Solomon Star News
DAY ONE PIF LEADERS MEETING HIGHLIGHTS
- Title
- DAY ONE PIF LEADERS MEETING HIGHLIGHTS
- Runtime
- 1:21
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- Highlights of the PIF Leaders Meeting on Monday 8th September 2025
- Title
- UTO NI YALO SKIPPER SHARES EXPERIENCE
- Runtime
- 1:57
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- Captain of Ilaisa Robert Talanatu expressed excitement to be Honiara bringing the message of protecting our ocean for future generations to the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders.
This was during a welcome ceremony at the Marine School seafront, Ranadi, East Honiara on Monday afternoon 8th September 2025.
- Title
- VOYAGERS GET TRADITIONAL WELCOME
- Runtime
- 3:50
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- Crew member of Uto Ni Yalo and Tepuke have formally received a cultural welcome at the Marine School seafront on Monday afternoon in Honiara. Dancers from Santa Cruz, Temotu Province and their provincial leaders along with other guests were present to witness the ceremony.
- Title
- FORMAL WELCOME FOR VOYAGERS
- Runtime
- 1:01
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- A formal welcome is set for 4pm - Monday 8th September 2025 to welcome the two traditional yachts at the Marine Academy. Pacific Island Forum Leaders will witness the ceremony.
- Title
- FRIENDSHIP HALL SETUP
- Runtime
- 1:58
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- The main venue for the 54th Pacific Island Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting located at the Friendship Hall, Lower Panatina campus in Honiara is all set.
All the sitting arrangements have been completed ahead of the opening of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Plenary Meeting on Wednesday morning.
The same venue will also host the signing of the Pacific Resilience Facility Treaty during the afternoon session.
Friendship Hall will also host the opening dinner this evening - Monday 8th September following the opening ceremony at the national stadium.
By John Chrisma
Solomon Star, Honiara
- Title
- Forum Chief Honours Pacific Journalists
- Runtime
- 3:41
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- The Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Baron Waqa, has acknowledged the vital role of the media in the region, commending over 40 journalists who attended a media workshop held in Honiara ahead of next week’s high-level leaders meeting.
In his address, Waqa thanked the journalists for their dedication to informing the public despite often working with limited resources.
He described the media as “crucial partners in shaping the future of the Pacific,” and emphasised the need for accurate and fair reporting, especially during significant regional events.
“You are not just observers—you are contributors to our collective progress,” Waqa told the participants. “Your work ensures that our people are informed, engaged, and part of the Pacific story.”
He also pledged continued support from the Forum Secretariat to strengthen media capacity across the Pacific.
The workshop concluded with a proposal to make the event an annual gatheri...
- Title
- PRC supports West Kwara'ae with musical instrument
- Runtime
- 2:37
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- West Kwara'ae Constituency has received a donation of musical instruments valued at approximately SBD 100,000, provided as a micro fund by the People’s Republic of China.
The handover took place earlier on Sunday, with the Member of Parliament (MP) for West Kwara'ae, Hon. Alfred JM Tuasulia, expressing his gratitude to the Chinese Embassy for its generous support.
In his remarks, Hon. Tuasulia highlighted the significance of the donation, noting that the instruments will play an important role in developing musical talent and providing positive opportunities for young people across the constituency.
“This support will go a long way in encouraging our youth to engage in music and creative arts, helping to foster both talent and community spirit,” Hon. Tuasulia said.
The donation underscores the growing cooperation between the Chinese Embassy and local constituencies in supporting grassroots development initiatives.
By John Chrisma
Solomo...
- Title
- PM Manele urges journalists to tell Pacific stories
- Runtime
- 3:35
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- HONIARA: Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele has called on Pacific journalists to continue telling stories that clarify regional decisions and make them meaningful for ordinary people.
Speaking, Friday, at the opening of the Regional Media Workshop in Honiara, Prime Minister Manele emphasized the vital role of the media in amplifying the voices, challenges, and hopes of Pacific communities.
The event, held in the lead-up to this week’s Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, is supported by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS), the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA), and the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI).
