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SIPA unveils plans to expand domestic port facilities

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) has announced ambitious plans to expand the Honiara Domestic Port further.

Speaking during the commissioning of the newly completed Kulabule Jetty, last week, SIPA Board Chairman Moses Virivolomo told delegates that SIPA intends to construct an additional wharf alongside three new loading ramps as part of its ongoing development programme.

He said the expansion comes as SIPA seeks to increase the capacity and efficiency of the domestic port, which serves as a critical gateway for the movement of goods and passengers between Honiara and the provinces.

“We will be building one more wharf similar to the Kulabule Jetty and three additional ramps to improve operations and accommodate growing demand,” he said.

He said a major step towards achieving those goals is SIPA’s recently adopted 35-year Port Master Plan, which will guide future developments across the country’s port facilities.

“The plan focuses on infrastructure renewal, climate resilience, and the expansion of port capacity to meet growing demands.

Chairman Virivolomo said SIPA also plans to commence reclamation works in front of the Honiara Central Market area in the near future.

He said the project is expected to create additional space for future developments while also contributing to efforts to address traffic congestion in the city centre.

He said SIPA is exploring the possibility of improving transport access through the area by creating new road infrastructure linking key locations from the market frontage through to the Kukum roundabout.

“These developments form part of a broader vision to transform the domestic port into a modern, efficient and people-centred facility capable of supporting Solomon Islands’ long-term economic growth.

“The expansion programme complements a series of reforms undertaken by SIPA in recent years, including improvements to procurement systems, organisational restructuring and the adoption of new digital technologies.

Mr Virivolomo said SIPA remains committed to invest in infrastructure that strengthens domestic shipping services and supports national development.

“The planned projects are expected to enhance port operations, create new economic opportunities and improve services for shipping operators, businesses and the travelling public,” he said.

Photo: Solomon Ports

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SIPA highlights self-financed infrastructure investments

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Careful financial management and long-term savings have enabled the Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) to fund major infrastructure projects without relying solely on external financing.

SIPA Board Chairman Moses Virivolomo said this when he addressed questions about how SIPA finances its investments at the commissioning of Kulabule Jetty last week.

He emphasised that careful saving and reinvestment of resources have been key to its growth.

“The simple answer is saving. Don’t use all your money at once. SIPA’s investment strategy has allowed it to continue supporting government services while facilitating trade and the movement of people and goods throughout the Solomon Islands.

“In addition to the newly commissioned wharf, SIPA is undertaking several major infrastructure projects. One of the most significant is the reconstruction and expansion of Berth One, where new cranes have already been installed,” Mr Virivolomo said.

He said that the project is being implemented with support from the World Bank under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Programme (LMCP).

He said SIPA also acknowledges the support of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in helping to redevelop the berth, which is considered one of the safest facilities at the port.

“Construction work underway includes a new multi-storey building similar in design to the Millennium Building, as well as extensive yard and pavement upgrades,” he said.

He said SIPA is also working with the Australian Government on a proposal to extend the North Wharf eastward to increase port capacity and improve operational efficiency.

He said visitors can already see newly completed pavement works designed to strengthen climate change resilience and improve safety for customers, port users and staff at the domestic terminal.

He said SIPA recently completed a similar wharf project in Noro using its own resources and says it remains committed to improving port facilities across the country.

“Ongoing developments include enhanced infrastructure to support businesses and traders, particularly those transporting perishable goods, through improved access to power and other essential services,” Mr Virivolomo said.

He said these investments demonstrate SIPA’s commitment to modernise port infrastructure while maintaining a strong focus on self-financed development and sustainable growth.

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Strong wind warning remains in effect across SI waters

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has issued a Strong Wind Warning (Impact-Based Warning Number 38) for all waters of the Solomon Islands, with an Orange Alert remaining in effect for all provinces.

The warning was issued yesterday, Wednesday, June 24, as strong southeasterly winds continue to affect the country, creating dangerous marine conditions across the region.

According to SIMS, sea conditions are expected to remain moderate to rough, accompanied by swells that could make sea travel hazardous.

SIMS warns that small boats are at risk of capsizing under the prevailing conditions. Reduced visibility is also likely in areas experiencing showers and thunderstorms.

Sea travellers are strongly advised to avoid unnecessary trips and to take all necessary safety precautions if travel is unavoidable.

The public is also urged to stay informed through official communication channels, including SIBC Radio and other media outlets, for the latest weather updates and advisories.

Communities, particularly those in coastal and island areas, are encouraged to remain prepared, follow all safety advice, and ensure emergency plans are in place as the strong wind conditions persist.

The warning remains in effect until further notice.

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Opposition leader Sogavare calls on PM Wale to stop abusing clause 22(j) for political means

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BY TONY IROGA

Leader of Opposition Manasseh Sogavare has accused Prime Minister Matthew Wale of abusing a clause within the contracts of senior public servants to remove them based on politics.

