Honiara, the capital of Solomon Islands, is preparing to host several significant regional and international events in the coming months—riding on the success of the 2023 Pacific Games.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, speaking to the media on Monday, said the successful hosting of the Games has elevated the Solomon Islands’ status as a capable and credible host for major events.
“In this regard, the legacy envisioned by the National Hosting Authority in the design of the Games facilities has transformed our country into one that is ‘ready to host’ events of any magnitude with pride and success,” he stated.
Recent events already hosted:
Oceania Rugby Sevens Competition – December 2024
MSG Prime Ministers Cup – December 2024
Miss Pacific Islands Pageant – February 2025
Honiara Summit – February 2025 (a major international event)
Currently, Honiara is hosting the Oceania Club Football Championship and the Under-18 Oceania Beach Volleyball Competition.
Looking ahead, PM Manele confirmed that Solomon Islands will host the Pacific Islands Telecommunications Association (PITA) Conference later this month.
“We anticipate more than 300 professionals from over 30 countries will attend this event, which will span 5 to 6 days. I understand that over 300 hotel rooms have already been booked,” he said.
Additionally, the country will host the PACER Plus Joint Committee Meeting on 5–6 May 2025 at the Mendana Hotel, bringing together delegates from all countries involved in the PACER Plus trade initiative.
From 25 to 29 August, the Pacific Ministers Water and Wastewater Management Regional Meeting will be held at the Aquatic Centre. This meeting will take place just 10 days before the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, the premier regional event for 2025.
PM Manele highlighted the importance of the Forum Leaders Meeting, scheduled for 8–12 September 2025, describing it as a major milestone.
“This will be only the third time Solomon Islands has hosted the Forum Leaders Meeting—the last time being in 1992,” he noted.
“While primarily a regional event, it is also a large international gathering. We anticipate up to 1,500 participants, including high-level delegations from many countries and international and regional organizations,” the Prime Minister said.
He stressed the importance of being ready to accommodate this influx of visitors. “It is essential that our hotels are prepared to host guests for 8 to 10 days.”
PM Manele also confirmed that the National Organizing Committees for both the Forum Leaders Meeting and the Water Ministers’ Meeting have already begun preparations.
“I am pleased to report that we are on track with our planning and preparations for successfully hosting these two major regional events. I will provide further updates on our progress in future press conferences as we move closer to the August and September event dates,” he concluded.
By EDDIE OSIFELO
Solomon Star, Honiara
