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Australian High Commissioner joins HookIn4Health session, encouraging Solomon Islands’ next generation of hockey talent

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Jeff Roach, encourages young Solomon Islands hockey players to continue pursuing the sport after joining a development session at the National Hockey Centre in Honiara this week.

According to information shared by HookIn4Health Solomon Islands on its official social media platform on Wednesday, Mr. Roach, accompanied by his daughter and Australian High Commission Second Secretary for Strategic Communication and Public Diplomacy, Charlie Harrison-Gehrmann, visited the programme and spent time interacting with young athletes both on and off the field.

The visit saw the Australian delegation join friendly hockey activities with participants, creating what HookIn4Health described as a memorable experience that highlighted sport’s ability to connect communities and inspire young people.

Speaking during the visit, Mr. Roach said hockey has been part of his life for decades and hopes the young players will continue to develop the sport in Solomon Islands.

“It is an honour to visit HookIn4Health here in Honiara and see so many talented young hockey players. Hockey has been my sport for more than 20 years, and I hope these young players will one day become a strong national hockey team for Solomon Islands,” he said.

HookIn4Health said it was privileged to host the Australian High Commissioner, noting that his passion for hockey and willingness to join the young athletes on the pitch made the visit especially meaningful.

The organisation also acknowledged the delegation’s thoughtful gesture of providing bottled water to participants, describing it as another sign of their support and encouragement for the programme.

“Moments like these remind us that sport has the power to bring people together, build meaningful connections and inspire our young people to dream big,” the organisation said.

HookIn4Health thanked the Australian High Commission for taking time to engage with the programme and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthen partnerships that promote youth development, healthy lifestyles and stronger communities through hockey.

HookIn4Health Solomon Islands is a community-based hockey development programme that uses sport as a platform to promote healthy living, youth empowerment and social inclusion.

Working alongside the Solomon Islands Hockey Federation and development partners, the programme continues to provide opportunities for young people to learn hockey while developing life skills and building stronger community connections through sport.

Photo credit: HookIn4Health Solomon Islands

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Western Cup moved to September

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

THE much-anticipated Western Cup football tournament has been postponed until September after the province’s only suitable venue was deemed unready for competition.

Western Province Sports Coordinator Jim Ben said the decision was made following an assessment of the John F. Kennedy (JFK) soccer field, which is currently undergoing major renovation and rehabilitation.

He said the tournament was originally scheduled to be held this month, but organisers were forced to reschedule due to unforeseen challenges surrounding the completion of the playing surface.

“The Western Cup was supposed to take place this month, but the JFK soccer field is not yet ready to host the games,” Ben said.

He said Turf Specialist George Kai recently inspected the field and concluded that it requires another three months before it is suitable for competitive football.

Ben said the assessment prompted tournament organisers to move the event to September to ensure the field meets the required playing standards and provides a safe environment for athletes.

He said although the postponement may disappoint football fans and participating teams, the decision was necessary to protect the quality of the newly rehabilitated field and ensure a successful tournament.

Ben urged participating teams to use the additional time to continue preparing for the competition, expressing confidence that the Western Cup will be staged once the venue is fully ready.

The Western Cup is one of Western Province’s premier football competitions and attracts teams from across the province, providing a platform to showcase local talent and promote the development of the sport.

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WHO calls for stronger action to protect youths from tobacco

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The World Health Organization (WHO) is urging stronger action to protect young people in Solomon Islands from tobacco products and industry marketing tactics designed to attract and addict them early, said a WHO press release issued to mark this year’s World No Tobacco Day.

The press release said WHO Solomon Islands Officer-in-Charge Dr Sakthivel Selvaraj calls for stronger measures to reduce the appeal of tobacco and nicotine products among young people.

He highlighted tighter controls on flavoured tobacco products, advertising, promotion and product designs that make smoking more attractive to youths.

He also calls for stronger tobacco control laws, tougher enforcement, increased community awareness and greater support for people trying to quit smoking.

“Together, let’s unmask the appeal, expose industry’s tactics, and protect the health and future of our children and communities. Remember, the appeal is manufactured, but the harm is real,” Dr Selvaraj said.

WHO Solomon Islands Technical Officer for Non-Communicable Diseases, Dr Tsogzolmaa Bayandorj, also urges young people to not be misled by tobacco marketing.

