Latest News Archive March 2022

Chris Wood and Leon Kofana battle for the ball.

New Zealand Defeats Solomon Islands 5-0

It was a brave performance from the young Solomon Islanders, but New Zealand proved too strong and had too much arsenal going forward. A Bill Tuiloma brace and goals from Joe Bell, Chris Wood and Matt Garbett secured a 5-0 win over Solomon Islands at the Grand Hamad Stadium in Doha, Qatar.
Mr Norimasa Yoshida, Charge d’Affairs, Japan Embassy, in handing over the vehicles said that Japan is pleased to be providing the ambulances which is part of its grant aid project, the second program under its Economic and Social Development Programme for Solomon Islands.

Health Receives 7 Brand New Ambulances for the Provinces From Japan

On Tuesday this week, health excitingly and with great appreciation received seven (7) brand new Toyota land cruiser ambulances with all necessary medical equipment including oxygen concentrators, provided by the Government of Japan.
SINIS Performance Manager (Team Sports) Amanda Korinihona, NSC CEO Allison Burchell, SINIS Executive Director Aaron Alsop handing over the signed document to SIRUF President George Tema, SIRUF CEO Alivereti Mocelotu, and SIRUF Development Officer Godfrey Salo.

SIRUF Pens High Performance Partnership with SINIS

Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF) takes up the leading role to sign the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) High–Performance program’s through signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) partnership deal today, Wednesday 30th March 2022.
For now, it seems clear that despite any assurances he may want to give, it is clear to our friends in the region who have stood with us for a very long time that there is no longer a preferred security partner.

Veil of Secrecy Defeats Friends to All Enemy to None Policy

By Samson Sade
The government has been quick to point to its foreign policy of ‘friends to all, enemy to none’ to explain its ongoing efforts to expand and diversify partners in the national security space.
“New Zealand has professional players but it’s 90 minutes 11v11 on the field so I just want them to be competitive and if we are competitive, it won’t be easy for New Zealand to beat us and I hope the boys are ready,” coach Felipe said.

Solomon Islands Football: "A Chance to Make History"

Solomon Islands national football team have a chance to create history when they take on Oceania heavyweights New Zealand in the FIFA World Cup 2022 Oceania Qualifiers final in Doha on Thursday 31st March 2022.
The cumulative total of positive COVID-19 cases in the country now stands at 11,174.

COVID-19 Update: 373 New Cases Reported

By Jimmy Nolan
373 new positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the country over the past 72 hours reporting period.
For caption (L-R): Patterson Aven and Wesley Kukutu from the National Medical Store, Geoffrey Acaye UNICEF Head, H.E. Don Higgins Acting New Zealand High Commissioner, Hon Dr. Culwick Togamana, Minister of Health, and Tracy Melissa Prasad Kofela. WHO’s Public Health Officer RMNCAH/EPI Coordinator.

New Zealand Supports Solomon Islands with COVID-19 Vaccines Through the COVAX Facility

Solomon Islands has received COVID-19 vaccines from the Government of New Zealand through the COVAX Facility – a partnership co-led by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and the World Health Organization (WHO), with UNICEF as the key delivery partner.
He says close contacts of these people were identified and their quarantine has been extended to see if they develop COVID infection.

Omicron Variant Detected in Returning Passengers

By Jimmy Nolan
Health Minister Dr. Culwick Togamana says 34 new cases of COVID-19 were detected in quarantine stations from returning passengers on repatriation flights, and says most are likely to be the Omicron variant.
RSIPF officers train using the recently donated replica guns.

RSIPF Officers Complete POM Training Conducted by China Police Liaison Team

Fourteen officers from Police Response Team (PRT) and Operational Safety Training (OST) of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) have completed the first Public Order Management (POM) training conducted by China Police Liaison Team (CPLT) on 25 March 2022 at Rove Police Headquarters.
SINIS High-Performance WLP officer Misook Rany and WLP intern Robert Vunagi assessing an athlete during the induction on well being screening process.

The Important Role of Wellbeing & Lifestyle Development For Our Athletes

Wellbeing & Lifestyle goes beyond athlete’s physical performances. It provides the support to assist athletes in finding the right balance between life activities, training and competition along with the benefits of developing a dual career.
“We know our boundaries, and we will not do anything that will cause unnecessary discomfort to our partners in the region and as a member of the forum,” Sogavare said.

