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New Rescue Fire Station official opening today

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BY NED GAGAHE

The new Rescue Fire Service Station at Honiara International Airport will be officially handed over today, marking the completion of a key aviation infrastructure upgrade under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2).

The facility is expected to significantly improve safety, efficiency and emergency response capabilities for air travel in and out of Solomon Islands.

The project is funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, with construction carried out by China Railway Civil Engineering Group and supervision by Egis.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, Alwyn Danitofea, previously stated that the new station will strengthen emergency response readiness and support safer aviation operations.

The official handover ceremony will be attended by key government officials and development partners, with Minister for Communication and Aviation, Alfred Tuasulia, officiating as Guest of Honour.

The program will include remarks from stakeholders including World Bank Country Representative Bernard Harborne and Guadalcanal Provincial Premier Willie Atu.

The ceremony will also feature a dedication prayer followed by the official ribbon cutting, presentation of gifts to project partners, and a guided tour of the completed facility.

Construction of the Rescue Fire Service Station was reported to be about 90 percent complete in February this year, with final works completed ahead of its scheduled delivery in March 2026.

The project forms part of SIRAP2, which continues to deliver key infrastructure upgrades across the country, including road and bridge works, and improvements to provincial airports and airfields.

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Training program gives hope to unemployed youth

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BY JUNELYN KELLY

Unemployed women and youths received certificates yesterday at Red Label, White River in Honiara after successfully completing the “First Impressions Last” training program organised by Solomon Host.

The training is the first initiative of its kind that aims to equip unemployed young people—particularly women—with essential skills to improve their employment opportunities.

Speaking during the ceremony, Councilor for Ngossi Ward 1 Mr Rex Konofilia said the program forms part of his ongoing efforts to address issues of crime and safety by empowering youth through education and skills development.

He said providing training and certification enables participants to gain knowledge, build confidence and pursue meaningful employment or further studies.

The program was facilitated by Solomon Host and is recognized through a government process, adding credibility to the participants’ achievements.

Speaking to Island Sun one female participant said the training was very beneficial, providing her with new skills, knowledge and confidence to prepare for the workforce.

Mr Konofilia acknowledged both the participants and facilitators for their commitment and dedication, expressing hope that the training will inspire them to take the next steps towards achieving their personal and career goals.

Photo credit: Junelyn Kelly

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Transport fares expected to rise in Malaita

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BY RODRICK DESURI

AUKI

Transport fares in Malaita Province are expected to increase in the coming days following a sharp rise in fuel prices both in the province and in Honiara on Wednesday, April 22.

Taxi and pickup truck owners in Auki have indicated that fare adjustments are imminent as they struggle to cope with the escalating fuel costs.

Pickup truck driver Japheth Sau said operators will have to introduce new fares that reflect the rising cost of fuel while remaining fair to passengers.

“We should start charging now because fuel prices are very high. We also expect prices to continue rising in the coming months,” he said.

A local taxi owner echoed similar concerns, stating that current earnings are no longer sustainable under the existing fare structure.

“Right now, it feels like we are just working for basic food items like rice, sugar and cabbage. Taxi operators in Auki will soon meet to agree on new fare rates,” he said.

Fuel prices across Auki have already increased significantly, with most depots raising prices by between $15 and $16 per gallon since Wednesday.

EK Fuel Depot is currently the only outlet still selling at the old price of SBD $59 per gallon from its remaining stock.

Salesperson John Lea said the depot will maintain current prices until the old stock is depleted.

“We only have one drum left, so we will continue selling at $59 per gallon for mixed petrol and $55 for pure petrol.

“Once the new stock arrives, prices will be adjusted to reflect the new cost, while ensuring a small profit margin,” he said.

At RNR Fuel Depot, prices have already increased sharply. Mixed petrol has risen from $59 to $75 per gallon, while pure petrol has increased from $54 to $70.

William Ferafaita of RNR Fuel Depot attributed the increase to higher supplier prices in Honiara.

“Our suppliers in Honiara increased their prices on Wednesday, and this has directly affected our pricing,” he said.

Meanwhile, fuel prices in rural parts of Malaita are expected to climb even higher, with projections ranging between $90 and $100 per gallon.

The anticipated increase in transport fares is expected to place additional pressure on commuters already facing rising living costs.

