Economy Archive September 2024

To mark this significant occasion, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, in collaboration with Tourism Solomons, tour operators, accommodation providers, the Solomon Islands National University School of Tourism and Hospitality, and Solomon Airlines, organised a symbolic 3.8 kilometre Peace Walk through Bloody Ridge.

Tourism and Peace: Solomon Islands Celebrates World Tourism Day 2024

The tourism industry in Solomon Islands was proud to join the global community in celebrating World Tourism Day 2024 under the theme ‘Tourism and Peace.’
Held recently at the Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara, the event gathered key voices from across the health sector to gather their perspectives and inputs and identify any gaps in the current policy.

Government Hosts Consultations on Medicine Policy

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) partnered with World Health Organization (WHO) to host a stakeholder consultation to review and update the 2015 National Medicines Policy.
Hon. John Tuhaika Jr, Minister of Public Service, engaged in a constructive dialogue with Mr. Rasmus Lumi, Director General of the Department of International Organization and Human Rights from Estonia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during the event in New York.

Estonia Pledges Support for Solomon Islands Digital Transformation Journey

The Republic of Estonia has expressed interest to assist Solomon Islands in its digital transformation efforts.
The successful completion of the SINBIP, and improvement in mobile coverage would also enable the government to further enhance the Solomon Islands’ Digital Economy.

Enhancing Mobile Connectivity Through SINBIP

The Government is on track in delivering on its policy mandate to increase connectivity and accessibility for its citizens in the telecommunications sector through the National Broadband Infrastructure flagship project (SINBIP).
MRD Team and Noro Township President and two Councillors after the courtesy visit in Noro.

CDF Act 2023 Consultations Concluded in Noro

Senior officials from the Ministry of Rural Development successfully completed the consultation on the CDF Act 2023 draft regulation and its Drafting Instructions with the Noro Town Council, the public, and other stakeholders of Western Province.
The iMRV system serves as a crucial tool for the Solomon Islands Government to efficiently collect, archive, and report data on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, GHG mitigation efforts, climate adaptation, and climate finance.

iMRV Launched in Honiara

Known as the Integrated Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification system (iMRV), this groundbreaking initiative marks a significant milestone for Solomon Islands as it strengthens its commitment to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement.
“Solomon Islands sits in a hotspot where the impacts of climate change are three times the global average."

Solomon Islands Calls for Stronger Climate Action

The Solomon Islands asserts that the Paris Agreement is failing humanity, and the world urgently needs a stronger, legally binding framework to combat climate change.
The bilateral meeting followed up on discussions initiated at the UN Public Service Forum in June 2024, held in South Korea, where the Solomon Islands delegation first raised the importance of advancing e-government initiatives in the country.

Public Service Minister Advances E-Governance Initiative with UNDESA

The Solomon Islands Minister of Public Service, Hon. John Tuhaika Jr met with Mr. Juwang Zhu, Director of Public Institutions and Digital Government at the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), and Mr. Vincenzo Aquaro, Chief of the Digital Government Branch, during the side events of the United Nations General Assembly
Dereck Kolly was working as a Senior Estimator with local construction company Hatanga Limited when diabetes led to an amputation and needing a wheelchair but with the support of his employer, he has continued to work from home, successfully helping them to tender for and deliver construction projects around the country.

Creating an Inclusive Future

At a recent workshop on inclusivity in the workplace, the Solomon Islands construction sector heard powerful stories from people with disabilities working in infrastructure and about how inclusive workplaces have helped them earn an income and make valuable contributions to society.
Construction is scheduled for completion in the first half of 2026, with planning now underway for a range of post-handover maintenance and operational support to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and Honiara City Council.

Work on Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre Well Underway

Major earthworks at the new SBD $250 million Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre in Honiara, Solomon Islands are now complete, with the pouring of concrete foundations commencing over the weekend.
Ministers Tanangada and Vave with Australian High Commissioner being briefed by ADF and contractors at Western Border Outpost.

Australian Defence Supports RSIPF at Western Border

Ensuring the safety and security of Solomon Islands’ western border area continues to be a priority for the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), supported by Australia through the Defence Cooperation Program.
The European Union has contributed a significant EUR 18 million to the project, emphasizing the global commitment to improving the quality of life in the Pacific Islands.

Transforming Lives Through Water Access

The Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Sector Project (UWSSSP) is a monumental initiative poised to reshape the landscape of urban and peri-urban areas in the Solomon Islands.
The University looks forward to closing this chapter and will continue its efforts to ensure all resources are used in the best interests of the public and in the pursuit of its mission to provide quality education to the people of the Solomon Islands.

