Solomon Star News
Fumigation Requirement for Kava into Fiji
- Title
- Fumigation Requirement for Kava into Fiji
- Runtime
- 1:21
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Fiji currently requires all Solomon Islands kava exports to be fumigated before shipment, a costly process not required by Australia.
The Solomon Islands Government has been urged to engage with Fijian authorities to review the regulation and to strengthen domestic shipping and airfreight infrastructure to support exporters.
Despite these challenges, ICSI Logistics remains focused on building long-term partnerships with farmers and communities to expand production.
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- Solomon Islands Kava Quality
- Runtime
- 0:55
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Laboratory tests show that Solomon Islands kava is of high quality, recording a total kavalactone content of 11.8 percent — higher than many other Pacific varieties such as those from Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa, which typically range between 7 to 10 percent.
This gives the Solomon Islands a competitive advantage and a strong position in both regional and international markets.
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- Russell Lavukal House of Chiefs Day and Enthronement
- Runtime
- 2:11
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The Lavukal House of Chiefs over the weekend celebrated its annual Chiefs Day which saw the enthronement of five new chiefs. The event was held at Marulaon in West Russell.
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- SI strengthens justice system through Sexual Offence Defence Training.
- Runtime
- 2:27
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- A four-day program, facilitated by the Victorian Bar Association of Australia, is underway in Honiara to enhance the skills of public solicitors in handling sensitive sexual offence cases.
Supported by the Australian High Commission, the training highlights the strong partnership between Australia and the Solomon Islands in promoting fair trials and improving access to justice.
#SolomonIslands #JusticeSector #AustraliaPartnership #LegalTraining #FairTrial #RuleOfLaw
- Title
- Marunga Farmers in Makira gets support
- Runtime
- 3:31
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Marunga Farmers in Makira recently received a timely boost from the Chinese Government.
- Title
- X-Mas Fever
- Runtime
- 1:27
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The Christmas Fever is already here and gaining momentum in Honiara.
- Title
- Reflection on the Brotherhood 100th Anniversary
- Runtime
- 3:37
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The Melanesian Brother concluded its weeklong centenary celebration on Sunday. Here the church officials highlights the importance of the celebration.
- Title
- COMMUNITIES IN RANOGGAH DECLARED 'NOD' STATUS
- Runtime
- 2:18
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Four more communities in Ranoggah, Western Province have been declared 'No Open Defection' Status.
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- WORLD FOOD DAY CELEBRATION 2025
- Runtime
- 1:43
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Honiara marked the Annual World Food Day event on Monday.
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- Melanesian Brothers celebration
- Runtime
- 1:53
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Members of the Melanesian Brothers of the Anglican Church of Melanesia on Sunday celebrated 100 years since the inception of the Brotherhood Service.
- Title
- Bulk Shop School Futsal Finals
- Runtime
- 1:44
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Saint Nicholas College team is the 2025 Bulk Shop School Futsal Boys Open Champions, edging past Naha CHS Team B 3-2 in a thrilling grand final at the Multi-Purpose Hall on Friday.
After taking a 3–0 halftime lead through Danford Fiumae (2) and Abraham Morgan, Saint Nicholas held off a strong Naha comeback to seal the win.
Hear from the Saint Nicholas coach as he shared his thoughts on the team’s performance, discipline, and what this victory means for the school.
- Title
- National Development Strategy Mid-Term Review Launched
- Runtime
- 2:09
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele launches the Solomon Islands’ National Development Strategy Mid-Term Review, unveiling key policy frameworks to drive sustainable growth, inclusive development, and a resilient future for the nation.
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- PNGSIBC, SICCI Sign MOU to strengthen bilateral business ties
- Runtime
- 3:43
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The Papua New Guinea–Solomon Islands Business Council (PNGSIBC) and the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) on Thursday have formalised their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
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- Nguvia School celebrated its 2025 graduation
- Runtime
- 2:50
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Nguvia School on Guadalcanal Plains proudly celebrated its 2025 graduation on Thursday, marking a special milestone for students, teachers, and parents.
- Title
- Agriculture officers end training
- Runtime
- 4:08
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Provincial agriculture officers from eight provinces have completed a week-long training focused on improving copra and cocoa production, led by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock’s (MAL) technical team.
