      HookIn4Health Solomon Islands is a community-based hockey development programme that uses sport as a platform to promote healthy living, youth empowerment and social inclusion.

      Working alongside the Solomon Islands Hockey Federation and development partners, the programme continues to provide opportunities for young people to learn hockey while developing life skills and building stronger community connections through sport.

      Photo credit: HookIn4Health Solomon Islands

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      Western Cup moved to September

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      BY BEN BILUA
      Gizo

      THE much-anticipated Western Cup football tournament has been postponed until September after the province’s only suitable venue was deemed unready for competition.

      Western Province Sports Coordinator Jim Ben said the decision was made following an assessment of the John F. Kennedy (JFK) soccer field, which is currently undergoing major renovation and rehabilitation.

      He said the tournament was originally scheduled to be held this month, but organisers were forced to reschedule due to unforeseen challenges surrounding the completion of the playing surface.

      “The Western Cup was supposed to take place this month, but the JFK soccer field is not yet ready to host the games,” Ben said.

      He said Turf Specialist George Kai recently inspected the field and concluded that it requires another three months before it is suitable for competitive football.

      Ben said the assessment prompted tournament organisers to move the event to September to ensure the field meets the required playing standards and provides a safe environment for athletes.

      He said although the postponement may disappoint football fans and participating teams, the decision was necessary to protect the quality of the newly rehabilitated field and ensure a successful tournament.

      Ben urged participating teams to use the additional time to continue preparing for the competition, expressing confidence that the Western Cup will be staged once the venue is fully ready.

      The Western Cup is one of Western Province’s premier football competitions and attracts teams from across the province, providing a platform to showcase local talent and promote the development of the sport.

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      WHO calls for stronger action to protect youths from tobacco

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      BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

      The World Health Organization (WHO) is urging stronger action to protect young people in Solomon Islands from tobacco products and industry marketing tactics designed to attract and addict them early, said a WHO press release issued to mark this year’s World No Tobacco Day.

      The press release said WHO Solomon Islands Officer-in-Charge Dr Sakthivel Selvaraj calls for stronger measures to reduce the appeal of tobacco and nicotine products among young people.

      He highlighted tighter controls on flavoured tobacco products, advertising, promotion and product designs that make smoking more attractive to youths.

      He also calls for stronger tobacco control laws, tougher enforcement, increased community awareness and greater support for people trying to quit smoking.

      “Together, let’s unmask the appeal, expose industry’s tactics, and protect the health and future of our children and communities. Remember, the appeal is manufactured, but the harm is real,” Dr Selvaraj said.

      WHO Solomon Islands Technical Officer for Non-Communicable Diseases, Dr Tsogzolmaa Bayandorj, also urges young people to not be misled by tobacco marketing.

      She said products promoted as “tobacco-free” or “smooth” should not be regarded as safe, warning that nicotine is addictive in any form.

      Dr Bayandorj encourages smokers who want to quit to seek help from health clinics and health centres, where proven cessation methods such as nicotine patches, nicotine gum and counselling are available.

      “Don’t let tobacco marketing confuse you. ‘Tobacco-free’ doesn’t mean safe, ‘smooth’ doesn’t mean weak. Nicotine is addictive in any form, and if you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you’re trying to quit, speak to your health clinic and health centres about safe and proven options,” she said.

      The statement also quoted youth representative Haddasah Dowo, who described the fight against tobacco as a fight for freedom whilst urging young people to reject addiction.

      “We are the generation that can unmask the appeal and expose the truth. Let us choose health over addiction. Let us choose awareness over deception. Let us choose life over tobacco,” Ms Dowo said.

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      Health Minister warns tobacco industry over youth targeting

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      BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

      Solomon Islands has reaffirmed its commitment to protect young people from tobacco and nicotine addiction, with Health Minister Morris Toiraena warning that the tobacco industry is using new products to attract a new generation of users.

      According to a World Health Organization (WHO) media release, the Minister delivered the message during Solomon Islands’ commemoration of World No Tobacco Day 2026 on June 8, held under the global theme, “Unmasking the appeal, revealing tobacco’s many health harms”.

      In the statement, Mr Toiraena cautioned the public against being misled by claims that e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products and flavoured nicotine pouches are safer alternatives to smoking.

      “We see through the mask. We will not be deceived,” the Minister said.

      He said the products are being promoted as safer alternatives but warns that they continue to fuel nicotine addiction.

      “E-cigarettes, heated tobacco and flavoured nicotine pouches are being pushed as safer alternatives. These are not tools for cessation. They are tools for addiction,” Mr Toiraena said.

      The Minister reaffirms the Ministry of Health and Medical Services’ (MHMS) commitment to strengthen tobacco control measures across the country.

      Also noted in the statement is that the Government plans to strengthen the Tobacco Control Technical Advisory Committee, review the Tobacco Act 2010 to align it with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, and strengthen enforcement of bans on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship.

      Other priorities include promoting smoke-free schools, workplaces and public spaces, preventing tobacco industry interference in public health policies, increasing tobacco taxes and licensing fees, and requiring annual reporting from tobacco-related businesses to improve transparency and accountability.

      The statement said the World No Tobacco Day event highlighted the dangers of tobacco and nicotine products while reinforcing Solomon Islands’ commitment to reduce tobacco use and protect future generations from addiction.

