AGP Executive Report

Health Diplomacy: Solomon Islands’ MHMS delegation met India’s health officials in New Delhi to advance MOUs on health cooperation and recognition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia. Road Safety & Accountability: MID says road signs and public infrastructure on the Henderson–Alligator corridor are being damaged, urging communities to protect the investment. Water Supply Disruption: Solomon Water warns east Honiara customers of low or no water due to problems with borehole pumps feeding the Panatina Tank, with repairs underway. Economy Watch: The IMF warns weak public financial management is constraining growth, projecting slower 2026 growth and higher inflation unless fiscal discipline and tax reforms move faster. Education & Skills: The first five students depart for China under the Government’s “1,000 students per year” vocational initiative, while UNDP backs reforms to reduce electoral malpractice using technology and support wider candidate participation. Sports: Tahiti beat Solomon Islands 2-1 to reach the OFC U-19 final and qualify for the FIFA U-20 World Cup; in Honiara, international referees arrive for the Solomon Ports National 7s. Community & Heritage: PM Wale marks Bloody Ridge as sacred ground, calling for continued partnership to preserve it as a national heritage and remembrance site.

Road Safety & Public Assets: The Ministry of Infrastructure Development says road signs on the Henderson–Alligator corridor are being damaged, including a sign near the Neiko bus stop and another near the Bomb Disposal junction found bent on 9 September, with MID suspecting deliberate tampering. Weather & Climate Readiness: Solomon Islands is using the Pacific Meteorological Council (PMC-8) in Nuku’alofa to push for better meteorology equipment, sustainable funding, technology and regional partnerships. Transport Boost for West Makira: China-funded RSDP support delivered 17 fibreglass boats and 18 outboard motors to West Makira, aiming to improve access for health, education, fisheries and agriculture. Climate Warning: SIMS says El Niño is strengthening and could bring hotter, drier conditions, raising risks for water, gardens, crops, livestock and coastal livelihoods. Democracy Beyond Elections: Transparency Solomon Islands urges citizens to treat International Democracy Day as more than voting, calling for accountability, access to information and integrity institutions that can scrutinise power. Education & Skills: Five students have departed for China under the 1,000 Students Per Year initiative to pursue vocational studies and help address skills shortages. Football (OFC U-19): Tahiti beat Solomon Islands 2-1 to reach the OFC U-19 final and qualify for next year’s FIFA U-20 World Cup. Regional Diplomacy: Pacific Islands Forum leaders in Palau focused heavily on reaffirming positions amid big strategic tensions, including the China–Taiwan issue. Sports (OFC U-16): Cook Islands held Solomon Islands to a 0-0 draw after a 0–11 loss to Fiji, while PNG ended a 10-year wait for a win by beating Tonga 4-1.

OFC Football: PNG’s Junior Bilums ended a 10-year wait for an OFC U-16 Women’s Championship win, beating Tonga 4-1 in Honiara to keep their semi-final hopes alive. Local Politics & Democracy: Transparency Solomon Islands urged people to look beyond elections and push collective responsibility, saying “democracy does not begin and end at the ballot box.” Education & Skills: The first five students depart for China under the 1,000 Students Per Year initiative, while MEHRD rolls out a three-day induction for professional development facilitators to better support teachers nationwide. Youth & Community Development: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale marked Bloody Ridge as sacred heritage and a place of remembrance, and a new WASH facility was handed over for Gifu Primary School in Guadalcanal. Business & Trade: SICCI is inviting provincial businesses and SMEs to join the 2026 Business Excellence Awards, with more categories and a dedicated SME track. Overseas Voting Planning: UNDP says legal work is underway for Solomon Islanders to vote from abroad in the 2028 Joint Elections. Sports (Women’s U-16): Solomon Islands’ Young team were held 0-0 by Cook Islands, leaving semi-final hopes hanging for the final group match.

OFC U-16 Women’s Championship: Solomon Islands and Cook Islands played out a 0-0 draw in Honiara, leaving both sides with one point and semi-final hopes hanging on the final group match. Football (U-19 pathway): Solomon Islands face Tahiti in the first OFC U-19 Men’s semi-final in Apia on Friday, with a win sending them to the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2027. Trade & jobs: The National Annual Trade Fair 2026 opened in Honiara, with leaders pushing innovation and more local value-adding as Solomon Islands prepares for LDC graduation in 2027. Education support: MEHRD continues awareness in Western Province on the new Education Legislative Framework, while a teacher professional development induction programme trains facilitators to reach rural schools. Health & services: UNDP and partners handed over a new WASH facility at Gifu Primary School, and work is underway on a legal framework for overseas voting ahead of the 2028 elections. Safety & recovery: RSIPF EODD removed and destroyed 467 WWII UXOs across Western and Choiseul after Tropical Cyclone Maila exposed ordnance. Regional security: Pacific leaders endorsed a five-year security roadmap at the PIF in Palau, raising concerns over recent missile tests.

