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Reconciliation paves peace and unity at Suvania community

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

TWO families in Suvania village, west of Gizo, have put their differences aside and embraced reconciliation, marking a significant step towards lasting peace and unity for future generations.

Brothers Ben Lavi and Willie Kazi embraced each other for the first time in 11 years during the reconciliation, Photo by Ben Bilua

The families of Willie Kazi and Ben Liva came together yesterday in a reconciliation ceremony witnessed by chiefs, church leaders, women representatives, officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, and officials from the Ministry of Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs (MTGPEA).

One family again. Suvania community and families come together one again, Photo by Ben Bilua

Emotions ran high as members of both families shed tears while greeting each other after the official program, symbolising a renewed commitment to rebuild broken relationships.

Mr Ben Liva and Ms Vivian Lodu signed the peace agreement, Photo by Ben Bilua

Speaking on behalf of the Liva family, Ms. Vivian Lodu expressed gratitude to those who worked behind the scenes to ensure the reconciliation took place.

“I thank the churches, elders and the MTGPEA for your efforts in bringing back peace in our families and clan. Thank God for mending what was broken and restoring relationships that seemed beyond repair,” she said.

Lodu said the reconciliation will help heal memories of the past and guide both families toward a shared future.

“This is a new beginning where we learn from the past without letting it define our future,” she said.

Lodu said she is confident the spirit of forgiveness will spread beyond the families into homes, workplaces, and the wider community.

“Today, my heart is overjoyed because my family has finally come together as one. I thank my brothers, sisters, sons and daughters for their heart of forgiveness and commitment to restore lasting peace,” Lodu said.

Chief Jons Rove signed the peace agreement, Photo by Ben Bilua

Representing the Willie Kazi family, Chief Jons Rove described the reconciliation as timely, noting that the conflict had dragged on for too long.

“I place this traditional money here as a symbol of forgiveness. On behalf of my tribe and people, I ask for your forgiveness,” he said.

PC Atansius Poloso signed as witness to the Peace Agreement, Photo by Ben Bilua
Community member and officials who witness the reconciliation ceremony, Photo by Ben Bilua

He urged both families to uphold peace and unity moving forward.

Deputy Director of MTGPEA Western Office, Bruno Manele, said the reconciliation marks the beginning of ongoing efforts to resolve conflicts and promote harmony within communities.

“Conflict resolution shows maturity—to forget the past and live together as one family.

“Reconciliation is about making peace, and it begins with God. It is written in the Gospel: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God,’” he said.

Manele commended both families for demonstrating love and commitment to peace, urging the community to continue living in unity and work together towards development for the benefit of all.

Photos: Ben Bilua

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Taxi fare rate remains in limbo ahead of price rise tomorrow

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BY IRWIN ANGIKI

As fuel prices are expected to rise tomorrow, a standard rate for taxi fare is still to be settled on.

Taxi owners and service owners are feeling the brunt of the mid-April jump in fuel prices with the current rate of $10 per kilometre. This is with a backdrop of Honiara’s severe traffic as road works continue in the city’s CBD.

The Honiara City Council (HCC) is currently in informal dialogue with the city’s taxi service with the aim to ensure that any increase in taxi rates should mirror the fuel price increase, and also be a genuine temporary measure to mitigate the fuel price increase.

City Clerk Justus Denni told Island Sun yesterday that HCC understands the challenges the fuel price increase is having on everyone, and wishes fairness for all if any increase in taxi fare rate is to happen.

“Taxi services should confirm if they increase their rates, it is purposely to buffer the high fuel prices, and will likewise decrease when fuel prices drop back in the future. Any increase would be done on a collective agreement basis.

“HCC does not have any ordinance for taxi fare, unlike bus fare. Without any formal executive resolution, I would say if there should be any taxi fare rate increase it should match the fuel price increase.

