AGP Executive Report

Community Fisheries Support: MFMR has completed a workshop in Honiara to develop a village-led community fisheries guide and an officer tracking app, with NZ support via SPC’s Pacific Fisheries Leadership Program, and will now test and refine both with communities to strengthen local fisheries management. Parliament & Mining Law: The Bills and Legislation Committee rejected claims that extra consultation on the Mineral Resources Bill 2025 would cost $1b, arguing rushed legislation risks fractured trust and instability, and has recommended the bill be withdrawn for wider consultation. Road Safety & Accountability: MID says road signs and public infrastructure on the Henderson–Alligator corridor are being damaged and urges communities to protect the assets. Public Finance Warning: The IMF warns weak financial management is constraining implementation, projecting slower growth and higher inflation, and calls for tighter fiscal discipline and realistic, fully funded budgets. Development Delivery: Shortlands handed over 57 boats and 57 outboard engines to applicants, while West Makira received a China-funded $1.5m maritime transport boost (17 boats, 18 engines) to support remote services. Democracy & Rights: Transparency Solomon Islands marks International Democracy Day by stressing democracy depends on human rights, transparency, and accountability beyond elections. Humanitarian UXO Focus: A regional dialogue in Palau highlighted survivor-led calls for stronger UXO response that includes rehabilitation, livelihoods, and survivor voices.

Pacific Security & Diplomacy: US Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau visited Solomon Islands and signed an agreement with Foreign Affairs Minister Rick Houenipwela to restore the Peace Corps after 26 years, while also backing preservation of the Bloody Ridge battlefield. Parliament & Natural Resources: The Bills and Legislation Committee rejected claims that more consultation on the Mineral Resources Bill 2025 would cost $1b, warning rushed changes could fracture trust and destabilise communities; it recommended the bill be withdrawn for wider consultation. Public Finance: The IMF warned weak financial management is constraining government delivery, projecting slower growth in 2026 and urging realistic, fully financed budgets and fiscal discipline. Infrastructure Accountability: MID condemned continued damage to road signs under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project, urging communities to protect public assets. Elections & Governance: UNDP is exploring technology to reduce electoral malpractice ahead of 2028 elections, alongside reforms to strengthen accountability in electoral bodies. Human Rights & Democracy: Transparency Solomon Islands marked International Democracy Day by stressing democracy depends on human rights and accountability beyond elections. Education & Skills: The first five students departed for China under the “1,000 students per year” initiative to build vocational and science-teacher capacity.

Democracy & Rights: Transparency Solomon Islands marks International Democracy Day by urging Solomon Islanders to treat democracy as more than voting—calling for stronger human rights, transparency, and accountability across government, institutions, media, and citizens. Canada Partnership: National Planning Minister Peter Kenilorea Jr says Solomon Islands wants deeper development ties with Canada focused on education, skills pathways, labour mobility, affordable energy, and national connectivity. US–Solomon Islands Talks: US Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau visited Honiara, signed a Peace Corps agreement to return after 26 years, and announced US support for preserving Bloody Ridge as a cultural and remembrance site. Mineral Resources Bill Fight: Parliament’s Bills and Legislation Committee rejects claims that extra consultation would cost $1b, warning rushed mining law could fracture trust and destabilise communities; it recommends withdrawing the 2025 bill for wider consultation. Public Finance Warning: The IMF warns weak financial management is constraining government delivery, urging fiscal discipline, realistic budgets, and avoiding further delays to VAT reforms. Road Safety & Vandalism: MID says road signs and public infrastructure under the LMCP are being damaged and calls on communities to protect the assets. Elections Reform: UNDP says Japan-funded electoral support will include technology to reduce malpractice and improve confidence ahead of the 2028 joint elections. Education & Skills Push: The first five students depart for China under the “1,000 students per year” vocational initiative, while four Solomon Islanders receive UK Chevening Scholarships. Health & Care: A three-month-old baby, Marina, is discharged from Fiji after heart treatment arranged with support from the Solomon Islands Government. Regional Security (UXO): A survivor-led call in Palau urges UXO response to be survivor-driven, focusing on livelihoods and social inclusion alongside clearance.