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the dedication of journalists across the region, particularly those working in small and often under-resourced newsrooms.
He encouraged reporters to uphold principles of balance, ethics, and purpose in their work.
Describing the region’s collective journey as a canoe already at sea...
- Title
- PM OPENS MEDIA WORKSHOP
- Runtime
- 3:51
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- HONIARA – Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele officially opened the PINA/PIFS Forum Regional Media Workshop on Friday, 5th September 2025, marking the beginning of a three-day program ahead of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.
Held at the National Sports Stadium in Honiara, the workshop brings together 41 journalists from across the Pacific region, including 21 local participants representing various Solomon Islands media outlets.
The initiative is a collaborative effort supported by the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) in partnership with the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI). The workshop aims to strengthen regional media coverage and ensure journalists are well-prepared to report on the key outcomes of the upcoming Leaders Meeting.
By John Chrisma
Solomon Star, Honiara
- Title
- WAIMAPURU SCHOOL HAPPY WITH SUPPORT
- Runtime
- 7:13
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- Principal of Waimapuru National Secondary School Casper Muaki has acknowledged the support by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock through its minister and former student Hon. Franklyn Derek Wasi.
On Wednesday the school witnessed the handing over of a new tractor to support the school.
Mr Muaki also highlighted a number of challenges currently facing the state-owned school and he is hoping stakeholders and partners will support the school.
- Title
- 18 FORUM MEMBERS REGISTER FOR PIF MEETING
- Runtime
- 5:15
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- HONIARA, 3 SEPTEMBER – Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has confirmed that 18 Forum member countries have officially registered to participate in the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, scheduled to commence next week.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday 4th September the Prime Minister announced that 17 Pacific leaders are expected to attend in person.
Samoa, he noted, will be represented by its Secretary of Home and Affairs.
The Prime Minister outlined that the program for the Forum will be extensive, with leaders participating in plenary sessions, retreat discussions, and engagements with Council of Regional Organisations in the Pacific (CROP) agencies, the private sector, civil society, and associate members.
“As host, I call on our people, especially in Honiara, Munda, and Noro, to extend our traditional welcome and hospitality as we receive our Pacific family,” the Prime Minister stated.
He also acknowledged the important contrib...
- Title
- FARMER HAILS VERMI-COMPOSTING TRAINING
- Runtime
- 4:35
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- A local farmer and owner of the Gwaunafiu Organic Learning Farm has expressed gratitude for a recent training on vermi-composting conducted by the Pacific Community (SPC).
The training, held at Kastom Garden in collaboration with Zai Na Tina Organic Farm, aimed to promote sustainable agricultural practices through the use of vermi-composting techniques.
In an exclusive interview with the Solomon Star, farm owner Maeliu shared his appreciation for the initiative, stating he was pleased to learn about the benefits and methods of vermi-composting.
“I’m very happy to know about this program,” Maeliu said.
He also encouraged young people to consider agriculture as a viable career path, especially those struggling to find employment in urban areas.
“Youth should venture into agricultural practices if they can’t afford any job in town,” he added.
The training is part of ongoing efforts to support organic farming and sustainable livelihoods acros...
- Title
- PM ON SINTA’S DEMANDS
- Runtime
- 3:01
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- Honiara, 3rd Sept 2025 – Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele has formally addressed the seven key demands put forward by the Solomon Islands National Teachers Association (SINTA), during a press conference held on Wednesday in Honiara.
Speaking to members of the local media, Prime Minister Manele confirmed that an agreement had been reached between the government and SINTA, covering a range of critical issues affecting teachers across the country.
“The agreement that has been reached addresses key issues including employment security, salary back pay, allowances, and recognition of teachers in early childhood education, technical and vocational education and training, and those who work with children with disabilities,” Prime Minister Manele stated.
The resolution follows weeks of dialogue between SINTA representatives and government officials, aimed at averting potential strike action and addressing long-standing concerns within the education sector.