Road Works in Malaita: Malaita communities have finished consultations for major North Road upgrades under SIRAP2, with contractors finalising environmental and social plans before mobilisation. LDC Graduation Push: Commerce Minister Harry Kuma says Solomon Islands must speed up innovation and local value-adding ahead of LDC graduation in 2027. Health Workforce Links: SINU and the Philippines’ Silliman University are exploring a nursing education twinning partnership, supported by WHO, to strengthen training and clinical teaching. Marine Disaster Cooperation: SINU is also looking at research and disaster-preparedness collaboration with a Chinese Island Research Center delegation. Parliament for Students: Grade 5 students from St Nicholas School visited Parliament and met Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare. UXO Clearance After Cyclone Maila: RSIPF EOD teams removed and destroyed 467 WWII explosives across Western and Choiseul, after storm-exposed ordnance was reported by locals. Seaweed Farming Consultations: A three-day Honiara consultation is underway for seaweed extension officers to share challenges and solutions. Biosecurity Strategy Launched: Government rolled out a 10-year National Biosecurity Strategy (2026–2036) to protect agriculture and food security. Education Compliance Drive: MEHRD’s Education Provider Support Unit is running awareness sessions on the Education Legislative Framework across Western Province. Regional Security Roadmap: Pacific leaders endorsed a five-year security plan and agreed in principle on maritime intelligence and surveillance steps. Politics & Foreign Influence Claims: Solomon Islands Opposition alleges Australian treaty talks and funding were linked to domestic political outcomes, while Australia and officials deny interference. Sports Spotlight: OFC U-19 semis in Apia set qualification stakes for Solomon Islands vs Tahiti and New Zealand vs New Caledonia.

Australia–Solomon Islands Treaty Talks: Australia and Honiara are moving toward a comprehensive security treaty after leaked messages suggested nearly A$980m (about US$705m) in extra aid, including free education, visa upgrades and electorate grants—sparking Opposition claims of foreign interference; Domestic Politics: a no-confidence motion against PM Matthew Wale was withdrawn after cabinet turmoil, while MPs and analysts warn instability could undermine Pacific security plans; Governance & Elections: Japan pledged JPY 430m (US$3m) to UNDP for the SIDGEAP project to strengthen electoral institutions with SIEC and the ORPP; Biosecurity: Solomon Islands launched a 10-year National Biosecurity Strategy 2026–2036 to protect agriculture, food security and trade; Water & Schools: PRC delivered 22 water tanks to West Makira, while EU/UNDP funded a WASH upgrade at Gifu Primary School; Sports (Honiara): OFC U-16 Women’s Championship action continues, with Fiji’s Mini Kulas set to face New Zealand after a 11-0 opener; Community & Safety: US plans to provide four airport rescue and firefighting vehicles for Honiara International Airport, and a Malu’u seawall project has completed its next phase.

Pacific Visa Update: Australia has released the official list of 12 countries eligible for its new Pacific Engagement Visa, including Solomon Islands, aiming to deepen long-term ties across the region. Australia–Solomons Treaty Push: Leaked messages say Canberra is preparing a “comprehensive” treaty with Honiara worth about AU$980m, with money linked to free education, visa improvements and security—sparking fresh political heat at home. Foreign Interference Claims: Solomon Islands Opposition leaders say communications appear to tie Australian funding and treaty talks to domestic political outcomes, demanding answers. Leadership Politics: A no-confidence motion against PM Matthew Wale was withdrawn, easing immediate pressure after a turbulent week of resignations and coalition strain. Water and Health Support: China delivered 22 water tanks to West Makira schools and communities, while a new EU-backed WASH facility was handed over for Gifu Primary School in Guadalcanal. Biosecurity Plan: The government launched a 10-year National Biosecurity Strategy 2026–2036 to protect agriculture, food security and rural livelihoods. US Returns Peace Corps: The US and Solomon Islands signed an agreement to restart the Peace Corps programme after more than 20 years. Sports and Community: Makira-Ulawa trained 60 school and sports representatives through OSEP/PE, and SINIS hosted an inclusive “Play for Equity” day for people with disabilities.