Mr Sogavare called out Mr Wale over reports that ‘public servants who are not considered loyal to the Government could face consequences for their employment’.

Clause 22(j) is a termination clause in the senior public service employment contracts which allows for the officials to be fired purely on political grounds and bypassing the oversight of the Public Service Commission (PSC).

PSC is constitutionally responsible for terminating public officials’ contracts. Under Section 116 of the Constitution, the PSC is vested with the explicit power to appoint, promote, transfer, remove, and discipline public officers.

Sogavare called on PM Wale to stop.

Since Wale came to power several senior public servants have been fired with immediate effect including four permanent secretaries, with no explanations. More terminations are reportedly in the pipeline.

Wale has not responded to enquiries sent by Island Sun via the PM Secretariat.

Mr Sogavare, in a statement on Tuesday this week, said the Public Service is a national institution established to serve the people of Solomon Islands and must remain professional, impartial and politically neutral at all times.

The Opposition is deeply concerned that clause 22(j) is now being used across senior public service contracts to terminate permanent secretaries and other senior officials solely because there has been a change of government or a change in government policy, the statement said.

This concern is heightened by reports that permanent secretaries in the Ministry of Finance and Treasury, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, and Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services have also been terminated under the same clause, the Opposition statement said.

“This clause allows a government to end a contract on political grounds, even where there is no allegation of misconduct, poor performance or breach of duty by the officer.

“By relying on clause 22(j), the Government has effectively claimed a right to remove senior public servants simply because they are no longer seen as politically convenient.

“This strikes at the heart of the constitutional principle that appointments, promotions and discipline of public officers are matters for an independent Public Service Commission, which is intended to exercise these powers free from political direction or control.

“When ministers can use contract clauses like 22(j) to sidestep the Commission, the door is opened to patronage, favouritism and the politicisation of the Public Service.

“Public servants do not serve political parties. They serve the State and the people of Solomon Islands,” Sogavare said.

The Opposition Leader said successive governments have depended on a professional Public Service to provide independent advice, implement government policies and ensure continuity through changes in political leadership.

“The Public Service is the machinery that implements the policies and decisions of the Government of the day. While public servants must be held to high standards of performance, they must also be provided with the right environment, support and conditions to carry out their responsibilities effectively,” he said.

“Our public officers should be assessed on their competence, professionalism, integrity and performance not on perceived political loyalty.”

Sogavare said public servants must be able to provide frank and honest professional advice without fear or political pressure.

“A strong democracy depends on strong institutions. Public servants must be able to carry out their responsibilities with confidence that they can provide professional advice in the national interest.”

He said any perception that employment, promotion or advancement within the Public Service depends on political allegiance risks undermining public confidence in the independence and integrity of the institution.

“The Public Service belongs to the nation, not to any political party or government. Governments come and go, but the Public Service remains the permanent machinery of government.”

Sogavare said the Opposition supports efforts to strengthen performance, accountability and professionalism within the Public Service, but such reforms must be guided by merit, competence and the rule of law.

“The people of Solomon Islands expect a Public Service that is professional, independent and capable of serving any government elected by the people. These principles must always be protected.”

The Leader of Opposition therefore calls on the Government to immediately cease the use of clause 22(j) as a basis for terminating senior public servants and to review all such contracts as a matter of urgency, the statement said.

At the same time, he urges the Public Service Commission to actively assert its constitutional mandate over appointments, tenure and discipline of public officers, and to ensure that any contractual arrangements are consistent with the principles of independence, merit and non-partisanship required by the Constitution.

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Police call for patience from Wairaha community

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

Police in Malaita province are calling on Wairaha community elders and members to be patient and look after themselves as police wait for approval from their headquarters in Honiara to cull crocodiles. 

Malaita Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Michael Ramosaea made the call following concerns raised by members of Wairaha in West Are’are over delay in police response to their call for assistance against high risk posed by crocodiles in the Wairaha river.

Superintendent Ramosaea said they are yet to receive a response from the Honiara headquarter to their application to hunt and kill crocodiles.

He said the delay might be related to the suspension of the Commissioner of Police. 

“My good people of Wairaha and elsewhere, we are still waiting for approval from our Police Headquarters. So, I call on you, my good people, to be patient and look after yourselves.

“Right now, we don’t know why it is taking us so long like this.

“If the delay is related to the suspension of the police commissioner, then they should have told us,” he said.

He said the delay is beyond their control, but hopes the approval will be given soon.

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No end in sight for tugging over Afio fisheries generator

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The Afio Fishery generator is now becoming the most talked-about topic for the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), the Malaita Provincial Government, and the people of Afio, South Malaita.

