Latest News Archive April 2020

Suspected Australian Immigration Scam

Suspected Australian Immigration Scam

The Australian High Commission has received a report of an individual falsely offering opportunities to live and work in Australia.
Solomon Airlines Touches Down in Sydney

Solomon Airlines Touches Down in Sydney

Solomon Airlines touched down in Sydney yesterday morning operating a one off commercial flight transporting passengers and cargo from Honiara to Sydney and Brisbane to connect with services to further destinations.
The cargo onboard the MV Worship Light being offloaded at a private wharf at Ranandi.

Quarantine Rules May Have Been Broken: Wale

The Leader of Opposition, Hon. Matthew Wale calls on the government to explain the real situation with the Chinese vessel that came into the country last week.
Government Statistician and Census Commissioner Douglas Kimi.

Census ‘Unpaid Claims’ Payout Process Clarified

The Census Office within the Solomon Islands National Statistics Office (SINSO) would like to clarify concerns raised in the print media regarding census outstanding payments/claims for the conduct of the 2019 National Population & Housing Census.
Testing Machine for COVID-19 Is Here!

Testing Machine for COVID-19 Is Here!

A qPCR (quantitative polymerase chain reaction) machine funded by the Australian Government arrived safely in Honiara last night.
The project is made possible through the partnership between MPA, Faumamanu community high and with other stakeholders including SIFF.

New Standard Size Futsal Court in Malaita

Futsal development in Malaita will see a huge leap as a international standard size court is currently near completion at Faumamanu Community High School in east Malaita.
Davis said most times he would have no passengers for almost an hour at the most. He said most people he knows have already returned to their home village.

Public Transport Owners Buckle Up for Tough Times

By Jimmy Nolan
Public buses are now earning only as much as SBD$400 per day while Taxis are not as well, with less than SBD$100 a day in some cases.
The United Kingdom chartered this sweeper flight and activated the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism, which allows for a financial contribution from the European Union to the charter cost, as European passengers were on board the flight.

More European And British Citizens Repatriated From Fiji

88 European and British citizens were repatriated from Fiji on a United Kingdom chartered, Fiji Airways operated flight last night, bringing the total number of Europeans repatriated from Fiji due to COVID-19 pandemic to above 400.
Australia's High Commissioner H.E Dr Lachlan Strahan and Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Hon. Anthony Veke.

Western Border Patrols Boosted with Speed Craft From Australia

The capability of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) in the Western border region will be boosted after receiving a second high speed craft donated by the Government of Australia through the Australian High Commission Office in Honiara today.
The Gizo-Kolombangara Member of Parliament, Hon. Lanelle Tanangada was sworn-in as the new Minister for Education and Human Resources Development, replacing former Minister Hon. Commins Mewa.

Government Reshuffles Ministers

Four Ministers of the current Democratic Coalition Government for Advancement (DCGA) have been sworn-in before the Governor General, Sir David Vunagi at Government House this morning.
Madeo adds vendors should avoid selling betel nuts in the street even though the country is still free COVID-19. He said preventive measures should be upheld.

HCC Reiterates Ban on Betel Nut Selling

By Jimmy Nolan
Betel nuts sold on the streets of Honiara are illegal activities.
Kava Export High on Government Agenda

Kava Export High on Government Agenda

The Government is seriously exploring export opportunities for Solomon Islands kava.
They are “remote anyway to start with and rely heavily on imports.”

COVID-19 Could Lead to Food Insecurity

Solomon Islands, and other developing countries, need to be better prepared, the disruptions caused by the rapid spread of COVID-19 are threatening to cut off supply chains and increase food insecurity.
While many are taken care of by family members, in times of crises or emergency they will need assistance with everyday tasks, including making food and getting dressed.