Politics in Honiara: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale has survived a no-confidence motion after it was withdrawn, and parliament was adjourned indefinitely as his government pushes ahead with free education and mining reforms. Australia–Solomons security push: Leaked messages say Australia is nearing an “in-principle” treaty with Honiara, with promises of nearly $1b in extra funding, including free education and electorate-linked grants—while DPM Francis Sade denies the leak was meant to sway domestic politics. US Peace Corps returns: Honiara and Washington signed an agreement to restart the Peace Corps programme, after it was suspended following tensions around 2000. Mining law overhaul: Mines and Energy Minister Derrick Manu’ari says the “first come, first serve” approach is flawed and wants amendments to strengthen customary landowners’ say in mineral development. Education debate: Opposition leader Manasseh Sogavare questions whether the government is ready to fund and deliver free education nationwide in 2027. Border management: A new electronic visa system has been launched to speed up applications and strengthen immigration security. Sports: Solomon Islands U-19 men topped Group A after beating Samoa 2-0 and set up semi-finals in Apia. Community & culture: Honiara hosts the 2026 National Trade Fair this week, with literacy highlighted for International Literacy Day.

Politics & Governance: Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale has survived a no-confidence attempt, with parliament adjourned indefinitely after the motion was withdrawn by its sponsor, as lawmakers switched to his GREAT Coalition; Wale says the break will let government push mining reforms and free education before returning to pass the budget before Christmas. Border & Immigration: The government has launched a new electronic visa system under the Solomon Islands Border Management System, aiming to speed up online applications while strengthening security. Security Incident: Police confirmed a real pistol was used in a threatening shop incident in east Honiara involving an Australian national, who was remanded after police recovered the firearm during a search. Economy & Trade: Honiara will host the 2026 Annual National Trade Fair from Sept 9–16 at SINU’s FOPA Village, with daily exhibitions and a major opening parade. Education Funding Debate: Opposition leader Manasseh Sogavare questioned whether the government is ready to fund nationwide free education from 2027, warning it needs new costing, resources and a proper 2027 Budget. Health Cooperation: A Solomon Islands delegation explored healthcare cooperation with Yashoda Medicity, focusing on specialised care and knowledge exchange. Regional Climate Push: Pacific leaders at a summit in Palau urged COP31 to deliver climate finance and support for clean energy and resilience. Sports: New Zealand began the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship with a 5-0 win over hosts Solomon Islands, while Solomon Islands’ U-19 men beat Samoa 2-0 to reach semi-finals.

OFC U-19 Men’s Championship: New Caledonia booked a semi-final spot after a 7-0 win over Papua New Guinea in Apia, with Jemmanuel Siwoine scoring twice as the French-speaking side surged into the knockout stage. Politics: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale has survived a no-confidence crisis after East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga withdrew the motion ahead of Monday’s debate, with parliament later adjourned indefinitely. US–Solomons ties: US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau met Wale in Honiara and the two governments signed an agreement to restore the US Peace Corps programme to Solomon Islands after more than 20 years. Security & trade: The government ordered the immediate closure of sufferance wharves that are not ISPS-compliant, aiming to plug security gaps and protect revenue. Community resilience: North Malaita’s Malu’u market project is progressing, with a 120-metre seawall completed and mangroves planted to strengthen climate protection. Sports (youth): New Zealand began the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship with a 5-0 win over hosts Solomon Islands, while Fiji’s Mini Kulas and Junior Kulas both thrashed the Cook Islands 11-0. Crime update: Police confirmed a real pistol was used in a threatening incident involving an Australian national in east Honiara.

No-Confidence Drama Eases: East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga has withdrawn the no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Matthew Wale, ending days of political uncertainty just before Parliament was set to debate it. Government Tightens Port Security: The Ministry of Finance has ordered the immediate closure of sufferance wharves nationwide that are not ISPS-compliant, with customs told to resume operations only after full compliance is verified. US-Solomons Talks: PM Wale met visiting US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau in Honiara, with discussions including the planned return of the Peace Corps and broader economic and security cooperation. Coalition Numbers Grow: Two MPs have crossed to the GREAT Coalition, bringing its total to 31 ahead of the wider political scrutiny around the motion. Sports Spotlight: Fiji’s U16 women thrashed the Cook Islands 11-0 at the OFC tournament, while Solomon Islands prepare for their U-16 opener against defending champions New Zealand. Local Safety Incident: RSIPF arrested an Australian man after a threatening incident involving an alleged firearm near a shop in east Honiara.

US-Pacific Diplomacy: US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau arrived in Honiara for official talks with Solomon Islands officials and business leaders, as Foreign Affairs Minister Rick Houenipwela welcomed him ahead of meetings on shared economic and security priorities. Politics at Home: A no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Matthew Wale is set for Monday, with Parliament scheduled to resume at 9:30am and security preparations underway, including RSIPF coordination with sworn-in CSSI emergency response officers. Security Incident: RSIPF detained an Australian national in east Honiara after a threatening incident involving an alleged firearm at a shop; police say no weapon was found in a vehicle search and less-lethal force was used to control the suspect. Earthquake Alert: A 5.9-magnitude quake struck Solomon Islands, reported by the GFZ. Sports (OFC): Solomon Islands U-19 captain Jayroll Patty scored a hat-trick to send the team into the OFC U-19 semi-finals, while Suva booked BOG semi-final qualification despite a 2-1 loss to Nasinu. Agriculture & Inclusion: SIART trained young agriculture extension officers in Malaita on financial literacy and feed formulation, and MFMR launched its Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion strategy for the fisheries sector.