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Baunani community fears rising tides threaten clinic

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BY RODRICK DESURI

AUKI

Residents of Baunani in West Kwaio, Malaita Province, fear that rising sea levels could reach their community clinic within the next three years.

The Baunani clinic, located just over 10 metres from the shoreline, is now at risk as high tides continue to push further inland.

A nurse serving at the clinic, Jeffrey Fa’afunua, said the situation is becoming increasingly concerning for both staff and the surrounding community.

“We are worried that in three years’ time, the sea will reach this clinic,” he said.

He said the only viable long-term solution is to relocate the clinic to higher ground before the situation worsens.

“The only thing on our minds now is to find a suitable place inland and move the clinic before it is too late,” he said.

Mr Fa’afunua confirmed that discussions will soon be held with the clinic board to address the issue and plan the way forward.

“This is not a joke; it is a real issue. If we are not prepared, it will impact the clinic and the wider community,” he added.

He calls on the government, disaster authorities and health agencies to support the relocation efforts.

“On behalf of the community, I appeal to the government and relevant authorities to work with us to relocate the clinic to safer ground,” he said.

Meanwhile, nearby Maoa School was inundated by seawater on Wednesday morning after high tides swept into classrooms, disrupting lessons.

The situation highlights the growing impact of climate change on low-lying coastal communities across Solomon Islands.

Photo credit: Nickson Nedea

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COA to deliver appeal judgement on May 1

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Court of Appeal has concluded its hearing into the Attorney General’s appeal against the High Court ruling that ordered Parliament to convene for a Motion of No Confidence debate.

Attorney General John Muria Jr., representing the Governor General and Prime Minister, alongside Wilson Rano, counsel for the Speaker of Parliament, delivered their final submissions in response to the respondent’s arguments in court yesterday.

Appellants pressed the Court to overturn the High Court’s decision, arguing that the ruling exceeded judicial authority and interfered with parliamentary processes.

Mr Muria reiterated that the High Court “assumed jurisdiction where none existed,” stressing that Section 34 of the Constitution does not impose a duty on the executive to call Parliament within a fixed timeframe. He maintained that Parliament would be convened “at the relevant time” and that no rights had been infringed.

Lawyer for the opposition coalition argued that delays in convening Parliament render Section 34 ineffective, undermining MPs’ constitutional rights. Suggesting that the government’s delay amounted to an “unlawful and unreasonable” use of power.

Counsel Gabriel Suri likened the omission to “laying on a soft pillow comfortably without action,” urging the Court of appeal to uphold the High Court’s ruling to protect parliamentary rights.

Justice Howard Lowry indicated to both parties after the conclusion of hearing that it aims to deliver judgment by Friday, May 1.

Justice Lowry, further suggested in court that any changes to the tentative date for judgment will be duly notified to the parties in due course.

On Wednesday, April 24 (day 1 of hearing), Justice Lowry also reminded parties that the grant of stay issued last week remains intact pending the determination of the court of appeal.

The stay of orders is in relation to Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer’s ruling delivered on Tuesday, April 14, ordering Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele to convene Parliament within three days so that the pending Motion of No confidence (MONC) can be debated.

The stay means that the High Court’s order for convening of parliament for the ‘matured motion’ to be debated is ‘temporarily paused’ while the Court of Appeal determines the substantive appeal.

The Court of Appeal judgement outcome will determine how quickly motions of no confidence can be debated.

The appeal hearing was presided by the Court of Appeal Justices—Chief Justice Sir Gibuma Gibbs Salika, Justice Howard Lowry, and Justice Gina Nott.

The appellants in the case are the Governor General, the Prime Minister, the Speaker of Parliament, and the Attorney General.

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FUEL PRICE IMPACTS

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  • Few days following 30% increase some taxis raise rates, buses report losses
  • HCC to meet with stakeholders next week

BY IRWIN ANGIKI

Public transport owners and members of public in Honiara are immediately feeling the pinch of the fuel price increase.

This comes just a day after fuel prices rose by 30 percent. Fuel prices are projected to continue rising, with the next increase expected a week from now, on May 1.

Some taxi drivers charged $15 per kilometre yesterday, citing heavy costs due to the fuel price hike. Bus drivers said they were continuing with normal rates but at heavy losses.

The Honiara City Council has not received any formal complaint, but takes this issue seriously and is planning to meet with stakeholders next week, Mayor Eddie Siapu told Island Sun yesterday.