Person’s with Disability High Risk for COVID-19

By Jeremy Gwao
People with Disability Solomon Islands (PWDSI) are calling on government to also recognize the needs of people with disability at this time of emergency.
RSIPF investigates alleged arson incident on Small Malaita

RSIPF investigates alleged arson incident on Small Malaita

Officers of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) at the Auki Police Station in Malaita Province together with officers at Maka Police Post are investigating an alleged arson incident at Tawaro Village on Small Malaita on 26 April 2020.
Poor Sanitation a Challenge in Fight Against COVID-19

Poor Sanitation a Challenge in Fight Against COVID-19

By Jeremy Gwao
Majority of communities around North Guadalcanal are concerned about their personal health and hygiene due to the threat of coronavirus.
“The COVID-19 Development Bonds are issued as part of the strategy to mobilize resources to fund the Government’s COVID-19 Economic Stimulus Package,” Sogavare said.

Government Issues First COVID-19 Domestic Development Bond

The Solomon Islands Government has issued the first COVID-19 domestic development bond of SB$120 million to interested buyers.
The Prime Minister attributed this outcome as a testament to everyone’s continuous united stand against this virus especially those working in the front line.

“COVID-19 Free Status Must Not Stop the Fight”: Sogavare

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has urged all citizens of Solomon Islands to keep fighting with all means despite the country’s rank as one of the COVID-19 free countries in the world.
WHO met with MHMS and NRH officials on Thursday to hand over supplies and equipment for the isolation centres.

WHO Supports Hospital Isolation Centres

The two COVID-19 isolation centres at National Referral Hospital (NRH) are now almost fully equipped, with the delivery this week of medical supplies and equipment worth more than SBD$400,000 by the World Health Organization, Solomon Islands, with support from the Australian Government.
SolBrew handover Medicine to NRH Pharmacy - Dr John Hue, Medical Superintendent and Supervising CEO NRH with Peralt van der Merwe SolBrew MD (centre) looked on by Grace Campbell (far left) and Acting Chief Pharmacist Solomon Bosa (back right).

SolBrew Donates Medical Supplies to NRH Pharmacy

Solomon Brewery Limited’s (SolBrew) this week donated medicines and medical supplies to the value of SBD350,000 to the National Referral Hospital (NRH) Pharmacy.
Dr Lachie Strahan said Australia was proud to support the NGOs and that it was wonderful to see the effects of their hard work.

Australian Humanitarian Aid Reaches Communities

Australia and its partners in Solomon Islands are getting aid to where it’s needed now.
He said there is truth in what the doctors have said to the Prime Minister and it is important the issues are brought forward to be resolved.

Health Minister Applauds Staff in Birthing Center of NRH

By Georgina Kekea
Health Minister Hon. Dickson Mua has commended doctors and nurses at the labor ward and the National Referral Hospital in general.
SINU says that the decision it has taken is based on the SIG Extension of the “State of Emergency” and is following advice from the SMC Special Sub-Committee on the Coronavirus pandemic.

SINU Defers Start Date

The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has deferred the starting date for lectures.
He encouraged users to follow instructions given and to wash hands often with soap and water especially for vendors who are dealing with food.

Hand Wash Facilities Coming Soon to Central Market

By Jimmy Nolan
To improve personal hygiene the Honiara central market will soon provide a hand wash station.
“This is a special flight to support passengers currently in the Solomon Islands who wish to return to their home countries,” the CEO said.

Solomon Airlines to Operate 30th April Flight From Honiara

Solomon Airlines will operate a one-off commercial flight on 30th April following consultation with the Solomon Islands Government and foreign High Commissions, including Australia and New Zealand.
Recently the congress successfully acquired an office building to fully utilize its functions and will also house Youth At Work programs.

Mobilizing Youths Through Pandemic

Its all hands on deck for the National Youth Congress (NYC) as it works to revitalize its functions amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
New Zealand High Commissioner Georgina Roberts and Australian High Commissioner Dr. Lachlan Strahan signed a new Delegated Cooperation Arrangement as part of the two countries’ Education Partnership with Solomon Islands for 20202023.

Another Step Forward for Australia and New Zealand’s Education Partnership with Solomon Islands

New Zealand High Commissioner Georgina Roberts and Australian High Commissioner Dr Lachlan Strahan have signed a new Delegated Cooperation Arrangement as part of the two countries’ Education Partnership with Solomon Islands 2020-2023.
SIG and Chineses Officials witness the arrival of the testing machines at Honiara International Airport.

