Posts

Governor-General Sir David Tiva Kapu Calls for Urgent Action on Youth, Climate and Drugs

-
Image
The Governor-General of Solomon Islands, His Excellency Sir David Tiva Kapu, has issued a powerful call to action, urging both government leaders and communities to confront the nation’s most pressing challenges with unity, urgency, and a renewed focus on young people. In a message strongly resonating with youth across the country, Sir David emphasized that while Solomon Islands continues to advocate for climate action on the global stage, greater attention must now be placed on strengthening resilience at home. “We must transition from survival to adaptation,” he said, calling for investment in climate-resilient infrastructure, protection of mangrove forests, and safeguarding freshwater resources. He described the ocean as the “lifeblood of our nation,” warning that it must be managed with foresight and scientific discipline to secure the future. However, the Governor-General stressed that environmental challenges are only part of a deeper, interconnected crisis—one that directl...
Post a Comment
Read more

EITI Training Strengthens Solomon Islands Civil Society Role in Resource Governance

-
Image
Civil society organisations in Solomon Islands are now better equipped to engage in extractive sector governance following a targeted Training-of-Trainers Programme held on June 5. Delivered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the British High Commission in Honiara, the programme has strengthened the capacity of civil society umbrella groups to actively participate in the implementation, monitoring, and reporting of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI). The training marks a significant step toward improving transparency and accountability in the country’s extractive sector, enabling participants to better understand revenue flows, scrutinise data, and contribute to informed public dialogue. As a result of the programme, civil society actors are expected to play a more active role in ensuring that information on oil, gas, and mineral revenues is not only disclosed but also understood and used to hold institutions accountable. Deputy British H...
Post a Comment
Read more

Kevin Olea Elected to Represent Students on SINU University Council

-
Image
Kevin Olea has been officially elected as the new Student Representative to the University Council at Solomon Islands National University (SINU), marking a significant milestone in student leadership across the institution. The results were formally announced by Returning Officer Cinderella Letona following the conclusion of voting across SINU’s campuses. Letona confirmed that the election was conducted in full compliance with the Solomon Islands National University Act 2012, with all results declared final and binding. Olea secured a decisive victory with 468 votes, outperforming four other candidates in a closely watched race that drew participation from students across Kukum, Ranadi, and Panatina campuses. His strong showing reflects broad-based support from the student body.   Other candidates received the following votes: ·        James Obohira — 136 ·        Dikon Temonogutave — 122 ·   ...
Post a Comment
Read more

From Local Need to Opportunity: William Builds Easternder Travel Group in Temotu

-
Image
A young entrepreneur from Temotu Province is turning local challenges into opportunities, building a growing eco-tourism business that showcases one of Solomon Islands’ most iconic landmarks—Tinakula. Cedric Takilmwa Williams, founder of Easternder Travel Group, began his journey not from inspiration, but from observation. “It wasn’t really inspiration—it was identifying a need,” he explains. “Visitors were arriving, and there was no one to pick them up or help arrange transport and accommodation.” What started as simply assisting visitors—meeting them at the airport and ensuring they felt welcome—soon evolved into a business idea. In 2023, Takilmwa officially launched Easternder Travel Group, initially focusing on transfers and tours. Today, the company operates as a holding group, with plans to expand into additional services, including events. Operating in a geographically scattered region like Temotu presents both challenges and opportunities. Transportation remains a cri...
Post a Comment
Read more

World Environment Day Marked with Major Tree Planting at Bloody Ridge

-
Image
More than 70 volunteers led by the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM) and the Ministry of Forestry and Research (MOFR), together with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) and supportive partners, have marked World Environment Day with a large‑scale tree‑planting initiative at Bloody Ridge National Peace Park. The event brought together government officers, community representatives, Solomon Islands National University (SINU) students, and also partners from the tourism and environment sectors who joined forces to plant more than 100 native seedlings planted across the park. Pictured fourth from left MECDM Minister, the Hon. Wayne Ghemu, along with government officials and volunteers taking part in the World Environment Day initiative at Bloody Ridge National Peace Park. Addressing the volunteers, MECDM Minister, the Hon. Wayne Ghemu highlighted the importance of environmental stewardship, noting that protecting natural and cultural...
Post a Comment
Read more

Boost for Youth as Solomon Islands, Australia Expand TVET Opportunities

-
Image
Thousands of young Solomon Islanders, particularly those pursuing technical and vocational education and training (TVET), stand to benefit from a major expansion of education support announced by the Solomon Islands and Australian governments. In a significant move recognising education as a national priority, Australia has committed to doubling the number of training and vocational scholarships to 1,500 by 2027. The initiative is expected to open new pathways for young people seeking practical skills and employment opportunities in a challenging job market. The announcement comes as part of broader discussions between Prime Minister Jeremiah Wale and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, with both leaders emphasising the importance of investing in youth as the foundation for long-term national development. For many young people, especially those unable to access university education, TVET remains a critical pathway to employment, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance. The in...
Post a Comment
Read more

Solomon Islands, Australia Move to Elevate Ties with New Comprehensive Treaty

-
Image
Solomon Islands and Australia have reaffirmed their longstanding partnership, committing to a new phase of deeper cooperation anchored in trust, mutual respect, and shared regional priorities. This renewed commitment follows the first official international visit by Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele Wale since his appointment on 15 May 2026, where he was hosted by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The two leaders agreed to elevate bilateral relations through the development of a comprehensive treaty that will define the future direction of cooperation across economic, development, and security sectors. Foreign Ministers from both countries have been tasked to lead negotiations, with the aim of concluding the agreement as soon as possible. Prime Minister Albanese welcomed the “new vision and focused energy” brought by Prime Minister Wale, who is seeking transformational change in the relationship. In response, Australia reaffirmed its commitment to working clo...
Post a Comment
Read more