BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Former Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Manasseh Sogavare said that the country’s strength lies in how a leader addresses issues.

Sogavare expressed this during the recent Motion of Special Adjournment in parliament, when reflecting on forthcoming Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele’s international engagements.

“I can share some of the comments that the Leader of the Opposition made on the decision to attend the overseas engagement. I may rest squarely on the Prime Minister when he is personally invited to attend, of course, the country’s voice needs to be heard during those meetings,” said Sogavare.

He said that some of the issues that will be discussed are issues that the small island states feel very strongly about.

“When it comes to oceans and climate change, they take it very lightly, a little bit. But this is a serious issue when it comes to small island states like Kiribati, Tuvalu and other island states,” he said.

He said that half of Tuvalu will not be seen or disappear in the next five years or ten years.

“We will not see it. So that’s how serious some of these issues are. And our strength, Mr. Speaker, lies in our voice. We as price takers, all we can do, Mr. Speaker, is to join our voices together and continue to talk and talk and talk,” he said.

“And whether at the end of the day, what big countries heard of our voice, of course, it is important that we continue. So, this is just to underscore the importance of attending some of these meetings,” he said.

“But it’s important that the country’s voice continues to be heard about these very important issues,” said Sogavare.

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Act 2024, recently passed by parliament will play a crucial role in ensuring the country achieves the objectives of the National Development Strategy (NDS) 2016-2035.

Minister for National Planning and Development Coordination, Rex Ramofafia made the statement when he spoke during the debate of the SEZ Bill in parliament last week.

He emphasized the need for strategic intervention to accomplish the NDS and to enhance the country’s economy.

Ramofafia stated that the “country’s mid-term review of NDS 2016 – 2035, revealed that we are off track of our key economic targets. For example, we should grow our economy by 5% by 2025 or 7% by 2030.

The MP said objectives of the NDS calls for sustained and inclusive growth through diversification.

Ramofafia mentioned that to ignite economic growth, we also need bold intervention and the SEZ act is one of such interventions.

He voiced that the act will boost exports by focussing on areas that can help grow the economy like; agriculture, fisheries, tourism and other areas that hold potential.

Meanwhile Ramofafia stressed that it is also vital for the country to put in place key enabling infrastructures to accommodate SEZ activities.

He said the country can achieve success by learning from countries that have been operating SEZs or initiatives similar to SEZs.

“We see our neighbouring countries like Fiji that used tax-free zones on areas of manufacturing, ICT services and other sectors in their countries,” he said.

Moreover, the MP highlighted the country’s pursuit to graduate from it’s Least Developed Country (LDC) status, set for 2027.

“This transition brings challenge particularly in areas of trade competition and the transition strategy identified SEZ as key to that.

“This will help by strengthening our productive capacity, streamlined processing, especially on potential areas like agriculture and fishery,” he said.

Ramofafia noted that the SEZ act will support the country to diversify especially by growing its exports. Currently, the country’s balance of trade shows more import than export.

The minister said the SEZ act is a milestone for the country and one to help realise development potentials to grow our economy.

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele will not be able to attend a few provincial seconded appointed day events next month.

Speaking on the Motion of Special Adjournment this week, Manele said this is due to international engagements.

He said that there a several provinces and provincial governments that will also celebrate their second anniversaries during June.

Manele said the provinces include Isabel, Temotu and Central Islands provinces.

“I have also been invited to attend some of those. In the event that I am unable to make it due to these international commitments, the Minister of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening, the Deputy Prime Minister and other Ministers will attend those important second appointed day celebrations and activities during the month of June,” said Prime Minister Manele.

He said that he believes this special adjournment will also allow members of Parliament to attend to their constituencies in terms of opening programs and projects in their constituencies during that time before Parliament resumes on July 14.

In terms of his international engagements, PM Manele will attend the following.

• The Blue Economy and Finance Forum, June 7-8 in Monaco, is a special event of the 2025 UN Third Conference on Oceans
• United Nations Third Oceans Conference, June 9-13 in Nice, France.
• OPEC Fund for International Development Forum. That’s on June 17 in Vienna, Austria

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Special Economic Zones (SEZs) will encourage economic development and address some of the pressing social issues the country is facing.

