Telebere News

In the heart of Isabel Province, the new Buala Market is becoming a beacon for women’s economic empowerment in the Solomon Islands. The project aims to strengthen economic opportunities for women vendors and people with disabilities through climate-resilient infrastructure and community-led design. This week, Minister for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs, Hon. Cathy Nori, toured the new market site, and was inspired by what she saw. “I’m impressed by the attention given to the needs of our many women who will use this market to increase their family income,” Minister Nori said. “These inclusive market facilities — showers, toilets, changing rooms — really set a new standard in the Solomon Islands.” Investing in Women and Local Vendors The new Buala Market is being delivered under Australia’s Provincial Markets Redevelopment Program, which focuses on boosting local jobs and economic growth through climate-resilient infrastructure in the Solomon Islands. “Most vendor...

In Kirakira, Makira-Ulawa Province, a Dream Took Root In Kirakira, Makira-Ulawa Province, a young entrepreneur named Kesty Sudani is stitching together opportunity, resilience, and community impact. Fakoa Associates — the locally grown business he founded — is living proof that big dreams can thrive in small rural communities. What started with just one sewing machine and a vision has grown into a thriving multi-service operation, creating jobs for local youth and providing essential services in tailoring, printing, fuel supply, transportation, security, and accommodation. For Kesty, it’s not just about running a business — it’s about empowering his community and showing what’s possible when determination meets local pride. A Dinner Table Conversation that Sparked a Dream In 2013, Kesty had just completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering at Papua New Guinea University of Technology (UNITECH). Like many graduates, he was waiting and searching for job opportunities. B...

A fresh group of young Solomon Islanders has crossed a major milestone — graduating from some of China’s top universities this June. More than just personal success stories, their achievements highlight the growing role of international education in the Solomon Islands’ development and the deepening friendship between Honiara and Beijing. A Bridge Between Nations At the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) in Beijing, five students proudly received their undergraduate degrees on 20 June, with the Solomon Islands Ambassador to China, H.E. Barrett Salato, joining to celebrate. Another three students completed Master’s degrees from Renmin University, Jiangsu University, and Beihang University during the same weekend. Ambassador Salato praised the students for their commitment and encouraged them to use their new skills to build a brighter future back home. “Your parents and our nation are proud of you. Your success is a testament to your hard work and our stron...

As thousands of fans prepare to celebrate the One Category Independence Festival, organisers are reminding the public that the event will be strictly alcohol-free to ensure a safe and family-friendly environment. “We want families, young people, and children to enjoy this historic event comfortably and safely,” Deputy Director for Solutions International Group, Jean Lesly Benoita said. “No alcohol, no bottles, no glass containers will be allowed on site. Security teams will be checking bags, and any prohibited items will be confiscated.” Supporting Local Vendors Instead Inside the venue, local women’s groups and vendors will provide a variety of food and non-alcoholic drinks at affordable prices. Organisers say this is part of ensuring the community benefits and that the festival remains welcoming to all ages. Respect the Rules, Keep It Family Friendly Attendees are urged to plan and share this important information with friends and family. “Let’s celebrate responsibly and ...

The Solomon Islands is setting the stage for a new chapter in music tourism, with the official launch of the One Category Independence Festival — an all-free, family-friendly event featuring Jamaican reggae superstar Busy Signal, alongside some of the nation’s best local artists, DJs, dancers, and comedians. The announcement was made by Solutions International Group, Cowboys Grill, and co-sponsor Kadare Party, who say the festival is more than just a concert — it’s an investment in the Solomon Islands’ future as a destination for international entertainment and cultural exchange. “Big artists go to other islands — so why not bring them here?” Deputy Director for Solutions International Group, Jean Lesly Benoita told local media in a press conference. “This is about showing the world that Solomon Islands is open for tourism, and that we can host shows that create jobs, promote local talent, and bring communities together.” A Festival with Purpose The festival will be held at DC ...

Strong Collaboration Drives Carbon Trading Policy Progress in Solomon Islands Solomon Islands is making important progress in developing an inclusive carbon trading policy that benefits local communities and protects the environment for future generations. This momentum is powered by close collaboration between government agencies, civil society groups, and international partners who share the vision of a sustainable and low-carbon future. Government Leadership Pivotal in Climate Finance Efforts Last week’s workshops, technical working group meetings, and steering committee sessions included key Solomon Islands Government stakeholders, such as the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, and the Ministry of Forestry and Research. Their leadership plays a pivotal role in advancing climate finance strategies and the country’s commitment to low-emission development. Designing a Transparent and Inclusive Carbon Markets Framework The primar...

If you’re looking for a unique blend of war history, local culture, and peaceful nature on your next Solomon Islands trip, make sure Bloody Ridge National Park is on your itinerary. Perched on a ridgeline just outside Honiara, this iconic World War II battlefield is now a national heritage site and one of the most meaningful places to visit in Guadalcanal. Bloody Ridge National Park — a historic World War II heritage site in Guadalcanal.” (Photo: MCT Press) Once the site of the intense 1942 Battle of Bloody Ridge—a turning point in the Pacific campaign—the area has been carefully transformed into a “Peace Park” where visitors can reflect, learn, and connect with history in a truly authentic setting. Step Into a Battlefield Frozen in Time One of the biggest draws for travellers is the park’s raw authenticity. Walk the same ridges where Allied and Japanese forces once fought, with original relics—rusted bayonets, bullet casings, and old foxholes—still preserved exactly where they ...