Indigenous Businesses and Young Entrepreneurs Must Be at the Heart of Investment, PM Wale Says

Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Wale says Solomon Islands’ young entrepreneurs, women-led businesses and indigenous companies must have a meaningful place in the country’s growing investment relationship with Papua New Guinea.

Speaking at the inaugural PNG–Solomon Islands Investment Conference at Heritage Park Hotel, Prime Minister Wale said investment should create opportunities beyond major companies and urban centres.

“Indigenous entrepreneurship is not a footnote to this conference, it is the point of it,” he said.

For young Solomon Islanders, the message is particularly important as the country looks for new ways to create jobs, grow businesses and provide opportunities for the next generation.

Prime Minister Wale said PNG companies investing in Solomon Islands should build partnerships with local businesses rather than simply operating alongside them.

He highlighted joint ventures, local supply contracts, technical skills development and pathways for local ownership as important features that should become part of major investments.

The Prime Minister also recognised the importance of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), women-led enterprises and young entrepreneurs, describing them as the backbone of both economies.

These businesses create employment, support families and help keep wealth circulating within local communities.

“Inclusive growth is not only socially responsible; it is smart economics,” he said.

Prime Minister Wale said an economy becomes stronger and more sustainable when more people have the opportunity to participate and benefit from economic growth.

He also connected inclusive investment with peace and stability, saying every young person employed, indigenous business strengthened and community given a stake in economic growth contributes to a stronger foundation for peace and prosperity.

For Solomon Islands’ young people, the challenge now is to turn these opportunities into action—by building businesses, developing skills, creating innovative ideas and demanding a meaningful role in the country’s economic future.