COVID-19 Testing Kits and qPCR Machine Arrives in Honiara

By Georgina Kekea
COVID-19 testing kits, lab equipment which includes a qPCR machine has arrived in Honiara.
Dr Kasai said this applied to all countries, including those in the Pacific islands who had no reported cases of Covid-19.

WHO Cautions Early Easing of COVID-19 Restrictions

The World Health Organization (WHO) has cautioned Pacific Island countries against an early easing of restrictions aimed at controlling or preventing COVID-19.
Sarah Tito said mothers are trying their best to provide for their families. She said with no gardens, this has proven to be very difficult for them.

Suaghi Villages Awaits Assistance After Cyclone Harold

By Jeremy Gwao
Villagers in North Guadalcanal are frustrated their livelihood was shattered by cyclone Harold.
She said KGA is re-strategizing how to get to the farmers. She said one of the steps taken was to do a radio show every weekends.

Kastom Garden Promotes Radio Program to get to Farmers

By Jeremy Gwao
Kastom Garden Association (KGA) is taking steps to assist their farmer members, all in an effort to bolster food security.
COVID-19 spreads mainly among people who are in close contact (within about 6 feet) for a prolonged period.

Communities Advised to Adhere to Health Advices

By Jimmy Nolan
“Social distancing is not only a government measure but is everyone’s business”, Acting Police Commissioner, Mostyn Mangau said.
The Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Dame Meg Taylor.

First Delivery of Medical Supplies Arrives Through the Pacific Humanitarian Pathway on COVID-19

50,000 KN95 facial masks and 20,000 protective masks have arrived in Nadi, Fiji, to be used in the fight against COVID-19. This essential Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), destined for Fiji, Papua New Guinea, New Caledonia and French Polynesia is being coordinated through the Pacific Humanitarian Pathway on COVID-19 (PHP-C).

Efforts to Assist Families of Taimareho Accident Continues

The government is continuing with efforts to assist families and to resolve outstanding issues surrounding the tragic and unnecessary loss of 27 innocent lives from aboard the MV Taimareho on April 3 during Tropical Cyclone Harold.
“It is our priority that detainees and their loved ones have to remain in touch and assure each other of their well-being,” says Björn Rahm, who oversees the ICRC detention support in the Pacific.

Detainees Can Now Call Their Loved Ones

Due to the ongoing global threat of COVID-19, the Corrections Service of the Solomon Islands (CSSI) suspended all family visits as of 23rd March 2020 as part of various measures to prevent the entry of the disease into the correctional centres.
“To you all, let me say this, your are our first and last line of defence. My deepest respect to you”, he said.

PM Sogavare Commends MHMS

Prime Minister Sogavare has acknowledged the work done by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) as the Government is taking all necessary and proactive measures to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr Jack Siwainao talking with the Prime Minister during his visit.

Mothers and Babies Need Bigger Room at National Referral Hospital

By Georgina Kekea
“Currently we have two or three babies and mothers on one bed. The wards here are very crowded and there is no space”, Dr. Jack Siwainao, Consultant in charge of Labor ward told Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.
“If we can keep the virus at bay, or at least delay its arrival in our country, we can minimise the effect that Corona virus can potentially have on our country,” the Prime Minister stated.

PM Sogavare Visits National Referral Hospital

Prime Minister Hon. Manasseh Sogavare made a courtesy visit to the National Referral Hospital yesterday.
Premier Sade said they have been working closely with the NGOs and development partners to raise awareness on COVID-19 and other preparedness programs related to it.

Guadalcanal Premier Commends NGOs for support

By Jimmy Nolan
The Guadalcanal Provincial Premier Francis Sade has thanked Non-Government Organization, NGOs for their assistance in providing COVID-19 awareness to communities in the Province.
The City Council says it will take additional measures in the near future, depending on the severity and duration of the pandemic.