SINU Welcomes High Court Judgement on SINU Vs Habu Case

The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) this week welcomed the recent High Court ruling in favour of the University in the matter of SINU v Dennis Habu and Solomon Energy & Logistics Limited (SE&LL), CC 201/22.
The participants were selected from a pool of thousands of applicants and will play a key role in gathering vital data for the country.

SINSO Facilitates Household Income and Expenditure Survey Training

The Solomon Islands National Statistics Office (SINSO) is currently facilitating a three-week training program for the Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES) as part of the Building Capacity in Statistics and Audit (CAPSA) Project.
The session targeted Heads of Divisions and operational officers, with a total of eleven (11) participants, including both technical and corporate officers.

Progressive Realization of Disability Inclusion at MTGPEA

A two-hour awareness session on disability inclusion was recently facilitated at the Ministry of Traditional Governance, Peace, and Ecclesiastical Affairs (MTGPEA) by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, National Rehabilitation, and Disability Division, with support from the WHO Country Office.
The RSIPF emphasizes that compliance with these regulations is essential for the safety of all road users.

RSIPF Urges Caution and Compliance with Road Safety Regulations

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) is once again urging all road users, including both pedestrians and drivers, to take extra precautions when using public roads, following a rise in traffic-related fatalities.
It is alleged that the father poured petrol over their home using a 1.5-liter bottle, which ignited the blaze.

RSIPF Investigates Tragic Death of 9-Year-Old Girl in Tenaru Fire Incident

Officers from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) at Henderson Police Station are investigating the tragic death of a 9-year-old girl in a fire at the Tenaru Bridge area.
The meeting, held in Port Vila, focused on the Solomon Islands Government’s (SIG) intention to establish its own International Shipping Registry as part of its broader maritime strategy.

Solomon Islands and Vanuatu Discuss International Shipping Registry

Solomon Islands Minister for Infrastructure Development, Hon. Manasseh Maelanga, held a productive meeting yesterday with his Vanuatu counterpart, Hon. Minister Marc Ati, in a bid to strengthen bilateral ties in the maritime sector.
As members of the Global South, Solomon Islands and Rwanda value this new relationship and believe in maintaining alliances for advocacy within multilateral institutions and look forward to future collaborations on areas of mutual interest.

Solomon Islands Formalise Diplomatic Relations with Rwanda

Solomon Islands continue to gain the trust and confidence of more United Nations member states.
Hon. Ramofafia emphasized the critical role of partnerships in advancing the country's development goals, calling for enhanced financial flows and debt forgiveness, particularly for Small Island Developing States (SIDs) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

Hon. Ramofafia Delivers National Statement at Summit of the Future

Minister for National Planning and Development Coordination (MNPDC), Hon. Rexon Ramofafia, delivered the Solomon Islands' national statement at the United Nations Summit of the Future, calling for urgent global cooperation, financial reform, and meaningful partnerships to tackle critical global challenges.
Minister of Foreign Affairs & External Trade, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka with his counterpart, the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Colombia, Hon Luis Urrutia, signed a Joint Communique to establish formal diplomatic ties between Solomon Islands and Colombia this afternoon in New York.

Foreign Minister Leads Delegation at 79th UNGA Opening

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka, led the Solomon Islands delegation at the opening of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, which commenced with the Summit of the Future on September 22.
The visit highlights the ongoing collaboration between local farmers, government ministries, and international partners like the World Bank to enhance agricultural productivity and economic resilience in rural communities.

Joint Mission Highlights Agribusiness Opportunity for Growth

A joint delegation from the World Bank, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL), the SIART Project, and the Ministry of Finance and Treasury recently visited Green AG-Community Company Limited in Tabaa, North Malaita, Solomon Islands.
Minister Ramofafia calls for urgent reforms to the international financial system, emphasizing the need for immediate action on debt relief and restructuring for developing nations like Solomon Islands.

Minister Calls for Urgent Financial Reforms at UN Summit

Solomon Islands has taken a decisive stance at the UN Summit of the Future, urging immediate financial reforms to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Over the past three years, the Defence Cooperation Program between Australia and the Solomon Islands has successfully conducted six Border Surveillance courses under the framework of Exercise Coastwatchers.

Increasing Border Surveillance Capability

This week marks a significant step in enhancing the border surveillance capabilities of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) through Exercise Coastwatchers.
“As leader of the government, it is my duty to ensure that I must personally lead the efforts to prioritise the completion and preparation of these transformational legislations with my respective ministers to be tabled in Parliament this year.”

