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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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Tuke distributes vegetables to supplement diet

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

MEMBER of the Western Provincial Assembly for Nusa Simbo (Ward 3), Gideon Tuke, has stepped in to provide fresh vegetables to households in Simbo in an effort to improve nutrition following the recent cyclone.

Tuke purchased fresh vegetables, beans, and coconuts from Gizo Market and nearby islands before arranging transport to Simbo for distribution to communities.

He said the initiative aims to supplement the diets of residents who have largely been surviving on rice, canned tuna, and noodles since the disaster.

“While I highly acknowledge the food supplies that were distributed to my people, I am concerned that the consistent diet poses health risks.

“Households are eating rice, taiyo and noodles every meal, and this is something that I would like to change. My people also need fresh vegetables and other root crops to supplement their normal diets,” Tuke said.

He said the recent severe cyclone not only damaged infrastructure but also destroyed nearly all food gardens and vegetation on the island.

“There is no green zone in Simbo. All you can see is brown. All the gardens and vegetables are gone,” Tuke said.

He adds that even local edible crops such as ferns have been wiped out, leaving communities with limited access to fresh food.

Tuke said people in Simbo are in urgent need of vegetables and root crops to restore balanced diets and maintain good health.

“I only hope that our sister islands that were not affected by the cyclone can assist us with local foods—especially vegetables, eggplants, ferns, pumpkin, and dry coconut,” he said.

Tuke said longer-term nutritional support is equally important for the wellbeing of affected communities.

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Vanuatu delegation visits SINU

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) welcomed a delegation from Vanuatu on Monday, 27 April, led by the country’s Minister of Health, Mr. John Still Tariqetu.

The nine-member delegation met with SINU Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau, Pro Vice-Chancellor Academic Associate Professor Eric Katovai, and Dean of the Faculty of Nursing, Medicine and Health Sciences Dr. Humpress Harrington.

Talks centered on strengthening academic collaboration, supporting Vanuatu students at SINU, and enhancing regional partnerships in health education, a statement from SINU yesterday said.

Professor Aqorau praised the achievements of Ni-Vanuatu students at SINU and highlighted the university’s role in advancing regional cooperation in health workforce development.

Minister Tariqetu expressed gratitude for SINU’s support in training Vanuatu’s health professionals, particularly nursing students.

He emphasised the strong ties between the two Melanesian nations and noted that the growing number of Ni-Vanuatu graduates reflects the depth of this partnership.

Mr. Tariquetu also mentioned the reopening of the Vanuatu National Nursing College and called for continued mentoring from SINU’s School of Nursing.

As a gesture of respect, the delegation presented a token of appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor. Members of the delegation have also been invited to attend SINU’s Graduation Ceremony this Thursday, where several Ni-Vanuatu students will graduate.

Photo credit: SINU

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Malaita council of elders visits Southern Malaita

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BY RODRICK DESURI

Auki

A prayer group, the Malaita Council of Elders visited Southern Malaita Province last week to conduct their quarterly prayer in the region.

The prayer group’s program commenced on Tuesday, April 21, and concluded on Thursday, April 23, 2026.

The Malaita Council of Elders was formed and launched in 2023 by an Israeli with the objective of guiding the province through prayers, as they have a greater commitment to this province.

Premier of Malaita Province, Elijah Asilaua said his government believes in God, and that through the belief and trust placed in Almighty God, transformation can take place and lead this province forward.

He said that by showing commitment to the prayer group and believing in God, and by continuing to seek the will of God for the vision of this province, it was a pleasure to be present and join the group on behalf of the government executive.

“My government believes strongly in God, as only through Him can transformation occur, and it can transform this province.

“Many premiers and governments have led this province, but through God, He can make a difference in this province.

“So, with that commitment, I believe I must present and attend all of the prayer tours,” he said.

The prayer group holds its prayer tour quarterly around Malaita province.

They toured Small Malaita last year, the Assembly Chamber at the beginning of this year, and this month travelled to Masupa, South Malaita.