- Title
- ROPIKO ENERGY LTD CONDUCTS MONTHLY DRAW
- Runtime
- 1:42
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- Ropiko Energy Ltd on Monday 1st September 2025 conducted its second monthly draw.
Cash prizes were awarded to lucky customers who were drawn from a container filled with the names of customers who normally refuel with $100 and above. The next draw will happen on October 1.
- Title
- USP OPEN DAY 2025
- Runtime
- 3:39
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- The University of the South Pacific (USP) Solomon Islands Campus on Friday 29th August 2025 successfully its annual 2025 open day allowing students from various high schools in Honiara to visit the USP SI King George Campus to learn about the programs and courses being offered by the University.
- Title
- MINISTER WASI ON OFFICIAL TOUR TO MAKIRA
- Runtime
- 1:44
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- Minister of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) Franklyn Derek Wasi is on a five days tour to Makira Ulawa Province (MUP) this week. The delegation traveled to Kirakira on Tuesday and will return to Honiara this weekend.
- Title
- BISHOP BENEDICT LOE VISITS SAHALU PARISH
- Runtime
- 5:14
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- On August 30, 2025, the Bishop of the Diocese of Guadalcanal, Reverend Benedict Loe of the Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACOM), visited Duidui Local Church in Sahalu Parish, North West Guadalcanal.
During his ministerial tour, Bishop Loe and his delegation were warmly welcomed by local warriors, followed by a procession led by the Horabau South Sea Evangelical Church (SSEC) women's marching band.
The tour included visits to all churches within Sahalu Parish, covering St Luke Vila, St Augustine Vatupilei, St James Tarara, St John Duidui, St Mark Horabau, and St Bartholomew Bonege, culminating in a Holy Eucharist mass on Sunday.
The celebration drew over 100 attendees, including members from other churches such as the South Seas Evangelical Church (SSEC), Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) and other denominations.
- Title
- PROMOTING VERMI-COMPOSTING
- Runtime
- 4:38
- Date posted
- 11 months ago
- Description
- Zai NA Tina Organic Farm located next to Kastom Gaden Association in Burnscreek, East Honiara plans to venture into Vermicomposting. This came after a successful weeklong training conducted at the farm last week.
The training is funded by the KIWA Fund through the Pacific Organic Learning Farm Network (POLFN) project, which is implemented by the South Pacific Community (SPC) and Zai Na Tina Organic Farm in partnership with Kadtom Garden Association KGA.
Dr. Shane Tutua, POLFN advisor at Zai Na Tina said that Zai Na Tina Organic Farm is focused in Ivro composting that need more space, unlike vermicomposting.
"Now we will be using vermicomposting because of the earthworms waste contains high nutrients."
- Title
- INTRODUCING ADVANCED WATER METERING PRODUCTS
- Runtime
- 2:43
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- Strongcast showcased its advanced water metering products at the Pacific Water and Wastewater Association (PWWA) Conference in Honiara this week.
Managing Director John Comino highlighted solutions to help utilities reduce leaks and improve efficiency; the event also welcomed local high school students, giving them a first-hand look at water technologies and inspiring future leaders in the Pacific.
- Title
- ACCOUNTANTS’ ROLE ACKNOWLEDGED
- Runtime
- 3:16
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- Solomon Islands Government is commitment to strengthening the accounting profession as a driver of sustainable economic growth and transparency.
Finance Minister Hon. Harry Kuma said, partnerships and professional standards are key to building stronger economies and brighter communities.
Australia’s Acting Deputy High Commissioner, Ms. Emily Flahive, also highlighted the enduring partnership between Australia and Solomon Islands, describing it as one built on mutual respect and shared values.
She said, Australia remains the country’s largest development partner, supporting infrastructure, education, governance, and economic reform.
The crucial role played by accountants, advisors, and educators in fostering transparency, accountability, and inclusive growth had been acknowledged.
The event ended with an awards night event.
- Title
- CHINA HANDS OVER VEHICLES TO SOLOMON ISLANDS GOVERNMENT
- Runtime
- 2:38
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- The People's Republic of China (PRC) on Monday 25th August 2025, officially handed over 27 SUVs to Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele in Honiara valued at USD$1million. The vehicles will be used by Forum Leaders during next month's meeting in Honiara.