Parliament recently passed the SEZ Bill 2024 which is described as the hallmark of progress and geared towards transforming the economic landscape of the country.

Speaking on the recent debate of the bill, MP for Fataleka constituency and Minister for National Planning and Development Coordination, Rex Ramofafia highlighted that the operation of SEZ will create job opportunities, foster entrepreneurship and improve infrastructure – ensuring benefits of economic development are felt by all Solomon Islanders.

He stated that the initiative will help reduce rural-urban divide, urban drift and promote social harmony.

“One of the most pressing issues faced is youth unemployment. A report stated large percentage of our youth people are either underemployed or unemployed, leading to frustrations and lack of opportunity and hope.

“The act provides us with a powerful tool to address this challenge. The creation of jobs within these zones, ranging from manufacturing to administrative roles will offer our young people the chance to gain meaningful employment,” Ramofafia said.

He furthered the act also considers the importance of skill development and national government will partner with educational institution on targeted training programs.

This will ensure the country’s workforce is equipped with the skills needed to strive in a rapidly changing global economy.

Moreover, Ramofafia highlighted that the establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) will have far-reaching impact on the country’s infrastructure.

“Roads, utilities, ports and digital connectivity are the backbone of any successful economy and the act provides a framework for making these vital investments.

“The government has also committed to investing in infrastructure under the Solomon Islands Infrastructure Programme (SIIP) and the establishment of SEZs will be a natural extension of this effort,” he said.

According to MP Ramofafia, with the right infrastructure in place, businesses will be able to operate more efficiently and the entire country will benefit from enhanced connectivity and improved services.

He highlighted that a key goal of the act is to attract investment for both domestic and international markets.

“And by offering attractive incentives, such as tax breaks, customs exemptions and simplified regulatory processes, we can create a business-friendly environment that encourages investment in areas that have long been neglected.

“This will not only create jobs and boost local businesses, but also increase our foreign exchange receipts and contribute to a more diversified and resilient economy,” he said.

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

Special Economic Zone (SEZ) negotiations must include locals.

The call was made by Nestor Ghiro, Member of Parliament for Central Makira during his contribution to the recent SEZ Bill 2024 debate in parliament.

He said a matter that may require immediate attention is the provision under Section 50 A of the bill which empowers the SEZ Authority to negotiate with foreign investors.

Ghiro stressed that if negotiations do not involve locals, then it will be a waste.

“If the line upon which negotiations are not perpetrated by locals, then we render them waste in the most consequential economic dialogues of our time.”

Ghiro pointed out that partnerships with foreign investors must not be transactional, but transformational built on mutual benefit with our citizens and as co-owners and not just as landlords or tenants.

He said if there is lack of transparent oversight mechanism, party participation framework will make it difficult for ordinary citizens and local businesses to effectively engage with or benefit from the Special Economic Zones.

“This lacking of accountability allows for in-link capture and policy manipulation by vested interests.”

Ghiro furthered that it is essential that government not only enforces the provisions of Section 27, Deal Changes and Integrity, but also embeds strong governance protocols that reflect democratic values, ensure equitable access and provide a clear and inclusive roadmap for economic development.

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Health Minister orders ministry to investigate mystery disease affecting children

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) will investigate a virus that caused health implications to a child in Sikaiana, Malaita Outer Islands.

Minister of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), Paulson Popora Bosawai, yesterday sent directives and communicated with responsible department heads of the National Referral Hospital (NRH) following Island Sun’s inquiry into the health issue.

Island Sun received the report from Sikaiana three weeks ago.

“I will communicate with the CEO of NRH and the public health director for surveillance. I am now sending directives,” said Minister Bosawai.

“I was not informed of this case. What I know is the outbreak of hand, mouth disease in New Zealand. We may have cases, but they have to meet the definition before we declare,” he said.

The Minister also disclaimed the report that the virus was herpes zoster, a viral infection that causes a painful rash, caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox.

His response comes following a case which was airlifted from Sikaiana two weeks ago and was later discharged from the NRH pediatric ward last week.

Malaita Province Health Director, David Danitofea, also confirmed to Island Sun yesterday about the case of the airlift two weeks ago from Sikaiana to NRH, upon receiving the report from Sikaiana.