U.S.-Solomon Islands Diplomacy: Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau visited Honiara, toured WWII memorials at Guadalcanal including Bloody Ridge, and signed an agreement with Foreign Affairs Minister Rick Houenipwela to restore the Peace Corps programme after 26 years. Foreign Policy & Regional Security: A Pacific dialogue in Palau heard calls for survivor-led responses to wartime UXOs, with Solomon Islands survivor Maeverlyn Pitonoe urging communities to shape clearance, risk education, and rehabilitation. Public Finance: The IMF warned weak financial management is constraining growth, flagging fiscal discipline, realistic budgets, and avoiding further delays to VAT reform. Mining Law Debate: Parliament’s Bills and Legislation Committee rejected claims that more consultation on the Mineral Resources Bill 2025 would cost $1b, urging wider consultation with landowners and provinces before amendments proceed. Infrastructure Integrity: MID condemned ongoing damage to road signs along the Henderson–Alligator corridor and urged the public to protect public assets. Health Cooperation: Solomon Islands’ MHMS delegation advanced health cooperation with India, including recognition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia and implementation of health MOUs. Elections & Governance: UNDP says it is exploring technology to reduce electoral malpractice ahead of the 2028 joint elections, alongside reforms to strengthen accountability. Education & Skills: The first five Solomon Islands students departed for China under the “1,000 students per year” vocational initiative, aimed at filling critical TVET and science-teaching gaps.

UXO Survivor Voice: At a regional dialogue in Palau, Solomon Islands UXO survivor Maeverlyn Pitonoe urged governments to measure progress by whether affected communities can rebuild—not just by how many explosives are cleared. Mineral Resources Bill: The Bills and Legislation Committee rejected the government’s claim that more consultation would cost about $1b, saying the real risk is fractured trust and legitimacy; it has recommended withdrawing the Mineral Resources Bill 2025 for wider consultation. Public Finance Watch: The IMF warned weak financial management is holding back growth, projecting slower growth and higher inflation, and urged realistic, fully funded budgets plus faster VAT reform. Infrastructure Protection: MID called out vandalism and damage to road signs on the Henderson–Alligator corridor, warning it undermines safety and long-term value. Electoral Integrity: UNDP says it will use technology to reduce electoral malpractice ahead of the 2028 joint elections, alongside accountability reforms. Local Development Delivery: West Makira received a $1.5m China-funded transport boost—17 boats and 18 outboard motors—aimed at improving access for health, education, fisheries and agriculture. Democracy Beyond Voting: Transparency Solomon Islands urged citizens to take collective responsibility for democracy, stressing accountability, access to information and integrity institutions.

West Makira Transport Boost: China-funded RSDP delivered a $1.5m maritime package to West Makira—17 fibreglass boats and 18 outboard motors—to improve transport for health, education, fisheries and agriculture. Education & Skills: MEHRD launched a three-day induction for professional development facilitators to better support teachers in rural and remote areas. Elections Reform: UNDP-backed work is developing a legal framework for out-of-country voting ahead of the 2028 Joint Elections, including draft amendments and regulations. Democracy & Accountability: Transparency Solomon Islands urged citizens to treat International Democracy Day as more than voting—calling for stronger public access to information and scrutiny of leaders. Regional Diplomacy: Coverage from the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau highlights heavy focus on security and China-Taiwan tensions, with Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale linked to a no-confidence motion that was later withdrawn. Climate Risk: Solomon Islands Meteorological Service says El Niño is strengthening and likely to persist into early 2027, raising concerns over hotter, drier conditions and water stress. Business & Governance: SICCI expanded its Business Excellence Awards to 21 categories, pushing wider provincial participation and a new SME category.