      Photo credit: WHO Media

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      Temotu residents cry out for reliable sea transport

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      BY DOUGLAS VAHIA

      Residents of Temotu Province are demanding urgent government action to fix what they describe as a chronic transportation crisis, after week-long delays have left women, children, youth and elders stranded at wharves across the province.

      A statement circulating on social media this week detailed the ordeal facing passengers waiting for MV LC Plus 1.

      The vessel’s voyage was delayed by almost three weeks, the latest in a string of similar disruptions that residents say have gone on for far too long.

      “It is extremely unacceptable that our women, children, youth and elders are repeatedly stranded for weeks, forced to spend their limited income on food, transport and accommodation while waiting for a ship to take them home,” the statement read.

      One passenger, who asked not to be named, spoke of sleeping rough near the wharf for weeks on end, lighting fires at night to keep warm and enduring dust pollution by day, just because he was simply waiting for the vessel to arrive.

      A source also has raised concerns over the use of landing craft vessels for passenger transport, stating that such vessels are designed solely for cargo purposes.

      “Landing craft vessels are cargo boats. There is no accommodation for passengers, especially the vessel seen in the photo,” the source highlighted.

      The source added that landing craft are built specifically to carry cargo, and not passengers.

      According to the source, the Maritime Safety Administration had only issued a safety certificate for the vessel to operate as a cargo carrier, not for passenger use.

      Community members say the issue goes beyond logistics. They argue it strikes at the heart of fairness, dignity and equal access to essential services pointing out that while other provinces enjoy dependable shipping links, Temotu continues to be left behind.

      The statement calls on the National Government and Temotu’s elected leaders to prioritise the province by deploying a dedicated passenger vessel and guaranteeing regular, reliable shipping services.

      “The people of Temotu have waited long enough. It is time for action, not excuses,” the statement said.

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      Thirty villages in Tasimboko ward benefit from New Zealand Government supported project

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      BY CHARLES STENNETT

      Hundreds of community members from thirty villages in the Tasimboko ward, Guadalcanal province are benefitting from a New Zealand funded project with 39 water tanks now functioning, addressing one of the community’s health problems.

      The handover of the water tanks was held recently and witnessed by officials from the New Zealand High Commission, the Guadalcanal Provincial Assembly, Member for Tasimboko Ward, community leaders and elders, church leaders, women, and youth representatives from surrounding villages.

      Speaking during the handover ceremony, New Zealand High Commissioner Jonathan Curr said New Zealand was pleased to partner with the Tasimboko Ward Committee to help address ongoing water shortages experienced by communities in the ward.

      “Small, community-focused initiatives can have significant impacts on the lives of families.

      “While this contribution may appear small, it will make a meaningful difference in addressing some of the water challenges you face every day.

      “We understand that many families have had to travel long distances to collect drinking water, and we hope these water tanks will help ease that burden and improve daily life for everyone,” Mr Curr said.

      Guadalcanal Provincial Assembly Member for Tasimboko Ward, Jimmy Saea, welcomed the support and expressed gratitude to the New Zealand Government for its contribution to the wellbeing of local communities.

      Saea said the project is expected to benefit approximately two thousand people across more than 30 villages, including six local churches.

      The provision of water tanks forms part of New Zealand’s broader commitment to support communities in meeting their Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), needs throughout Solomon Islands.

      Photo credit: New Zealand High Commission

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      Empowering local leadership, key to Kilu’ufi Hospital’s success

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      BY TONY IROGA

      The successful handover of the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital on Tuesday marks a new chapter for healthcare in Malaita Province, with Japan calling on local leaders to ensure the hospital continues to serve communities for generations.

      Speaking at the official handover ceremony, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Resident Representative Mitsuyoshi Kawasaki said the project is not the end of Japan’s support, but the beginning of a new responsibility for Solomon Islands authorities and hospital management.

      He said the Government of Japan and JICA believe that local ownership is key to the hospital’s long-term success.

      “Proper maintenance is essential to protect this valuable investment and to ensure the people of Malaita continue to benefit from quality healthcare services for many years to come,” Mr. Kawasaki said.

      He urges the Solomon Islands Government and other stakeholders to provide the financial support, technical expertise and attention to maintain the hospital and its medical equipment.

      “The completion of construction is not the final goal. Rather, it is the beginning of a new chapter,” he said.

      He said the long-term success of the project will depend on how well the new facilities and equipment are managed, maintained and used.

      Funded by the Government of Japan through (JICA), the upgraded hospital is expected to improve healthcare services for thousands of people across Malaita.

      The new facilities will provide better diagnostic services, improved treatment, safer maternal healthcare and expanded medical services.

      He said the project is the result of years of planning, coordination and cooperation between both governments and many partners.

      “This accomplishment would not have been possible without the dedication and cooperation of many individuals and institutions,” he said.

      He described the upgraded hospital as more than just a new building with equipment.

      “It represents a shared commitment to improving healthcare services and providing better access to medical care for the people of Malaita,” he said.

      He said the upgraded facilities will help improve childbirth services, diagnosis and treatment, leading to better health outcomes across the province.

      He also encourages doctors, nurses and hospital staff to make full use of the new facilities and equipment to improve patient care.

      He said the project reflects the strong and longstanding partnership between Japan and Solomon Islands, with healthcare remaining a key area of cooperation.

      “Through this project, we are pleased to contribute to Solomon Islands’ efforts toward achieving better health and well-being for its people,” he said.

      He reaffirmed JICA’s commitment to support Solomon Islands’ national development priorities and expressed confidence that the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital will continue to improve the lives of people across Malaita for many years.

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