This follows the Ministry’s endorsement for the temporary transfer of the generator from the Afio Fisheries Centre to the Auki Fisheries Centre in Malaita Province. 

During the move to remove the generator, the Maka Police and Afio residents were shocked and attempted to stop the move, as they were unaware of the official approval letter to remove the generator.

This paper sighted the endorsement letter, which said that the Supervising Deputy Director of the Provincial Fisheries Division under MFMR, Malakia, approved the move of the generator to Auki for temporary use.

“I write in my capacity as the Supervising Deputy Director of the Provincial Fisheries Division regarding the proposed temporary transfer of a generator from Afio Fisheries Centre to Auki Fisheries Centre in Malaita Province.”

The letter said the decision to move the generator was recommended by the Malaita Provincial Chief Fisheries Officer, Alick Maeorea, after the Auki Fisheries Centre generator broke down.

However, provincial minister for fisheries, environment, conservation and climate change, Jerry Hite’e, said only the Malaita Provincial Government has the power to remove any asset of the province.

He said that anything concerning the assets of the province must be debated and passed in the chamber before approval.

“Malaita Provincial Government has the absolute right over those provincial assets.

“There is a resolution regarding such matters, and we, the executive government, have to discuss and enact it,” he said.

In a letter from Permanent Secretary Eric George, dated last Friday, the generator is said to be meant specifically to supply power to the Afio fisheries centre.

Mr George also said that the generator will remain at Afio as the provincial government is planning to develop Afio into a regional township.

“We are also, according to our plan, developing Afio to become our regional township.

“So, it is not permissible for anyone to remove it without approval from the administration of the Malaita Provincial Government and the legitimate authority,” the letter said.

Meanwhile, the paper reached out to the Malaita Provincial fisheries office in Auki, and one of the fisheries officers said that the removal of the generator was done through an arrangement between the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, provincial fisheries, and the provincial government.

The officer even said that it was for the good of the fisheries centres in the province.

“This is an arrangement between the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), provincial fisheries, and the provincial government.

“This is to support all fisheries centres,” the officer said.

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Recovery progressing well in Sasamuga after cyclone Maila

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

THE recovery process in Sasamuga, Choiseul Province, is progressing well as residents work to rebuild their lives following the destruction caused by Cyclone Maila.

Chairman of the Sasamuga Disaster Committee, Tani Kiko, said the community has shown resilience and determination in recovering from the disaster that severely affected livelihoods and infrastructure.

He said recovery efforts are already underway, with most residents returning to their normal activities while some families continue to require assistance to fully recover.

“At the moment, 90 percent of the residents are now going back to what they used to do. They are replanting their gardens and rebuilding some of the buildings that were destroyed during the cyclone,” Kiko said.

He said the community has received ongoing support from non-governmental organisations, donor partners and other stakeholders who continue to visit Sasamuga to assess areas where assistance is needed.

Kiko said, several development projects have also been approved to support the community’s recovery and long-term development.

“So far, Sasamuga community has secured new projects, including new market houses. We also thank the Australian Government for providing one major project. Our solar farm project has already been implemented and is now up and running,” he said.

Kiko said the recovery process has brought renewed hope to the community, with residents committed to rebuilding stronger and improving their resilience against future disasters.

He acknowledged the support provided by development partners and government agencies, saying their contributions have played a vital role in helping the community recover from the impacts of Cyclone Maila.

Despite the positive progress, Kiko noted that some households are still facing challenges and will continue to need support as recovery efforts move forward.

Cyclone Maila caused widespread damage across parts of Choiseul Province earlier this year, destroying homes, food gardens and community infrastructure. However, community leaders say the determination of local residents and assistance from partners have helped accelerate the recovery process.

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SINU hosts seafarers day today

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BY TONY IROGA

The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) will today host celebrations to mark the International Day of the Seafarers 2026 at the Solomon Islands Maritime College (SIMC) Ranadi Campus.

The event will recognise the important contribution of seafarers to global trade and transportation.

SINU, in a statement, invited members of the public to join the celebration, saying the event honours “the men and women who keep the world connected through maritime trade and transport”.

This year’s theme “Carrying the World Trade, Carrying the Risk” highlights the critical role seafarers play to support international commerce while facing challenges and risks at sea.

“SINU joins the global community in recognising the dedication and service of seafarers whose work is essential to world trade and connectivity,” the statement said.

Activities scheduled for the day include a parade and flag-raising ceremony, cultural and student performances, a Girls at Sea presentation, and a seafarers remembrance ceremony.

The programme will also feature a live maritime safety and rescue demonstration, campus tours, maritime exhibitions, industry booths, and interactive displays.

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DRY SPELL

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Communities in Choiseul province report water shortage following lack of rain after cyclone Maila

BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

Communities on Choiseul province are experiencing increasing challenges as a dry spell following cyclone Maila continues.