The training, held from September 29 to October 3, 2025, brought together participants from across the country to strengthen their technical knowledge in key areas of cash crop production. Rennell and Bellona Province, which was not included in this session, will take part in a later program as part of efforts to expand the copra industry.
- Title
- SCHOOLS IN CENTRAL PROVINCE CELEBRATE HANDWASHING DAY 2025
- Runtime
- 4:55
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Four schools in Central Province on Wednesday celebrated the annual Global Handwashing Day for the first time.
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- School welcomes Trachoma awareness
- Runtime
- 3:07
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The Head Teacher of Sanalumu Primary School, Mr. Richard Raesi, has expressed his gratitude to the Aola health team for bringing the trachoma dose distribution program to Sanalumu Community High School.
- Title
- HISTORIC BASKETBALL WIN
- Runtime
- 0:59
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The Solomon Islands Men’s Basketball Team kicked off their 2025 FIBA Melanesian Cup with a thrilling 70-67 win over Pacific Games gold medalists Fiji at the Friendship Hall Monday night.
Heres what head coach Michael Nao had to say after the historic win🏀;
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- Bonfire Artists
- Runtime
- 1:59
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Musical Artists face the media highlighting what the music fans expect during the Saturday nights musical festival.
- Title
- Orthodox Bishop Visit Solomons
- Runtime
- 1:12
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- His Grace Bishop Rewis, General Bishop of the Diocese of Melbourne and Affiliated Regions is in Solomon Islands for a weeklong visit.
He arrived in Honiara on Wednesday and was welcomed by members of the Orthodox community in Solomon Islands.
- Title
- New School Truck for Gwaidingale Community High School (CHS)
- Runtime
- 4:25
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- West Kwaio Constituency Office has enabled Gwaidingale Community High School (CHS) in Malaita to take ownership of a new school truck.
- Title
- Guest Artists arrive for Bonfire Festival 2025
- Runtime
- 1:23
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Honiara is buzzing with excitement as international guest artists Liz Vamarasi, Kali Tui and the VT1’s crew, and JQues Alamod from Australia touched down in Honiara ahead of this weekend’s Bonfire Festival 2025.
- Title
- BUSINESSES SUPPORT BASKETBALL TEAMS
- Runtime
- 1:36
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The National Basketball Teams have received another wave of generous donations from local businesses, further strengthening their preparations for upcoming international competition.
Executive Officer of the Solomon Islands Basketball Federation Baptist Kelesi said, the support symbolizes the growing partnership between Solomon Islands businesses and national sport.
- Title
- 1300 Tickets for the Basketball Melanesian Cup
- Runtime
- 1:49
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Tickets for the highly anticipated 2025 FIBA Melanesian Cup have been officially priced at $20 SBD per seat, as the Solomon Islands prepares to host the prestigious basketball tournament for the first time next week.
The six-day event is scheduled to take place from Monday, October 13, to Saturday, October 18, at Friendship Hall in East Honiara.
With the venue’s limited capacity of 1,500 seats, organizers are urging fans to secure their tickets early.
- Title
- Seminar on Shipping & Climate Regulation
- Runtime
- 3:11
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The Solomon Islands Maritime Authority (SIMA) hosted a seminar called “Influencing the Climate Regulation of Shipping in the IMO” at the King Solomon Hotel, Honiara, on 30 September 2025.
Led by Dr. Michael Prehn, an International Marine Organisation (IMO) specialist with over 25 years of experience, the seminar brought together national stakeholders to discuss how global climate rules for shipping are formed and what strategies Pacific Small Island States, including Solomon Islands, can use to influence future decisions.
- Title
- WORLD TEACHERS DAY 2025
- Runtime
- 1:22
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Highlights of World Teachers Day 2025 celebration in Honiara on Friday 3rd October.
- Title
- COACH SMITH EXCITED
- Runtime
- 2:12
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Solomons Men’s Football Head Coach Josh Smith says he is 'super excited' about the support from the Australian High Commission to invest in five national team players to play in Australia.
Smith expressed his enthusiasm during a press conference ahead of their upcoming international friendly against Australia's Brisbane Roar.