Earthquake Update: A 5.9-magnitude quake struck the Solomon Islands at 1412 GMT on Saturday, with the epicentre about 10 km deep, according to GFZ. No-Confidence Politics: Parliament is set to consider a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Matthew Wale on Monday, with East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga listed to move it. Security & Police Response: RSIPF arrested an Australian national in east Honiara after a threatening incident involving an alleged firearm at a shop; police say less-lethal force was used and no weapon was found in the vehicle. Business Readiness: SICCI has engaged RSIPF ahead of Monday’s motion, urging calm, protecting critical infrastructure, and keeping essential services running. Agriculture Support: SIART trained Malaita’s young agriculture extension officers and project teams on financial literacy and feed formulation to help farmers run profitable agribusinesses. Sports (Home Tournament): Solomon Islands open the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship at the National Stadium on Sunday against defending champions New Zealand, with hosts backing home-ground confidence.

Motion of No Confidence Security: RSIPF is gearing up for Monday’s Motion of No Confidence with support from 35 sworn-in CSSI Emergency Response Group officers, as SICCI urges calm, normal business and protection of critical services. Politics: GREAT Coalition continues its reshuffle and coalition-building, with Harry Kuma reappointed to Cabinet and MP Trevor Manemahaga joining the government, while the Opposition blasts the “revolving door” style of changes ahead of the vote. Regional Security & Crime: Australia and Pacific leaders backed Waqa Moana, a Pacific-led maritime security push against illicit drugs, with major funding announced for police and defence support. OFC Football (Honiara): The OFC U-16 Women’s Championship kicks off in Solomon Islands on Sunday with eight nations chasing a path to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. Health: Solomon Islands has reached a regional target for Early Essential Newborn Care, with over 80% of birth facilities providing life-saving support in the first hours. Fisheries Inclusion: MFMR launched its GEDSI Strategy 2026–2030 to expand women, youth and disability inclusion across the fisheries sector.

Pacific Politics & Security: The Pacific Islands Forum in Palau wrapped with leaders issuing the “Belau Declaration” on urgent climate action, while also registering concern over China’s July missile test and calling for 24-hour notice—though Nauru dissented. China–Taiwan tensions: China accused Taiwan of being improperly involved and claimed “plain-clothes” Chinese operatives were spying on meetings, as the “wolf warrior” diplomatic spat kept Palau in the middle. Solomon Islands Politics: Ahead of Monday’s Motion of No Confidence, Solomon Islands business leaders met police to stay informed and protect critical services, while CSSI officers were sworn in to support RSIPF during the operation. Coalition reshuffle: GREAT continues its “revolving door” as Harry Kuma is reappointed to Cabinet and MP Trevor Manemahaga joins the coalition, boosting numbers. Economy & Daily Life: New fuel prices took effect in Honiara from Sept 1. Health & Development: Solomon Islands hit a regional target for early newborn care, and Auki’s new agriculture building is past the halfway mark. Fisheries & Youth: MFMR launched a GEDSI strategy for fisheries, and the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship kicks off in Honiara with Solomon Islands hosting.

West Papua Human Rights: Melanesian Spearhead Group leaders say Indonesia’s UN human rights commissioner visit to West Papua is “on the right path,” but MSG warns it will review Indonesia’s associate status if the visit isn’t facilitated by 2027. Pacific Health: Solomon Islands has hit a regional target for Early Essential Newborn Care, with over 80% of birth facilities providing life-saving care in the first hours. Local Development: Auki’s new agriculture office building has passed the halfway mark and is meeting environmental and social safeguards under the World Bank-backed SIART project. Politics in Honiara: Opposition slams PM Matthew Wale’s removal of Gordon Darcy Lilo as Finance Minister ahead of the Sept 7 no-confidence debate, calling it a leadership error that risks economic stability. Cabinet Reshuffle: Wale continues reshaping his front bench, with Harry Kuma, Nestor Ghiro and Isikeli Vave Jnr sworn into key portfolios. Regional Security: Pacific leaders at the PIF in Palau “registered concern” over China’s July missile test and demanded at least 24 hours’ advance notice, though Nauru dissented. Business & Economy: The Pacific’s rising debt risks economic sovereignty, while SICCI warns political instability is already denting business confidence. Maritime Safety: A marine inquiry has started into the MV Anjeanette fire, sinking and presumed loss of life.