Sasamuga village in south Choiseul is reportedly one of the hard-hit communities.

Prolonged dry conditions, with water sources dwindling has sparked concerns over the potential impact of El Niño.

Speaking to Island Sun, Sasamuga community leader Tani Kiko said the extended dry season has significantly reduced the volume of streams that many communities rely on for daily water needs.

He said the situation has become increasingly challenging, forcing some communities to ration water as supplies continue to decline.

“Some of the communities that depend on wells are rationing water,” Kiko said.

He said residents have also noticed unusually high temperatures, describing the current heat as more intense than in previous years.

Kiko said the Sasamuga water supply system continues to provide reliable service to the village, school and clinic.

However, he said, there are growing concerns that the water source could eventually be affected if the dry spell persists.

“We are fortunate that the water supply is still operating well, but we hope the source will not dry up,” Kiko said.

He believes the changing weather patterns are linked to the looming El Niño event, which authorities have warned could bring prolonged dry conditions across the country.

Kiko said community leaders are already taking proactive measures to prepare for any worsening conditions.

He said leaders in various communities have begun mobilising plans that aim to strengthen preparedness and reduce the potential impacts of El Niño on households and livelihoods.

“Community leaders have mobilised plans in their respective communities to ensure people are better prepared before anything worse can happen,” he said.

Kiko also encourages residents to start identifying practical solutions to cope with water shortages and other challenges that may arise if dry conditions continue in the months ahead.

As El Niño concerns continue to grow across the Solomon Islands, communities in Choiseul Province are joining others around the country to prepare for what could be a challenging period of drought and water scarcity.

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Hekari arrives with title hunger

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PNG giants back in Honiara chasing breakthrough OFC Women’s Champions League crown

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Papua New Guinea women’s football powerhouse Hekari FC has arrived in Honiara with one clear mission — to finally go one step further and claim the OFC Women’s Champions League title.

The two-time runners-up touched down at Henderson International Airport yesterday afternoon ahead of the 2026 OFC Women’s Champions League, bringing with them a squad determined to turn past heartbreak into history.

Hekari Women FC Head Coach Ericsson Komeng said the team understands the challenge ahead but believes his players are ready for the battle in Honiara.

“We are in a tough pool, against Ba, Tafea FC and Henderson Eels. We have to get through the pool first, and hopefully we can get through and see where we are,” Komeng said.

Hekari has been placed in Group A alongside Vanuatu champions Tafea FC, Fiji champions Ba Women FC and Solomon Islands representatives Henderson Eels FC.

For Komeng, the opening match against Ba will be an important test of his side’s readiness.

“I think all three are good clubs. They deserve to be here, and we just have to be at our best,” he said.

“Our first game will be against Ba, and we must be strong because I see this game as a very tough one. We are looking forward to that match.”

Hekari’s campaign comes with added motivation after finishing runners-up in the last two editions of the competition, both times narrowly missing out against Auckland United.

The PNG side lost the 2024 final in Honiara and suffered another 1-0 defeat in last year’s decider in Tahiti.

Komeng said those experiences have provided valuable lessons for his team.

“The important thing about finishing runners-up is that we have to learn from those games. We came here today to try and be better. I hope we can go one better this time,” he said.

The coach believes the inclusion of experienced players from Fiji will strengthen Hekari’s push this year.

“Yes, Hadi and Maria are two of the best players from Fiji. I think they will lift us and help the girls get through,” Komeng said.

The squad also includes Solomon Islands player Siasia, who Komeng believes has shown the right attitude despite being new to the environment.

“Yes, I like her attitude. She works hard at training. We will see how she goes,” he said.

“It is her first time playing for a different club away from home. It is going to be tough for her, but I’m sure she will get there.”

With Siasia expected to receive support from local fans, Komeng encourages Solomon Islands supporters to come out and embrace the tournament.

“The big thing is that they can come and support football. We have Sia. Every fan can come and support Sia and get behind us throughout the tournament,” he said.

Hekari’s preparation has been positive, although Komeng admitted the delayed start of the women’s league back home has been a challenge.

“Preparation has been good. The only thing is that the women’s league back home has not started yet. But the girls are fit and ready, and I’m looking forward to the tournament,” he said.

The arrival of Hekari adds further excitement to a historic tournament for Solomon Islands, with local club Henderson Eels representing the host nation against some of the region’s best women’s football teams.

The OFC Women’s Champions League 2026 brings together seven teams from across Oceania, with matches set to be played in Honiara from June 27.

Hekari Women FC enters the competition as one of the region’s most experienced sides, having reached the final in the previous two editions.

The PNG champions will begin their campaign against Ba Women FC before facing Tafea FC and Henderson Eels in Group A.

Photo credit: Richard Menanopo

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