On Wednesday this week, April 22, fuel prices rose by around 30 percent, the biggest margin since the global fuel price crisis began following the conflict in the Middle East. New prices include – Petrol $12.45 per litre (L), Diesel $13.24 /L.

Earlier, on April 1, fuel prices rose by around 3 percent. Prices before April 22 – Petrol $9.01 /L and Diesel $9.81 /L.

Yesterday, posts on social media reported some taxi drivers charging $15 per kilometre. Others still charged the normal $10/km.

Speaking to Island Sun, owners of two major taxi services in Honiara said they have not officially raised their rates yet since they are yet to meet with the HCC over the matter.

However, they are aware that some of their drivers are charging customers $15 /km but insist that they cannot do much to dissuade the drivers from this.

“We feel sad for our drivers and our customers at the same time. But we cannot stop our drivers from charging the increased rate because they are feeling the heavy toll of the fuel price jump,” Mr Sasani, owner of Classic Taxi service told Island Sun yesterday.

One of the leaders of Prince Taxi service, Mr Deme also shares the same sentiment, adding that they advised their drivers who have raised their rates to first inform customers to allow customers the right to choose.

“Before any of our drivers with raised rates take a customer, they first tell the customer that they will be charging new rates. If the customer does not agree then he/she can leave the taxi.”

Sasani says they are waiting on authorities, especially HCC to act and raise the rate of taxi-fares before making an official stand on raising their rates.

For the time being, it is up to each driver whether or not to charge an increased taxi fare.

When asked why the business cannot prohibit their drivers from individually increasing taxi fares on ad hoc, the response was it could cause drivers to simply leave the service or stop working.

Sasani calls on authorities especially HCC to quickly address this matter in collaboration with stakeholders and public transport owners because the high fuel prices will only worsen but it is already costing heavily on them.

Several bus drivers told Island Sun that they are still running the normal bus fares – adult $3, children/student $2 – but that they are earning less than what they were making before April 22.

Mayor Siapu meanwhile calls on bus and taxi owners and services to form associations or committees to meet with the Council over the matter.

He said the Council will meet next week with stakeholders and deliberate on whether or not to increase bus and taxi fares to counter the fuel price rise.

“We have not looked into the issue yet because we have not received any formal complaint. But it is an important issue which we have taken note of recently.

“But taxis and buses need to form associations to speak on their behalf with us. We will also have to meet with Price Control over the issue too.

“We cannot increase taxi fares unnecessarily, and if we are to increase it, we must agree on a certain percentage of increment which will be fair to service owners and public,” Siapu said.

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Taba’a seaweed farming attracting and engaging more communities 

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

AUKI 

The Taba’a Sanctuary Seaweed Farming Association is growing and expanding its farming at Taba’a Reef, which attracts and engages more communities in West Kwaio, Malaita Province. 

The association was established in August 2025, and with only six months of operation, it has engaged six communities from Ano’ano and Takwaisae (inland) to Lato, with their farm plots reaching 25,000 plants. 

Patrick Unuka, chairman of the Taba’a Sanctuary Seaweed Farming Association said their goal is to engage more communities in seaweed farming, helping them benefit from it. 

He expressed hope to reach 100 to 200 bags of dried seaweed and to make their first sale in October. The association’s focus is on transplanting to expand its farms.

“Currently, we have six zones comprising communities from Anoano, Takwaisae to Lato in Ward 27. Our association is just six months old, and according to our recorded data, we have almost 25,000 plants on our farm, except for some that I did not record last week.

“Our aim is to reach 100 to 200 bags of dried seaweed before we make our first sale. So now, we are just harvesting our seaweed and preserving it for that time,” he said. 

Meanwhile, he said that seaweed farming has attracted many communities, which he added requires materials; scarcity is the challenge they have faced. 

He added that a fisheries team will be visiting to provide and equip them with valuable information and insights on how to plant, transplant, care for, and dry the seaweed. 

“Many communities want to venture into seaweed farming, but the challenges we have faced are due to the limited availability of materials.

“So, sometime this month, a fisheries team will be visiting us to provide training on how to plant, transplant, care for, and look after seaweed, as well as to provide other essential information,” he said.