“I can confirm one case that was airlifted from Sikaiana two weeks ago to NRH. We received the reports and we made reference to NRH. However, I’m not really sure about the virus since we have not received any feedback or report from NRH recently concerning the issue,” said Danitofea.

Supervising Nurse and a few nurses at the Children’s Ward told Island Sun yesterday that a child was discharged last week and that it was a herpes zoster virus.

“Herpes usually stems from the body and should have pustules as well,” said Minister Bosawai.

He also explained that in light of the case, there is a need for huge investment to restore health in the country, as it had run down before he took office.

Former Nurse Manager at NRH, Surgery Department, Honiara, 2025 Edward Iuhanisuna said that Herpes zoster can be gradually cured after 14 days, even by swimming using guava leaves.

He said that herpes zoster could viral from any side of the upper head or the neck to the face.

He also mentioned syphilis infection and allergies.

“If there is no infection, then it could be a facial burn with hot water. Allergic burn, due to food or any herpes they might be used on the face or surrounding affected areas. Only syphilis cases, yes, for sure and allergies. That will be seen at birth, even some of their whole-body skin can be peeled off,” said Iuhanisuna.

“All such cases can be treated. If tests are done and results of microbes or what bacteria, then they can be treated except for cancer,” he said.

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Representatives of 16 sub-tribes of Bubutasi and Penguniu of East Guadalcanal province collectively referred to as “Bubupengu”, have recently engaged in efforts to trace their family lineage.

Coordinator Mr Cyril Kulisuia said a family tree has been developed exclusively for the 16 sub-tribes residing within the two land boundaries.

“The Bubutasi and Penguniu Tribal Land Conservation is now progressing to the stage of Land Use Planning. Once this phase is completed, we will be prepared to officially declare our land and our tribe, as we are the legitimate owners of these two resource-rich lands,” he said.

“Thanks to all our hard-working chiefs, community elders, women and youths for making this important step of the plans possible and come to reality,” said Mr Kulisuia.

He said that the Bubupengu has a few attraction sites in the Conservation Area, where eco-tourism is their major development plan.

“We already had a retreat house known as Kopiu Bay Retreat House to provide accommodations for visitors,” he said.

He said that the Bubupengu Tribal Land Conservation Association, over the past months have met with Dr. Morgan Wairiu and the World-Wide Fund (WWF) Conservation Manager, Mr. Hendry Kaniki, with some information on the pathway to assist the Bubupengu Tribal Land Conservation Association in their future development.

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Bubupengu Tribal Land Conservation Association (BPTLCA) has thanked the World-Wide Fund -Solomon Islands and the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR).

This comes after the World-Wide Fund- Solomon Islands and the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) held a one-day workshop on Marine management.

The workshop held on 13 May at Haimabulu, Moli Ward, East Guadalcanal was facilitated by the World-Wide Fund (WWF) Conservation Manager, Mr. Henry Kiniki and his two officers.

Speaking to Island Sun, BPTLCA Co-ordinator Mr Cyril Kulisuia said that the team from WWF and the Ministry of Fisheries visited the area in East Guadalcanal to discuss the importance of protecting the local environment.

He said that the visit was made possible after the WWF was invited by the local community to visit the community and conduct basic community awareness concerning the work.

Mr Kulisiua said that the BPTLCA is working to conserve the area from the ridges to the reef and they are conducting this awareness campaign to educate the community about the importance of preserving the forest, beach and sea.

“Over 60 people attended the meeting, which focused mainly on the Marine Protected Area. We welcome the WWF and MFMR and look forward to building a long-lasting partnership,” said Kulisiua.

He said that the visit was the first of its kind for WWF and the Ministry of Fisheries.

WWF provides technical assistance and financial support for the effective management of locally managed marine areas (LMMAs), including advice on the identification, set-up and monitoring of marine protected areas.

WWF relies on strong and transparent relationships with all stakeholders, from the community up to the provincial and national levels of government.

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

UNICEF, in partnership with the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) and Malaita Provincial Government (MPG) have successfully concluded a three-day capacity-building workshop aimed at strengthening local governance and improving the delivery of essential social services across Malaita Province.