Sogavare Says Security Agreement with China Finalized

By Samson Sade
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare says the draft security agreement with China that was leaked to social media has been finalized.
SIVB Marketing Officer, Helen Aumae Boso, connecting with buyers in Sweden from the Tourism Solomons’ board room in Honiara.

Tourism Solomons Hits the ‘Virtual’ Road in Europe

The Solomon Islands border may still be closed but with the day when the country can re-join the rest of the world looming ever closer, Tourism Solomons has taken the front foot to make sure the country remains top of mind on the international tourism stage.
Dr Rogers said that the flight which was earlier planned for the 30th March, 2022 is very likely to be delayed for the 7th April. He says the reason for the delay is because current bookings do not have the passenger numbers to make the flight viable.

Second Fiji-Bound Flight Yet To Be Confirmed

By Samson Sade
The planned second repatriation flight to Fiji is yet to be confirmed despite earlier plans for the 30th of March.
Giving a glimpse of the plan, in his speech from the throne the Governor General His Excellency Sir David Vunagi, said that the Fiscal and Macroeconomic Response Plan is derived from various reports authored by multilateral partners and state institutions.

Government Will Unveil Macroeconomic Plan

After taking a number of economic steps to keep the economy afloat during this COVID- 19 situation, the National Government has come up with a Fiscal and Macroeconomic Response Plan.
"Australia will be transparent and show respect as a reliable partner as we seek to build unity across the Pacific. We will continue supporting peace, economic prosperity, stability and democratic values across our region."

Australia Issues Statement on Solomon Islands

Australia has issued a joint statement from the office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Marise Payne and Senator the Hon Zed Seselja, Minister for International Development and the Pacific.
Solomon Islands will now play New Zealand in the finals, who scraped past Tahiti 1-0.

Solomon Islands Through to the Finals After Defeating PNG 3-2

Solomon Islands Beats PNG to The Solomon Islands have booked their place in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Oceania Qualifiers final after a brace from Alvin Hou helped them win a 3-2 thriller v Papua New Guinea at the Grand Hamad Stadium in Doha.
Solomon Islands values its 2017 Security Agreement with Australia, it is the country’s first Security Agreement.

Government Says it is Broadening its Security Cooperation With Other Countries

Solomon Islands is working to broaden its security and development cooperation with more countries. The approach taken by the country is in line with its 2020 National Security Strategy and the Country’s Foreign Policy of “Friends to all, enemies to none."
High Commissioner Dr Lachlan Strahan and Prime Minister Hon. Manasseh Sogavare.

Australia and Solomon Islands working Together as a Pacific Family

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare met with High Commissioner Dr Lachlan Strahan on 23 March 2022 to discuss the ongoing partnership between Solomon Islands and Australia.
The declaration was made by the Governor General Sir David Vunagi following recommendations from Cabinet.

State of Public Emergency (SOPE) Extended for 14 Days Pending Parliament Sitting

His Excellency the Governor General Sir David Vunagi proclaimed a State of Public Emergency (SOPE) exist for Solomon Islands. The declaration is made following recommendations from Cabinet.
Tocilizumab is given as an injection, and even though tocilizumab has been on the market since 2009 for treatment of rheumatologic diseases, access has remained a challenge.

Solomon Islands Gets Approval to Use Tocilizumab for Treatment of Severe COVID-19 Cases

By Samson Sade
Health Minister Dr Culwick Togamana says the country has received approval for the use of Tocilizumab by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The Health Minister says it is of concern that people are now ignoring public health and safety measures such as wearing of masks and social distancing.

COVID-19 Update: 222 New Cases Recorded

By Jimmy Nolan
The country has registered an additional 222 new positive COVID-19 cases over the past 48 hours. The cumulative total for the country now stands at 10,426.
Raphael Lea’i scored a hat-trick in the game, a testament to the strong combination up front and the teams willingness to attack.

Lea’i Nets Hat-trick Against Tahiti

By Jimmy Nolan
Solomon Islands has topped Pool A after a strong performance against Tahiti, finishing the game 3-1.
Wang Xiaohong, Vice Minister in charge of the Ministry of Public Security, says China is ready to advance practical cooperation in police and law enforcement actively, and push bilateral relations to a higher level constantly.

Solomon Islands Signs Police Cooperation Agreement With China

Solomon Islands Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Hon. Anthony Veke has commended the Governments of Solomon Islands (SI) and the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) for entering into a Memorandum of Understanding on Policing Cooperation.
“It is a disgrace to lie to people in this country when copies of the Cabinet Paper clearly indicates that Cabinet has in fact agreed on the extension in the first quarter of last year,” the statement says.

