‘Engage in seaweed farming’

THE Solomon Islands Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China His Excellency Barrett Salato says coastal farmers in the Solomon Islands must engage in seaweed farming as it is the way forward in exports to China. His Excellency Salato made this statement when hosting a Solomon Islands delegation that is currently attending the Academy for…

Minister Bosawai to meet with Tobacco Committee

Minister of Health and Medical Services, Dr. Paul Popora Bosawai, is taking the findings of the Tobacco Industry Interference Index 2023 seriously.  The report highlights concerns over the involvement of Solomon Islands Tobacco Company Ltd-British American Tobacco (SITCO-BAT) in policy development and allegations of leveraging its influence by sponsoring and supporting politicians in their constituency…

MP Maenu’u retains seat 

The Member of Parliament (MP) for Lau Baelelea in Malaita Province, Ben Maenu’u, will continue his four-year term after the High Court struck out the petition filed against him on Wednesday. The petition was filed by the former MP for Lau Baelelea following his defeat in the joint National General Elections held on April 17,…

Japan awards 98 scholarships to date

THE Japanese Government has provided 98 scholarships to Solomon Islanders since it started the programme in 1993. Ambassador His Excellency Keiichi HIGUCHI confirmed this during the Solomon Islands former Students of the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship 2024 Alumni gathering at the Embassy Conference room on Friday 21 March, 2025. Ambassador Higuchi said he is confident…

Malaita lacks mining ordinance 

MALAITA Province government has no ordinance to regulate mining operations despite one company is currently doing prospecting in Fataleka. Malaita’s Premier, Elijah Asilaua said mining remains a potential area for future investment. He said according to the records, only one company has paid business license to do prospecting in Fataleka, East Malaita. However, Premier Asilaua…

Malaita projects to collect $7m

THE Malaita Provincial Government has projected to collect a total revenue of $6,827,135 for the current fiscal year. Minister for Finance, Lemuel Kevianga stated made this projection during his speech on the floor of the Malaita Provincial Assembly this week. However, he noted that there is still considerable work to be done to ensure that…

National peace policy coming soon

GOVERNMENT through the Ministry of Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs (MTGPEA) will soon release a national peace policy. Permanent Secretary (PS) Lottie Vaisekavea confirmed this during the opening of the two-days Peace-building and Security Dialogue at King Solomon Hotel on Tuesday. The key objectives of the workshop are:  Identifying key conflicts and security issues…