“What would happen if fuel price reduce, will taxi rates likewise reduce? If the increase in taxi rates is because of the fuel price increase, then if there is any reduction in fuel price in the future, then the rates must likewise be reduced,” Clerk Denni said.

Meanwhile, taxi fare rates are being applied ad hoc as taxi services scramble to rally together to come up with an agreed figure.

It is understood Kings and Classic taxi services are running at $12 per km.

Kings is looking at options which would be fair on both customers and taxi owners, such as having day-time rates at $12 per km to help students and working customers, and a night-time rate of $15 per km.

Classics Taxi service owner Sasani told Island Sun yesterday the new rate stands while they wait for any collective agreement between HCC and taxi services.

Prince Taxi service representative, Deme, told Island Sun yesterday they have come up with $15 per km after dialoguing and feedback with their clients.

He explains that for long distances such as 7km or more, they charge the normal $10 per km, whereas $15 per km for short distances such as a kilometre.

The hourly rate of $100 per hour, and $150 from Honiara CBD to the airport remains, Deme said.

“We make sure our drivers inform customers of the rate increase to allow them to choose whether to get off or accept the new rate and continue on the journey.”

Current fuel prices, which were effective on April 21, are petrol at $12.45 per litre and diesel at $13.24 per litre.

In a previous Island Sun report following the increase, taxi services Prince and Classic shared that their drivers were reporting huge losses at the usual rate of $10 per km.

The severe traffic in Honiara, coupled with the hot temperatures, made it more challenging with relatively short distances taking longer to reach while air-condition consumed fuel more.

Fuel prices are reported to rise at the beginning of next month, which is tomorrow. New prices take effect midnight tonight.

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RSIPF welcomes Commissioner Vaevaso

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) held a ceremonial parade program yesterday at the Rove Police Headquarters to formally mark the appointment of Ian Vaevaso as the new Police Commissioner.

The event was attended by the Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, Minister of Police, Jimson Tanangada, RSIPF Executive and regional partners.

Speaking during the event yesterday, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele described the ceremony as a moment of national significance, one that speaks not only to leadership transition, but to the enduring strength of the country’s institutions and the shared commitment to peace, justice and the rule of law.

“Today, we formally receive the Commissioner of Police of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force. This is more than a ceremonial occasion. It is a reaffirmation of public trust,” PM Manele said.

He said that it is a reflection of continuity and stability and a clear signal of the collective resolve to uphold law and order as the foundation of national progress.

“On behalf of the Government for National Unity and Transformation and the people of Solomon Islands, I extend my sincere congratulations to Commissioner Ian Vaevao on your appointment,” he said.

He told the Commissioner that he assumed the role at a critical juncture in the nation’s journey, one that calls for leadership, integrity and strategic vision.

“On this note, I also acknowledge your family for their support to you as you assume your duties and responsibilities within the force. The appointment of a Solomon Islander to this highest policing office reflects the growing confidence and maturity of our national institutions,” the PM said.

Delivering his remarks, Commissioner Vaevaso said that the appointment is not about one individual, but it is about responsibility.

“It is about duty to our constitution, to our communities, and to every citizen who looks to the police force for protection and fairness.

The new commissioner also assured the Government and the members of the RSIPF that he will focus on strengthening leadership, enforcing standards, and ensuring that the RSIPF operates with unity, discipline, and purpose.

 “If we remain grounded in integrity, guided by professionalism, and aligned with government policy direction, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force will continue to grow stronger, more capable, and trusted. This is our next chapter,” Vaevaso said.

Photo: Press Secretariat, OPMC

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6-month rolling plan for fuel security

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Special Duty Secretary to the Prime Minister, Dr Jimmie Rodgers says the government’s six-month fuel security plan is not fixed but continuously rolling and adaptable.

Dr Rodgers explained that discussions at both national and regional levels are ongoing as the country responds to global uncertainties affecting fuel supply.

“At the regional level, the Prime Minister highlighted that a task force was established during the Pacific Islands Forum Troika meeting held on April 16 in Nadi, Fiji.