Democracy Beyond Elections: Transparency Solomon Islands urged citizens to treat International Democracy Day (Sept 15) as more than a vote, saying democracy depends on access to information, youth voice, integrity institutions, and the ability to question leaders without fear. Education & Human Capital: The first five students departed for China under the Government’s 1,000 Students Per Year initiative to build TVET and science-teacher capacity. Government Accountability & Courts: Two men accused of setting fire to the Prime Minister’s residence in the November riots denied charges; the case was adjourned for a pre-trial conference. Electoral System Prep: UNDP says legal and regulatory work for overseas voting in the 2028 Joint Elections is underway, supported by Japan’s JPY430m SIDGEAP funding. Public Services: A new WASH facility was handed over for Gifu Primary School, while MEHRD launched a three-day induction for professional development facilitators to better support teachers nationwide. Security & Safety: RSIPF EODD destroyed 467 WWII UXOs in Western and Choiseul after Tropical Cyclone Maila exposed hazards. Economic Development: SICCI encouraged provincial SMEs to join the expanded 2026 Business Excellence Awards, adding a dedicated SME category. Trade & Growth: The 2026 National Annual Trade Fair opened with calls for innovation and value-adding ahead of Solomon Islands’ 2027 LDC graduation.

NRL & Banking Partnership: Bank South Pacific has signed a major A$20m sponsorship with the PNG Chiefs through 2030, with BSP branding on the club’s jersey and merchandise from 2028. Electoral Reform: UNDP says Solomon Islands is developing the legal framework for overseas voting ahead of the 2028 Joint Elections, with draft amendments and regulations underway. Education & Skills: MEHRD launched a three-day induction for professional development facilitators to better support teachers in rural and remote areas. WASH in Schools: UNDP reports a new EU-funded WASH facility has been handed over for Gifu Primary School in Guadalcanal to improve sanitation and learning conditions. Health Workforce Links: Solomon Islands and the Philippines are exploring a twinning partnership to strengthen nursing education under the PhilPac initiative. Security & Justice in Prisons: Fiji’s justice minister warns that transnational organised crime could exploit under-resourced prisons, including in Solomon Islands. Local Development Boost: West Makira received a $1.5m maritime transport package (boats and engines) to improve access for health, schools, fisheries and agriculture. Biosecurity Strategy: Government launched a 10-year National Biosecurity Strategy (2026–2036) to protect agriculture, food security and trade from pests and diseases. Parliament Support: US Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau says the Millennium Challenge Corporation will assess rehabilitation needs for the National Parliament building. Foreign Influence Row: Solomon Islands Opposition alleges leaked Australian messages show attempts to influence domestic politics around a no-confidence motion, while officials deny wrongdoing.

Infrastructure & Local Participation: Malaita road upgrades under SIRAP2 moved closer to construction after community consultations with provincial authorities, landowners and residents; contractors are finalising environmental and social plans before mobilisation. Trade, Jobs & LDC Graduation: Commerce Minister Harry Kuma told the 2026 National Trade Fair Solomon Islands must speed up innovation and local value-adding ahead of LDC graduation in 2027, reducing reliance on exporting raw commodities. Health Workforce: Solomon Islands and the Philippines are exploring a twinning partnership to strengthen nursing education through the Philippine-Pacific Health Initiative, with WHO support. Parliament & Civic Education: St Nicholas students visited Parliament for a democracy and law-making briefing, including a meeting with Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare. US–Solomons Governance Support: US Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau announced the Millennium Challenge Corporation will assess rehabilitation needs for the National Parliament building. Security & Safety: RSIPF EODD safely removed and destroyed 467 WWII UXOs in Western and Choiseul after Tropical Cyclone Maila exposed ordnance. Biosecurity: Government launched a 10-year National Biosecurity Strategy (2026–2036) to protect agriculture, food security and trade from pests and diseases. Elections & Democracy Aid: Japan provided JPY 430 million (US$3m) via UNDP to strengthen electoral institutions and election preparations. Sports & Youth Pathways: OFC U-19 semi-finals in Samoa put Solomon Islands against Tahiti, with two winners chasing OFC’s FIFA U-20 World Cup qualification spots. Geopolitics & Domestic Politics: Opposition alleges Australia may have linked treaty talks and funding to influencing a no-confidence motion; DPM Francis Sade denies it as a routine treaty update.