- Title
- STRENGTHENING CULTURAL PRACTISE OF INHERITANCE IN SAVO
- Runtime
- 3:54
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- The traditional practise of inheritance where a father publicaly declares to the community and chiefs the handing over of ownership and rights to own properties and assets to a family member is still being maintained in Savo, Central Islands Province.
- Title
- AUSTRALIA SUPPORTS SOLOMON ISLANDS WITH POLICE VEHICLES
- Runtime
- 3:20
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- The Australian Government on Monday 25th August officially handed over 31 police vehicles to the Solomon Islands Government to support RSIPF operation during the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Meeting in Honiara in September.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele officially received the vehicles from the Australian Government.
By John Chrisma
Solomon Star, Honiara
- Title
- WATER CONFERENCE, FORUM UNDERWAY IN HONIARA
- Runtime
- 2:14
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- The 9th Pacific Water & Wastewater Ministers Forum and the 16th Pacific Water & Wastewater Conference and Expo gets underway in Honiara this week.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele officially opened the event at the Friendship Hall.
All the seminars and discussions are being held at the Aquatic Centre based on the theme: 'Water and Wastewater Services for All: Connecting People, Policies, Communities for a Shared Sustainable Future.'
Video by Agnes Menanopo
Voice by Ana
- Title
- COMBATING NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES (NCD) IN CHOISEUL
- Runtime
- 2:33
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- Members of the 10,000 Toes Ambassadors based in Taro, Choiseul Province on Wednesday 20th August 2025 conducted a one-day free health check-up in Poroporo village, Northwest Choiseul.
The 10,000 Toes Campaign is an initiative that aims to eliminate Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) in rural communities across the Solomon Islands.
During the visit the team provided critical screening and health education to community members in Poroporo village.
The screening involved checking of blood pressure, glucose level, weight, height and body mass index (BMI).
By Gehazi Seko
Solomon Star Stringer in Taro
- Title
- GOOD ACADEMIC WRITERS EMPOWER NATION
- Runtime
- 2:24
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- BLESS HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF WRITING SKILLS
The Blessing and Innovation Training Center (BLESS) in Honiara has marked the graduation of its third cohort of students from the Academic Writing Skills Training program.
Guest of Honor, Charles Kava, Director of Teaching and Learning at the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development, highlighted the importance of academic writing in fostering critical thinking and nation-building.
BLESS Director Richard Pilipitu described the program as part of a vision to expand educational opportunities across the country, while trainer Dr. John Iromea reminded graduates that even one skill, when shared, can make a lasting impact.
The program continues to empower students with tools to excel academically and contribute to national development.
- Title
- WATER CUT AFFECTS RESIDENTS
- Runtime
- 2:24
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- Residents and community within the Bahai area in Central Honiara have been without water for the past two weeks, leaving residents struggling to meet their daily needs.
A community elder Samson Faisi expressed his concern, urging Solomon Water to urgently step in and resolve the problem.
He recalled that in the past such water shortage did not happen over a long period of time, Now the prolonged disruption is affecting many families who rely on water to meet their domestic needs.
Faise said members of the community made several attempts to contact Solomon Water. Although they were assured last week nothing was done to resolve the problem.
“We have been patient, but the community is suffering. We need Solomon Water to take this matter seriously,” Faisi stated.
- Title
- CHINA OFFERS 44 SCHOLARSHIPS FOR SOLOMON ISLANDS STUDENTS
- Runtime
- 6:07
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- The People's Republic of China (PRC) on Tuesday 19th August 2025 formally handed over 44 fully funded scholarships to Solomon Islands students to study in China this year.
- Title
- AGRI-BUSINESS INCUBATION CENTRE PROGRAM LAUNCHED
- Runtime
- 3:45
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- The Agri-Business Incubation (AIB) Program was officially launched in Honiara on Wednesday August 20, 2025, at the Iron Bottom Sound Hotel. This initiative is spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce, Labour, and Immigration (MCLI).