“The task force has outlined three possible scenarios: First scenario: A short-term outlook ending in April, assuming the war ends quickly. Second scenario: Six months from May to November, assuming the war ends before November 30 and conditions begin returning to normal. Third scenario: A prolonged situation where the war continues beyond that timeframe,” he said.

Dr Rodgers said that the six-month plan should not be seen as fixed.

“It’s not a static time. The six months are just a roll-on plan. For now, our timeline runs up to November, but it keeps moving,” he said.

He added that importers are in constant communication daily, weekly, and monthly, meaning the planning is continuously updated.

“That is why the Biketawa Declaration is important.  The mechanism used to coordinate responses during crises. This framework has previously been used during the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) and the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing regional countries to support each other with personnel and supplies.

“In times of crisis, countries that are not our usual suppliers can step in because of the activation of Biketawa,” he said.

Dr Rodgers said that current fuel imports to Solomon Islands come from Singapore, Korea, Taiwan, and Malaysia.

“Biketawa framework could allow access to alternative suppliers if the situation worsens,” he said.

He said that global fuel production and stockpiles are concentrated in major countries such as the United States, Venezuela, and Russia, meaning international cooperation is essential during supply disruptions.

“The Biketawa framework can also enable regional stockpiling and shared access to resources. For example, recently the U.S opened a fuel storage facility in Papua New Guinea, which could be accessed through regional cooperation,” he said.

Dr Rodgers reiterated that flexibility remains key.

“The six months are not static, but continue to roll as the situation changes and as our importers adjust,” he said.

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Man accused of grievous harm to face justice after psychiatric treatment

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

A long-running criminal case involving a violent stabbing in Makira Province has resurfaced in the Central Magistrate Court, with the defendant now deemed fit to face charges after years of psychiatric treatment.

Warren Piringisau, 48, of Nataghera village, Santa Ana Island, has been in custody since August 9, 2018, following his arrest for allegedly stabbing fellow villager Golden Kaea, 40, during the early hours of August 8, 2018.

It was alleged that the defendant entered Isaac Waru’s home around midnight and stabbed Mr Kaea twice in the back with a small bent knife while he slept.

The victim sustained three penetrating stab wounds to his chest and back, requiring urgent medical care. He was treated at Gupuna Clinic and admitted to Kirakira Hospital before being transferred to the National Referral Hospital (NRH) in Honiara.

Doctors later concluded that Kaea’s injuries left him with permanent health complications, stating there was “very little (no chance) of full recovery”.

The case was initially heard in Kirakira but was transferred to Honiara in July 2020 after concerns were raised about the defendant’s mental health.

Psychiatric assessments by Dr Paul Orotaloa diagnosed the defendant with schizophrenia (disorganised subtype), noting severely disorganised thinking and incoherent speech.

For years, medical reports consistently found him unfit to enter a plea.

However, in a November 2025 medical review, Orotaloa reported that the defendant had shown improvement and was now capable of understanding court proceedings, although with a slower thought process.

This development has allowed the matter to return to court after nearly eight years of delay.

The defendant remains remanded at Rove Correctional Centre in Honiara as the court prepares to determine how to proceed with the case.

The incident has drawn attention to the challenges of balancing criminal liability with mental health considerations within our criminal justice system.

The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge of Grievous Harm which attracts a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment.

Sentencing submissions for this matter has been adjourned for Thursday, May 7, 2026, for ruling of sentence before Chief Magistrate Ricky Iomea.

Mrs Fransisca Angilio Luza is prosecuting the matter, and she represents the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and Mr Jason Anisi from the Public Solicitors’ Office represents the defendant.

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MORE REVENUE LOSS

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Documents show GNUT’s $50 million worth of tax exemption taking effect on April 24 and 27

BY IRWIN ANGIKI

Government this week allowed around $50 million in revenue to be foregone through tax exemptions to Gold Ridge Mining company.