Japan–UNDP Electoral Support: Japan signed a JPY 430m (US$3m) deal with UNDP for the Solomon Islands Democratic Governance and Electoral Assistance Project, working with SIEC and the ORPP to strengthen election institutions and preparations. Australia–Solomons Treaty Tensions: Opposition leaders renewed claims of foreign interference after leaked messages suggested Australia’s near-$1b treaty package could be tied to political outcomes during the no-confidence drama around PM Matthew Wale; DPM Francis Sade says it was routine treaty updates. Regional Security Push: Reporting says Australia and the Solomons have an “in-principle” comprehensive treaty, with extra funding linked to free education, visa improvements and security. Domestic Governance Shock: A no-confidence motion against Wale was withdrawn after cabinet turmoil, with Wale returning from the Pacific Islands Forum quickly to manage the crisis. Biosecurity Upgrade: The government launched a 10-year National Biosecurity Strategy (2026–2036) to protect agriculture, food security and trade by moving beyond border checks. Early Childhood Strain: Fox Bay ECE in West Guadalcanal says it lacks resources, reliable water and fencing, forcing lessons to end when water cuts off. WASH Delivery: China delivered 22 water tanks to West Makira schools and communities to improve access to clean drinking water. US Returns Peace Corps: The US and Solomons signed to renew the Peace Corps programme after more than 20 years, alongside plans for airport rescue and firefighting vehicles and a parliament building assessment. Mining Law Reform: Mines and Energy Minister Derrick Manu’ari says “first come, first serve” licensing is a major weakness and is pushing amendments to give customary landowners a stronger voice.

Australia–Solomon Treaty Push: Leaked messages say Canberra is racing to sign a “comprehensive” security treaty with Honiara, promising at least A$980m (about US$705m) in new funding tied to free education, visa improvements and security requests—sparking Opposition Claims of Foreign Political Interference. Parliament & Governance: The no-confidence motion against PM Matthew Wale was withdrawn and parliament adjourned indefinitely, while leaders debate how to deliver the Free Education rollout. Mining Law Reform: Mines Minister Derrick Manu’ari says the current “first come, first serve” licensing system is a major flaw and is moving amendments to strengthen customary landowner input. Public Safety & US Support: The US says it will provide four airport rescue and firefighting vehicles for Honiara International Airport and will assess Parliament building rehabilitation; the US also signed to restore Peace Corps. Health & Water: China delivered 22 water tanks for West Makira schools and communities; Guadalcanal’s Gifu Primary School received a new WASH facility. Sports & Inclusion: Makira-Ulawa trained 60 school and sports reps under OSEP/PE, and SINIS hosted a Play for Equity open day for people with disabilities. Biosecurity Strategy: Government launched a 10-year National Biosecurity Strategy (2026–2036) to protect agriculture and food security.

Solomon Islands Politics: Prime Minister Matthew Wale has survived a no-confidence motion after East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga withdrew it, and Parliament was adjourned indefinitely to avoid another immediate challenge. Australia–Solomons Security & Funding: Leaked messages say Australia is pushing to sign a new security treaty soon, with nearly $1b in extra aid including free education, security upgrades, and electorate-linked grants—while DPM Francis Sade denies the leak was meant to sway domestic politics. US Peace Corps Returns: Foreign Affairs Minister Rick Houenipwela signed an agreement to renew the US Peace Corps programme, with US Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau also holding talks with Wale. Free Education Push (and Pushback): Wale says free education will roll out from ECE to SINU/TVET, but opposition figures warn the government must properly cost and budget it for 2027. Mining Law Reform: Mines Minister Derrick Manu’ari says the “first come, first serve” approach is flawed and wants amendments to strengthen customary landowner rights. Border Management: The government launched an electronic visa system under a new border management platform to speed processing and improve security. Public Safety: Police confirmed a real pistol was used in a Honiara shop threat incident involving an Australian national. Economy & Governance: Parliament heard concerns about delayed mineral bill amendments potentially costing about $1b in revenue this year, and calls for a proper 2027 Budget. Community & Development: Honiara will host the 2026 National Trade Fair, and literacy events are spotlighting major reading gaps across the Pacific.

