The New Zealand High Commission has been supporting schools in Guadalcanal Province through its Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programme since 2016.
Through its ongoing support, the New Zealand High Commission has partnered with UNICEF, the Solomon Islands Government, and the Guadalcanal Provincial Government through the “WASH in Schools” Programme to improve water and sanitation services in schools.
The New Zealand High Commission Office says since the program started in 2016 and it has supported forty-two schools across Guadalcanal Province and is now expanding to an additional twenty schools.
More than thirteen-thousand students and five hundred teachers have benefited from improved Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) infrastructure, services, and training.
The High Commission says these investments have helped schools to become healthier, safer, and more supportive for children while strengthening access to essential services for communities across the province.
Just last week, the New Zealand High Commission handed over thirty-nine water tanks to thirty villages in the Tasimboko ward of Guadalcanal province addressing one of the communities’ health issues.
The handing over of the water tanks by the New Zealand’s High Commissioner, Jonathan Curr was witnessed by officials from the New Zealand High Commission, the Guadalcanal Provincial Assembly Member and hundreds of villagers.
A disaster officer based in Gizo said some recovery programmes have already started reaching affected communities, despite concerns raised over the pace of recovery operations in recent months.
The officer explained that delays in the recovery process were largely caused by the time required to compile and verify the Initial Damage Assessment (IDA) report, which serves as the foundation to plan and coordinate recovery activities.
He said persistent bad weather and the geographical challenges of Western Province are two major factors to the slow progress.
The officer said Western Province consists of scattered islands spread across a vast area, making transportation and access to affected communities difficult, particularly during rough sea conditions.
He said the completion of the IDA report marks an important milestone and allows authorities to move forward with the development of a comprehensive recovery plan.
“With the IDA report now completed, the next stage is to develop the recovery plan that will guide all recovery activities,” the officer said.
He said the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) is expecting to lead the preparation of the recovery plan, while other government ministries and agencies are expected to provide technical support in their respective areas of expertise.
The officer said the recovery plan will outline priority interventions and identify resources required to restore damaged infrastructure, livelihoods and essential services affected by the cyclone.
“Once the plan is finalised, provincial sectors and relevant stakeholders will be expected to implement recovery programmes according to the priorities and strategies identified in the document,” he said.
The officer said government agencies at the provincial level must be prepared to carry out recovery activities efficiently once the plan is endorsed.
“Different sectors within the province must be ready to implement the recovery efforts based on the recovery plan once it is completed,” he said.
Tropical Cyclone Maila caused widespread damage across parts of Western Province earlier this year, affecting homes, food gardens, community infrastructure and livelihoods.
Authorities hope the completion of the recovery plan will accelerate rehabilitation efforts and help affected communities rebuild and restore normalcy in the months ahead.
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has renewed its strong wind warning for all Solomon Islands waters, urging the public and sea travellers to remain cautious as hazardous marine conditions persist.
In Strong Wind Warning Number 89 statement issued at 4:00pm yesterday, SIMS said a trough north of the country, combined with a prevailing southeasterly wind flow, continues to generate strong winds across the nation’s waters.
SIMS said southeasterly winds of 15 to 25 knots are expected, with moderate to rough seas and southeasterly swells ranging between 2.3 and 3.5 metres.
“People in those areas should take precautionary measures as such strong winds have the potential to impact lives and properties,” SIMS said.
SIMS also warns that poor visibility is expected in showers and thunderstorm areas, increasing the risks for those travelling at sea.
“Sea travellers are urged to consider safety actions as such winds can produce dangerous wave conditions which are hazardous to small boats,” SIMS said.
The latest advisory follows SIMS’ earlier appeal for the public to remain vigilant and prioritise safety while the adverse weather conditions continue.
SIMS also reminds the public to share the warning with people living with disabilities to ensure everyone has access to the latest weather information.
The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Secretariat hosted a delegation from the Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) on 14th July 2026 in Port Vila, as part of a “Visit and Learn” mission aimed at strengthening ties between the two organisations.
A statement from the MSG Secretariat said the SIPA delegation paid a courtesy visit to learn more about the MSG Free Trade Agreement and the Melanesian Intra-Shipping initiative, two key programs supporting trade and connectivity across Melanesia.