Coach Smith also revealed that he previously worked with Brisbane Roar’s Head Coach Michael Valkanis ten years ago in Adelaide, where he said he learned a great deal.
- Title
- SI Head Coach Fronts Media Ahead of Brisbane Roar Friendly
- Runtime
- 1:14
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Solomon Islands men's national football team Head Coach Josh Smith addressing the media on Thursday during a press conference held at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) conference room.
Solomon Islands will face Brisbane Roar in an international friendly this weekend.
- Title
- MOTHER WINS CAR
- Runtime
- 2:46
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Ropiko Energy Limited has once again brought excitement to its customers with its monthly draw on Wednesday 1st October.
But this time the stakes were even higher because it includes a grand prize of a Toyota Caldina car.
- Title
- TALKING ABOUT SEX WITH CHILDREN
- Runtime
- 0:58
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- ACCESS to mobile phones, other devises and gadgets online these days offered opportunities for many young people to have access to erotic and pornographic materials which cannot be avoided.
Because of this, Mental Health Specialist Dr. Koen Sevenants from UNICEF suggested that its time for families to talk with their children about what is respectful sexuality where partners both agree in a relationship, love and intimacy.
Dr Sevenants was in the country last week to train a group of health workers in Honiara and the provincial coordinators about ways to deal with the impact of sexual abuse on the mental health of young children.
- Title
- WELCOME PARADE BY THE FUTSAL CHAMP
- Runtime
- 1:28
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Members of the Solomon Islands National Futsal Team - Kurukuru arrived in Honiara this afteroon to a heroic welcome at the Honiara International Airport.
The players and team officials arrived on a Fiji Airway flight.
The players were welcomed by crazy fans, family members, relatives, friends, supporters, SIFF officials and the public.
Following their arrival a parade was organised from Honiara international airport through the streets of Honiara under Police escort.
- Title
- Fracture Clinic at NRH Reopens
- Runtime
- 4:06
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The Fracture Clinic at the Orthopaedic Ward, National Referral Hospital, was reopened on Monday 29th after two-week renovation.
This had restored vital services for patients requiring bone and joint care and critical trauma services.
The refurbishment marks the first major upgrade to the clinic in nearly a decade.
Dr Patrick Hou’asia, Head of the Orthopaedics Department, said that the clinic had deteriorated over the years and was in urgent need of repair.
The renovation was coordinated by Friends of the Hospital and supported by South Pacific Medical Projects, focused on tiling and cubicles upgrades.
- Title
- UNDERSTANDING SEXUAL ABUSE AND HOW TO REDUCE IT
- Runtime
- 2:28
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Solomon Islands has a high rate of sexual abuse cases. And its important that everyone including young children are aware of what sexual abuse with children is all about. So often the perpetrators are known to the child.
This week a group health workers in Honiara and the provincial coordinators spent five days in Honiara to learn about the impact of sexual abuse on the mental health of young children.
Therefore, its important to conduct more awareness about sexual abuse and what is all about to help reduce the rate.
Here Mental Health Specialist Dr. Koen Sevenants from UNICEF who is facilitating the training shares his thoughts.
By George Maelagi
Solomon Star Online
- Title
- Participants Share Experiences after Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Training
- Runtime
- 4:48
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Participants of the ongoing training on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) for children and families shared their experiences and reflections on the outcomes of the workshop during its fourth day.
The five-day training, which began on Monday and concludes Friday, September 26.
It is being facilitated by UNICEF and brings together a diverse group of stakeholders, including social workers, educators, healthcare providers, and community leaders.
- Title
- Appeal to Stop Stigmatising People with Mental Illness
- Runtime
- 1:04
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Honiara, 26 September 2025 — A mental health care worker at the National Referral Hospital in Honiara is calling on the public to stop stigmatising people living with mental health conditions.
This was after a long week training on Mental Health psychosocial support MHPSS for Children and Families under the support of UNICEF at the ANZ Building, Ranadi on Thursday 25th September 2025.
Ms. Hellen Kwai, who works closely with mental health patients, emphasized the need for greater understanding and support within communities. She said stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to treatment and recovery.
“We must treat people with mental health issues with compassion and dignity,” Ms. Kwai said. “Stigma only discourages individuals from seeking the help they need.”
Her call comes as Solomon Islands continues efforts to improve mental health awareness and services across the country.