Entry documents show several consignments for Gold Ridge Mining Ltd (GRML) on April 24 and 27 were granted 100 percent tax exemptions.

These are reportedly a portion of the latest tax exemptions handed out by GNUT government.

The item with the largest value is at $107 million. Total of Goods Tax (19.5 percent) and Custom Duty (10 percent) is $31.6 million. 100 percent tax exemption has foregone this revenue.

The smallest item is valued $854. Even this was not spared tax exemption. Its goods tax and custom duty totalled to $252.

Only one item was taxed, its goods tax and custom duty totalling to $4,310.

Finance Minister Rexon Ramofafia declined to comment when sought yesterday, instead referring the paper to his permanent secretary McKinnie Dentana. Mr Dentana has not responded to questions.

Questions sent to Gold Ridge Mining yesterday remained unanswered by press time last night.

Gold Ridge Mining spokesperson Ben Afuga told Island Sun that GRML has a MOU with the government.

Gold Ridge mine is regarded as one of the country’s flagship projects. Redevelopment started in 2019 and gold production and exports began in December 2022.

Government announced on November 30, 2022, that GRML had received $90 million worth of tax exemption.

Tax exemption for GRML is governed by its MOU with government signed on July 13, 2021.

Finance Minister Ramofafia told Island Sun that the MOU is currently under review. He could not give details to the review, or when it is expected to complete.

Under the MOU, 100 percent tax exemption from Goods Tax and Customs Duty on capital infrastructure – imported capital items used for the construction and reconstruction of mine facilities.

Full exemptions also for specialised machinery – mining, milling, smelting, refining, and welding machinery and equipment.

Exemption also covered operational consumables, which include explosives and related accessories, industrial chemicals and reagents necessary for processing, grinding materials: including grinding balls and mill liners, heavy duty tyres: specifically for vehicles rated four-wheel drive and above.

GRML is regarded a central pillar of the Solomon Islands’ economy, currently undergoing a massive expansion projected to significantly increase its contribution to national revenue and employment.

The expansion, launched in August last year and costing $6 billion is expected to generate $7.5 billion in revenue annually once fully operational, $2 billion of which will go government.

Meanwhile, pundits question how GNUT can continue to forego mega-millions in revenue when it is continuously asking donor countries for assistance, the latest of which was for recovery activities following tropical cyclone Maila.

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SI archery squad gears up for Oceania Cup in Fiji

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BY TONY IROGA

The Solomon Islands archery squad is ramping up preparations ahead of the 2026 Oceania Cup, set to take place in Fiji in September, with athletes and officials confident of making a strong impression on the regional stage.

The national team, under the guidance of the Solomon Islands Archery Federation, has been undergoing intensive test in a recent tournament in New Zealand, focusing on sharpening shooting accuracy, mental discipline, and overall competition readiness as they prepare to face some of the Pacific’s top archers.

Speaking to Island Sun yesterday Ms Geogina Lepping said their team has shown steady progress in recent Oceania championship tournament from April 16- 19- this month and remains committed to representing the country with pride.

“With Janet and Robson successfully graduating the Level 2 coach course, this gives us the opportunity to support new clubs and the growth of Archery as a whole,” she said.

She said archery Solomon Islands squad competed in regional archery event to ensure that they are active and also for their athletes to continue experiencing competition level in archery.

“The federation registered the 2 athletes Janet and Robson for the coaching course, as part of our plan to grow and build archery in the country,” she said.

She said the squad hopes to get a para-archer ready for the upcoming tournament and calls on anyone interested to support this unique sport to reach out to them, as they continue gearing up for the upcoming Pacific Games.

She added that the federation is also working on long-term development programs to nurture young archers and strengthen the sport nationwide.

“We have been working closely with our archers on consistency and focus, which are very important in this sport,” Lepping said. 

She said the Oceania Cup will be a big challenge for them, but they are preparing well and aim to perform at their best.