Prime Minister Foregoes UNGA to Focus on Important Legislations

Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele is committed, and determined to ensure key legislations to trigger transformational changes are ready to be tabled in Parliament.
The theme for the 79th UNGA is “Leaving no one behind: acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations”.

Foreign Minister Leads Delegation to 79th UNGA

Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Hon. Peter Shannel Agovaka will be leading Solomon Islands delegation to the 79th United Nations General Assembly (79UNGA) in New York from the 22nd to 28th September 2024.
The Summit of the Future, endorsed by the UN General Assembly in 2022, aims to reaffirm the United Nations Charter, reinvigorate multilateralism, enhance the implementation of existing commitments, agree on concrete solutions to global challenges, and restore trust among member states.

Minister Ramofafia Attends UN ‘Summit of the Future’

The Minister for National Planning and Development Coordination (MNPDC), Hon. Rexon Ramofafia, departed Honiara yesterday, 21st September 2024 to participate in the United Nations ‘Summit of the Future.'
The new headquarters, built with the support of the Australian Government, stands as a testament to the strong and enduring partnership between Solomon Islands and Australia in health and emergency services.

St. John Ambulance Opens New Headquarters

St John Ambulance Solomon Islands is proud to announce the official opening and blessing of its new headquarters at Point Cruz.
Colourful canoes, a key mode of transport between the islands, offering an authentic and adventurous way to explore the remote and scenic beauty of the Solomon Islands.

Recent Visitor Numbers Best Since 2019

Tourism Solomons is celebrating its best second quarter result for over four years with visitor arrival figures for the period January to June 2024 showing a 26.5 percent increase over the same period in 2023.
The Australian High Commission’s First Secretary – Economic, William Rowell, inspecting Cheroa’s new bins. This collaboration aims to enhance waste collection services in Honiara, benefiting local communities and the environment.

Australia Invests in Waste Collection for Households

Under the Solomon-Islands Australia Partnership, Australia has partnered with Cheroa Waste Management Services (CWMS) to expand waste collection services in Honiara.
This expansion of the Australia Awards program demonstrates Australia’s enduring commitment to supporting Solomon Islanders in their pursuit of education, skills, and economic success.

Australia Announces Record Breaking 100 Awards for Solomon Islands

Australia’s Minister for International Development and the Pacific, the Hon Pat Conroy MP, has revealed that Australia will offer a record-breaking 100 new Australia Awards to Solomon Islanders over the next 12 months.
"I am thankful to the people and Government of Australia for the announcement of this new opportunity, and I am further grateful to the Government of Australia who continuously inspires us to take action to secure the health of our Region including that of our country.”

Health Minister Thanks Australia

The Minister for Health and Medical Services the Hon Dr Paul Popora Bosawai has thanked the people and Government of Australia.
The training aims to develop the capacity of the healthcare workforce to be able to provide knowledge on the best practice of Adolescents Youth Friendly Service.

Adolescent Youth Friendly Health Services Training Concludes

The Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child Adolescent Health Division, within the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) successfully completed a 5-day Provincial Training of Trainers for Adolescent Youth-Friendly Health Service Guidelines (AYFHS) in Honiara recently.
“Australia’s assistance under this substantial new package reflects our steadfast commitment to the health and wellbeing of Solomon Islanders and our whole Pacific family.”

Working Together for a Healthier Solomon Islands

Australia’s Minister for International Development and the Pacific, the Hon Pat Conroy MP, was joined by Minister for Health and Medical Services, Hon Paul Popora Bosawai, to announce Australia is boosting its support for Solomon Islands’ national health priorities through more than 20 new and continuing partnerships.
Australian and Solomon Islands partners will work together across more than 20 new and continuing partnerships to tackle a range of national health priorities.

Minister Conroy Concludes Visit

Australia’s Minister for International Development and the Pacific, the Hon Pat Conroy MP, has concluded a two-day visit to Solomon Islands.
"I decided to return to our beloved country, Solomon Islands, to serve my people and nation. I believe that if there is a time to help our country, it is now,” says Dr. Galokale.

Another PHD for Solomon Islands

Solomon Islands bags another PHD with the recent graduation of Dr Kerryn Sogha Galokale who graduated with a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Pacific Studies from the University of Auckland in New Zealand.
Like other projects handed over in the past years, the new project is the local company's way of giving back to the community and helping the country address critical health challenges such as TB.