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ALL-OUT READY

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Taekwondo team gears up for Oceania Championship in Australia

BY TONY IROGA

Athletes from the Solomon Islands taekwondo squad are intensifying preparations for the upcoming Oceania Taekwondo Championships scheduled for June this year in Australia, with training sessions now in full swing in Honiara.

Under the guidance of Joses Dudley, head coach of Dudley Taekwondo Club, athletes are undergoing rigorous daily training focused on fitness, technique, and tactical awareness.

Speaking to Island Sun yesterday Mr Dudley said his squad is working to sharpen their skills in both sparring and poomsae as they prepare to compete against top fighters from across the Oceania region.

“The preparation has been consistent, with emphasis placed on discipline, endurance, and mental readiness,” Dudley said.

He believes the team has shown strong commitment and is determined to represent the country with pride on the international stage.

“The championship, sanctioned by World Taekwondo, will bring together some of the best talents in the Pacific, providing a platform for local athletes to test their abilities and gain valuable exposure,” he said.

He said for many of the athletes, this tournament marks an important step in their sporting journey, as they aim to elevate the profile of Taekwondo in the Solomon Islands and inspire more young people to take up the sport.

He also highlighted that the club continues to welcome new members, with registration open to athletes aged 7 years and above.

He said registration at the club is set at $150 for a one-year membership, making it accessible for many young athletes looking to take up the sport.

Dudley established the club in February 2016 after graduating in Law in Vanuatu, bringing his passion for Taekwondo back home to develop young talent and promote the sport at grassroots level.

He said the club looks forward to participating in the upcoming Solomon Games, where athletes will have another opportunity to showcase their skills on the national stage.

“The club trains every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at the Multi-Purpose Hall in Honiara,” he said.

He revealed that so far, around 150 fighters have successfully graded through the belt system, reflecting the steady growth and development of the club over the years.

“In a major boost for the athletes, a Taekwondo master from South Korea the birthplace of the sport is expected to visit the club from May 10 to May 16, 2026,” he said.

He added the visit is anticipated to provide high-level training, technical guidance, and inspiration for local fighters ahead of their international commitments and will award fighters gradings.

“Taekwondo is widely recognised as a complete martial art, combining physical skill, mental discipline, and strong moral values,” he said.

He highlighted that he is also the President of the Solomon Islands Taekwondo Federation, and plays a key role in organising national programs and preparing athletes for regional and international competitions.

Dudley is a respected Taekwondo master in Honiara and a leading figure in the development of the sport in the Solomon Islands.

He said Taekwondo stands out because it offers a balanced pathway for personal growth.

“Whether for competition, fitness, or self-defence, it equips individuals with lifelong skills that extend beyond the training mat,” he said.

He said Taekwondo is also an Olympic sport, having been officially included in the Olympic Games since 2000.

This recognition highlights its global importance and structured competitive system.  

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Coaching training underway at Friendship Hall

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BY TONY IROGA

Coaching training programmes are underway at the Friendship Hall, starting from Monday this week and ending tomorrow.

The training in partnership with NSC and SINU is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen coaching capacity and sports development in the country.

The coaching training programme was approved and is supported by the Oceania Sport Education program (OSEP).

According to NSC the coaching programme is split into two parts, the first two is for the community coaching and official certificate course, followed by the sports in communities’ administration (SIC) certificate course for Monday to Friday.

The week-long program continues through Friday, 24 April 2026, with participants expected to undergo further training under the Sports in Communities Administration (SIC) Certificate course, which aims to strengthen grassroots sports administration and development across Solomon Islands.

Speaking at the opening, SINU Manager of Business Investment and Commercial Services, and Acting Head of Campus Life and Welfare Division programs, Samson Bisafo, welcomed participants and highlighted the significance of the training in strengthening sports development across communities.

“This marks a key step in strengthening our capacity to support sports development in our communities,” said Bisafo.

He emphasised that equipping coaches and officials with the right knowledge, skills, and values will not only improve the quality of sport but also contribute to building healthy, vibrant, and inclusive communities across the country.

He noted that participants’ involvement reflects a shared commitment to develop stronger pathways for athletes, coaches, and sports administrators throughout the country.

“Participants were encouraged to actively engage, share experiences, and collaborate throughout the training,” he said.

He said the value of the program lies not only in the content delivered but also in the exchange of ideas among participants.

Among the participants is Cherry Moe’agoha Barosi, Head Coach of Diesel Senior Women’s Rugby Club who expressed her enthusiasm for the training and desire to improve her coaching capacity.