Mr. Martin Hoasihere, the Centre Manager for AIB, explained the primary aim of the program is to support local entrepreneurs in the Solomon Islands and to assist them in strengthening their small businesses.
The program will begin in three provinces: Malaita, Guadalcanal, and Western Province, with ten entrepreneurs selected from each province to participate.
- Title
- IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATING COCOA FARMERS
- Runtime
- 6:46
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- Mr. Patrick Mesia, Project Manager of ADRA Solomon Islands’ Sustainable Economic Agricultural Solutions program says, cocoa farming remains one of the main sources of income for many families across the country.
Speaking during an interview with the Solomon Star, Mr. Mesia highlighted the importance of ADRA’s cocoa training program, noting that it equips farmers with the skills and knowledge to improve production, increase income, and build more resilient livelihoods.
- Title
- KUKUM CLINIC REOPENS FOR NORMAL SERVICES
- Runtime
- 4:13
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- After almost two years of closure, the residents of Kukum and nearby catchment areas now have access to a newly renovated health care facility. The Government of Australia supported Solomon Islands Government initiative with funds.
Australian High Commissioner His Excellency Rod Hilton was honoured to join the Minister for Health and Medical Services, the Hon Paul Bosawai, to officially hand over and re-open the Kukum Area Health Centre on last week.
The ceremony was also attended by the Member for East Honiara the Hon Morris Toiraena, Lord Mayor of Honiara City Council Cr Eddie Siapu, senior health officials, health workers, contractors and members of the surrounding community.
Nursing In-Charge Olivia Bale expressed delight in the completion of the renovation work which will allow public to access normal services at the clinic.
- Title
- WOODFORD INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL SPEECH CONTEST
- Runtime
- 2:04
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- Woodford International School in Honiara on Friday 15th August 2025 successfully held its internal speech contest.
Contestants presented on the topics according to their categories and duration.
1. Junior Category: Year 4-5 (3-4 minutes)
Topic: Be a Buddy, Not Bully: Spreading Kindness in Our School
2. Inter-Mediate Category: Year 6-8 (4- 5 minutes)
Topic: Digital Danger Zones: Staying Safe and Kind Online.
3. Senior Category-Year9-11 (5-6minutes)
Educational Inequality: To what extent could three realistic strategies reduce the education gap in our community?
School Principal Alex Haro said, the speech contest was part of a preparation towards the upcoming inaugural speech contest that will be hosted on the second week of November.
"We are now selecting our final main speech contestants and Woodford is very happy that we are going to take part in the upcoming speech contest event.”
The principal ...
- Title
- SCHOLARSHIP AWARD OFFERS HOPE
- Runtime
- 1:56
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- Amongst the recipients of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) scholarship award was Brendan Mawaieasi from Ulawa, Makira province.
He was amongst 24 Solomon Islanders studying at the University of South Pacific (USP) Solomon Islands Campus who got selected.
Last week PRC Embassy in Honiara formally handed over the scholarship awards to the lucky students.
In an interview with Solomon Star, Mawaieasi expressed his gratitude towards the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in offering him a scholarship.
"I’m very happy and thankful to the Chinese government for supporting self-sponsored students like me.”
- Title
- OFC U-16 MEN’s CHAMP BRINGS EXCITEMENT
- Runtime
- 2:29
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- The OFC U-16 Men’s Championship kicked off on Sunday in Honiara, drawing an enthusiastic crowd as local football fans turned out in numbers to witness the next generation of Pacific football talent.
Its the first time the Solomons is hosting such youth competition since 2018, when the national U-16 team, featuring the likes of Rafael Le’ai, Javin Wae, and Leon Kofana who made history by qualifying for the 2019 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Brazil.
Supporters are now hopeful the current squad can repeat that achievement on home soil.
Star Sports caught up with several fans on match day one to share their view on the championship.