She said products promoted as “tobacco-free” or “smooth” should not be regarded as safe, warning that nicotine is addictive in any form.

Dr Bayandorj encourages smokers who want to quit to seek help from health clinics and health centres, where proven cessation methods such as nicotine patches, nicotine gum and counselling are available.

“Don’t let tobacco marketing confuse you. ‘Tobacco-free’ doesn’t mean safe, ‘smooth’ doesn’t mean weak. Nicotine is addictive in any form, and if you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you’re trying to quit, speak to your health clinic and health centres about safe and proven options,” she said.

The statement also quoted youth representative Haddasah Dowo, who described the fight against tobacco as a fight for freedom whilst urging young people to reject addiction.

“We are the generation that can unmask the appeal and expose the truth. Let us choose health over addiction. Let us choose awareness over deception. Let us choose life over tobacco,” Ms Dowo said.

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Health Minister warns tobacco industry over youth targeting

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Solomon Islands has reaffirmed its commitment to protect young people from tobacco and nicotine addiction, with Health Minister Morris Toiraena warning that the tobacco industry is using new products to attract a new generation of users.

According to a World Health Organization (WHO) media release, the Minister delivered the message during Solomon Islands’ commemoration of World No Tobacco Day 2026 on June 8, held under the global theme, “Unmasking the appeal, revealing tobacco’s many health harms”.

In the statement, Mr Toiraena cautioned the public against being misled by claims that e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products and flavoured nicotine pouches are safer alternatives to smoking.

“We see through the mask. We will not be deceived,” the Minister said.

He said the products are being promoted as safer alternatives but warns that they continue to fuel nicotine addiction.

“E-cigarettes, heated tobacco and flavoured nicotine pouches are being pushed as safer alternatives. These are not tools for cessation. They are tools for addiction,” Mr Toiraena said.

The Minister reaffirms the Ministry of Health and Medical Services’ (MHMS) commitment to strengthen tobacco control measures across the country.

Also noted in the statement is that the Government plans to strengthen the Tobacco Control Technical Advisory Committee, review the Tobacco Act 2010 to align it with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, and strengthen enforcement of bans on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship.

Other priorities include promoting smoke-free schools, workplaces and public spaces, preventing tobacco industry interference in public health policies, increasing tobacco taxes and licensing fees, and requiring annual reporting from tobacco-related businesses to improve transparency and accountability.

The statement said the World No Tobacco Day event highlighted the dangers of tobacco and nicotine products while reinforcing Solomon Islands’ commitment to reduce tobacco use and protect future generations from addiction.

Photo credit: WHO Media

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Temotu residents cry out for reliable sea transport

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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA

Residents of Temotu Province are demanding urgent government action to fix what they describe as a chronic transportation crisis, after week-long delays have left women, children, youth and elders stranded at wharves across the province.

A statement circulating on social media this week detailed the ordeal facing passengers waiting for MV LC Plus 1.

The vessel’s voyage was delayed by almost three weeks, the latest in a string of similar disruptions that residents say have gone on for far too long.

“It is extremely unacceptable that our women, children, youth and elders are repeatedly stranded for weeks, forced to spend their limited income on food, transport and accommodation while waiting for a ship to take them home,” the statement read.

One passenger, who asked not to be named, spoke of sleeping rough near the wharf for weeks on end, lighting fires at night to keep warm and enduring dust pollution by day, just because he was simply waiting for the vessel to arrive.

A source also has raised concerns over the use of landing craft vessels for passenger transport, stating that such vessels are designed solely for cargo purposes.

“Landing craft vessels are cargo boats. There is no accommodation for passengers, especially the vessel seen in the photo,” the source highlighted.

The source added that landing craft are built specifically to carry cargo, and not passengers.

According to the source, the Maritime Safety Administration had only issued a safety certificate for the vessel to operate as a cargo carrier, not for passenger use.

Community members say the issue goes beyond logistics. They argue it strikes at the heart of fairness, dignity and equal access to essential services pointing out that while other provinces enjoy dependable shipping links, Temotu continues to be left behind.

The statement calls on the National Government and Temotu’s elected leaders to prioritise the province by deploying a dedicated passenger vessel and guaranteeing regular, reliable shipping services.

“The people of Temotu have waited long enough. It is time for action, not excuses,” the statement said.