Opposition Leader Says Cabinet Already Agreed to Extend Parliament

The Parliamentary Opposition Group has slammed the Office of the Prime Minister & Cabinet (OPMC) condemning them to stop ‘deceiving’ people in this country.
RAPP Commander Mr. Paul Osborne said protecting officers is a priority for the AFP, and says a key focus of "our enduring friendship with RSIPF is safety."

PRT Receives Protective Gear From AFP Policing Partnership

To protect police officers as they deliver services to the Solomon Islands community the Royal Solomon Island Police (RSIPF) and Australian Federal Police (AFP) Policing Partnership (RAPPP) Mission Commander Paul Osborne handed over a range of essential Public Order Management Personal Protection Equipment items to the Police Response Team (PRT).
Nine tertiary students were in attendance which included four female and five male.

Sports Institute Conducts First Tetiary Talent Identification Session

As part of its preparations for the Pacific Games 2023 the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sports (SINIS) held its first Tertiary Talent Identification Testing session, conducted by the SINIS Talent Pathways Department.
On the left is the office that caught fire and NRH staff and helpers cleaning the ward in the aftermath of the incident.

Mothers and Babies at NRH Post Natal Ward Safe After Fire Scare

The National Referral Hospital (NRH) is investigating a fire incident that occurred at the hospital’s post-natal ward staff office late yesterday afternoon, that forced staff, caregivers, mothers and their babies to evacuate the ward.
Speaking to the Press, Wate says she is confident the school placement results for 2022 are fair and justifiable.

Students Selection Process Fair: Education Ministry

By Georgina Kekea
Deputy Secretary Teaching and Learning, Ms. Linda Wate says the selection process for students is fair.
Solomon Islands is expected to go to the polls mid-year 2023 and the Games are to be held from November to December of the same year.

No Decision on Extension of Parliament Yet

By Georgina Kekea
The Solomon Islands Cabinet has not made any decision on the extension of parliament.
Despite the chaotic scenario that has unfolded in Oceania qualifying, the Solomon Islands will need to remain focused if they are to reach the inter-confederation playoffs.

Solomon Islands Takes on Tahiti in World Cup 2022 Qualifiers

Solomon Islands will come up against Tahiti at the Al-Arabi Stadium, with the two sides battling it out in World Cup 2022 qualifying.
Commissioner Mangau says, “There will be heavy police presence in some of the strategic locations in Honiara City and some checkpoints will be erected to manage people movements during the meeting.”

Police Gear Up in Preparation For Upcoming Parliament Meeting

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and Solomon Island Assistance Force (SIAF) gear up in riot equipment for the scheduled resumption of Parliament meeting next week.
First incident took place at Lawson Tama car park and the second incident happened at Bokolake beach in North West Guadalcanal.

Foreigner Charged For Sexual Abuse of a Minor

Officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force at the Sexual Assault Unit at the Rove Police Headquarters have arrested and charged a Foreign National for sexual intercourse with a girl under 18-years at an unknown date on month of July 2021.
Kenilorea Raises Concerns Over Separate Police Trainings

Kenilorea Raises Concerns Over Separate Police Trainings

Chairman for Parliamentary Foreign Relations Committee and Opposition MP Hon Peter Kenilorea Jnr said the Government should be concerned that our police has been trained by two different security partners.
Minister Rotutafi said the election of Premier Rhoda Sikilabu is a big achievement for women in Solomon Islands.

Minister for Women Congratulates the Country's First Female Premier

Minister for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs Hon. Freda Rangirei Rotutafi congratulates the country’s first female provincial premier Hon. Rhoda Sikilabu of Isabel Province.
The Health Minister says trends show that the 7 days rolling average since the outbreak in January has declined.

COVID-19 Positive Cases Surpass 10,000

By Jimmy Nolan
Cumulative cases of Positive COVID-19 cases in the country have surpassed the 10,000 mark, while deaths resulting from COVID-19 has now reached 128.
"They are for training purposes and weigh about the same weight of real rifles and pistols. There are 60 pieces of plastic rifles and 150 pieces of plastic pistol training aides received by RSIPF donated by PRC," Police Commissioner Mangau said.

Police Display Replica Firearms Refuting Media Reports

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) would like to refute an ongoing media publication on recent consignment of alleged gun shipments into the country donated by Peoples Republic of China for RSIPF Training purposes.
Hon Rhoda Sikilabu makes history, becoming the first female to head a provincial government in the country.