- Title
- PREMIER APPEALS FOR UNITY TO DEVELOP MALAITA
- Runtime
- 2:31
- Date posted
- 12 months ago
- Description
- Malaita Premier Elijah Asilaua has appealed to all Malaitans in the province, around the country and abroad to value their cultures and diversity.
Not only that but to be united as one people and be proud of their identity.
He was a guest during the Malaita day celebration in Honiara on Friday 15th August at DC Park.
He said, its important to respect each and allow new investment in the province so that it can transform the lives of the people in the province.
Despite the challenges the province and people face, its important to support the province in its development effort.
- Title
- SINU STAGES THIRD FLEA MARKET
- Runtime
- 1:56
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- A two day Flea Market is being organised by the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) this week. The event aims to provide local entrepreneurs within the SINU community the opportunity to showcase and sell their products. This initiative is organized by the newly established Business Investment Commercial Services (BICS) department under the campus life division.
- Title
- CHINA OFFERS 24 SCHOLARSHIPS
- Runtime
- 3:06
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The People's Republic of China (PRC) on Thursday, 14th August 2025, officially handed over scholarship awards to 24 top Solomon Islands students undertaking studies at the University of the South Pacific (USP) Solomon Islands Campus.
- Title
- MINISTRY OF FINANCE UNVEILS NEW NORO OFFICE
- Runtime
- 2:40
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Government through the Ministry of Finance on Friday 8th August 2025 officially commissioned its new permanent office complex in Noro, Western Province. Minister Harry Kuma led a delegation to officiate in the opening ceremony which marks a significant milestone for the government as part of decentralising its services to the provinces.
- Title
- EXTENDED DRY SPELL AFFECTS LIVELIHOOD
- Runtime
- 1:19
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The extended dry spell currently experienced in Northwest Guadalcanal and parts of the Honiara City is affecting many families, farmers and community.
At Aruligho in North West Guadalcanal residents of are grappling with the harsh effects of a prolonged dry spell, as the region has experienced nearly a month without rain.
The relentless sun has led to dwindling water sources, with many wells and streams drying up, leaving locals to contend with diminished supplies.
The lack of rainfall has severely impacted agriculture, affecting root crops and vegetables, as well as cocoa nurseries, which are vital for the community's livelihood.
As the situation continues, residents are worried their gardens might vanished.
By John Chrisma
Solomon Star, Honiara
- Title
- GOLD RIDGE GROUND BREAKING CEREMONY
- Runtime
- 2:43
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Hundreds gathered on Wednesday 13th August 2025 at the Gold Ridge Mine site for the ground breaking of its Processing Plant Expansion Project.
This will boost capacity from 10 to 13.5 million tonnes per annum.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, Cabinet ministers, provincial leaders, and representatives from the 17 landowning tribes joined international partners for the ceremony.
Minister of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification, Hon. Derrick Manuarii, called for strong partnerships, active stakeholder engagement, and continued community support to ensure the project delivers long term benefits, including jobs, infrastructure, and increased national revenue, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to environmental protection, compliance with mining laws, and greater local participation in technical and managerial roles.
By George Maelagi
Solomon Star, Honiara
- Title
- PRESERVING CULTURE THROUGH ART
- Runtime
- 3:09
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- In a world increasingly dominated by modernity, the vibrant tapestry of cultural identity is often woven through the threads of art and craft.
In the Solomon Islands, this preservation is not just a matter of tradition; it is a lifeline for many artists transforming their talents into a sustainable source of income.
Dalson Kioto, a talented carver from Marovo in the Western Province, embodies this spirit of resilience and creativity.
In an exclusive interview with the Solomon Star, Kioto spoke passionately about his craft, which not only reflects the rich history of his ancestors but also serves as the foundation for his livelihood.
Since graduating from high school in 2000, Kioto dedicated himself to the art of carving, guided by the wisdom and skills passed down from his father and uncles.
“I didn’t have formal employment after high school, so I chose to focus entirely on making carvings,” he explained. This decision, rooted in a deep appreciati...