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Thirty villages in Tasimboko ward benefit from New Zealand Government supported project

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BY CHARLES STENNETT

Hundreds of community members from thirty villages in the Tasimboko ward, Guadalcanal province are benefitting from a New Zealand funded project with 39 water tanks now functioning, addressing one of the community’s health problems.

The handover of the water tanks was held recently and witnessed by officials from the New Zealand High Commission, the Guadalcanal Provincial Assembly, Member for Tasimboko Ward, community leaders and elders, church leaders, women, and youth representatives from surrounding villages.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, New Zealand High Commissioner Jonathan Curr said New Zealand was pleased to partner with the Tasimboko Ward Committee to help address ongoing water shortages experienced by communities in the ward.

“Small, community-focused initiatives can have significant impacts on the lives of families.

“While this contribution may appear small, it will make a meaningful difference in addressing some of the water challenges you face every day.

“We understand that many families have had to travel long distances to collect drinking water, and we hope these water tanks will help ease that burden and improve daily life for everyone,” Mr Curr said.

Guadalcanal Provincial Assembly Member for Tasimboko Ward, Jimmy Saea, welcomed the support and expressed gratitude to the New Zealand Government for its contribution to the wellbeing of local communities.

Saea said the project is expected to benefit approximately two thousand people across more than 30 villages, including six local churches.

The provision of water tanks forms part of New Zealand’s broader commitment to support communities in meeting their Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), needs throughout Solomon Islands.

Photo credit: New Zealand High Commission

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Empowering local leadership, key to Kilu’ufi Hospital’s success

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BY TONY IROGA

The successful handover of the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital on Tuesday marks a new chapter for healthcare in Malaita Province, with Japan calling on local leaders to ensure the hospital continues to serve communities for generations.

Speaking at the official handover ceremony, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Resident Representative Mitsuyoshi Kawasaki said the project is not the end of Japan’s support, but the beginning of a new responsibility for Solomon Islands authorities and hospital management.

He said the Government of Japan and JICA believe that local ownership is key to the hospital’s long-term success.

“Proper maintenance is essential to protect this valuable investment and to ensure the people of Malaita continue to benefit from quality healthcare services for many years to come,” Mr. Kawasaki said.

He urges the Solomon Islands Government and other stakeholders to provide the financial support, technical expertise and attention to maintain the hospital and its medical equipment.

“The completion of construction is not the final goal. Rather, it is the beginning of a new chapter,” he said.

He said the long-term success of the project will depend on how well the new facilities and equipment are managed, maintained and used.

Funded by the Government of Japan through (JICA), the upgraded hospital is expected to improve healthcare services for thousands of people across Malaita.

The new facilities will provide better diagnostic services, improved treatment, safer maternal healthcare and expanded medical services.

He said the project is the result of years of planning, coordination and cooperation between both governments and many partners.

“This accomplishment would not have been possible without the dedication and cooperation of many individuals and institutions,” he said.

He described the upgraded hospital as more than just a new building with equipment.

“It represents a shared commitment to improving healthcare services and providing better access to medical care for the people of Malaita,” he said.

He said the upgraded facilities will help improve childbirth services, diagnosis and treatment, leading to better health outcomes across the province.

He also encourages doctors, nurses and hospital staff to make full use of the new facilities and equipment to improve patient care.

He said the project reflects the strong and longstanding partnership between Japan and Solomon Islands, with healthcare remaining a key area of cooperation.

“Through this project, we are pleased to contribute to Solomon Islands’ efforts toward achieving better health and well-being for its people,” he said.

He reaffirmed JICA’s commitment to support Solomon Islands’ national development priorities and expressed confidence that the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital will continue to improve the lives of people across Malaita for many years.

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China steps in to ease Nende’s logistics challenges

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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA

Project delivery for communities of Temotu Nende constituency will be boosted following the Chinese embassy’s presentation of a cheque of SBD $100,000 to the constituency yesterday in effort to improve project delivery to remote coastal communities.

A statement from the constituency yesterday also stated that the funding will be used to procure 1x 23’ Ray Boat and 1 x 40HP Yamaha Engine, to significantly enhance logistical capacity to access hard-to-reach areas across Nende.

Member of Parliament for Nende Constituency, Stephen Kumi upon receiving the cheque, expressed sincere appreciation to the Government and people of China for the timely assistance.