HCC to Implement Pay Cuts

By Georgina Kekea
Honiara City Council (HCC) is the first of government's machinery to implement a pay cut in light of the effects of COVID-19.
Young Child Killed After Family Arguement

Young Child Killed After Family Arguement

Officers of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) in Noro, Western Province are investigating an alleged murder of a –two-year old female child in the township on 18 April 2020.
Solrice, which has 70% of the market share in Solomon Islands, has six (6) weeks of stock in Honiara and four (4) to six (6) weeks of stock in the provinces.

Rice Stock Good, Supply Chain Risks Being Addressed

SICCI reps and member companies on Saturday 18 April met with Under Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture & Livestock (MAL), Mr. Michael Hoóta for an update discussion on rice stocks in the country.
Namo said they are making emphasis in the rural communities on simple hygiene methods like washing of hands.

SIDT Encourages Good Hygiene Practice

By Jeremy Gwao
Solomon Islands Development Trust (SIDT) is encouraging rural communities to practice simple personal hygiene method as a way to prevent COVID-19.
The education ministry will make an assessment after the first week of school for the first group.

Schools to Resume in Solomon Islands but Not for Everyone

By Georgina Kekea
Schools will re-commence on April 27 but not for everyone.
The Prime Minister said with most of the equipment now being delivered, the National Referral Hospital will very soon have the capacity to do in-country testing.

Inclusive Preparedness Plans for COVID-19 says Solomon Islands PM

By Georgina Kekea
Solomon Islands is one of 15 countries that had not recorded any case of COVID-19 as yet.
Mrs. Pauline McNeil says, “Solomon Islands is one of a few countries that are yet free from COVID 19 and with the results received, the ministry is not going to give up the fight to prevent and protect its nationals.”

Solomon Islands Receives the Final Two COVID-19 Test Results NEGATIVE

Today Ministry of Health is pleased to finally receive results of the remaining two COVID-19 suspected case samples that were sent to Australia, and again the samples came back negative with no detection of coronavirus.
Quarantine Facilities Undergo Decontamination

Quarantine Facilities Undergo Decontamination

Decontamination of Institutional Quarantine Facilities used by quarantined persons for the last few weeks has undergone a thorough decontamination process and is ready for use again.
The MV Taimareho on 2nd April left Honiara for West Are’are when it encountered strong winds and rough seas.

Government Continues With Efforts to Assist Families of Taimareho Tragedy

By Georgina Kekea
The government is continuing with its efforts to assist families inflicted by the MV Taimareho tragedy.

ADB Approves USD 6M Contingency Financing to Solomon Islands

The Minister of Finance and Treasury, Hon. Harry Kuma this week has announced that Asian Development Bank (ADB) Board has approved a contingency financing amendment total of US$6 million to support the Solomon Islands Government in its preparedness and response commitments the covid-19 pandemic under its Pacific Disaster Resilience Program (PDRP).
The approval by the IMF Board means the IMF CCRT facility will cover all borrowings from the IMF through CBSI for 24 months period commencing on the 14 April 2020 to April 13 2022 or as much as is available from the facilities.

IMF Approve 24 Months SIG-CBSI Debt Servicing Relief

The Minister of Finance and Treasury, Hon. Harry Kuma has revealed that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Board, on 13th April, 2020, has approved a SIG/CBSI joint request for a Debt Servicing relief for Solomon Islands under the IMF Catastrophe Containment and Relief Trust (CCRT).
It closes this week and SICCI welcomes respondents from all business and industry regardless whether they are members of the Chamber or not.

SICCI Conducts COVID-19 Impact Study

The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SICCI) has been conducting an enterprise survey with business and industry to better understand the situation and challenges faced due to the ongoing challenges brought about by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and the Preparatory measures in country.
Central Bank Governor, Dr. Luke Forau says it is about time Solomon Islanders utilize the digital platforms available.

Solomon Islanders Encouraged to Use Digital Platforms

By Georgina Kekea
Solomon Islanders are encouraged to use digital platforms to pay for goods and services.
"It is quite a challenging job and I want to thank officers as this will enable them to improve our work during the State of Emergency and to prepare in advance should there be a longer lock down or curfew.”