Lee Kwou Kuen to Build New TB Ward

The Lee Kwou Kuen (LKK) Group of Companies has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to healthcare in the Solomon Islands by announcing the construction of a new tuberculosis (TB) ward at the National Referral Hospital (NRH).
The SBD 120 million project was delivered by Australia under the Defence Cooperation Program and will extend the life of the wharf for an additional 30 years.

Upgraded Aola Wharf Handed Over

The Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific, the Hon Pat Conroy MP, has handed over the newly upgraded Aola Wharf, the primary wharf facility for the Royal Solomon Islands Police Maritime Force, to the Solomon Islands Government.
Australia’s bilateral support to the sector through the Health Sector Support Program Phase 3, is an AUD116 million investment from 2016-2024, which concludes on 31 December 2024.

New Design for Future Health Support Discussed

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services' Senior Executive Management and Australia's Health Team met last week to discuss the new design of Australia's support to the Health Sector from 2025-2028.
This bold initiative positions SEZs as a cornerstone of the country’s economic future, creating opportunities for industries to flourish and contribute to broader economic prosperity.

Special Economic Zone Policy Remains Top Priority

The development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Economic Growth Centers remains a key policy priority for the National Government, aimed at diversifying and expanding economic activities across the country.
The Solomon Islands Renewable Energy Development Project plans to finance new photovoltaic (PV) parks in the provinces of Guadalcanal and Malaita, along with a utility-scale grid-connected energy storage system in Honiara, the country’s capital.

Energy Project to Finance Photovoltaic Parks

The Solomon Islands Renewable Energy Development Project will finance two photovoltaic (PV) parks and a utility-scale grid-connected energy storage system in the Solomon Islands.
Disposal of an Explosive Remnant of War near Munda

2024 a Record Breaking Year for Bomb Disposal

2024 has been a record year so far for the removal of explosive remnants of war remaining in Solomon Islands from the Second World War.
The brand-new campus boasts cutting-edge facilities for an enhanced learning experience, including advanced technology in lecture rooms, collaborative spaces, and well-equipped study areas.

New USP Solomon Islands Campus Opens Doors

The University of the South Pacific (USP) Solomon Islands Campus is thrilled to announce that students have officially started attending classes at the newly constructed, state-of-the-art campus located at King George (KG).
“I look forward to discussing the substantial economic and development partnerships Australia and Solomon Islands share.”

Hon. Pat Conroy to Visit Honiara Today

Australia’s Minister for International Development and the Pacific, the Hon Pat Conroy MP, will travel to Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea this week to further strengthen Australia’s deep and enduring partnerships in the Pacific.
“It’s a culturally enriching experience and we are developing social memories that will stay with us for years to come.”

Chaplain Puts Faith in Spreading the Safety Message

Locals in Munda and Noro in the Western Province of Solomon Islands have welcomed a joint force of more than 250 personnel from eight nations, including Australia, supporting the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force on Operation Render Safe.
The delegation’s visit began at the EODD at Hells Point, where they were briefed on the department's increased capabilities in managing unexploded ordnance (UXO) threats.

High Level Delegation Tour EOD Operations Render Safe 2024

A high-level delegation visited the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Explosive Ordnance Disposal Department (EODD) in East Honiara and later flew to Munda in Western Province on 12 September 2024.
The National Rehabilitation and Disability Division handed over two Wheel Chairs to Emergency Department

Commemorating World Physiotherapy Day 2024

The National Rehabilitation and Disability Division, Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) commemorated World Physiotherapy Day last week with various activities that ran for the whole week.
The Government aims to produce 10,000 metric tons of dry seaweed by December 2026, making this a 3-fold increase from the current annual production of 2,500 metric tons.

Government to Boost Seaweed, Tilapia, and Sea Cucumber Farming

The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) is boosting Seaweed, Tilapia, and Sea Cucumber farming in the country with special programs to support farmers.
The relaunched program consists of a series of engaging modules covering various aspects of the Solomon Islands tourism offering, from its unique ‘living’ culture, WWII history, world-class diving, fishing and surfing to its stunning natural beauty and pristine eco-environment.

Tourism Solomons Specialist Online Training Relaunched

Underlining Tourism Solomons marketing efforts in the key Australia and New Zealand markets, the national tourist office‘s recently-relaunched 'Hapi Isles' Online Training Program has now attracted more than 200 travel agents.
H.E Anthony Makabo presenting his Credentials to the Honourable President Smt Droupadi Murmu.