Barosi said the training will help her create pathways for her players and strengthen development within her club.

She also acknowledged OSEP for the opportunity and thanks the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF) for selecting her to participate.

Another participant, Patricia Suiau, SINU Student Learning Services Coordinator, described the training as a valuable opportunity to pursue her passion for sport and coaching.

“I have always been passionate about sport and aspire to become a professional coach. I want to use what I learn here to support and inspire young people, especially students at SINU,” said Suiau.

Suiau highlighted the importance of integrating sports development within academic environments and expressed hope that the training will help build her confidence and skills to contribute meaningfully to student engagement.

She also acknowledged the collaboration between OSEP, SINU, and NSC, and calls for more similar initiatives to support youth development across the country.

Oceania Sport Education Programme (OSEP) Master Educator and NSC Education Manager, Atueta Balekana, also conveyed his appreciation for the National Sports Council’s (NSC) ongoing support for the successful delivery of the course and allowing it to be held at the Friendship Hall.

He acknowledges SINU for its collaboration and support and thanks OSEP for allowing NSC to host the two courses for this week.

Balekana also expressed appreciation to all 23 participants for their commitment in undertaking the training, and extends his gratitude to all NSC staff for facilitating the program.

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SINIS hosts FIBA, WABC level 1 coaching

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BY TONY IROGA

Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) is hosting the Federation International de Basketball (FIBA), World Association of Basketball Coaches (WABC) Level 1 Coaching Course in Honiara.

This brings together basketball coaches from across the region, including participants from Solomon Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu.

The six-day course aims to enhance coaching standards by equipping participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, while also strengthening collaboration among coaches in the Pacific.

According to lead facilitator, Caleb Harrison the programme is designed to improve the quality of coaching at an international level.

“It is really about improving the quality of coaching internationally,” he said.

He added that they are running a six-day high-level course for coaches who already have at least five years of experience.

“This providing both classroom learning opportunities and on-court activities, as well as opportunities to connect and engage with other coaches across the region,” he said.

He explained that the course is competency-based, with a strong focus on practical application.

There is a significant practical component, with a large amount of on-court facilitation.

“Coaches are developing both their technical and interpersonal coaching skills, while also being given the opportunity to reflect on their learning each day and apply it within their own coaching context,” he said.

He noted that participants are expected to take the knowledge gained from the course back to their respective communities.

Coaches will leave this course with new knowledge that they can apply in their own environments.

“Not only will they use it within their own teams, but they can also share that knowledge with the wider coaching community in the region, helping to develop more coaches,” he said.

Solomon Islands Basketball for Good coach Winnie Laora also shared that her motivation to join the course was driven by her passion for the sport and desire to improve as a coach.

“My passion for basketball, desire to learn and grow as a coach motivated me to take part.

“I am hoping to gain a better understanding of basic basketball skills and how to teach them effectively,” she said.

She highlighted that the sessions on fundamentals and teaching methods have had a strong impact on her learning.

“One session that really stood out to me was the fundamentals and teaching methods session, which emphasizes creating a fun and engaging learning environment, especially for young and developing players,” she said.

She added that the knowledge gained will be directly applied in her coaching work within the community.

“I plan to apply the knowledge and skills from this course directly in my coaching, especially when working with youth and beginner players.

“This training will help me grow not only as a coach by improving my skills and knowledge, but also as a leader by strengthening my confidence, communication skills, and ability to guide and inspire others,” she said.

The course will conclude with practical assessments, where participants will be evaluated on their ability to deliver coaching sessions.

“On the final day, each coach will undertake a practical assessment, where they will deliver sessions on both individual and team skills,” she said.

Lead facilitator, Caleb Harrison said the practical session forms a major part of the assessment.

“We want to ensure they have the competency to coach effectively in their own environments,” he said.

He also expressed his appreciation to those who made the program possible.

“I would like to thank FIBA for the opportunity, and also the Solomon Islands Basketball Federation for putting this program together,” he said.

 A lot of work goes into organising a course like this, and I have really enjoyed being here.

He added that the people of Solomon Islands are very welcoming and warm-hearted, and he  looks forward to continuing this work in the future.

“The course is expected to further strengthen basketball development in Solomon Islands and across the Pacific region through improved coaching standards and knowledge sharing,” he said.

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