Police Will Lay Charges Against 58 Curfew Offenders

The Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) Prosecution Department will charge and re-bail 58 suspects that were released by the Magistrates Court early this week following no charges laid against them for breaching the curfew under State of public Emergency which was enforced last weekend.
Chief Ludovick Kaulake said this restriction will be in conjunction with the State of Emergency imposed by the national government.

Tamboko Bans Unnecessary Visits

By Jimmy Nolan
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Tamboko community has put in place measures to safe guard its people.
PRC Hands SBD$2.5M in Grant to Help Fight COVID-19

PRC Hands SBD$2.5M in Grant to Help Fight COVID-19

The People’s Republic of China (PRC) Government has officially handed a cash grant of SBD$2.5 Million dollars to support the Solomon Islands Government in its efforts to combat COVID-19 in the country.
Emergency Powers restricting the movement of small craft vessels across the SI-PNG common border region became effective last Thursday 9 April 2020.

Police Steps Up Security at Solomon Islands - PNG Border

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and other law enforcement agencies are increasing their presence at the Solomon Islands – Papua New Guinea common border region from the Shortland Islands, Choiseul Province and the Malaita Outer Islands with arrival of the patrol boat Gizo in the western border region carrying more police, Immigration
Roads and bridges connecting villages to Honiara has been badly affected, in certain cases villages have been cut off having to use boat instead.

TC Harold Assessment on Guadalcanal in Progress

By Jimmy Nolan
Lambi, Sahalu, Savulei, Tadai to Aola are the wards needing immediate assistance from NDMO.
He said it is alright people question the quality of the supplies from China because of experience from other countries.

China Says Medical Supplies Are Safe

By Georgina Kekea
"Supplies donated by China are safe" says PRC's representative, Counselor Yao Ming.
Business and industry operating in the Emergency Zone can obtain the forms from the Chamber office. They can come from, as well as outside of, the SICCI membership.

SICCI Will Facilitate Lockdown Exemption for Businesses

The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) is facilitating the exemption process for companies and businesses providing essential services, to remain operational during a potential lockdown once imposed by the Government.
Solomon Islands police patrolling the border with PNG.

Buka Policemen Arrested for Crossing into Solomon Islands

Papua New Guinea police arrested two policemen from Bougainville for illegally crossing into the Solomon Islands – breaching the State of Emergency (SoE) imposed by the PNG government.
The x-ray machine is one part of a package of support that New Zealand is providing to Solomon Islands as part of its COVID-19 emergency preparations.

New Zealand Delivers Much Needed Health Machines

The Solomon Islands government has taken delivery of new portable x-ray machines on Friday, donated by the New Zealand government.
Director of the National Disaster Management Office Mr. Loti Yates.

Power to Grant Exemption Vested on PM: NDMO Director

The Director of the National Disaster Management Office Mr. Loti Yates has clarified that his office do not have powers to grant exemptions to allow for movements or for business houses to operate during a lock down.
The theatre group is showing their support through the series of video productions.

Dream Cast Theatre Join the Fight Against COVID-19

By Jeremy Gwao
Dream Cast Theatre Solomon Islands is joining the fight against COVID-19 through short films.
Kristalina Georgieva, managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Solomon Islands Debt Repayment with IMF Cancelled for Six Months

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has listed Solomon Islands as one of 25 countries that has had their debt payments cancelled for six months.
“I appeal to all citizens of Honiara and of Guadalcanal province to observe any future curfew order that may be decided by the Government, and stay at home during the curfew period," says Acting Commissioner Mangau.

63 Arrested for Breaching Curfew

Officers of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) have arrested a total of 63 individuals for breaching the night curfew imposed under the State of Public Emergency.
Residents in Honiara are encouraged to plan their weekend activities ahead of the curfew.