Commissioner Makabo Presents Credentials to President of India

His Excellency Anthony Makabo, the first High Commissioner of the Solomon Islands to the Republic of India, presented his credentials to the Honourable President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, on Friday, 6th September 2024, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi.
"The Pope's words of peace and unity are particularly significant for the Pacific region, where we strive for cooperation, mutual respect, and solidarity," says High Commissioner Soaki.

Commissioner Soaki Meets Pope Francis

The Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, His Excellency William Soaki, had the honor of meeting His Holiness Pope Francis during the Pope's historic visit to Papua New Guinea.
The collaboration between CSSI and QCS underscores the commitment of both organisations to improve awareness in correctional practices through shared knowledge and experiences.

Australia Supports CSSI Workshop

More than 60 Correctional Services Solomon Islands (CSSI) officers took part in a three-day series of intensive workshops for senior representatives from CSSI and the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS).
The new facility will support Cathliro increase its production of value-added cocoa products, boost local manufacturing, and help the company meet international export requirements.

Australia Boosts Support for Cathliro Cocoa Facility

This week, Australia announced further support for Solomon Islands’ cocoa industry through a new processing facility to be built at Cathliro in Honiara.
Permanent Secretary Dr Franco Rodie responding to questions raised during the training.

MEHRD Rolls Out Socialisation of Education Act 2023

The Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) has begun a roll-out socialization of the Education Act 2023 to Education Providers in the Honiara City Council area.
The National Ocean Conference is pivotal in aligning our ocean policy with broader economic goals, ensuring that our marine ecosystems contribute meaningfully to national economic growth.

‘Ocean 12 Ministerial Conference’ Held in Tulagi

The government for National Unity and Transformation through the Ocean 12 Steering Committee successfully concluded the National Ocean Conference in Tulagi, Central Province, delivering the ‘Ocean 12 Ministerial Conference, a tick in the government’s 100 days policy.
Savo Island's volcano last erupted more than 100 years ago but steam escaping from its vents can often be seen from Honiara, on the much larger island of Guadalcanal where blackouts are not uncommon.

Stellae Energy Reports progress on Geothermal project

UK-based Green Energy Solutions and Assets Company Stellae Energy Ltd (Stellae) has reported significant progress on the proposed geothermal power project in the Solomon Islands, which is initially targeting a 30-MW capacity development.
Citizen participation is crucial for the success of local development initiatives. In Solomon Islands, Ward Development Committees (WDCs) lead the participatory, bottom-up planning processes.

Citizen Participation Workshop Conducted in Tulagi

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Provincial Government of Central Island Province organized the workshop on Citizen Participation in Local (Ward) Level Planning in Tulagi on 30th August 2024.
Ambassador Mohamed visited the Amazing Grace Boutique Cocoa Farm in East Honiara together with the Minister for Agriculture.

Australia’s Ambassador for First Nations People Visits Solomon Islands

Australia’s inaugural Ambassador for First Nations People, Justin Mohamed is travelling to Solomon Islands to participate at the 13th Australia Solomon Islands Business Forum in Honiara from 2-5 September.
The urgency of addressing water resilience was highlighted, particularly in the face of rising population, increased food production, and industrial development.

Delegation Attends Water Forum

A Solomon Islands delegation is at the 8th Pacific Water & Wastewater Forum and the 15th Pacific Water & Wastewater Conference and Expo, held this week in Rarotonga, Cook Islands.
The RSIPF Team concluded the awareness program with presentation of soccer balls to the school.

Police Conducts Awareness at Guguha School

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Community Policing Team in Buala, Isabel Province, recently held an awareness program at Guguha Community High School.
The program’s first batch of compost is set to be distributed to farmers, who will use it to enhance their vegetable gardens, fostering organic farming methods that benefit the environment, enrich the soil, and improve health.

Turning Waste into Wealth

A composting initiative has kicked off in the Gizo, Solomon Islands, marking a significant step towards sustainable agriculture and waste management.
The Operating theatre will now only deal with emergency, caesarean births and life-threatening cases, until there is enough medication available.

National Operating Theatre on Emergency Mode

The Operating Theatre at the National Referral Hospital has gone into emergency mode, meaning services have scaled down due to shortage of consumables and anaesthetic drugs used for operating patients.
The rising prevalence of these substances has led to an increase in anti-social behavior and crime, prompting local leaders to seek stronger support from law enforcement.

Local Communities Call for Urgent Police Intervention

The communities of Afio and Anololo in Malaita are calling for urgent police intervention as the issues of kwaso (homebrew) and marijuana continue to escalate.

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