Premier Asilaua, also had the opportunity to speak and share some updated information with the people of the region and gather their views and plans on Wednesday, April 22.

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Premier Asilaua acknowledges churches for their prayers 

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki

Premier of Malaita province, Elijah Asilaua, has expressed his gratitude to church groups in the province for their continued prayers for his government to uplift the province. 

Premier Asilaua made this acknowledgment on Monday, April 27, during an event held to hand over the Assembly of God’s donation to the provincial government on behalf of the affected communities in Western, Choiseul, and Isabel provinces. 

He said that through their support and daily prayers for his government, Malaita province is slowly transforming with the current developmental changes in the province. 

He said that the developments that have occurred in this province are the answer and fruit of their prayers. 

“Especially now, as you can see, developmental changes are taking place in our province; that is the answer to their daily prayers,” he said.

He also thanks the Malaita Council of Elders prayer group for their commitment to taking the province forward and leading the provincial government in their prayers.

He said the group has also conducted prayers in various areas of the province.

“My government believes greatly in God, and only through God can He transform this province.

This paper understands that Premier Asilaua is part of the prayer group, and he hardly misses their prayer tours to different parts of Malaita province.

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Besi Youth Association thanks Waneoroa for support 

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The Besi Youth Association in North Malaita has acknowledged their Member of Parliament for North Malaita, Daniel Waneoroa, for his support towards the association. 

This was the first time for their MP, Daniel Waneoroa, to support the Besi Youth Association. 

In an interview, Abel Wanesuia, chairman of the Besi Youth Association, said they welcome the support and desire to continue working deliberately with their MP in the future. 

“This is the first time, and we are very thankful to MP Daniel Waneoroa for his support in securing a market for our association.

“Waneoroa has supported us in buying our products, seeking markets from the local Kaibars and restaurants in town, freighting our products from Auki to Honiara, and providing transportation for us,” he said.

Meanwhile, last week, the Besi Youth Association sold 26 bags of taro (20 kg each) and ten bags (20 kg) this week, from which they have earned roughly $15,000.

The initiative will create new ideas and engage rural communities, helping them to become less dependent on free handouts from MPs.

The Besi Youth Association will continue its cooperation and collaboration with MP Waneoroa for the betterment of the communities in North Malaita.

Through this collaboration, the Besi Youth Association plans to consistently supply 10 bags of taro every week.

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SIPPA, Tavuli News, and Health Ministry join forces on HIV awareness

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

The Solomon Islands Planned Parenthood Association (SIPPA) has signed a tripartite agreement with Tavuli News and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services to strengthen public awareness of HIV and AIDS.

The partnership highlights the role of media, especially digital platforms, in sharing accurate and culturally relevant health information, a statement from the SIPPA on Sunday said.

Through television and social media, the initiative aims to reduce stigma, encourage regular HIV testing, promote safe practices, and support communities living with HIV.

As part of the agreement, short television advertisements will be produced with guidance from SIPPA and the Ministry of Health, the statement said.

These messages will air on TTV 1 and be shared across Tavuli News’ social media channels to reach audiences nationwide.

The project is funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, through the Pacific Women Lead Program at the Pacific-Community-SPC.

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RSIPF and Ministry review Police Act

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Created with RNI Films app. Profile 'Agfa RSX II'

BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), in partnership with the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS), completed a three-day consultation workshop to review Police Act 2013 and identify areas for reform.

Held on April 15, 22, and 23 at RSIPF Headquarters in Honiara, the sessions brought together RSIPF leaders, senior government officials, and representatives from several ministries.

The workshop focused on addressing operational challenges and ensuring the legal framework remains effective for modern policing, a statement from the MPNSCS yesterday said.

Permanent Secretary of MPNSCS, Karen Galokale said the consultation reflects a shared commitment to strengthen the law, enhance accountability, and build public trust in policing.

Recommendations from the workshop will inform the formal review process and proposed amendments to the Police Act, the statement said.

The ministry plans to expand consultations nationwide following the completion of a comprehensive legal review report.

Photo credit: MPNSCS

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