- Title
- CULTURAL EXCHANGE INITIATIVE BENEFITS ARTISTS
- Runtime
- 3:27
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- From the Pilbara to the Pacific, Ngarluma leader Patrick Churnside and grandson Isaac Guinness joined Dreamcast Theatre in Honiara on Saturday August 9 for a day of music, art and cultural storytelling connecting two First Peoples through creativity and culture.
Held at Dreamcast Theatre in Honiara, the event also brought local performers to share their music, dance and stories. The cultural exchange showed the deep connections between the two cultures.
- Title
- UPGRADED PASSPORT OFFICE IN HONIARA REOPENS
- Runtime
- 3:38
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Members of the public can now be able to access passport services at the Immigration office after the upgraded passport office was officially reopened on Tuesday 12th August. The Australian Government supported the renovation work.
- Title
- FEATURE: $2 BOAT TRANSPORT OPERATOR IN TARO
- Runtime
- 5:58
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- What started as a daily hustle 10 years ago has now turned into a thriving business and a steady source of income for his family.
This is the story behind the “two-dollar” boat transport service in Supizae, a small island off Taro station, Choiseul’s provincial capital.
Meet Jesse Pitanoe originally from Poroporo village, Northwest Choiseul who moved to Supizae Island 26 years ago.
While residing in Supizae, Pitanoe finds life quite difficult compared to his home village and given his children also attending school, he needed a reliable way to support his family.
In 2015, armed with just a paddle and a small sized aluminium boat, he began transporting people from Supizae to Taro and back, until he received a 5 horsepower engine from the Member of Parliament (MP) for Northwest Choiseul that year.
With the money earned, he managed to purchase a 15-horsepower outboard motor and a 23ft ray-boat that he currently uses to operate the transport business.<...
- Title
- CALL TO CELEBRATE MALAITA DAY
- Runtime
- 4:48
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- An open call has been issued to all provinces to join Malaitans in celebrating unity, culture, and faith during the Malaita Second Appointed Day 2025 this week.
The Malaita Local Organising Committee (LOC) is extending an open invitation to all provinces of Solomon Islands to join the celebrations from 14th – 16th August 2025 at DC Park.
- Title
- LATE RINI TAKEN TO HIS HOME VILLAGE
- Runtime
- 1:21
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Former Prime Minister and Member of Parliament (MP) for Marovo Constituency Hon. Snyder Rini was taken to his home village of Telina in Marovo, Western Province on Tuesday morning where he will be laid to rest.
- Title
- SINU launches Postgraduate Diploma Security Studies
- Runtime
- 2:55
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Solomon Islands National University (SINU) on Friday 8th August 2025 officially launches the Pacific’s first Postgraduate Diploma in Security Studies — a landmark partnership with Australia to build local expertise and address Solomon Islands’ evolving security challenges."
- Title
- HONOURING SCOUTS & COASTWATCHERS
- Runtime
- 2:21
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- Medal recipients who received medals behalf of their grandfathers who served as scouts and coast-watchers during the second world war on Guadalcanal some 83 years ago have expressed pride for the service rendered by their grandfathers.
They were honoured during the 13th anniversary of the ‘Pride of Our Nation’ Commemoration Service in Honiara on Thursday 7th August 2025.
- Title
- PRIDE OF OUR NATION COMMEMORATION
- Runtime
- 3:56
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- The annual memorial service to honour the Scouts and Coast-watchers in the country who served during the second world war was commemorated in Honiara on Thursday 7th August 2025.
The event coincided with the 83rd Anniversary celebration of Guadalcanal landing campaign during the Second World War.
A monument known as the “Pride of Our Nation” which stands at the end of Commonwealth Street in Point Cruz, Honiara was erected 13 years ago to honour and recognize their courage, loyalty and sacrifice.
- Title
- 83rd US MARINES LANDING ANNIVERSARY
- Runtime
- 3:26
- Date posted
- 1 year ago
- Description
- A ceremony to mark the United States (US) Marines landing on Guadalcanal during the second world war 83 years ago was celebrated at the Guadalcanal American Memorial, Skyline, Central Honiara on Thursday 7th August 2025.