Held in Auki from 13 to 15 May with funding support from the European Union, the workshop brings together provincial officials, ward development committees, government ministries and civil society organizations.

It marks the beginning of a series of similar workshops to be held across all provinces in the Solomon Islands, focusing on strengthening capacity building of provincial governments in evidence-based planning, budgeting, financing and governance skills to strengthen service delivery in health, education, water and sanitation and hygiene (WASH).

“This workshop is a crucial step forward in our shared commitment to improving the well-being of our communities, especially our children,” said Ronesh Prasad, UNICEF Solomon Islands Social Policy Specialist.

“By equipping provincial and ward-level stakeholders with the tools and data for evidence-based planning; we are supporting more responsive, inclusive and accountable governance.”

The initiative is part of the Provincial Governance and Service Delivery (PGSD) Project, jointly implemented by UNICEF and UNDP under the broader European Union-funded programme.

Malaita Premier, Elijah Asilaua acknowledged that the partnership with UNICEF and the EU marks a new chapter on efforts to serve the people of Malaita more effectively.

“By building the capacity of our officers and ward committees, we are creating the foundation for better governance and resilient, community-driven development. Let us seize this opportunity to turn plans into action and challenges into solutions.”

Participants gained technical knowledge and skills to plan, design and cost project proposals aligned with the province’s development priorities.

Malaita Province, home to more than a third of Solomon Islands’ population of 800,000 people continue to face major challenges in WASH access, health infrastructure and education services. According to data from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, just 48% of households have access to essential drinking water sources, while most communities still practice open defecation.

Through capacity-building efforts, Malaita Province aims to develop more inclusive and climate-resilient social services, especially for vulnerable groups, including children with disabilities and adolescent girls. The workshop also aligns with the Solomon Islands Government’s 20-year National Development Strategy (NDS 2016-2035), which emphasizes good governance, inclusive economic growth and quality basic services.

UNICEF remains committed to supporting the people of Solomon Islands in realizing their right to health, education and safe water. Together with national and provincial partners, this initiative represents a collective step toward a brighter, healthier and more equitable future for every child.

Isabel Province will be the next to undergo this workshop, followed by Central Islands Province, Western Province and the rollout will continue until it covers all the provinces in the country, including Honiara.

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Leroy Port at Ranadi, East Honiara, was declared an international wharf in December 2023.

Harry Kuma, Minister for the Ministry of Finance and Treasury (MoFT) expressed this when responding to the Member of Parliament for Small Malaita on the question of whether Leroy Port was an international wharf and if it meets international standards as an international port.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, 22, Rick Houenipwela questioned what compliance monitoring ensureed that the Leroy facility maintains its compliance in relation to international requirements such as the Solomon Islands Port Authority (SIPA).

“Are there any concerns about security and illicit activities? Do you have these same concerns about Leroy Wharf?” Houenipwela asked.

In response, Minister Kuma said that the Leroy Wharf is operated by the Sol Fish Company and is 100% owned, employing 320 Solomon islanders.

He said that the need to turn Leroy Wharf into an International Wharf is just need-based because of the situation of COVID-19 and preparatory work for the South Pacific games in 2023, where the Government see it important to create another international wharf.

“So, in 2022, there was a cabinet paper brought to the cabinet for approval to set up a committee and get Leroy to comply with the minimum international requirement to declare an international wharf,” said Kuma.

He said that the committee is made up of all the relevant Government stakeholders, including the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management (MECCDM), the Ministry of Finance & Treasury (MoFT), the Solomon Islands Maritime Authority (SIMA), Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) and the Private sector.

“With continuous assessment, they see it fit and comply with the safety, port security standard, that is ISPS code, comply with the Environment Act 1998, the Planning and Development Act 1980, SIMA regulation and Requirements, the Biosecurity Act of 2023, GP planning and development regulations, SIMA conducts annual ISPS audits on the wharf 2024, Customs and Exercise Act declared as customs area to store goods.

“The customs control facility is well prepared. For customs purposes, Leroy port fees are just as the same as SIPA, which has office spaces for customs officers, Biosecurity staff, and police. It accepts all businesses who is willing to use the port facilities.

“These are things that Leroy Wharf met and the committee at that time recommended to the cabinet and declared an International Wharf in December 2023,” said Kuma.

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