Curfew Not a Mock Exercise

By Georgina Kekea
Police Commissioner (Ag), Mostyn Mangau says the curfew in Honiara city is not a mock exercise.
“The regulation is on restriction of movement. So this regulation as government has announced, it is to get people to be prepared. But it is a regulation that is gazetted. When it is gazetted it is a law”, Mangau said.

Honiara Curfew $10,000 Fine to Be Imposed

By Georgina Kekea
Honiara city will be on lockdown as of Friday evening.
"Those lost are our brothers and sister under the banner of Solomon Islands", Ariki said.

Youths Remember Fellow Citizens in Candlelight Vigil

By Jeremy Gwao
Over 30 young people from Rotaract, One More Shot and All Saints Youths were united to remember the 27 people lost in the recent sea tragedy.
The Government has launched two separate investigations into the recent sea accident involving the MV Taimareho which has resulted in 27 passengers washed overboard when the vessel encountered rough seas triggered by cyclone Harold Thursday last week.

Ship Operators Urged to Comply with Maritime Safety Laws

The Government has repeated its call on ship operators to comply with Maritime Safety Laws of the country.
CBSI says that on the demand side of the economy, there has been uncertainties on global demand for the country’s exports, along with a significant restraint in consumer spending in the domestic market.

CBSI Asses Impact of COVID 19 on the Solomon Islands Economy

The speed and extent of the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic around the world has necessitated a revision to the Central Bank of Solomon Islands’ (CBSI) near-term growth outlook for the Solomon Islands economy.
Australian-funded Medical Supplies Arrive in Solomon Islands

Australian-funded Medical Supplies Arrive in Solomon Islands

Staff from the Australian High Commission were pleased to greet a special Solomon Airlines cargo flight as it arrived in Honiara from Brisbane on Wednesday 8 April.
The Prime Minister says the government has launched two separate investigations into the incident.

Prime Minister Meets West Are’are MP and Relatives of Victims

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has met with the MP for West Are’are constituency Hon. John Maneniaru and relatives of victims to express his personal condolences to families and relatives of the 27 citizens who were washed overboard the MV Taimareho on Thursday 2nd April.
Australian High Commissioner Dr Lachie Strahan and RSIPF Gender Coordinator, Staff Sergeant Alice Roteku, handover fuel drums and communication equipment to Seif Ples.

Australia Delivers Communication Equipment to Help Seif Ples Prepare for COVID-19

Australia has provided the Seif Ples Gender-Based Violence Crisis and Referral Centre with vital communication devices and additional drums of fuel to help it prepare for any COVID-19 lockdown.
Solomon Islands is one of a handful of countries yet to have a confirmed case of COVID-19.

Four Months State of Public Emergency for Solomon Islands

By Georgina Kekea
A state of public emergency is current over the Solomon Islands for the next four months.
Damages Caused by TC Harold Still To Be Confirmed

Damages Caused by TC Harold Still To Be Confirmed

By Georgina Kekea
Damages caused by Tropical Cyclone Harold are yet to be confirmed by the National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC).

Police Explains Anchorage of Patrol Boat Auki West of Honiara

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) says one of its patrol boats the AUKI was anchored outside the Kakabona area west of Honiara last Sunday 5 April 2020 because of the recent bad weather associated with the tropical cyclone Harold.
The popular jewelry and accessories corner at the central market is now closed, with essential food items taking up their spot.

Suspension of Sale of Non-essential Goods at Central Market Questioned

By Jeremy Gwao
Honiara City Council has suspended sale of non-essential goods at the Honiara’s main central market.
They say securities should be provided to monitor traveling between Tasman Islands, Lord Howe and Ontong Java.

Lord Howe and Ontong Java Call for Shut Down of Borders With PNG

By Jeremy Gwao
People from Luaniua and Palau are calling for shutdown of the borders between Tasman Island in PNG and their remote outer islands.

RSIPF Recovers One More Dead Body from the MV Taimareho

Officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) today recovered the dead body of a male person at Uhu Village in South Malaita, Malaita Province as the search for the 27 people missing from the MV Taimareho continued.
A stimulus package is often seen as an economic measure put together by a government to stimulate a floundering economy.

