Telebere News

Armed with a groundbreaking communiqué from the Honiara Summit, Solomon Islands and Pacific nations are ready to exert influence at the upcoming 2025 UN Oceans Conference and push for concrete commitments to rescue declining global fish stocks. This landmark document, culminating in four days of intense discussions, outlines the Pacific's unified stance on sustainable fisheries management and its commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Target 14.4. The resulting "Outcomes Communiqué" represents the collective voice of the Pacific region. It addresses critical issues surrounding the sustainable management of global fish stocks, focusing on the challenges Small Island Developing States (SIDS) face. Key Outcomes of the Honiara Summit:   The communiqué focuses on eight key themes, including: ·     Progress in the Implementation of SDG Target 14.4: The summit highlighted the urgent need to address the concerning status of global fish stocks, wi...

Seventy-seven Solomon Islanders have earned qualifications through Australia’s longstanding skills investment in the Solomon Islands, the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC). The graduates, including 61 women and 16 men, join a network of over 8,600 Solomon Islanders who have benefited from APTC training, strengthening the nation's human resources and contributing to economic development. The graduates received hospitality, individual support, tourism, and international skills training qualifications. These newly acquired skills will boost the Solomon Islands' workforce and positively contribute  to the country’s National Development Strategy. In his keynote address, Minister for Education and Human Resource Development, Hon Tozen Leokana, said the graduates are poised to fill critical workforce gaps and contribute to a more robust and skilled economy by gaining skills in these key areas. “These qualifications are not just personal victories; they are investment...

In a bold call for action, Dr Tom Pickerell, Global Director of the Ocean Program at the World Resources Institute (WRI), highlighted the urgent need to scale up sustainable fisheries management during a panel discussion on strengthening partnerships within the fisheries sector. His remarks underscored how adopting a 100% sustainable management approach can serve as a political and financial catalyst, aligning global stakeholders toward a shared commitment to ocean sustainability. Dr Tom Pickerell is a marine biologist with over 20 years of experience in ocean sustainability, including fisheries and aquaculture, climate change impacts, and policy development. Photo by Ivan Utahenua/Honiara Summit. Dr Pickerell highlighted the transformative potential of the 100% Alliance, a global initiative established to promote 100% sustainable ocean management. This initiative provides a clear and actionable framework that enables governments, donors, and investors to direct funding in line with ...

Amid regional cooperation and sustainability discussions at the Honiara Summit, Casper Hairiu's artwork powerfully illustrated the Pacific people's deep connection to the ocean. Hairiu, a talented Solomon Islands artist from Nariekeara village in West A’are’are, Malaita Province, showcased his painting, "Tuna Family," highlighting the summit's theme: "Iumi Tugeda Delivering on SDG 14.4: Achieving Sustainable Fisheries." Rooted in Pacific heritage and marine biodiversity, Hairiu's artwork depicts a school of tuna swimming harmoniously, symbolizing unity, happiness, and the importance of marine life protection. "As an artist, tuna is more than just a fish to us Pacific people; it’s part of our culture and livelihood," Hairiu explained. "I grew up watching elders fish for tuna, and I wanted to illustrate their significance through my art." He drew inspiration from observing tuna in their natural habitat, relating their toget...

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has strongly urged Pacific Leaders to establish comprehensive management arrangements to ensure sustainable fisheries in the Pacific  region.  Speaking at the Honiara Summit, convened under the theme "Iumi Tugeda Delivering on SDG 14.4: Achieving Sustainable Fisheries," PM Manele called on ministers and regional leaders to focus on meaningful action and innovation to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14.4. PM Manele, Ministers and regional leaders in group photo. Photo by Honiara Summit Acknowledging the significant challenges posed by climate change, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, over-exploitation, and marine pollution, PM Manele emphasized the need for continued vigilance. “We should not be complacent,” he said . “The vision of our Leaders in bringing the region together since the 1970s remains critical. Without their commitment to regional cooperation and institution-building, achieving SDG14.4 would not h...