“The squad includes a mix of experienced and emerging archers, with national representatives such as Margaret Melue for Barebow, Janet Saru for Recurve Bow, and Marissa Maisa for compound.

“This is a great opportunity for us to compete against some of the best archers in Oceania.

“We will continue our fundraising efforts to have access to more capacity building for our athletes and coaches,” Lepping said.

She said they are training hard every day and look forward to flying the Solomon Islands flag high in Fiji.

Meanwhile, Solomon Islands Archery Federation President Lionel Puhimana, acknowledged the support from stakeholders and emphasised the importance of international exposure for local athletes.

He said Oceania Cup is an important pathway for archers to gain experience and improve their rankings.

“We are thankful for the support from partners and the community, which continues to help us develop the sport in the country,” he said.

The Oceania Cup is expected to attract top competitors from across the Pacific, providing a valuable platform for the Solomon Islands team to test their skills, gain exposure, and build confidence ahead of future international competitions.

“Shooting in cold and windy weather is a learning experience which is good so that our athletes are aware of different environment conditions.

“We only have two level 2 coaches. It’s been more than 6 years since the last course was taken. So, this is a major step towards our development plan.

“I hope our athletes prepare in advance in terms of finance and mentality and continue to train more to avoid shooting under pressure,” Lepping said.

She said their federation really supports the vision of growing the sport and is a driving force behind the team managing to send athletes to New Zealand and in supporting the two athletes in the coaching course.

Photo credit: Stefan Armbruster

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SEASON START

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  • SWPL action begins this weekend

BY TONY IROGA

The Solrais Women’s Premier League (SWPL) is set to kick off its new season this weekend at the East End Stadium (KG Field) in East Honiara, marking another exciting chapter for women’s football in the country.

The league, which is the top-tier women’s football competition in Solomon Islands, has continued to grow since its launch in 2020 with support from major sponsors Solrais Company and the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF).  

A statement from SIFF said matches are expected to draw strong interest from fans, with clubs such as Ghupo Wantok and FC Koloale to play in an opening match on Saturday at 11am.

Marist FC will meet Geniagu United FC at 1pm and followed by Henderson Eesl FC and West Honiara FC at 3pm.

On Sunday, Frigates United FC will meet RSIPF Royals FC at 1pm followed by Naha FC and Haura FC match at 3pm.

Naha FC, RSIPF Royals FC, and Frigates United are among the regular competitors who have featured in previous seasons at the same venue.

SIFF said the opening weekend will provide a platform for local talent to showcase their skills, while also strengthening the development of women’s football pathways in Honiara and across the country.

“Since its inception, the competition has played a key role in building the women’s game and creating opportunities for players to progress to higher levels, including regional competitions,” SIFF stated.

The new season will be featuring 10 teams including Henderson Eels FC 2025 Champions, Naha WFC, Frigates United FC, Haura WFC, Royals WFC (RSIPF), Koloale WFC, Geniagu FC, Ghupo Wantok, Marist FC and West Honiara FC.  

“With anticipation building, fans are encouraged to turn out in numbers to support their teams as the new season gets underway in East Honiara,” the statement said.

This season marks a significant step forward for women’s football in the Solomon Islands.

The inclusion of Ghupo Wantok FC, shows the growing passion and investment in Women’s Football Development.

League coordinator Josephine Waleronoa encourages all football lovers to come out in numbers and support their teams.

Photo credit: Supplied

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Credit Corp high school men’s rugby 15s opens for registration

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BY TONY IROGA

The Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF), in partnership with Credit Corporation Solomon Islands Limited, has announced that registration is now officially open for the Credit Corp high school men’s rugby 15s tournament in May 4 2026.

A statement from SIRUF said the competition is open to all high schools in and around Honiara, with participation targeting Under-20 down to Under-18 age grades.

“Schools are encouraged to register teams and take part in what promises to be an exciting and competitive tournament aimed at developing young rugby talent across the country,” the statement said.     

