His Excellency [H.E] Governor General Sir David Tiva Kapu while welcoming the New Year has issued an appeal for unity and reconciliation.
At the same time, he urges citizens to set aside divisions and work together for national renewal in 2026.
Delivering his New Year’s address to parliamentarians, diplomats, provincial leaders, and community representatives, he said the country’s diversity should be seen as a strength. Still, he warned that political and social fractures could undermine progress.
“Our diversity is our decoration, but our unity is our foundation,” he declared.
“Just as the traditional canoe requires many hands paddling in rhythm to move forward against the current, so too does Solomon Islands require every citizen to move together.”
His Exellency acknowledged the challenges of 2025, including economic pressures from declining logging revenues, rising public debt and limited formal employment opportunities.
He also pointed to governance concerns such as corruption and weak fiscal management, and social issues including gender-based violence and poor access to clean water in rural areas.
H.E Kapu urged the government to fully implement the record 2026 budget, which allocates unprecedented funding for health and education, and to ensure that reforms benefit rural communities.
He also pledged to travel more widely across the provinces this year to meet citizens directly, saying the Governor General’s office “belongs to the people.”
The address included a strong appeal to young people, who make up the majority of the population.
He encouraged them to respect elders but also challenge leaders to do better, using their education and talents to strengthen communities.
“As we step into 2026, let us work hard, let us be kind, and let us remain united,” he said.
“Respect for our laws, for our police, and for one another’s property is the bedrock of a civilized society.”
By ANDRIANAH DELASALET KOLE
Solomon Star, Honiara