Declining fish stocks in the Pacific have reached a critical point, prompting urgent calls for stronger collaboration efforts and regional cooperation from Pacific leaders gathered at the Honiara Summit. Fisheries are crucial to the region, providing 90% of the protein intake for coastal communities and contributing up to 60% of the global tuna catch. A high-level panel discussion on sustainable fisheries management brought together key regional figures, including Rhea Moss-Christian, Executive Director of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPSC); Noan Pakop, Director-General of the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA); Dr. Sangaalofa (Sangaa) Clark, Chief Executive Officer of the Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA); and Dr. Stuart Minchin, Director-General of the Pacific Community (SPC). The panel emphasized collaboration, scientific research, and strategic management as essential for the long-term health of the Pacific's vital fisheries sector. In her discuss...

Prime Minister Hon James Marape called for urgent global action against illegal fishing and the exploitation of Pacific fisheries, emphasising that Pacific nations have been stewards of the ocean for centuries.  Speaking at the Honiara Summit on Sustainable Fisheries, he urged major global powers to take responsibility for their role in sea pollution and sea temperature rise and also assist in marine resources management in the Pacific.  Prime Minister Hon James Marape called for urgent global action against illegal fishing and the exploitation of Pacific fisheries. Photo by Ivan Utahenua/Honiara Summit. Under the theme “Iumi Tugeda Delivering on SDG 14.4: Achieving Sustainable Fisheries”, the summit brings together Pacific leaders, global experts, and representatives from 24 – 27 February 2025 to discuss sustainable fisheries management in the region.  In his address, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed that Pacific Island nations have always practised sustainable fisheries...

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has officially opened the Honiara Summit, themed “Umi Tugeda: Delivering on SDG 14.4, Achieving Sustainable Fisheries.”  The summit brings together Pacific leaders, fisheries ministers, international stakeholders, and regional organizations to strengthen cooperation on sustainable fisheries management. In his opening remarks at Friendship Hall, Prime Minister Manele welcomed distinguished guests, including the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Hon. James Marape, the Prime Minister of Tuvalu, Hon. Felity Aoteo, and the Premier of Niue.  Solomon Islands PM Jeremiah Manele delivery keynote address to open the Honiara Summit on sustainable Fisheries. Photo by Ivan Utahenua/Honiara Summit. He also acknowledged the presence of United Nations Special Envoy for the Ocean, Ambassador Peter Thomson, and regional fisheries leaders. 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 Prime Minister Manele highlight...

The Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources, Hon Nestor Giro, has called on regional leaders to take urgent action in achieving sustainable fisheries management and preserving the marine ecosystem across the Pacific. Minister Giro made this appeal during his welcome remarks at the official opening of the Honiara Summit, held at Friendship Hall under the theme: Umi Tugeda Delivering on SDG 14.4, Achieving Sustainable Fisheries. Minister For Fisheries and Marine Resources Hon Nestor Giro delivering his official welcome remarks to leaders attending the Honiara Summit. Photo by Ivan Utahenua/Honiara Summit. "The Honiara Summit requires our urgent attention and collaborative action. Together, we can share knowledge, exchange experiences, and develop innovative strategies and actionable solutions that will help us achieve this vital objective, benefiting our nations and the global community," Minister Giro said. Delegates attending the Honiara Summit at Friendship Hall. Photo b...

Australia has installed 53 solar-powered streetlights in Nazareth Village, Marovo, as part of the Solomon Islands–Australia Community Partnerships initiative. The project, which received funding for building materials and transportation costs, has improved lighting in the primary school and communal village areas. Residents have welcomed the new streetlights, with Mrs. Stella Mark from Nazareth noting that people from surrounding villages admire the improved lighting, which has enhanced safety for the entire community. “P eople from surrounding villages admired the streetlights, which made life safer for everyone. ” Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said Australia was happy to see people living in communities across the Solomon Islands directly benefit from infrastructure projects like those in Nazareth. “These projects demonstrate the spirit of partnership between Solomon Islands and Australia, delivering infrastructure that is a real ...