SIRUF said registration closes today Wednesday, 29 April 2026, with a registration fee of SBD 1,500 per team.

“The first team confirmation meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, 29 April 2026,” the statement said.

The renewal agreement signing is scheduled for Thursday, 30 April 2026 at 10:00am with the venue confirmed to be Credit Corporation SI Limited Office.

 “Technical meeting is set to take place on Friday afternoon, May 1 2026 and followed by tournament set to kick-off on Monday May 4.

Seven schools have already expressed interest in participating, with final confirmation expected during the first meeting.

“This tournament continues to serve as an important pathway for youth rugby development in the Solomon Islands, providing student-athletes with opportunities to compete, grow, and strengthen life skills through sport,” SIRUF said.

SIRUF extends its sincere appreciation to Credit Corporation SI Limited for its continued full sponsorship of the tournament.

“Their commitment to supporting high school students and grassroots rugby development is making a meaningful difference in shaping the future of young athletes both on and off the field,” the statement said.

Photo credit: SIRUF

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WABC Level 1 course strengthens local capacity and regional development at SINIS

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The successful completion of the World Association of Basketball Coaches (WABC) Level 1 Coaching Course at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sports (SINIS) has been hailed as a major step forward for in the development of basketball in the country and the region.

Speaking during the closing ceremony yesterday, National Olympic Committee of Solomon Islands (NOCSI) Vice President Morris Maitaki said the course represents a significant investment in the future of the sport.

“As we gather here today to mark the closing of the World Association of Basketball Coaching Course Level 1, I am filled with a profound sense of pride and gratitude.

“On behalf of NOCSI, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to each of you for your dedication and commitment to advancing our understanding of basketball,” Maitaki said.

He stressed that basketball goes beyond competition, highlighting its role in shaping young people and communities.

“Basketball is more than just a game. It is a powerful tool for personal and community development. It fosters teamwork, discipline and resilience,” he said.

Maitaki added that strengthening coaching capacity is key to unlocking the country’s potential in the sport.

“We at NOCSI believe that by investing in the knowledge and skills of our coaches and officials, we are investing in the future of this dynamic sport in our nation,” he said.

He also encourages national federations to make full use of available support.

“Our message to all the federations is to utilise the Olympic Solidarity Programme. The benefits will come forth depending on your sector,” Maitaki said.

NOCSI Board Member Gloria Hong echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging the collective effort behind the week-long training.

“Thank you so much for making this one week a success.

“This week is also a reflection of the need to develop our technical support, and for participants to reflect on the importance of what it means to be a coach,” Hong said.

She also acknowledges the support of partners and stakeholders.

“I would like to thank FIBA for the support that it has given to Solomon Islands basketball throughout the year. Although FIBA is not here, we are benefiting from that,” she said.

Hong added that continued collaboration will be key in addressing challenges.

“We do have a lot of challenges, but one step at a time, and if we continue to collaborate, we can address more of them,” she said.

Meanwhile, Lai Puamau, representing FIBA Oceania, highlighted the significance of the course at a regional level.

“For your information, this is the second time a FIBA Level 1 coaching course has been held in this region,” Puamau said.

He said that the certification is increasingly becoming a benchmark for coaching pathways.

“The FIBA Level 1 coaching course has become a standard entry level to some national teams,” he said.

Puamau added that the investment in coaching will strengthen basketball development across the Pacific.

“With your support we hope that there will be a huge improvement in basketball in Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu at FIBA events,” he said.

The week-long course brought together coaches from Solomon Islands and the region, culminating in final assessments conducted at SINIS.

The Solomon Islands Basketball Federation earlier highlighted that the WABC Level 1 Coaching Course is only the second of its kind delivered in the region, with Fiji hosting the first before COVID-19.

The training was made possible through the NOCSI and IOC Technical Coaches Grant, with additional support from the Solomon Islands Australia Partnership, providing local and regional coaches access to internationally recognised certification.

Photo credit: Richard Menanopo

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