By John Chrisma
Solomon S...
- Title
- Kaloka Ward Men Perform at Isabel Grereo Festival
- Runtime
- 2:49
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Honiara, 25 September 2025 — Men from Kaloka Ward in Isabel Province delivered a powerful traditional performance during the opening ceremony of the 4th Isabel Grereo Festival, held in Honiara.
The event marked the beginning of the annual celebration, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Isabel Province. The Kaloka Ward group captivated the audience with their energetic dance and traditional chants, reflecting the pride and unity of their community.
By John Chrisma
Solomon star Honiara
- Title
- ADDRESSING MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGE AMONGST CHILDREN IN SI
- Runtime
- 11:48
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- This week a Mental Health Specialist Dr. Koen Sevenants is in Honiara to facilitate a training on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS).
Here he speaks about the importance of addressing mental health issues affecting young children in the communities.
He stressed that while professional intervention is critical in some cases, community love and support remain the foundation of recovery for many children.
- Title
- SIART PROJECT BENEFITS RURAL FARMERS
- Runtime
- 5:02
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The Solomon Islands Agriculture and Rural Transformation (SIART) Project, funded by the World Bank and the Solomon Islands Government, is boosting agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods across Guadalcanal, Makira, and Malaita.
- Title
- National Healthy Setting Conference Opening
- Runtime
- 2:30
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Highlights of the National Healthy Setting Conference which currently underway in Gizo, Western Province.
The conference brought together all health stakeholders for a five day discussion on issues affecting health services in Solomon Islands.
It commences on Monday 22nd September and will conclude this Friday.
- Title
- Revitalising Cocoa and Coconut commodities
- Runtime
- 4:21
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) in the Solomon Islands is ramping up efforts to revitalize the country's copra and cocoa industries through sustainable practices, replanting programs, and farmer-led research. With many coconut trees aging and declining in productivity, the Ministry is spearheading a national replanting initiative, emphasizing the selection of high-yielding varieties.
In contrast, cocoa farming is being strengthened through rehabilitation techniques such as pruning, pest control, and grafting, offering a more cost-effective alternative to full replanting.
- Title
- PNG DAY CELEBRATED IN STYLE AND COLOUR
- Runtime
- 2:33
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The Papua New Guinea community in Solomon Islands celebrated their 50th Independence Anniversary at the Honiara Golf Club on Tuesday 16th September.
It commenced with a parade through Honiara city.
A large crowd turned up, filling the grounds with PNG flags as families and friends came together to enjoy an afternoon of food, laughter, and music.
Cultural performances, traditional sing-sing, and panpipe displays highlighted the strong bonds between PNG and Solomon Islands.
The event marked a golden milestone of unity, pride, and Pacific friendship.
- Title
- International Democracy Day Commemorated
- Runtime
- 4:07
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Honiara: Ruth Liloqula, Executive Officer of Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI), has highlighted the importance of International Democracy Day, reminding both government and citizens that democracy is built on accountability, transparency, and the active participation of the people.
The event was celebrated in Honiara on Monday 15th September.
She said the occasion serves as a reminder that democracy is not only about elections but also about upholding principles of good governance, protecting freedoms, and ensuring that leaders remain answerable to the people.
- Title
- Police Prosecutor Training Underway
- Runtime
- 4:42
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Honiara: Police officers from the Honiara-based Police Prosecution Department and 12 Provincial Police Commands have officially commenced a Police Prosecutor training program this week.
The training is being delivered with the support of the Solomon Islands–Australia Justice Partnership, aiming to strengthen the capacity of police prosecutors across the country.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Director of Public Prosecutions Mr. Andrew Kelesi delivered a keynote address, encouraging the participants to uphold and respect the integrity of their roles.
“You are not just representing the police, but the rule of law. Your conduct and professionalism will reflect the justice system of this country,” Mr. Kelesi emphasized.
The training marks a significant step towards enhancing the justice sector's capabilities and ensuring fair and effective prosecution practices throughout the Solomon Islands.
By John Chrisma
S...
- Title
- Haevango Cocoa Farmers thrive
- Runtime
- 2:07
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The Solomon Islands Agriculture and Rural Transformation (SIART) Project is driving positive change in Haevango in Guadalcanal where cocoa farmers are beginning to see the benefits of collective farming and shared assets.