The statement said discussions were led by Mr Bill Henry, Programme Manager, on behalf of Acting Director General Mr Ilan Kiloe, and also touched on the role of culture and sports in strengthening regional unity and people-to-people ties.
Mr Henry said ports are the lifeline of trade in the region.
“Stronger alignment between our ports and MSG regional frameworks will help reduce costs, improve efficiency, and get goods and people moving more freely across Melanesia,” he said.
The MSG Secretariat said it remains committed to working with national and regional partners to build a united, resilient, and prosperous Melanesia.
China has confirmed it will provide over SBD$88million of which 8-million will be for post disaster relief support to victims of Tropical Cyclone Maila and more than SBD$80 million towards the Rural Sustainable Development program (RSDP).
The announcement came during bilateral talks held in Beijing recently between the Solomon Islands’ Foreign Affairs Minister Rick Hounipwela and Chinese Foreign Minister H.E Wang Yi.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, (MFAET), Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also informed Foreign Minister Hounipwela that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region – Solomon Islands visa exemption arrangement has been given the green light and is nearing completion, giving more opportunity for increased people-to-people exchanges.
The Rural Sustainable Development program started in 2019 with the aim to boost social and economic development, improve livelihoods, and support inclusive growth across rural communities nationwide.
Funds under RSDP are earmarked for small community infrastructure projects, income-generating initiatives, and climate‑change–related interventions.
It is managed by the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) with strict monitoring and reporting mechanisms in place to ensure transparency and accountability.
The RSDP is part of a broader wave of Chinese‑funded or -supported development programs across the Solomon Islands which over the past few years, has contributed to major infrastructure and social‑service enhancements nationwide.
The RSDP’s targeted interventions — from transportation and infrastructure to fisheries, agriculture, broadband connectivity, and social services — are designed to address long-standing rural challenges: limited access to markets, services, and opportunities.
By channeling resources directly into constituencies, the program aims to reduce poverty, bolster food security, and enable sustainable livelihoods.
The Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS), John Tuhaika Jr. officially welcomed Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape upon his arrival at Henderson International Airport on Saturday for an official visit to Solomon Islands.
Prime Minister Marape arrived at around 9 a.m. with his delegation and was received by the Minister, senior government officials and a Guard of Honour before proceeding to attend a Seventh-day Adventist church service.
A press release from the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) said the visit highlighted the close and enduring relationship between Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, with Prime Minister Marape meeting Prime Minister Matthew Wale to discuss matters of mutual interest.
In recognition of the significance of the visit, the Solomon Islands Government elevated the brief trip to an official visit and accorded Prime Minister Marape full ceremonial honours upon his arrival at Henderson International Airport.
Following the official welcome, Prime Ministers Wale and Marape attended a church service on Saturday morning, where both leaders addressed the congregation.
The two leaders later held bilateral talks on Saturday evening with focus on strengthening cooperation and advancing shared priorities between the two Melanesian nations.
Discussions covered areas of mutual interest with the aim to enhance bilateral relations and regional collaboration.
Prime Minister Marape concluded his visit and departed for Port Moresby yesterday after completing his official engagements in Honiara.
The first Papua New Guinea–Solomon Islands Investment Conference will be held in Honiara next month.
The conference is set to bring together government leaders, investors, business executives and development partners to strengthen economic cooperation between the two neighbouring Melanesian countries, according to Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI).
The two-day conference is scheduled for 19–20 August 2026 at the Heritage Park Hotel under the theme, “From Opportunity to Investment: Building the PNG–Solomon Islands Growth Corridor”.
The event is jointly organised by the Papua New Guinea Solomon Islands Business Council Inc. and SICCI.
According to promotional information released by the organisers, the conference will provide a platform for participants to discuss investment opportunities and strengthen trade and commercial partnerships between the two countries.
Key sectors to be highlighted include trade, infrastructure, mining, tourism, agriculture and finance, with discussions expected to focus on unlocking new business opportunities and encouraging cross-border investment.
The conference will also provide opportunities for investors and businesses to engage directly with government leaders, chief executive officers and development partners on projects that can drive economic growth in both countries.
Organisers are encouraging interested participants to register before the 11 August 2026 deadline. Registration can be completed through the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry website.
The inaugural conference is expected to mark a significant step towards expanding economic cooperation and private sector partnerships between Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands.
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.
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.
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.