Solomon Islands Stimulus Package to go Before Cabinet Next Week

The Government’s proposed stimulus package to cushion any negative impacts on the national economy are expected to be presented to Cabinet next week.
Member of Parliament for West Are’are, Hon. John Maneniaru.

Search and Rescue Not Ready to Respond to Emergencies: Maneniaru

By Georgina Kekea
Member of Parliament for West Are’are, Hon. John Maneniaru says the Search and rescue department is not ready to respond to emergencies.

Australia Awards Scholarships Deadline for Applications Extended to 30 June 2020

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the deadline for applications for the Australia Awards 2021 intake has been extended from 30 April 2020 to 30 June 2020. Successful applicants will (travel restrictions allowing) commence study in Australia in mid-2021 or early 2022.
Parliament is currently debating the ‘Proclamation by His Excellency the Governor General declaring a State of Public Emergency’ in Solomon Islands on the 25th of March 2020.

Solomon Islands Cannot Be Complacent: PM

By Georgina Kekea
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare says Solomon Islands cannot afford to be complacent.
An upgrade of the warning to a Tropical cyclone was made by MET office, an hour before the vessel departed.

Search Continues For Missing Passengers

By Georgina Kekea
Search is continuing for missing passengers on board the MV Taimareho.

Five Bodies Recovered

A total of five dead bodies were recovered today during the search for the 27 people missing from the MV Taimareho in West Are'are, Malaita Province during heavy seas associated with Tropical Cyclone Harold early last Friday.

Prime Minister Urges Ship Owners to Take Heed of Weather Warnings

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare says that he is deeply concerned with reports of missing passengers on board the vessel MV Taimareho.
Parliament to Re-convene Monday to Extend State of Public Emergency

Parliament to Re-convene Monday to Extend State of Public Emergency

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare stated in his nationwide address today that the Speaker of Parliament has been notified to re-convene Parliament on Monday 6th April 2020.
Solomon Islands remains one of a very small number of countries in the world to have no confirmed cases of COVID-19 to date.

Another Negative COVID 19 Test Result

The latest test for COVID-19 in Solomon Islands has returned negative. For the latest batch of tests two more are still pending.
This morning vehicles loaded with passengers, copra, cocoa and other local produce had to turn back, others looked for alternative transport.

Bridge Washed Away by Torrential Rain

By Jimmy Nolan
The heavy downpour from TC Harold has inflicted serious damage to a bridge connecting communities in North West Guadalcanal to Honiara.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison during his recent visit.

Australia Supports Solomon Islands With SBD$70 Million to Combat COVID-19

Prime Minister Scott Morrison assured Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare during a telephone conversation on 1 April that Australia’s support for the Solomon Islands in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic was utterly firm.
Harold a Category one cyclone is moving towards Rennel and Bellona and gaining strength.

Solomon Islands is Bracing Itself for Tropical Cyclone Harold

By Georgina Kekea
Last night Solomon Islands weather office issued the first tropical cyclone warning for all provinces.
President of HCMVA, Moreen Sarika suggested that a plan be implemented ahead of any possible outbreak of COVID19.

Market Vendors Propose Mobile Delivery

By Jeremy Gwao
The Honiara Central Market Vendors Associations (HCMVA) is looking at creating a mobile delivery system for vendors at the Central Market should there be a locked down.

China Joins Battle to Prevent COVID-19 from Solomon Islands

The Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has joined in the battle to prevent the deadly corona virus from infecting Solomon Islands.
Shops in Compliance with Prices Set out by Government Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic

Shops in Compliance with Prices Set out by Government Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic

By Jeremy Gwao
Shops in Honiara are complying with the prices of goods in their shops. Recently the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration issued a notice calling on all shops to maintain their prices.
Solomon Islands remains one of less than 20 countries in the world where there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 to date.

Solomon Islands Receives Two More NEGATIVE COVID-19 Test Results

Two more result for COVID-19 suspected cases in Solomon Islands have come back negative. The test results were confirmed by Ministry of Health after being sent for testing in Australia.

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