Over 150 tourism representatives convened in Honiara this week at the ‘Tourism In Focus’ conference. Minister for Culture and Tourism, Hon Choylin Yim Douglas, underlined the critical partnership between the government and private sector in driving the Solomon Islands' tourism expansion. Hosted by Tourism Solomons at the Solomon Kitano Mendana Hotel, the conference underscored the sector’s resilience and progress, which Minister Yim Douglas attributed to the collective efforts of industry stakeholders. “Our government recognises the immense potential of tourism to stimulate economic growth, create meaningful jobs and improve livelihoods for our people,” the Minister said. “(And) To demonstrate our commitment to this vision, the government has significantly increased its budget support this year to the tourism industry, this increased funding is strategically allocated to trigger growth in targeted areas and to transform the sector in line with our bold ambition of achieving ...

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Australia Awards’ Women’s Leadership Award, which recognises outstanding Australia Awards alumnae in the Solomon Islands who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. The award was established to celebrate women who have demonstrated excellence, leadership, and dedication while also creating opportunities for others. It honours individuals who inspire positive change in their communities, workplaces, and industries and are role models for future generations. Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said women leaders in the Solomon Islands play a vital role in shaping their communities and driving progress in various fields. “The Australia Awards’ Women’s Leadership Award highlights the impact of alumnae who are championing positive change and opening doors for others,” High Commissioner Hilton said. “Their dedication and resilience contribute to a stronger, more inclusive s...

The construction of the new Buala Market in Isabel Province will boost the local economy and create over 50 jobs. The project, led by Tropic Group Builders, is part of Australia’s investment in economic infrastructure through local businesses and suppliers. To date, the project has generated over 92,000 hours of paid work for 55 Solomon Islanders, including 15 from Isabel Province. The large 3-meter seawall is almost complete, making the market more resilient to cyclones and high sea levels . Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, highlighted the importance of these jobs for family incomes and workforce skills development.   “At every Australian-supported worksite, from markets to airfields to health centres, Solomon Islanders are learning new and improved construction techniques to increase the quality and resilience of the infrastructure they’re building and look after health and safety on site.” “While workers get ready to start on t...

Thirteen young entrepreneurs from the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) have strengthened their business and customer service skills after completing a Collaborative Customer Care course with the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC). The training, facilitated by APTC and organized by YECSI, aimed to equip young business owners with essential customer service strategies. Nine young women business owners were among the 13 participants, reflecting the program’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. The two-day intensive training gave participants valuable insights into effective communication techniques, conflict resolution, and customer loyalty strategies—all crucial for delivering high-quality service and enhancing customer satisfaction. Wendy Kealau, owner of Ezen’s Catering, Fashion, Entertainment, and Tiamaria Pub (Red Door), highlighted the vital role YECSI plays in supporting young entrepreneurs and how the training has positively impacted parti...

The High Court of Solomon Islands, the Federal Court of Australia, and the National and Supreme Court of Papua New Guinea (PNG) have formalized their long-standing legal cooperation by signing two new Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). The agreements were signed by Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer of the Solomon Islands, Chief Justice Debra Mortimer of Australia, and Chief Justice Sir Gibuna Gibbs Salika of PNG. Chief Justice Albert Palmer presenting a gift to Chief Justice Debra Mortimer  The MoUs aim to strengthen judicial collaboration, promote legal training, and enhance professional development opportunities across the three nations. With shared values in legal traditions, democracy, and the rule of law, Solomon Islands, Australia, and PNG have reaffirmed their commitment to building a stronger and more effective justice system. Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said our national courts play a critical role in a safe, prosperous,...

Australian First Nations musician and artist Jeremy Donovan, a Kuku-Yalanji man, recently concluded a nine-day visit to the Solomon Islands, where he connected with communities across multiple provinces. Donovan visited nine schools, five marketplaces, a church, and a hospital across Central, Makira-Ulawa, and Guadalcanal Provinces.   Donovan is an internationally renowned artist who has performed globally, including at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony, Buckingham Palace for Queen Elizabeth II, and the White House for President Bill Clinton.   He previously visited Solomon Islands in 2024, performing in Western, Malaita, and Guadalcanal Provinces. As a representative of Australia’s First Nations people, the kastom landowners with 65,000 years of continuous culture and deep connections to the Pacific, Donovan shared his didgeridoo music and stories.   He delighted audiences by imitating Australian animals like kangaroos, dingoes, kookaburras, saltwate...