The Haevango Cocoa Farmers Association, supported under the SIART Project, has grown into a strong group of 25 farmers working together to increase production and improve livelihoods.
- Title
- PIF ENDS, KEY OUTCOMES REVEALED
- Runtime
- 2:52
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The 54th Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) concluded on Friday at the Solomon Islands National Stadium in Honiara, marking a significant milestone in regional unity, climate resilience, and economic cooperation among Pacific nations.
Hosted for the first time in over a decade by the Solomon Islands, the high-level gathering brought together leaders and ministers from 18 member states, as well as observers and partners, for a series of strategic dialogues under the theme "Pacific Futures: Resilience, Unity, and Innovation."
The program ended with a dinner and entertainment.
By John Chrisma
Solomon Star, Honiara
- Title
- PROMOTING THE BRAND 'KAVA'
- Runtime
- 4:17
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Honiara: Feiloakitau Kaho Tevi, Chair of the Tonga National Kava Komiti and a key figure in the Pacific Islands Forum’s Kava Working Group, says the Kava Declaration is now before regional leaders for consideration.
The declaration aims to protect the name of kava and promote its Pacific origins.
Tevi highlighted the Solomon Islands’ growing role in the kava industry, with improving product quality and significant exports, including two 40-foot containers of kava roots recently shipped to the United States.
From June to December last year, one Solomon Islands company exported more than 30 tons of kava roots.
He stressed the importance of a regional kava development strategy, which allows countries like the Solomon Islands to learn from the experiences of Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, and Vanuatu, while also developing their own kava culture and traditions.
By George Maelagi
Solomon Star, Honiara
- Title
- Kiribati president speaks about climate justice
- Runtime
- 2:26
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Honiara — President of Kiribati, H.E. Taneti Ma’amau, participated in a candid question and answer (Q&A) session held at the Aquatic Centre in Honiara on Wednesday, as part of the ongoing 54th Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) discussions.
The session focused on the International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion concerning the obligations of states in relation to climate change.
During the interactive session, President Ma’amau addressed concerns and perspectives on how Pacific Island nations—among the most vulnerable to climate impacts—can leverage the ICJ advisory opinion to strengthen international accountability and demand greater action from major polluting countries.
“The ICJ advisory opinion is not just a legal matter—it is a moral and existential issue for us in the Pacific,” President Ma’amau said.
“It is about securing justice for communities already facing the frontline impacts of climate change.”
The discussion highligh...
- Title
- PIF Leaders Arrival in Munda
- Runtime
- 1:40
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Pacific Island Forum Leaders arriving in Munda on Thursday morning - 11th September 2025 ahead of their retreat in Noro.
- Title
- Historic ‘Blue Ocean of Peace’ Declaration Signed
- Runtime
- 5:20
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Honiara: In a major milestone for regional unity and peace-building, Pacific Islands Forum Leaders today, Wednesday 10th September officially signed the Blue Ocean of Peace Declaration at the Friendship Hall in Honiara.
The signing ceremony, held during the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM54), marks a unified commitment by Forum Member States to uphold peace, stability, and solidarity across the Blue Pacific Continent.
The declaration affirms the Pacific’s long-standing values of dialogue, non-violence, and collective security, reinforcing the region’s stance on peaceful coexistence and cooperation amid rising global and regional tensions.
By John Chrisma
Solomon Star, Honiara
- Title
- Businesses host expo at 54th PIF meeting
- Runtime
- 1:32
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Honiara: Local businesses and companies in Honiara are showcasing their products, services, and innovation at a special open expo held on the third day of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM54).
The event took place at the Honiara Aquatic Centre, drawing interest from Forum delegates, visiting dignitaries, regional partners, and members of the public.
The expo aimed to highlight the vibrant private sector of the Solomon Islands and promote regional business collaboration.
Organised in conjunction with the official Forum program, the expo provided a platform for local entrepreneurs, small and media enterprises and larger companies to display their contributions to economic development, sustainability, and innovation across the Pacific.
“This is an exciting opportunity to show what Honiara has to offer—not just to our visiting leaders, but to the region,” said one participating business owner.
“I...