He acknowledged that the support directly addresses ongoing logistical challenges faced by the constituency, particularly in terms of delivering essential services and development projects to isolated communities.

Mr Kumi thanked China for recognising the need to support disadvantaged communities, describing the assistance as one that makes real difference.

“This is the kind of practical assistance that makes a real difference, and one that other partners should also take note of,” he said.

The MP for Temotu Nende constituency, added that the support will go a long way to advance development priorities and improve the livelihoods of people across the constituency.

Photo credit: Temotu Nende constituency

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Speaker, Clerk attend Pacific Parliamentary Conference

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BY JOSES SAREN

The Speaker to the National Parliament, Patteson John Oti and Clerk to the National Parliament, Jefferson Osborne Hallu attended the 55th Presiding Officers and Clerks Conference (POCC) in Perth, Western Australia, from 6–10 July 2026.

According to a statement from the National Parliament of Solomon Islands (NPSI), the annual conference brought together presiding officers, speakers, clerks, Members of Parliament, and parliamentary officials from 21 legislatures across the Pacific, Australia and New Zealand to discuss contemporary parliamentary issues, share experiences, and strengthen cooperation among parliamentary institutions in the region.

Hosted by the Parliament of Western Australia, this year’s conference focused on challenges and opportunities facing modern parliaments, examined from both organisational and procedural perspectives.

The programme gave parliamentary leaders and officials a forum to exchange knowledge and best practices on parliamentary administration, governance, legislative processes, parliamentary independence, and the evolving role of democratic institutions.

The statement said the participation of Speaker Oti and Clerk Hallu underscores the National Parliament’s commitment to strengthen parliamentary democracy through regional engagement, institutional collaboration and professional development.

The conference also gave the pair an opportunity to build relationships with parliamentary counterparts across the Pacific, Australia and New Zealand.

The National Parliament of Solomon Islands said it remains committed to enhance its legislative, oversight, representative and outreach functions through engagement with regional and international parliamentary partners.

Photo credit: National Parliament of Solomon Islands

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Houenipwela champions Pacific States’ demand for unity, reform, tangible delivery in Brussels

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BY JOSES SAREN

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) Rick Houenipwela delivered a key address on behalf of Pacific member states at the 121st Session of the (Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States) OACPS Council of Ministers meeting in Brussels.

According to a statement from MFAET, addressing the assembly under Agenda Item 10, Minister Houenipwela stressed that while great distances and limited administrative resources make physical attendance from the Pacific difficult, the region’s dedication to the OACPS remains steadfast.

He calls on the organisation to modernise its structure to better support the distinct vulnerabilities of Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

“Our collective voice is most powerful when we translate unified diplomacy into actual, practical results.

“The Pacific wants a streamlined, effective OACPS that channels its energy where joint action truly matters,” Minister Houenipwela said.

The statement highlighted the Pacific’s four-point plan.

First in this plan is on the Malabo Declaration of which Pacific SIDS are calling for a streamlined, budgeted and highly focused execution plan, concentrating on climate resilience through the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index and Pacific Resilience Facility, the blue economy, and regional connectivity.

Second, on the Samoa Agreement, Minister Houenipwela stressed that members should prioritise moving from a temporary framework to active, targeted operations.

As stressed under this component, the Pacific wants a scheduled timeline for the first OACPS–EU Joint Council, immediate launch of the Pacific Regional Protocol working with the Pacific Islands Forum, and a permanent agenda slot for Samoa Agreement updates.

Third, on member fees, the statement said the Pacific agrees to reviewing contributions but urges a consensus-based approach, requesting country-specific simulations and protective financial buffers for the smallest island states, while supporting the Secretariat’s work to tighten spending controls.

Fourth, on trade, Minister Houenipwela pointed to the United Kingdom’s decision to suspend tariffs on imported tuna, a measure he said threatens Pacific seafood processors’ competitive advantage. He urges the OACPS Secretariat and its Geneva office to coordinate a swift, defensive response.

The statement said the Pacific looks forward to welcome OACPS Secretary-General Moussa S. Batraki to the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau in early September 2026, calling it an ideal opportunity to align the organisation’s reform plans with Pacific regional cooperation.

Minister Houenipwela concluded by reaffirming the Pacific’s commitment to a financially stable, politically influential OACPS delivering real, practical value to all its members.

Photo credit: MFAET

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