Opposition Leader Congratulates Isabel’s New Premier

Opposition Leader Hon Matthew Wale has congratulated the new premier of Isabel province Hon Rhoda Sikilabu.
“Maybe the Prime Minister is not telling us something. It would be shocking if the Prime Minister is trying to use outside forces for his own protection and that of his government."

Opposition Leader Slams PM's Request for PNG Forces to Return for Budget Sitting

Opposition Leader Hon Matthew Wale has lashed out at the Prime Minister following claims he requested PNG police force’s return to provide security for the upcoming Budget Sitting.
Hon Kenilorea has reiterated that a public display in a media conference of all the replica arms, which apparently arrived in four big crates should be organized to ease the minds of people.

Why Are Authorities Tightlipped Over Gun Shipment?

Chairman for Parliamentary Foreign Relations Committee and Opposition MP Hon Peter Kenilorea Jnr says he is concerned that authorities might be tightlipped over facts related to the guns shipment.
Communities near the Tina Hydro river mouth will relocate as the project progresses.

Biggest Hydro Power Project in Solomon Islands Progressing Well

By Georgina Kekea
Work on the Tina River Hydropower Project in Solomon Islands is said to be progressing well despite the country’s war against COVID-19 community transmission.
DSE says the National General Elections is mandated by law to be conducted every four years.

NGOs Object Government’s Plan to Extend Life of Parliament

Development Services Exchange (DSE) strongly oppose the Democratic Coalition Government for Advancement’s (DCGA) proposal for the extension of parliament term from four to five years in order to accommodate the Pacific Games.
Health workers have played a significant role in the fight against the recent COVID-19 outbreak.

SICCI Acknowledges Frontliners and Commends Easing of Restrictions

The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), on behalf of the business community and the Solomon Islands private sector extends its sincere appreciation to the hardworking health workers, police officers and all the front liners including the Australian Medical Team (AUSMAT) and other foreign-deployed teams.
“It is a dream to represent Solomon Islands since when I was in high school. I remember telling my classmates that one day I will represent our country in the future,” he said.

Prince Tahunipue Living the World Cup Dream

Everybody indeed needs a second chance in life and that’s what happened to Solomon Islands national team left-back Prince Tahunipue who was in tears when his name was not on the 30-man squad list last year.
Solomon Islands defeated Cook Islands 2-0 in their opening match. Win or loose against Tahiti they will proceed to the semi-finals.

Solomon Islands Will Advance to Knockout Stage of World Cup Qualifiers

The Solomon Islands national football squad will advance to the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Oceania Qualifiers as Vanuatu pulls out of the competition due to COVID-19.
"My officers try to dialogue with community elders and even negotiate for the safe surrender of Mr Atu but nothing forthcoming.”

We Are An Independent Organisation: Mangau

Commissioner of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Mr Mostyn Mangau would like to clarify that RSIPF is an independent organisation and is not taking directives from the Democratic Coalition Government for Advancement (DCGA) as mentioned by Mr Knoxly Atu on Solomon Star newspaper published on 20 March 2022.
“There will be a report to be released in mid-week of April and there are a number of reports that will be produced”, Dentana said.

Economic Stimulus Package Report to be Published Soon

By Georgina Kekea
A report on the Economic Stimulus Package (ESP) will be released soon, says the Finance Permanent Secretary, Mr. McKinnie Dentana.
The Chinese Embassy says their trip to China was delayed and long overdue due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

More than 80 Solomon Islands Students Heading to China Today

By Georgina Kekea
More than 80 Solomon Islanders are leaving for China today under the PRC Education scholarship program.
“For us, we are very happy! This is the first time for most of our athletes to train on an actual combat zone with mats, and in an environment that is conducive for athlete training,” SIKF President Rex Kenihiria stated.

Karate Begins High-Performance Training

Solomon Islands Karate Federation (SIKF) has taken a significant step forward in terms of martial art development.
Representatives of local Security Firms who attended the Information Session hosted by the Sol2023 Games Organizing Committee.

Sol2023 Engages With Local Security Firms

The Sol2023 Pacific Games Organizing Committee (GOC) will be looking at lifting the standard of Security Firms in the Solomon Islands as part of preparations to host the Pacific region’s biggest sporting event in Honiara in 2023.
Australian Navy Ship HMAS Melville conducting surveillance in FSM Exclusive Economic Zone in support of Operation Rai Balang 2022.