Parliament Crisis Update: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale survived a no-confidence attempt after the motion was withdrawn, and parliament was then adjourned indefinitely to allow policy changes and budget work to continue. US–Solomons Reset: US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau visited Honiara, with the US agreeing to renew the Peace Corps programme and discussing wider security and development cooperation. Australia Treaty Leaks: Leaked messages say Australia is preparing a major new treaty package for Solomon Islands, with funding figures circulating at nearly $1 billion, framed as support to lock in the deal quickly. Border Security Move: Government ordered immediate closure of sufferance wharves that are not ISPS-compliant, tightening customs controls and requiring full tax payment before cargo release. Free Education Funding Scrutiny: Opposition leader Manasseh Sogavare questioned whether the government is ready to fund free education nationwide from 2027, while PM Wale reiterated the rollout despite costing and planning challenges. Immigration Reform: A new online electronic visa system was launched under the Border Management System to speed processing and strengthen security. Public Safety Incident: Police confirmed a real pistol was used in a Honiara shop threat involving an Australian national, with investigations continuing. Governance & Money: MPs debated a motion to allow continued withdrawals from the Consolidated Fund, with critics calling for a proper 2027 budget instead. Commemoration & Reconciliation: Wale marked Bloody Ridge with calls for remembrance and reconciliation tied to the WWII legacy.

Pacific Diplomacy: The 55th Pacific Islands Forum in Palau ended Sept 4 amid major leader absences and renewed pressure over China’s July missile test, while New Zealand moves into the PIF leadership role for Auckland 2027. US–Solomons Partnership: In Honiara, Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela and US Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau signed to restore the US Peace Corps programme after more than 20 years, with talks also covering broader security and development cooperation. No-Confidence Crisis Eases: East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga withdrew his no-confidence motion against PM Matthew Wale, defusing a Monday Sept 7 parliamentary showdown. Government Crackdown on Ports: The Finance Ministry ordered immediate closure of non-ISPS-compliant sufferance wharves, with imports only allowed at approved facilities once duties are paid and security requirements met. Coalition Numbers Rise: GREAT Coalition added MPs Ben Maenu’u and Claudius Teifi, taking its tally to 31 ahead of the political vote. Business & Security Prep: SICCI met police to keep firms informed and urged protection of critical infrastructure during the MoNC period. Regional Capacity Building: SIART ran training in Malaita on financial literacy and feed formulation for young agriculture extension officers and farmer groups.

No-Confidence Crisis Eases: East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga has withdrawn his no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Matthew Wale, ending a tense run-up to Monday’s parliamentary debate. PM Response: Wale welcomed the withdrawal, saying he was worried about rising public anger and the need for better consultation. Coalition Numbers Rise: The GREAT Coalition strengthened its parliamentary position as two MPs crossed the floor to join the government, bringing its tally to 31 ahead of the vote. Political Pressure Builds: Opposition leaders say GREAT should answer the substance of the motion, not hide behind its short time in office, pointing to fiscal strain and governance concerns. Maritime Security Crackdown: Government ordered immediate closure of sufferance wharves that are not ISPS-compliant, with imports allowed only after compliance checks and full duty payment. US Engagement: PM Wale met US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, including plans to return the Peace Corps to Solomon Islands. Business Readiness: SICCI met RSIPF to share information and urge calm, with priority on protecting critical services during the political period.

US-Solomons Security and Economic Talks: US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau arrived in Honiara for official talks, expected to meet government and business leaders to advance shared economic and security priorities. No-Confidence Countdown: A motion of no confidence in Prime Minister Matthew Wale is set for Monday, Sept 7, with Parliament also scheduled to consider a finance-related resolution to keep public services funded at prior-year levels. Political Stability Under Strain: As the MoNC nears, the GREAT Coalition continues to reshuffle and recruit MPs, including Trevor Manemahaga joining the government and Harry Kuma returning to Cabinet—moves the Opposition calls a “revolving door.” MoNC Security Prep: RSIPF is coordinating with CSSI emergency response officers sworn in to support police during the Monday operation, while SICCI has engaged police to help keep businesses and the public informed and protect critical infrastructure. Local Governance and Public Safety: RSIPF arrested an Australian national after a threatening incident involving an alleged firearm near east Honiara; police say no weapon was found in the vehicle and less-lethal force was used after refusal to comply. Agriculture Capacity Building: SIART trained Malaita’s young agriculture extension officers and provincial teams on financial literacy and feed formulation to help ABPO farmers run more profitable agribusinesses. Fisheries Inclusion: MFMR launched its GEDSI Strategy 2026–2030 to expand inclusion of women, youth and persons with disabilities across the fisheries sector.