Pacific Trials New High Tech Tools in Response to Illegal Fishing

Pacific Island Forum Fisheries is building on its high tech response to illegal and unreported fishing with new tools being trialed to complement its existing suite of monitoring, control and surveillance tools.
But the Opposition Leader says while such infrastructure projects are welcomed, promoting the Games as an economic booster is misguided, as it is a one-off event and cannot be sustained.

Government’s Economic Policy Misguided Says Opposition Leader

By Georgina Kekea
Opposition Leader Mathew Wale has described the government’s economic policy as “misguided and very juvenile.”
Executive Director of the National Hosting Authority (NHA) Mr. Christian Nieng.

Games Administrators Quells Scepticism on Management of Funds

By Georgina Kekea
Despite the government’s optimism for a memorable Pacific Games, there is clearly scepticism in how Solomon Islands will handle the games administrative matters including the upkeep of the facilities.
He says most of the provinces that had experienced a surge in cases soon after Honiara are now showing signs of easing, with cases reported slowly declining.

COVID-19 Update: 258 New Cases

By Jimmy Nolan
Solomon Islands has recorded 258 new COVID-19 cases over the past 48 hours. The cumulative total COVID-19 cases for the country since the outbreak now stands at 9,758.
Solomon Islands captain Micah Lea'alafa gets a shot away.

Solomon Islands Registers First Win in World Cup Qualifiers

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Oceania Qualifiers are underway in Doha, with the Solomon Islands beating the Cook Islands by 2-0. First half goals by Atkin Kaua and Alvin Hou were enough to seal victory, as international football made a welcome return to the OFC.
The Opposition Leader said it is clear from online debates and the general feeling around the country that people are not supportive of the government’s plan.

Opposition Calls on Government to be Sensitive and Acknowledge Peoples Views

Opposition Leader Hon Matthew Wale is calling on the government to be sensible, sensitive and to acknowledge the views of the people.
From L-R - Registrar Mr Jasper Anisi, Commissioner Teasi Sanga, Chairman Sir Francis Billy Hilly, Commissioner Joy Kere and Dr Jack Maebuta.

Four Commissioners to the Political Parties Commission Sworn in

Four Commissioners to the Political Parties Commission were sworn-in by the Governor General Sir David Vunagi at Government House this morning.
PS Beck welcomed Solomon Islands engagement with the United Nations and acknowledge the work of the UN in the last four years.

SIG and UN Hold Joint Steeting Committee Meeting

The Solomon Islands Government, and the United Nations (UN) jointly hosted the first Joint Steering Committee meeting to discuss the implementation of their joint work in the Solomon Islands, strategic partnerships moving forward, and financing opportunities on Wednesday 16 March.
The NSC Chairman, Mr. Joe Sika, reiterated that since all the facilities for the 2023 Pacific Games will be handed over to the NSC when completed it is necessary for the NSC to prepare now.

NHA Supports Capacity Building of National Sports Council

The National Hosting Authority (NHA) has extended its arm to support the capacity building of the National Sports Council (NSC) as the main body established by the Solomon Islands Government purposely to support the development of sports in the country.
“It’s an important game and we have to get the three points and we need to work really hard to try to accomplish that,” Solomon Islands coach Felipe said.

Solomon Islands Set to Open 2022 World Cup Qualifiers Campaign Against Cook Islands

The Grand Hamad Stadium is set to host a historic first-ever Oceania qualifier outside of the Oceania region as Solomon Islands and Cook Islands get the FIFA World Cup 2022 Oceania qualifiers underway in the Group A opener on Thursday local time in Doha, Qatar.
Terminus Group, is an official premier partner to Expo 2020 Dubai, and the company behind the now famous orange robot mascot, Opti.

The Company Behind Dubai’s Smart City Initiative Engages Virtually With Government Officials

Mr. Victor Polovyan of Nova Reality and Terminus Al City has taken the opportunity provided by the Solomon Islands Expo 2020 Pavilion to engage virtually with various Senior government officials including relevant stakeholders from the Solomon Islands in their bid to introduce the ‘Smart City Initiative’ to the Happy Isles.
As this flight is a government managed repatriation charter, and passengers must be pre-approved for travel, those seeking to fly from Nadi to Honiara should contact Solomon Islands High Commission in Suva.

Repatriation Flight for Nationals in Fiji Scheduled for 30th March 2022

With Solomon Islands Government approval and subject to Fiji regulatory approval, Solomon Airlines has scheduled a second repatriation flight for 2022, to operate between Nadi and Honiara on Wednesday 30 March, 2022.
Special Secretary to the Prime Minister, Mr. Albert Kabui, says Cabinet has the mandate to change policies as it sees fit.

Cabinet Defends Proposed Extension of Parliament

By Georgina Kekea
Cabinet has defended its plan to extend the current term of parliament to five years.
“Maybe the Prime Minister knows something we do not know. If so, he should take it up with the police to investigate rather than making unnecessary speculations in the media,” he said.

PM Touting Rumours of Another Riot Alarming: Opposition

Opposition Leader Hon Matthew Wale says it is alarming that the Prime Minister is peddling rumours about a repeat of the 2021 November riots.
More exercises, training and preparation for Operation Parliament are scheduled for the week commencing today.

Police Prepare for Upcoming Sitting of Parliament

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and the Solomon Island Assistance Force (SIAF) undergo preparation for the scheduled resumption of Parliament for this year 2022.
RSIPF and China Liaison Team during the launching of training program.

Police Minister Launches PRC Police Liaison Team Training Program With RSIPF

Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Honourable Anthony Veke has officially launched People’s Republic of China (PRC) Police Liaison Team training program with the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) this morning at the Rove Police Headquarters.
Their first training session in Qatar after their arrival from Brisbane.

World Cup Qualifiers Will Be Live on TV

By Jimmy Nolan
The World Cup Qualifiers in Qatar for the Oceania region will be televised live on Telekom's TTV.
Solomon Airlines will not refund fares nor be held liable for any passengers who book and do not meet the Solomon Islands Government requirements for travel at Check-in.

All Domestic Passenger Flights Resume After Government Approval

Solomon Airlines has confirmed that following approval from the relevant Solomon Islands Government Oversight Committees, effective immediately, the airline can again start accepting passengers and taking bookings for flights between Honiara and the Provinces.
The Permanent Secretary for Health says in terms of response, a lot more resources are now being shifted to the provinces, where outbreaks have now been recorded in almost all of the provinces.

COVID-19 Update: 465 New Cases Recorded

By Jimmy Nolan
The Solomon Islands has recorded 465 new cases of COVID-19 over a 72-hour reporting period.
“As leader’s we should not see our people as tom, dick or harry. They are our people, our voters and they are Solomon Islanders. These people also have rights and they are the ones that gave us the mandate in Parliament,” he said.

People’s Views Must be Honored and Treated With Respect: Kenilorea

Opposition Member of Parliament for East Are’Are Hon Peter Kenilorea Jnr says people’s views must be honored and treated with respect.
Hon Wale said he is certain that likeminded leaders in the government are also uncomfortable because they know this is not in the best interest of the people in this country.

Opposition Says It Will Not Support Government Plans to Extend Parliament

The Parliamentary Opposition Group will not support any move by the Government to extend the life of Parliament from 4 to 5 years.
The trio were interviewed and charged for conspiracy to defeat justice and interference with witnesses.

Three Co-accused Interviewed in Case Against MP for North East Guadalcanal and Her Husband

The National Criminal Investigation Department (NCID) of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) have interviewed three co-accused yesterday 11 March 2022, in relation to the 2019 National General Election offences.
Growth for 2022 is projected to further decline by -7.3%. Broad contractions across all sectors of the economy are expected to contribute to this downturn. Enormous uncertainty surrounds the forecast and if materialized will slow recovery even further.

CBSI Maintains Expansionary Monetary Policy As Economic Uncertainty Looms

Based on recent assessments of economic conditions and outlook, the Central Bank of Solomon Islands Board in its meeting on 10th March 2022 deemed it appropriate to maintain an expansionary monetary policy for the next six months to ensure an incipient recovery takes hold.
Minister Veke, congratulated the RAPPP and noted “this is a milestone for the program, the new stations are a good design and will allow the Police to preserve peace and security in the community. He further thanked AFP and RAPPP for their ongoing support to RSIPF and Solomon Islands.”

RAPPP Partnership Strentghen Police Infrastructure

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and AFP Policing Partnership Program (RAPPP) commenced in July 2021.
Hon. Kenilorea said consultations must be nationwide and this agenda should not be bulldozed for self-interests.

Kenilorea Says Government Plans to Extend Parliament ‘Fundamentally Flawed’

Opposition Member of Parliament for East Are’Are Hon. Peter Kenilorea Jnr has described proposed plans by the government to extend Parliament as ‘fundamentally flawed’.
Sogavare says that this is our country and we must respect each other, and that taking the laws into our own hands will not solve anything.

Prime Minister Sogavare Condemns Rumours of Further Unrest

By Samson Sade
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has condemned rumours circulating that there will be a possible repeat of the unlawful actions that took place last November.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare on behalf of Caucus acknowledged the ongoing preparatory works and assured the NHA that the National Government will devote a whole of Government approach to support the Games.

Government Confident in Delivering Pacific Games 2023 Despite COVID Challenges

The Solomon Islands Government is confident to deliver the 2023 Pacific Games as scheduled regardless of the challenges generated by COVID-19 in the country.
“The United States and our allies, partners and friends are taking action to hold Russia accountable."

Ambassador McKee Provides Update on US Sanctions Against Russia

As the world watches as the situation between Russia and Ukraine unfolds, the US has announced plans to cripple Russia’s financial sector.
The Solomon Islands is in Pool A alongside Tahiti, Vanuatu, and the Cook Islands. Pool B features Oceania heavyweights New Zealand, drawn alongside New Caledonia, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea.

Solomon Islands Football Squad Head to Qatar

By Samson Sade
The Solomon Islands national football team departs Brisbane today headed for Qatar for the group stage of the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification.
The Health Minister says 39.2% of those above 18 years of age are now fully vaccinated. 65.1% of the eligible population in the country have also received one dose of the vaccine.

445,384 Doses of COVID-19 Vaccines Administered to Date

By Jimmy Nolan
There has been a notable increase in vaccination numbers after the COVID-19 community outbreak was first detected in Honiara and in the provinces.
Of the 362 positive cases 27 were detected in Honiara, 22 in Bellona, 22 in Malaita, 17 in Makira, 5 in Choiseul, 10 in Guadalcanal, 162 in Isabel, and 97 in Central.

COVID-19 Update: 362 Positive Cases Recorded

By Jimmy Nolan
The country has recorded an additional 362 positive cases over the past 48 hours.
McDonald thanked Sogavare for his warm welcome. He extended Australia’s condolences to all those families in Solomon Islands who have lost loved ones during the covid-19 outbreak.

Australia's Head of DFAT Pacific Department Visits Solomon Islands

Australia’s Head of the Pacific in Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has visited the Solomon Islands to reaffirm the two countries’ ongoing partnership.
On the agenda at Monday’s initial discussion were HCC’s building usage, waste and rubbish collection, City beautification and the benefits Honiara as a City will get as Host City for the Pacific Games.

Pacific Games Organizing Committee Holds Initial Discussions with City Council

The Sol2023 Games Organizing Committee (GOC) held a meeting with representative of the Honiara City Council (HCC) on Monday 7th March 2022 to have initial discussions on how the two organizations can align their operations in preparation for the hosting of the region’s biggest sporting event in 2023.
While the government do not wish to see a prolonged school closure, it will not also rush to reopen schools without relevant indicators.

Schools Could Re-open As Early As April

The COVID 19 Oversight Committee is currently reviewing the ‘School Reopening Guideline’ with the target to slowly reopen schools by April.
NRH senior representatives, graduates, and the Deputy Australian High Commissioner, Sally-Ann Vincent.

25 Graduate Doctors Joins NRH Medical Team as Interns

25 graduate doctors will join the National Referral Hospital, boosting health delivery services at the country's main hospital.
Games Organizing Committee (GOC) Senior Manager Sports Delivery Adrian Tuhanuku, Solomon Islands Netball Federation (SINFED) President Joy Kere, and SINFED General Secretary Doris Dolaisi after the signing of the MOU.

Sports Federations Encouraged to Practice Good Governance

As part of the legacy benefits of the 2023 Pacific Games, the Games Organizing Committee (GOC) is encouraging National Sport Federations (NSFs) to strengthen their governance and capabilities in preparation for 2023 and beyond.
Dr. Janella Solomon, NRH Medical Superintendent (Right) explaining to Minister and team how patients are managed at the NRH Golden Ward.

Health Minister Visits National Referral Hospital

Health Minister Hon. Dr. Culwick Togamana, Permanent Secretary Mrs. Pauline McNeil and officials from the Ministry of Health together with Senior Management of the National Referral Hospital, yesterday held an onsite discussion around NRH COVID-19 response and COVID-19 patient care at the NRH Golden Ward.
The National Government sends its warmest greetings to all women and girls throughout the country on this year’s International Women’s Day.

Government Applauds Women's Role in Our Country

The Democratic Coalition Government for Advancement (DCGA) conveys heartfelt congratulations to all women and girls throughout the country on International Women’s Day this week.
A birds eye view of the newly built Gizo market in the Western province.

Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program to Build Six Provincial Markets

Australia’s flagship Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program (SIIP) has agreed to fast track redevelopment of six markets across Malaita, Guadalcanal, Honiara, Isabel and Western Province, improve provincial ports and launch a new SIIP website.
The women of Tourism Solomons making the ‘balancing for better’ sign as they celebrate International Women's Day 2022.

Tourism Solomons’ Women ‘Break the Bias’ on International Women’s Day

This year the theme for International Women’s Day is ‘Break The Bias’, the theme calls for a gender free world, a world that is free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination, a world that is diverse, equitable and inclusive, a world where difference is valued and celebrated. Celebration of the day remains significant for all women in the Solomons.
Starting now, on International Women’s Day, it’s time to turn the clock forward for every woman and girl.

Statement by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on International Women's Day

On International Women’s Day, we celebrate women and girls everywhere.
The cumulative total number of positive COVID-19 cases in the country now stands at 8,150.

COVID-19 Update: 124 New Cases Recorded

By Jimmy Nolan
The country has recorded an additional 124 positive cases of COVID-19.
Both accused were interviewed and released on police bail with their charges filed before the court and they will appear before Honiara Central Magistrates’ Court on 21 March 2022.

A Current and Former MP Interviewed by Police for Bribery

Police have interviewed the current MP and former MP for North East Guadalcanal Constituency over bribery allegations during the 2019 national general elections.
The four contractors are AP and S Plant Hire and Construction, Capitol Construction PTY Ltd, Hi-Tech Engineering, and Jed Enterprise Ltd.

CAUSE Project Engage Four Contractors to do Road Rehabilitation in Honiara

Sixty-eight unsealed tertiary roads in Honiara and outside the town boundary will be restored and routinely maintained for 12 months in the coming weeks.
The armourers this week were spent with Daniels Defense armourers and developed a strong understanding of the Daniels Defense MK18 rifle operating system. This includes the practical skills and confidence to repair, maintain and service the firearm for operational and training requirements.

RSIPF Contingent in Australia Train on Daniel's Defense 5.56mm Rifle

The Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) contingent in Brisbane Australia participated in Daniels Defense 5.56 mm Rifle Instructor Qualifying Program during the week ending Friday 4 March 2022.
Vanuatu's vaccination rates are low across the country, with around 48 per cent of eligible adults fully vaccinated.

Vanuatu Impose Lockdown After First COVID-19 Detected in the Community

Vanuatu's main island Efate, and its surrounding islands, are in lockdown after the country's first COVID-19 case was detected in the community.
Dr. Franco Rodie said the Education Minister Honourable Lanelle Tanagada will sign the release of the results on 8th March 2022 and these will be made available to the public on MEHRD website.

Exam Results Ready This Week

The much anticipated 2021 examination Results for Year 9,11 & 12 will be ready by March 8th 2022.
“One of Solomon Islands achievements in its participation at the world Expo 2020 Dubai is that SolTuna products are now selling in Supermarkets in the United Arab Emirates (UAE),” said Solomon Islands Commissioner General, Ambassador Moses Kouni Mose.

SolTuna Hits The Shelves in the Emirates

Solomon Islands renowned Tuna products, SolTuna is making a big breakthrough into the United Arab Emirates (UAE) market following aggressive promotions at the Dubai Expo 2020.
“Women have long contributed to the growth of the sector in more traditional areas and we warmly thank these women for opening up the pathways for the future. Gender parity in fisheries will benefit us all.”

International Women’s Day: FFA Bolsters Support for Women in Fisheries

As the world marks International Women’s Day, the Pacific Island Forum Fisheries Agency announced today it is recruiting a specialist advisor to strengthen its capacity in gender and social inclusion. This is a new position within FFA and reports directly to the Director General.
A curfew was imposed for those within the emergency zone from 12 midnight to 6am, which has now since been lifted.

Curfew and Restricted Entry to Honiara Emergency Zone Lifted

Curfew for the Honiara emergency zone, including the restriction of entry into the Honiara boundary, have been lifted and now cease to exist.
Hon Wale said this is no time for boasting, and the government must double their focus and efforts in the fight against covid-19.

Opposition Slams Government's Claim it Has Reversed Community Transmission

Opposition Leader Hon Matthew Wale has slammed media reports that the government has turned around the community transmission within 5 weeks as ‘misleading and outrageous.'

Latest News Archive

2024

2023

2022

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007